As a journalism student, my life feels riddled with distressing news headlines, ranging from the government shutdown, to a crackdown on immigration, to citizens fearing their own elected officials. It’s difficult to find those still moments of optimism. Even our campus seems to be in a state of constant flux, where the integrity of our institution is both under attack and enduring.

Over the past year, we have faced intense budget cuts, layoffs and a rebranding of our diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, sparking deep unease among members of our community. We have also witnessed the rejection of an authoritarian compact offering preferential treatment in exchange for our academic independence, Trojans showing up in protests across Los Angeles and moments of real community, like when voters passed Proposition 50 on Nov. 4 to redraw California’s voting maps against partisan gerrymandering across the country.

This inflection point, a time between hope and despair, has made it hard to see how various parts of our L.A. and USC communities continue to thrive despite real setbacks. Bad news is often louder than good.

This supplement speaks to the various issues at the forefront of our minds and highlights the prevailing spirit of tenacity seen all around us from local immigrant businesses, professors, creatives and more.

Anya Motwani

Fall 2025 Features Editor