The Viterbi Summer Institute (VSI) is a high-achievement program designed to enhance the transition to USC for incoming first-year engineering students. Institute participants will gain a competitive edge engaging with faculty, staff, and students in a supportive community environment. The four-week program consists of two weeks of virtual engagement and two weeks of residential in-person programming that help prepare students to succeed and thrive as Viterbi students.
USC Viterbi FAQ
USC Viterbi FAQ
Interested in Supporting?
Your gift makes a world of a difference in supporting incoming undergradute Viterbi students. To donate click the link below or contact our staff at vjbs@usc.edu.
Benefits of Participating in VSI
College Expereince
Free on-campus experience
Build confidence and community through a free on-campus program designed to ease your transition to college.
Academic Development
Build college-level learning strategies
Develop advanced study and learning strategies to succeed in your first year and beyond.
Community & Events
Develop community at USC
Build your peer support network of new incoming students and upper-class students.
Resources
Exposure to USC and Viterbi resources
Discover undergraduate opportunties at USC relating to mental health, academics, and more!
Student Life
Learn about USC engineering clubs
Connect with student organizations that match your interests while building community, leadership skills, and real-world experience.
Excursions
Experience South Los Angeles
Explore Los Angeles through curated weekend excursions designed for students.
The Viterbi Summer Institute (VSI) is a 4-week immersive program designed to support incoming engineering students in their transition to USC. Through hands-on projects, workshops, and community-building experiences, students begin developing the mindset and skills of a modern engineer, before their first day of classes.
Who Should Apply?
Incoming Viterbi students who have accepted their offer letter
First-generation and/or students seeking early community
Students interested in hands-on learning and collaboration
Students curious about research, innovation, and real-world problem solving
What to Expect?
Workshops: Academic, professional, and technical skill-building sessions
Team Projects: Collaborate on real-world engineering challenges
Campus Navigation: Learn how to access key USC resourcess
Community Building: Form meaningful connections with peers and mentors
Weekend Excursions: Explore Los Angeles with VSI peers
Participant Expectations
All participants are expected to fully commit to the program experience, including both virtual and residential components.
Program Dates
Monday, June 22 - Sunday, July 19, 2026
Virtual Component: Monday, June 22 - Friday, June 26, 2026
Residential Component: Saturday, June 27 - Sunday, July 19, 2026
