At the beginning of the school year, the USC School of Dramatic Arts asked the Office of Admissions & Student Services staff a few questions for our new students to get to know them. Here are their responses (in alphabetical order of last name).
Samantha Bradfield
How long have you been at USC?
I just started in March 2023, so it’s only been a few months but I’m super excited to join such a dynamic team within this amazing community!
What do you do?
I am an academic advisor!
What’s the most common question you get from students? What’s your response?
Q: I’d say at the moment, the most common question I’ve been getting is “can I add a minor?” I then ask students which minor they are looking at and their career/life goals. This way, I can assess whether or not their desired plan is a good personal fit or if something else might fit better. And then we can look at their current course plan to see if it will physically fit, and go from there!
Favorite organization on campus?
I love the Spirit of Troy Marching Band! My high school in Colorado had the same colors and fight song as USC, so it’s super nostalgic to hear them play! I was also a music major and a huge marching band geek, so that helps as well.
Favorite theatrical production at SDA?
I’m brand new to SDA so I’ve only seen Sondheim on Sondheim, which was excellent! However, Rent is one of my all-time favorite musicals so I’m beyond excited to see it next year!.
Fun fact?
I run a blog about the Colorado Rockies baseball team called Purple Row and am a credentialed member of the media. I have covered the Rockies as a journalist for the last 5.5 years and was able to cover the 2021 MLB All-Star Game in Denver, which was one of the highlights of my life!
Aspen Cole
How long have you been at USC?
6 years at USC, 3 with SDA
What do you do?
I am an academic advisor
What’s the most common question you get from students? What’s your response?
The most common question I get is “Can I double major or minor?” to which I most likely will say, “It depends on how many extra units you have available, your program of interest, and how long you intend to be at USC for. We can update your course plan during your mandatory advising appointment and see what option works best for you.”
Favorite organization on campus?
SAGE (Student Assembly for Gender Empowerment)
Favorite theatrical production at SDA?
My favorite shows at SDA thus far have been we, the invisibles, and of course, one of my favorite musicals, Spring Awakening.
Fun Fact?
The arts are a huge part of my life. I majored in Theatre with an Acting emphasis at UCLA and currently dance with the Leigh Purtill Ballet Company.
Meghan Laughlin
How long have you been at USC?
18 years and counting (gulp)
What do you do?
Director of Internships & Special Programs. I help students find cool opportunities outside USC and bring in awesome guest artists!
What’s the most common question you get from students? What’s your response?
Q: “What kind of internship can I get?”
A: Meet with me! Let’s talk about your goals and interests and see what’s possible.
Favorite organization on campus?
Visions and Voices. It’s not technically an “organization”… but the programs and events they offer all year are AMAZING — and free!
Favorite theatrical production at SDA?
Our 2012 production of City of Angels still reigns supreme for me. I loved everything about it — direction, design, performances. That cast and crew nailed it! Urinetown in spring 2023 is a close second.
Fun Fact?
I got my BA in Theatre from Michigan State University, and my job allows me to be a ‘forever theatre major’ (the best undergrad major ever…). I love campus, our theatres and SDA students!
Mabel Lopez
How long have you been at USC?
9 ½ years.
What do you do?
Office Manager of Admissions & Student Services.
What’s the most common question you get from students? What’s your response?
Q: How can I register for a class with a “D”?
A: You may submit a “D” (Departmental) clearance on our student portal at sdastudents.usc.edu and select D-Clearance Course request.
Favorite organization on campus?
All Acapella groups.
Favorite theatrical production at SDA?
My favorite was Grease!
Fun fact?
I love to sing so much that I joined my church choir six years ago.
Sergio Ramirez
How long have you been at USC?
17 years.
What do you do?
Associate Dean of Admissions & Student Services.
What’s the most common question you get from students? What’s your response?
Q: What does it take to get into USC?
A: Academically, it takes hard work and to take the most rigorous curriculum at your high school. Artistically, it takes imagination and a driving spirit.
Favorite organization on campus?
SoCal Vocals. I love listening to them!
Favorite theatrical production at SDA?
My favorite musical would be Grease. My favorite stage-play would be The Kentucky Cycle.
Fun fact?
When I am not cheering on my USC Trojans, I love watching old movies and TV shows.
Ramón Valdez
How long have you been at USC?
I have been working for SDA in some capacity since 2007. I started as a student work-study and have worked my way to my current position.
What do you do?
I am the Assistant Director of Admissions. In my role, I work with prospective students to our undergraduate and graduate programs through the application process.
What’s the most common question you get from students? What’s your response?
Q: What is your favorite thing about USC?
A: For me, my favorite thing is the people. In my experience at USC, from being a student in the classroom to my work in admissions, the variety of personalities, experiences and unique offerings everyone brings to our dynamic community is extremely rewarding.
Favorite organization on campus?
The Spirit of Troy. The Greatest Marching Band in the History of the Universe.
Favorite theatrical production at SDA?
Grapes of Wrath.
Fun fact?
I share my name with a very well-known Mexican actor.