USC Traditions
University Seal
The university’s seal displays three torches, representing the arts, the sciences and philosophy.
Colors
Cardinal and Gold. Before 1895, USC's official color was gold, and the College of Liberal Arts had its own color - cardinal. In 1895, both colors were adopted as USC's official colors.
Alma Mater
“All Hail” was written by Al Wesson for the finale of a student show, Campus Frolics of 1923.
Trojans
The “Trojan” tradition originated in 1912 with Los Angeles Times sportswriter Owen Bird, who likened the fighting spirit of USC athletes to that of the ancient Trojans.
Trojan Shrine
Now a campus landmark fondly nicknamed “Tommy Trojan,” this life-size bronze statue of a Trojan warrior was unveiled on June 6, 1930, as part of USC’s 50th birthday celebration.
Official Fight Song
In 1922, USC dental student Milo Sweet composed the music for USC’s official fight song, “Fight On,” as an entry in a Trojan Spirit contest.
Traveler
USC football games are famous for, among other things, the appearance of Traveler, a noble white steed bearing a “Trojan warrior” into the arena.
Trojan Marching Band
The history of the “Spirit of Troy,” the USC marching band, goes back to the inception of the university in 1880.