As we move closer to the start date of our program, the uncertainties surrounding these unpredictable circumstances are growing. We are sure that the university has high hopes of having students on campus starting Fall 2020 but we all understand that it is not promised. Choosing between deferment of our admission or starting classes remotely has been one of the most difficult conundrums for all of us.

We believe that being present in class for the experience including the networking opportunities and getting a visceral feel of attending classes on campus were some of the most compelling reasons for choosing to attend USC. Even if in person classes did resume this fall it will probably entail numerous restrictions and social distancing guidelines which would impair our ability to truly immerse ourselves in the USC culture and have an authentic university experience. In all honesty, given the comparatively higher tuition, we all want to be able to get our money's worth as well.

Furthermore, international students face a dilemma because the U.S. embassies across the world are closed which will adversely impact the visa process. Additionally, as Stacy L. Peazant from University of Florida said in the Forbes Magazine, “Even if international students are able to participate in fall classes remotely, there will be technological access issues as well as freedom of speech and thought concerns for those citizens of more austere governments.” Not to mention the different time zones which will make it difficult for the international students to attend live online lectures.

These are some of the paramount issues we wanted to bring forward. As future entrepreneurs who think outside the box we would like to suggest an alternative solution. Hence, we have unanimously decided to create this petition to ask USC/Marshall Business School to consider rescheduling our MSEI program start date to Spring 2021 instead of Fall 2020.