i think the general concensus on the trail was that usc is a h$%&hole!! tons of trauma, little direction. decided not to interview there. also, if you notice, you are competing for one of 5 spots. almost every year they match 5 from usc med.

i have heard good things about harbor. if you think you want to go there, you really need to do a rotation. if i remember correctly, they interview very few people for their 3 spots. overall, i have heard that it is a very well-rounded program.

I heard the following about USC on the interview trail...it was shocking to say the least and i don't know how much truth there is to it, but another applicant had spent time there and he confirmed it: pgy2's were doing cases as primary surgeon WITHOUT an attending or chief in the room! the place is that busy. they throw you in without much guidance and it's very stressful.