Erica Lee

Majors: Piano Performance; Business Administration

Graduation year: 2021

Hometown: La Canada Flintridge, CA

USC Organizations: Thornton Community Engagement Program

Hashtag to describe yourself: #restless

Describe your favorite USC Thornton experience so far.

It is difficult to associate a particular moment in time or event as my favorite Thornton experience, as often there is a story or journey behind every memorable moment; however, if I had to pin down one event I would say that my very first jury at USC my Fall semester was definitely a moment in time where I truly felt like USC was where I was meant to learn, perform, and love music. Launching straight into college and having that first-semester jury at the back of my time was daunting, but the moment I was at Newman on stage, I was confident and just enjoyed myself on stage! After the jury was completed, I called my mom immediately on my way back to my dorm, crying to her about how happy I was at USC.

What was your favorite USC GE class?

The Universe!

What is your favorite thing about being in Los Angeles?

I have lived in Los Angeles my entire life, but there is so much of LA I have not yet explored! My favorite part of Los Angeles has to be the food culture because I love trying food and eating food and taking pictures of food and making food… In a nutshell, I love to explore any food place that’s on Instagram these days.

What is something you wish you knew when you were applying to college?

Before I applied to college, I wish I knew the importance of social life within a university, mainly because I feel myself very satisfied with the musicians and friends I have made at USC, that I am not sure I would have made at other schools. During the process, I worry so much about my future and success, that I failed to take into consideration my place in the social sphere. However, I lucked out and USC has offered me great friendships within the university as a whole.

Where is your favorite place on campus?

My apartment.

What is your favorite thing about being a student at the Thornton School?

My favorite thing about being a student at the Thornton School is probably being surrounded by such talented faculty and peers that are always willing to provide me with their insight and wisdom about music. I feel respected as a musician and student at the Thornton School by professors and students alike.

Why did you choose the Thornton School?

I wanted to be in an environment where I learned from students of various majors and had the opportunity to double major as well. While there were other school that offered me that option as well, I definitely felt like Thornton embraced diversity in studies and encouraged students to reach their fullest potential in their endeavors.