Seriously, dont pick a school solely to be near friends and family. I mean its a different story if you have some extenuating circumstances or something, but if not, make sure you're picking USC because YOU want to be there. Not because your family wants you close by. Besides, its always a good experience to move away from your comfort zone and try something new. So basically, if family is the ONLY reason youre picking USC, i think thats a mistake. Don't get me wrong, if you have multiple reasons to pick USC, then go for it. Its a solid school. Otherwise, ill cya at Columbia in the fall 😉