Freshman dies in Pardee Tower
A freshman died Wednesday night after Department of Public Safety officials found her unresponsive and not breathing in her dorm room, officials said.
DPS officers responded to the room of Rachel Kim, who lived on the sixth floor of Pardee Tower, after receiving a call at 8:41 p.m, said DPS Capt. David Carlisle.
“The Los Angeles City Fire Department Unit 15 was also notified and responded to the scene,” Carlisle said. “[Kim] was transported to California Hospital and was later pronounced dead.”
The cause of death has not yet been released. Carlisle said privacy rules prevented him from giving more information.
A counseling session will be held on Thursday at 7 p.m. for residents of the sixth floor of Pardee; another session will be held at 8 p.m. in the Pardee Tower second floor lobby for all Pardee residents, Michael L. Jackson, vice president of Student Affairs wrote in an e-mail to Pardee residents.
“Our hearts and prayers go out to Rachel’s family and friends,” Jackson said.
For immediate support, students can contact DPS dispatch at (213) 740-6000 to speak with a counselor.
Rachel was a much loved person to all of us who knew her. She had an amazing personality and would light up a room when entering it. It’s so overwhelming to read this article and more overwhelming to know of her loving parents loss. Rachel had such an awesome future ahead of her. She made people feel great when around her and she is already missed by hundreds of friends back here in Maryland. Please remember her well. Make her proud and know that while she was only at USC a short time… she would have blown you away with her talent, wisdom and personality!! She will forever be remembered by all of us. Especially those who had the opportunity to grow up with her. Much love to each of you who share this great loss! Love – A parent who watched her grow in to an amazing young lady!
RIP Rachel Kim