We’ve all made some incredible friends here at USC, creating memories and bonds that make our college experience truly unforgettable. As the holiday season rolls around, you might be feeling the urge to show your appreciation for those friendships with a thoughtful gift. But let’s be so for real…most of us aren’t quite in the financial position to splurge on the gifts our friends truly deserve. That’s why I’m here to share some budget-friendly ideas that have worked for me, letting you show just how much you care without breaking the bank!

The holiday season in Los Angeles offers something for everyone, whether you're staying in town or heading home to celebrate. For those staying local, LA's holiday magic shines through its dazzling light displays, festive markets, and multicultural celebrations. And if you're preparing to travel, there are plenty of activities to enjoy before you leave, making the most of the city’s vibrant holiday atmosphere. Here are a few festive activities to enjoy for the Holidays around LA!

As someone who can be a bit of a weenie when it comes to watching horror, yet still loves the stories, it can be hard finding the perfect horror movie/show to watch that balances good storytelling yet is scary. Lots of people have seen/heard of the classics like Scream, and The Exorcist, but there’s numerous modern horror projects that are equally as scary/fun that you might’ve not heard of. 

By: Ashley McKean ‘24 (Guest Blogger)

In all honesty, there was a period early on when I wanted to leave USC. It was short-lived but it was definitely real and I really wanted to give in and just take the easier, more comfortable path and go home. That’s what I did my freshman year at Syracuse. I pretty much decided almost immediately that I wouldn’t be staying for long. Had there been no COVID-19 imprisoning me in my 103-degree dorm room with no air conditioning, (no I’m no kidding it was actually that temperature in the room one day,) and impeding me from going out and meeting people, and the fact that 80% of the time my classes were virtual, I honestly feel like I may have come to love Syracuse and I would have stayed until graduation. Regardless of using COVID as an excuse, I didn’t give Syracuse the chance it deserved.

By: Esther Cho ‘23

It’s Thursday Night and all you’ve got in the fridge is a piece of stale bread and a banana. You can’t go grocery shopping until tomorrow, earliest— and in all honesty, you’ve been subsisting off instant ramen for the past week…