USC Trojan Guild of Los Angeles Candygrams

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Sunday, September 8, 2024---Meet USC TGLA Scholar Alexandra Stanczak

Alexandra StanczakWhy did you choose USC?

I vividly remember the day my high school advisor suggested that I apply to USC. The research opportunities, professional growth, and sense of community were apparent in every interaction I had with the school. USC also holds a special place in my heart, because in middle school I received treatment for a breathing problem at USC Keck Medicine. When I visited as an admitted student on a warm May day, I knew this was my dream school. Ultimately, my decision to attend USC was driven by the overwhelming support from the Trojan community and the incredible opportunities that would allow me to grow as both a scholar and a global citizen.

Do you have any family members who attended USC?

No, I’m the first in my family to attend USC, which is a true honor as a first-generation American.

What USC organizations are you a member of, and what positions do you hold?

I am involved in several USC organizations. I work with the Everyday Responder Project, where I help curate and edit lesson plans that teach middle school students the basics of bystander medicine. I also serve as the lead of the Ukraine-Romania branch of Frontida Records, an organization that provides customizable, affordable electronic health record systems to medical organizations in humanitarian regions. Additionally, I am involved with the Caruso Catholic Center, where I serve as a liaison for USC students, coordinate volunteer efforts, and direct the Paras Los Niños program.

Do you have a job on campus? What profession are you pursuing after graduation?

I work as a tutor, helping students excel in AP Chemistry, Calculus, and Organic Chemistry. I am also working at USC Keck Hospital on compiling and reviewing materials for a review article that will assess the efficacy of quetiapine in preventing and treating delirium in critically ill patients in the ICU. After graduation, I plan to pursue an MD/PhD focusing on neonatology, women’s health, and neurodevelopment.

Do you attend USC athletic events? If so, which sports?

Yes, I enjoy attending USC athletic events, particularly volleyball and soccer.

Do you attend USC cultural events? If so, which ones? Have you attended Visions and Voices events?

I regularly attend USC dance and music events, as well as themed monthly events. However, I haven’t attended any Visions and Voices events yet.

What are your favorite foods?

I love margherita pizza, saffron & rose gelato, and Black Forest cake.

What’s your favorite movie, book, TV show, and actor?

My favorite movie is Marley & Me, my favorite book is Pride and Prejudice, and I love watching Survivor. As for actors, I enjoy watching entertainmet starring Steve Carell and John Krasinski.

What’s your favorite style of music, and who is your favorite music artist?

I enjoy pop music, and my favorite artist is Celine Dion.

What are your favorite hobbies?

I enjoy running, hiking, baking, and spending time with my dog, Luna.

Where have you traveled, and what is your favorite location?

I’ve traveled to Poland, Belgium, Italy, and Switzerland, and Poland is my favorite destination!

Saturday, September 7, 2024---Meet USC TGLA Scholar Stephanie Ang

Stephanie AngWhy did you choose USC?

I knew I wanted to attend USC after I spoke to an upperclassman in the same major. Her stories about the people, support, and opportunities at USC made me excited to be able to explore my interests and meet people from diverse backgrounds. I am very thankful to her because she always offered to give advice and encouragement and later even took the time to ask me about my freshman year over lunch. I try to pass forward what I’ve learned from her and my time at USC by mentoring other students.

Name of USC organizations that you are a member of and what position you hold.

On campus, my main involvement is with USC Viterbi’s Women in Engineering, which offers academic, professional, and social resources and events to engineering students. I am fortunate to serve as Chair for this school year and am also a mentor in our mentorship program.

What profession are you entering after graduation?

I have been learning cybersecurity outside of my classes and am thinking about working in cybersecurity!

Have you attended Visions and Voices events on campus? If so, what was a favorite Visions and Voices event?

My favorite Visions and Voices event was a live masterclass with Jacob Collier, a Grammy-winning musician. My roommate introduced me to his music, and hearing his thought process in creating music was very eye-opening for me.

Hobbies?

I enjoy gardening, recreating café drinks (mostly teas), and spending time with friends and family!

Monday, September 2, 2024---Meet USC TGLA Scholar Katie Luo

Katie LuoWhy did you choose USC?

I chose USC because of the incredible opportunities it offers. I was particularly excited about my program Media Arts + Practice which is part of the film school. I wanted to explore my curiosities in art and technology and I was able to do that here. I was also super excited to join the Trojan family and to be able to attend all of USC's various events such as football games and tailgates!

Do you have a job on campus?

I am currently an undergraduate researcher in my department working on an Artificial Intelligence and storytelling event series highlighting various forms of emerging technology in the arts and building the communities around this new field. This is also my second year being an RA. I am passionate about community building and collaborating with other students.

What profession are you entering after graduation?

After college, I hope to work in creative studios collaborating on a variety of creative projects where I can dip my toes in diverse media. I also hope to do grants, residencies, and fellowships allowing me to pursue passion projects while traveling.

Have you attended Visions and Voices events on campus? If so, what was a favorite Visions and Voices event?

I have attended quite a few Visions and Voices events. My favorite was going to the Geffen Playhouse to see the play Fat Ham. It was such an incredible performance that really inspired me because of its contemporary, culturally-conscious take on Shakespeare’s original play, Hamlet.

Favorite foods?

My favorite food is my mom’s cooking---Taiwanese braised pork over rice and pan-fried salmon.

Favorite movies?

My favorite movies are Saving Face, Soul, and Romeo and Juliet (1996).

Favorite artist? Music artist?

I am a big fan of Lauren Lee McCarthy (a cross-disciplinary artist and educator examining social relationships) and Ai Wei Wei (a Chinese contemporary artist activist).

My favorite musical artists are always changing; however, I will always love Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, Nujabes, and FKA Twigs.

Where have you traveled? What was your favorite location?

This summer, I attended my first artist residency at Selkie Snorkels in Sitka, Alaska. I spent three weeks exploring the island, hiking, snorkeling, and boat camping. It was beautiful. I completed my residency by creating an audio-reactive jellyfish collage using TouchDesigner, inspired by my many snorkeling trips where I observed hundreds of tiny translucent jellyfish moving with the currents of the ocean.

Anything else that you would like to tell us about yourself.

As I begin my senior year at USC, I reflect back on my time here with a heart full of gratitude. I am so thankful for all the people I have met, the professors who have supported me, and the lifelong friends I have made. I think about how much I have grown and while I am anxious about the post-grad future to come, I know I will leave with everything I needed from USC.

Monday, September 2, 2024---Meet USC TGLA Scholar Jennifer Lau

Jennifer LauWhy did you choose USC?

It was my dream to be part of the Trojan Family. I've always been inspired by the dedication of the Trojan Family to helping others. I want to do the same for those around me. I chose USC because of its excellent academic programs, vibrant student body, and commitment to service.

Do you like to go to USC athletic events? If so, which sports?

It’s so fun to go with my friends to watch USC home football games at the Coliseum. It’s an incredible and memorable experience to sit in the student section to cheer for our team and hear the Trojan marching band. It’s going to be even more exciting to watch this season since USC is now part of the Big 10. Fight On!

Favorite hobbies? Where have you traveled? What was your favorite location?

Jennifer LauI like to hike and spend time outdoors. This is a picture of one of my recent hikes up to Diamond Head in Hawaii to enjoy the spectacular view. This was definitely one of the highlights of my trip to Hawaii. It was fascinating to see how it was all formed by the effects of a volcanic eruption. I loved getting exercise and enjoying delicious Hawaiian food after the hike.

I also like to walk through USC’s weekly farmers market on Wednesdays. It’s a great way to buy fresh, organic produce and support small businesses. I appreciate how USC is dedicated to supporting the local community and promoting healthy living.

Anything else that you would like to tell us about yourself?

I want to extend my deepest appreciation to TGLA. Thank you so much for your generosity and support. Fight On!

Wednesday, August 28, 2024---Meet USC TGLA Scholar Sara Ghadban

sara ghadbanWhy did you choose USC?

I chose USC because of its incredibly strong alumni network, outstanding education and professional development opportunities; school spirit in athletics; and of course, location! I am the first in my family to attend USC fully supported by financial aid and scholarships, and am so grateful and lucky to be a student here.

Names of USC organizations that you are a member and/or what position you hold.

I am involved in a variety of extracurricular activities here at USC. I am a Director of General Membership for Trojan Marketing Group, a professional club on campus that works with real-world clients to develop marketing campaigns from ideation to delivery. I am also a member of the Club Water Polo team and have made many friends continuing to play the sport I love. Additionally, I am a member of Pi Beta Phi Sorority, and previously held the Director of Academics position to inform members about scholarship opportunities.

Do you have a job on campus?

I work as a Head Lifeguard for USC Student Affairs in Recreational Sports. This is my second year working in this position and have worked as a lifeguard since my freshman year.

Do you like to go to USC athletic events? If so, which sports?

I am definitely an athletic person and love USC’s strong athletics department and school spirit. I love to attend football, basketball, and water polo games. I have also attended other sports with friends such as baseball or indoor volleyball.

What are your favorite foods?

I’m not a picky eater and love foods from all different cultures, but especially love to go out to eat sushi. I also love Mediterranean food which connects me to my Lebanese heritage on my dad’s side.

What is your favorite entertainment?

As for entertainment I love, I absolutely love to watch sitcoms and light hearted shows such as Modern Family, New Girl, or reality shows like Love Island. I enjoy all types of music, and my favorite artists are Beyoncé, Bruno Mars, and Billie Eilish.

Where have you traveled? What was your favorite location?

I spent my last spring semester studying abroad based in Madrid, and had the opportunity to travel throughout Europe. I even went to Morocco and rode a camel through the Sahara Desert, which was my favorite experience by far. Some of my other favorite places I’ve visited were Tenerife, Rome, and Barcelona. I hope to continue to travel postgrad and would love to go to either South Africa or Japan next.

Anything else that you would like to tell us about yourself?

I have a dog named Luna who is a German Shepherd mix my family and I rescued during the pandemic. I absolutely adore her. I love all animals and hope to have my own plot of land someday where I can have dogs, cats, and horses.

Tuesday, August 27, 2024---Meet USC TGLA Scholar Lewis Wong

lewis wongWhy did you choose USC?

I chose USC because its commitment to scholarly excellence, giving back to the community, and of course the Trojan Network. Growing up in Southern California, I was familiar with the Trojan Network but was not aware of how much Trojan Alumni love to help its students. I have been part of the USC Dornsife Mentorship program as well as had mentors with the USC Asian Pacific Alumni Association (APAA).

Do you have any family members who attended USC?

My parents did not attend USC but my younger brother also attends USC with me.

Names of USC organizations that you are a member and/or what position you hold.

Do you have a job on campus? What profession are you entering after graduation?

I work for the American Language Institute on campus. I was previously an undergraduate student consultant for the International Teaching Assistant program, but I am now one of the program assistants and help manage the program. After graduating USC, I hope to attend a Physician Assistant program *hopefully USC again* and work in healthcare.

Do you like to go to USC athletic events? If so, which sports?

Yes, I love to go to the football games at the Coliseum. I also enjoy watching men's and women's basketball at the Galen Center.

Do you like to attend USC cultural events? If so, which events?

One of the USC cultural events I attended was the Asian Pacific American Student Assembly Asian Night Market where I got to try a lot of different foods from different cultures around the world.

What are your favorite foods?

Sushi and Korean bbq

Favorite movie? Book? Music style? Artist?

My favorite movie is Star Wars Revenge of the Sith, and my favorite book series is the Percy Jackson Series. I enjoy a lot of different music styles such as Pop, Indie, and R&B. My favorite artist is Dominic Fike whom I actually got to see perform at Springfest during my freshman year.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy playing sports and outside activities. Some of the things I enjoy doing include playing basketball, football, pickleball, spikeball, and hiking.

Where have you traveled? What was your favorite location?

I've been fortunate to travel to countries such as Italy, Spain, Denmark, Russia, Japan, and Hong Kong. My favorite location that I've been to is Japan because of all the great food and views.

Monday, August 26, 2024---Meet USC TGLA Scholar Jennifer Lee

Jennifer LeeWhy did you choose USC?

I chose USC because of its vast selection of majors and minors. I've always been passionate about both art and technology, and USC is one of the few universities that allows me to pursue both without having to sacrifice one for the other.

Do you have any family members who attended USC?

No.

Names of USC organizations that you are a member and/or what position you hold.

For the past two years, I served as the navigation team lead for Team Aegis, a group of USC students competing in the NASA Spacesuit User Interface Technologies for Students (SUITS) challenge. In this challenge, teams develop augmented reality displays that astronauts can use on the lunar surface. This semester, I'm excited to collaborate with another team lead from Team Aegis to develop a new team that will compete in the NASA Micro-G challenge, where students create solutions for space exploration challenges. Additionally, I've joined the USC Trojan Marching Band this semester, and I'm super excited for the upcoming football season!

Do you have a job on campus?

Yes! I work as a student worker in the Ahmanson Lab, where I implemented an augmented reality program that brought LA's historic Bunker Hill neighborhood to life. Previously, I was an undergraduate student consultant at the American Language Institute, where I helped international teaching assistants broaden their understanding of American culture and improve their teaching skills.

Do you like to go to USC athletic events? If so, which sports?

Yes! I've been to almost all the athletic events. The only ones I'm missing are soccer, baseball, and swimming, but I'm hoping to attend some of these this year! My favorite USC sport is women's basketball! The roster this year is amazing, and I'm excited for the season.

Have you attended Visions and Voices events on campus? If so, what was your favorite Visions and Voices event?

Yes, my favorite Visions and Voices event was Seeing the Future of the Urban Past with XR Technologies. It was especially meaningful to me because the Bunker Hill project I worked on was featured there. It was incredible to see how excited everyone was about the project!

What are your favorite foods?

Popcorn chicken.

Favorite movie? Book? TV show? Actor?

My favorite movie is Interstellar, my favorite book is Invisible Man, my favorite TV show is Ugly Betty, and my favorite actress is Emma Watson.

Favorite music style, music artist, hobbies?

I enjoy k-pop, and my favorite artist is Lady Gaga. My hobbies include drawing and hiking.

Where have you traveled? What was your favorite location?

I've traveled to parts of Europe and Asia, and my favorite location was Switzerland.

Monday, August 26, 2024---Meet USC TGLA Scholar Lauren Hammond

Lauren HammondDo you like to go to USC athletic events? If so, which sports?

I love going to athletic events! A fun fact is I was on the USC equestrian team, so I was very active in attending our team competitions. I also greatly enjoy attending the USC football games. I love the spirit and energy felt in the Coliseum on game days, and it's an event that truly embodies the Trojan spirit.

Favorite television show?

My all-time favorite show is Grey's Anatomy! It amazes me how this show is still going! I have found this show fascinating as a student planning to work in the healthcare industry. The show offers a great balance between drama and reality, and I always recommend it to anyone who is interested in healthcare, as I consider it a classic.

Name of USC organizations that you are member or and what position you hold.

I am currently a member of the club Marshall Women's Leadership Board (MWLB). While at USC, I am getting a minor in Entrepreneurship, so I wanted to join a club that would help me explore this field more. MWLB has given me the opportunity to listen to numerous inspirational speakers who share their experiences as women navigating their roles through various corporate and private ventures.

Anything else that you would like to tell us about yourself?

Lauren HammondI have a miniature therapy horse named Casanova, who is in one of the pictures with me. He is therapy certified, and I have been lucky enough to take him to various occupational therapy (OT) centers to share him with others! I was first introduced to OT through a branch of OT that incorporated horses, which led me to get Casanova. Whenever we don't have planned visits, I enjoy taking Casanova on hikes and even letting him run around my backyard with my dogs!

Monday, August 26, 2024---Meet USC TGLA Scholar Valentine Pean

Valentine PeanWhy did you choose USC?

Apart from being a top business school, I chose USC for its unmatchable Trojan network. The connections and support from alumni and peers are unparalleled, providing endless opportunities to learn, grow, and collaborate every day.

Do you have any family members who attended USC?

No.

Name of USC organizations that you are member of and what position you hold.

  • Trojan Marketing Group: Digital Strategist
  • Alpha Phi: Member & former Director of Social Events
  • Above and Beyond- Fashion Luxury Association
  • Business Cosmetics Club
  • Do you have a job on campus? What profession are you entering after graduation?

    I don't currently have a job on campus, because I'm fully focused on my studies and extracurricular activities. After graduation, I plan to pursue a career as a Marketing Strategist, where I can apply my skills in market analysis, consumer behavior, and strategic planning to help brands grow and connect with their audiences.

    Do you like to go to USC athletic events? If so, which sports?

    Absolutely! I love going to tailgates and then heading to the football games. The spirit and energy of the Trojan community during these events are truly unmatched.

    Favorite Foods?

    Sushi and Crepes.

    Favorite Hobbies?

    My favorite hobby is painting. I even have a small business where I repurpose old and broken surfboards into unique painted works of art. Besides that, I love spending time at the beach and traveling to new places—both of which inspire my creativity.

    Travels?

    Apart from being French and having lived in the Netherlands, UK, Hong Kong, and the US, I’ve been fortunate to travel all over the world. I recently returned from studying abroad through USC Marshall in Copenhagen, which was an incredible experience that allowed me to immerse myself in a new culture while expanding my global perspective.