Fifteen students from five Southern California universities gathered at USD to discuss the Declaration of Independence on its 250th anniversary.

The University of San Diego’s Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) program is built around close mentorship, rigorous discussion and real chances to test ideas beyond the classroom. Recent graduate Damiera Cruz ’25 exemplified that approach, earning spots in several competitive, discussion-driven programs that sharpened her scholarship and broadened her network. According to Damiera, “PPE at USD provided me with the framework to understand society’s driving factors and created opportunities that helped me personally and professionally.”