Kate Mathew is an incoming Academy student who is a part of Cohort 8. She first entered USC as a biochemistry major, but realized she wanted to have a curriculum that was more aligned with her interests in entrepreneurship, design and technology. Outside of school, Mathew works in social media and digital marketing and loves to drink tea and watch Grey’s Anatomy. 

Tell me a little bit about your journey to the Academy. What were you looking for in an undergraduate program?

I started off at USC as a biochemistry major, and while I loved the courses and material I was learning, I knew I wanted to be in a place where I could explore all of my interests, which included entrepreneurship, design and technology. When I found out about the Academy, I knew it would be the perfect place to pursue all of my passions to fuse arts, innovation, tech and business. I could integrate my biochemistry knowledge into my projects and classes, and even a health minor. It was the perfect opportunity for what I wanted to do, and I knew I had to apply right away. 

What are you most looking forward to in the Academy? 

I’m looking forward to all the unique courses we will get to take and the opportunity to collaborate in a close cohort setting. 

What are three goals you want to accomplish during your time at the Academy and/or USC? 

Exploring new opportunities and utilizing the Academy’s resources and tools in new, innovative ways. 

Collaborating with companies and helping work toward a more sustainable, all-inclusive future. 

Making new connections, friendships, and everlasting memories. 

Let’s say you were miraculously provided $1,000,000 in seed funding tomorrow. What would you create? 

I would create an all-inclusive social media app that promotes well-being, celebrating cultures, being kind and supporting others. 

What is a good piece of advice you've received that you plan to apply throughout college? 

To take time for myself and focus on the things I’m passionate about!

What is your proudest achievement to date? 

Following my passions and dreams instead of sticking to the common path.

Describe one thing most people don’t know about you. 

I work in social media and digital marketing when I’m not a student! 

What is one thing your parents taught you that you’d like to share? 

To embrace my culture and heritage and use my unique point of view in my daily life. 

Out of the five traits of a Trojan, which trait best describes you? 

I would say the trait that describes me the most is ambitious. I love to dream big, especially when it comes to projects and goals, and to explore new ideas and opportunities. 

What is one skill/thing that you learned during the COVID-19 pandemic?

I learned to explore new hobbies and interests because you never know where they will lead you! 

What is your favorite app/website and why? 

Tiktok! It’s a great place to find new places to explore, have a quick laugh, express yourself and meet new people to collaborate with! 

If you could be any kitchen appliance, what would you be and why?

A tea kettle so I could make the necessary five cups a day! 

Rewatching all of Grey's Anatomy...again. 

Doing the things I love and am passionate about, being with my friends and family and trying the impossible.

Kate Mathew is an incoming Academy student who is a part of Cohort 8. She first entered USC as a biochemistry major, but realized she wanted to have a curriculum that was more aligned with her interests in entrepreneurship, design and technology.

FRESH Encounters: Kate Mathew