How to Meet Your Mindsets

There are many ways to meet the Five Mindsets, including several Viterbi sponsored/recognized courses, programs, research, and student orgs that many students are involved with throughout their time at USC. Outside experiences such as internships, work experience, clubs, organizations, and more can also be justified on the application for GCSP Designation application.

Book an Appointment

Students should utilize advisement throughout their GCSP journey, even if just to ask how an activity my qualify for Designation. Contact Dr. Abercrombia (kabercro@usc.edu) for GCSP questions or schedule an in-person or online meeting.

GCSP Activities

Click here to see a list of Viterbi programs, activities, and student organizations that can be used to meet GCSP Mindset requirements. Keep in mind that opportunities not listed may still be justified for GCSP Designation. Please check with Dr. Abercrombia.

How to Apply for Designation (Seniors) ?

The GCSP Committee will only accept applications from graduating seniors.  Each application will be evaluated on the student’s focus on their chosen Grand Challenge and interpretation of their work and experiences across the Five Mindsets.

You will notice the Five Mindsets of a successful Grand Challenges Scholar have flexibility built in.  While we list possible interpretations of the Mindsets, we encourage you to think of these areas broadly. While focusing on your selected Grand Challenge only one Mindset requires in-depth focus.

It is highly encouraged to take advantage of advisement and application review throughout the application season.

Grand Challenge Scholars Senior Presentation Slides

**Application for Spring and Fall 2025 Designation (including students finishing undergrad PDP requirements) now open. APPLY EARLY**

Application Deadline: 3/28/2025 at 11:59pm

Apply for Designation
Published on January 30th, 2025Last updated on January 30th, 2025