USC has so many student organizations that look awesome, but I’m hoping to join at least one that is a big, tradition-heavy, time-honored club!
I’m thinking about Greek life, though I’m not sure it’s for me (I’m not a big drinker/partier). I’m also thinking about joining the Marching Band because it’s such an integral part of USC and the students seem to love it, but I haven’t played an instrument in more than a decade.
So what are other clubs on campus that have a real “presence”? That are fundamentally USC?
Nothing fits the description of “big, tradition-heavy, time-honored club” better than the Trojan Marching Band. You do not know how to play any instrument to join but you must be willing to endure band camp (think boot camp, not campfires and smores), work hard and devote many hours during the fall semester. It certainly can be done with reasonable time management skills.
While they will teach you to “play” and instrument (except drums - you have to try out and be proficient) you will never become a virtuoso. They will teach you enough to play the main songs well and usually the weak players stay with the “second” parts which are generally lower and easier. They have enough music majors and proficient players to drown out the weak ones. It is helpful if you’ve played something and thus have some idea how to read music.
It is very helpful if you have some rhythm because while they will teach you to march,in order to be put in a half-time show you have to prove you can do it in proper step and also they need your instrument. Usually the new members, especially those in the overly represented instruments (trumpets and clarinets) will march in and out of the stadium, play in the stands during the game but will stay in the stands during the pre-game and half-time shows. If you don’t know how to play anything, pick an instrument they need so you have a better chance to do the pre-game and half-time shows sooner.
My (sort-of) violin playing daughter joined the band as a freshmen and will be a senior this fall. If you have any other band questions feel free to PM me.
The Joint Educational Project (JEP) is worth considering. This is service oriented. Any of the spirit groups would be fun. Religious organizations have a full calendar of activities and provide many social and service opportunities. If you enjoy sports there are numerous informal teams to join. You will learn more about all of these at orientation.