The various communal spaces on campus create opportunities for connection and a way to extend our college experience beyond an academic endeavor. Slacklining at Alumni Park or sharing meals with new friends in the dining halls speaks to the importance of this kind of community: one that forms organically. 

Over the past year, conversations around these environments and our ability to access such spaces have come into the limelight as fences and ID checkpoints posed new physical barriers between students. Finally, at the beginning of this fall semester, the USC community saw the gates around their beloved shared spaces disappear and the pedestrian walkways suddenly appear inviting. 

This transition is the perfect time to reflect on the shared spaces around campus that have been instrumental in our time at USC as well as the privilege we have in accessing green spaces in the middle of a city lacking them. 

Step outside, breathe in the fresh air. Read about topics ranging from environmental action on campus to the faculty in residence who oversee our dorms and reflect on the places that have helped shape your USC community.

Anya Motwani

Fall 2025 Features Editor