Whether or not seniors are ready, graduation is fast approaching.
In order to prepare for the big day on May 15, seniors are finalizing their graduation garb.
Students are able to buy or rent a cap, gown, tassel, and USC’s most unique tradition, personalized sashes.
The personalization allows students to write messages to their family, represent their culture, or even clubs they are a part of.
Reagan Lusk, a senior majoring in international relations, is a big advocate of the tradition.
“I think it makes it really special. I really like being able to show my accomplishments, and I think it makes USC unique,” Lusk said.
Jack Longley, a graduating senior, studying NGOs and social change, put the logo for the pickleball club he founded.
“We’re pretty proud of what we’ve created. It would be cool if a couple people see that and they’re like, whoa. I didn’t even know that was a thing,” Longley said.
Giorgio Jimenez, a senior majoring in finance, decided to include the Mexican flag on his sash, representing his family and home country.
“It’s my culture, so I’m always proud to show it,” Jimenez said. “My parents did a lot. They got me here.”
Although the sashes are loved by many at USC, some students voiced concerns about the price.
Sashes, at base level, cost $54.99, but every patch added costs twenty dollars. If students want to add words, each letter costs three dollars and fifty cents.
Jagroop Ghuman, a senior studying human biology, went to her cousin to get her embroidery done.
“USC was charging an arm and a leg,” Ghuman said. “I know multiple people that went off campus.”
However, for many students, the cost is worth the memories.
“I’m already thinking about, like, I want to frame part of [it] with my diploma and my tassel,” said Ghuman.
Jimenez echoed her opinion.
“This is cool memorabilia. Yeah, you’re not gonna wear it again, but ideally, you only have to graduate once,” Jimenez said.
Students at USC were huge advocates for the tradition and encouraged other Universities to follow in their footsteps.
Longley was shocked to hear that not all Universities participated in the tradition.
“If any other schools aren’t doing that, what are you all doing?” Longley said.
USC’s beloved sashes will hold a place in the hearts of graduates for years to come. Whether they are framed or tossed into the corner of a closet, the sashes serve as a way for students to be proud of the accomplishments they’ve made during their time at USC.