1. You get free HBO Max and more!
To claim free HBO Max, click "Sign In" (top right corner), then click "Create an HBO Max account," which is highlighted in blue at the bottom of the page. This should bring you to a "Connect your Provider" screen in which you should then search for "Boldyn Networks." From here, choose USC and sign in with your USC Net ID. 

Other free subscriptions include:
- Wall Street Journal
- New York Times
- LinkedIn Learning
- Grammarly Premium
- Overleaf (Viterbi students)
- Adobe Creative Cloud (some majors)


2. Consider a bike
The campus is large, and biking saves time. Just remember to invest in a good lock and register your bike with DPS. Skateboards and scooters are also good options.


 3. Think before you buy a textbook
Textbooks are expensive, and you'll probably never use them again. In many cases, you won't ever even open them. Always check free online sources, the library, or buy used from other students first. Textbooks have multiple editions, which are different, so make sure you're finding the right one.


 4. Go to Club Rush
You don’t have to join right away, but it’s a great way to meet people with common interests and discover campus activities. Getting involved is one of the best ways to make friends and often can look good on your resume. 


5. Utilize Libraries, but Find Smaller Study Spots
The main Leavey and Doheny are great, but they can get very packed and overwhelming during study weeks. Individual schools (Marshall, Viterbi, etc) often have smaller and less crowded study spaces. Borrow laptops, chargers, monitors, and more from Leavey.


6. Use free LA public transit options
With USC’s U-Pass, you can get discounted or free rides on Metro buses and trains.
The Dash F bus to downtown is fare-free for students. Keep in mind that metro lines/stations can be sketchy at night, so it's best to utilize these with a group or during the day. 


7. Know your student discounts
Disneyland, Universal Studios Many LA museums, theaters, and events offer free or discounted tickets/entry with your USC ID. Always ask.


8. Check out Residential Hall + EngageSC events for free food
Clubs, mixers, and department events often have free catered meals or snacks. Why eat dining hall food when a nearby RA is bringing in Raising Canes or Chipotle? Keep an eye on flyers and EngageSC.


9. Invest in a Water Bottle 
Refill for free at water stations in dining halls just about every building instead of paying ~$5 for bottled water on campus.


10. Look into a fun 2-unit PHED class
Courses like archery, yoga, golf, surfing, or swimming are a light commitment and a great stress reliever.