What's the first semester in Spark like?

We get a lot of questions about what being in Spark is actually like, so we thought we'd have some of our members tell you themselves. Tiki and Menna were Sparklets in Fall 2019 and Spring 2020, respectively.

About the role

Spark is a student organization at USC that fosters entrepreneurship and innovation. As a Sparklet (new member), you’ll engage in meaningful initiatives, build strong relationships, and gain hands-on experience in a supportive community.

Responsibilities

• Participate in Spark Labs, a training program where Sparklets work on mini-initiatives with mentorship from experienced members.
• Collaborate in committees to plan and execute events, workshops, and projects.
• Engage in brainstorming, ideation, and logistical planning for initiatives.
• Attend regular meetings, check-ins, and Spark traditions (e.g., retreats, Steak 'n Fam dinners, Bay Trip).
• Take on leadership roles within Spark Labs, such as running meetings or co-leading initiatives.
• Build relationships with mentors and peers, fostering a sense of community and support.

Qualifications

• Open to all USC students, regardless of major or year.
• Passion for entrepreneurship, innovation, or community-building.
• Willingness to learn, collaborate, and take on new challenges.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Benefits

• Form deep, lasting friendships with a diverse group of students, including seniors and peers.
• Gain mentorship from experienced members who provide guidance on both professional and personal growth.
• Develop leadership, project management, and communication skills through hands-on experience.
• Access to a supportive community that encourages creativity, innovation, and self-discovery.
• Opportunities to work on impactful initiatives that benefit the campus and broader community.
• Participate in unique traditions and events that create memorable college experiences.

Testimonials

Tiki, F19 Sparklet

Who are you?
My name is Tiki. I'm a Computer Science/Business Administration major with a Cognitive Science minor. My interests include neurotechnology, robots, and 90s TV, but at my core, I'm interested in people. I like to break things and build them back up, learning everything along the way. Aside from Spark, I'm involved with Los Angeles Community Impact and Sigma Eta Pi Entrepreneurial Society.

What was your Sparklet semester like?
My Sparklet semester was fantastic! I was welcomed into a genuine community where everyone wanted to get to know one another. The experiences I had working on committees and our tradition-filled retreat are memories I’ll cherish. From Steak 'n Fam to Bay Trip, Spark played a defining role in my first semester of college.

What were you expecting from Spark when you joined? What surprised you?
I expected a structured club with occasional meetings, but I was surprised by the deep bonds I formed and the real impact I could have on campus. The conversations I had with members changed my outlook on life.

What was Spark Labs?
Spark Labs was a training ground for Sparklets to gain experience with committee ideation and execution. It functioned like a mini Spark initiative with mentorship from older members.

What was the work in Spark Labs like?
We had consistent group meetings and check-ins with Core Team. We brainstormed ideas, planned an event, and navigated different communication styles. It was stressful at times, but ultimately enriching.

What was your experience with mentorship?
My mentor was life-changing. He offered meaningful advice, showed me around campus, and we still check in even after he graduated. His wisdom and support were invaluable.

Menna, S20 Sparklet

Who are you?
My name is Menna Elamroussy! I'm a Sophomore studying Industrial and Systems Engineering. In my free time, I love to run, hike, bake, and hang out with friends. Aside from Spark, I'm part of Theta Tau, a co-ed engineering fraternity at USC.

What was your Sparklet semester like?
My Sparklet semester was my best semester in college. I met amazing people, learned about myself, and found a family on campus. Everyone welcomed me with open arms, and I felt a strong sense of community.

What were you expecting from Spark when you joined? What surprised you?
I didn’t expect such a strong sense of community. I assumed I wouldn’t get to know seniors well, but they were the ones I got closest to. They included me in everything and made me feel valued. I also didn’t expect to have so much responsibility as a new member, but my committee treated me as an equal.

What was Spark Labs?
Spark Labs was a workshop for Sparklets that mimicked the workflow of a real initiative. Core Team gave us tasks, and different Sparklets took the lead, allowing us to gain leadership experience.

What was the work like?
The work was fast-paced but not overwhelming. I never felt like I couldn’t keep up, and the workload lightened during midterms. The work was rewarding—I organized events, reached out to sponsors, and saw the impact of my contributions.

What was your experience with mentorship?
I adored my mentor. He was a senior, so I didn’t get to spend much time with him, but he still checks in on me. He was there for me both professionally and personally, offering support and advice whenever I needed it.