Liam’s path to USC Marshall shows that persistence pays off. After achieving a perfect 45 in the IB Diploma - the highest possible score - he earned a place at his dream university. Read on to discover more about his journey from Tanglin to USC Marshall.
 

Did you take IB or A levels?
I initially registered both the IB and A-levels and was torn between the two until the very last moment, as both offered their own distinctive advantages. With the benefit of insightful conversations with my parents, teachers, and both my siblings (both of whom picked IB), it was clear to me that the IB aligned with my interests in how disciplines interact.

IB has given me a stronger understanding of how macro- and micro-level events interact and shape one another. Narrowing my studies to just three subjects would have deprived me of this breadth of perspective. I found that my subjects complemented one another in unexpected ways. For example, I drew on both Environmental Systems and Societies and Mathematics when analysing the relationship between CO₂ emissions and GDP per capita for my Maths Internal Assessment. 

The language component was equally important to me. My mum's first language is French, and I was almost embarrassed that I could only order a steak when we visited France. IB French inspired me to speak more French at home, and I can now communicate with far greater confidence and ease. This has encouraged me to refine the skill further by studying French at a university affiliated with USC in Paris as a first-semester programme.

Lastly, grounding this broad education in core subjects such as English - which I had felt particularly weak in before starting the IB - left me far better prepared for the general education requirements of the US university system.

Why did you choose USC Marshall?  What factors influenced you to pick it over other options?
USC, and Marshall by extension, has long been a dream university of mine. I have been fortunate enough to deepen this connection through visiting my sister, now in her second year, and vicariously sharing her wonderful experiences. This privilege enabled me to see firsthand how special USC is. The West Coast of the US is brimming with opportunities, both academically and recreationally, and is an amazing place to live. The ability to ski and surf on the same day, the eclectic, international student population, and the sheer wealth of career opportunities were just some of the factors that drew me to Los Angeles. The pleasant year-round weather was also a major draw, as it meant I could continue enjoying outdoor sports throughout the year, just as I had in Singapore. USC is basically everything I was looking for: a beautiful campus, a strong student-to-faculty ratio, an unparalleled and exceptionally connected alumni network - known as the ‘Trojan Community ’- and a broad enough curriculum to allow me to pursue more specialised interests alongside my major.

Why did you choose to pursue your degree, and what interests you most about it?
My focus has largely been on Environmental Systems and Societies and Geography through my HL subjects and Extended Essay, but I’m eager to apply that perspective within a business and economic context. I wanted to make this pivot because I feel sustainability only works if it makes practical business sense, just as business decisions are strongest when sustainability is integrated into them. I’m really drawn to the fact that USC Marshall grounds students in key areas of business, whilst still emphasising responsible leadership and sustainability. USC’s core business courses reflect my belief that sustainability must be fundamentally built into businesses and economies, not treated as an afterthought. I plan to pursue one of the Business Emphases/Concentrations, namely Leadership and Innovation, as it would deepen my understanding of how to lead change effectively and translate my passion for a sustainable future into tangible and purposeful business impact.

What surprised you most during the university application process? If you could give one piece of advice to students currently applying to universities, what would it be?
I think one thing I learnt from applying to both the US and UK is that there truly are so many good options, be it going to university or simply taking a year off to work and gain some experience. It was helpful to adopt a more optimistic perspective and not be discouraged by the rejection that pervaded the application process. I reminded myself that wherever I went, I would be happy. As with anything, persistence and perseverance were vital to my acceptance into USC. Having applied to a very competitive business school, I was initially rejected. Rather than being discouraged, however, I submitted an appeal asking USC to reconsider its decision, in which I reiterated my accomplishments, submitted my updated grades, and reaffirmed my strong interest in studying at USC. Despite the initial rejection, I’m now enrolled, which taught me not to treat a setback as a final answer. So, for students currently applying to universities, remain optimistic and persistent. Even though rejection can feel definitive in the moment, it does not determine where you will end up! Remember that everything happens for a reason and that things often become clearer with time.

What are you most looking forward to about university life?
Besides meeting new people and learning new things, I think I am most excited - and admittedly, a little nervous – about the prospect of going somewhere new, having lived all 18 years of my life in Singapore. Although having family in California offers some familiarity, I’m ready for the new opportunities, challenges, and uncertainties that the USC experience will bring. This transition excites me rather than intimidates me, an outlook shaped in part by growing up in Singapore’s multicultural setting. I feel eager to meet new people and broaden my network, and I appreciate that USC has an international student body that echoes Tanglin’s while still offering the prospect of encountering perspectives and experiences very different from those I grew up with - something I find exciting in itself.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Looking ahead, I do wish to end up in a walkable city, such as London, Paris or Singapore, as I feel it lends the city more life and bustle, and contributes to the overall ease of commuting and exploring. As reflected in my interest in a broader education, I would be happy to work in a range of industries, whether that means working in consultancy, completing a postgraduate law degree and then practising law, or even starting my own business. Whatever I end up doing, I hope to make meaningful contributions to improving the world in some tangible way.