University of Southern California - El Rodeo Yearbook (Los Angeles, CA)

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Putting A Year In Perspective Surveying the University of Southern California over any period of time, a detached observer discovers great diver- sity — a kaleidoscope of construction and destruction, bustle and long sil- ences, success and disaster. Like a child watching an anthill, such an on- looker possibly questions the purpose of all the activity. How can he recon- cile the academic hush in the basement libraries with the noisy construction of pools and parking structures? What should he think of mass migration down University Avenue on Saturday afternoons in the fall? What, he asks, is the end result of the efforts? Stretching his view further, the be- mused bystander might wonder about the outlying community — poor neigh- borhoods and old monuments sur- rounding a 150 acre campus that is largely rich and new. On viewing the rest of Los Angeles, he tries to asso- ciate the multi-cultural city with its eclectic university. He may see that each is sometimes frustrating and con- fusing, yet both are endlessly entertain- ing. Those of us inside this place know that the efforts of all observers trying to understand USC from outside are impossible. Only after working and playing here, studying for classes, standing in lines, and cheering the teams, can anyone gain an appreciation of what is truly ' Trojan ' . The insistent gaze of outsiders, whether it be admiring or critical, is a recognizable force at USC. More impor- tant, however, is our perception of this campus in all its facets and activities. We will determine its future. During 1983 as always, it is the staff, faculty and students past and present within this university who define its character and fulfill its destiny. 2 Opening

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Academic Prestige Seen As Goal For The ' 80s The University of Southern California, recognized by many for its quality ath- letic teams and rigorous graduate schools, began in 1982 a campaign to broaden its academic focus, particularly in the college of Letters, Arts, and Sciences. Under the guidance of new dean Irwin Lieb and spearheaded by the use Student Senate, a program titled ' Make USC Number One - Study Harder ' began in the fall; plans called for carry- ing the program throughout the year and decade, uhimately making USC enjoy a stronger academic reputation among large private universities nationwide. This campaign requires work from every individual working or studying here. It is not only a challenge to the historical and national perception of USC - it is occasionally in direct conflict with our self-definition as a unique school providing educational opportuni- ties not available elsewhere. USC is at once seeking equal status with the finest American universities while maintaining a separate image from them; reconciling these philosophies, and overcoming their seeming contradictions, will call for the finest efforts of USC students and personnel now and in the future. Right: FACING FACTS - Student struggles to be com- fortable while con- centrating. IKS M. « • ■ ' -M 4 Opening