This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
USC Freshman Collapses, Dies in Dorm Room

USC freshman Rachel Kim was "talking and laughing" with her roommate in their Pardee Tower dorm room on campus Wednesday night, when she suddenly collapsed, according to the Daily Trojan. Kim's roommate, Molly Keam, sought help, and both officials from the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Los Angeles City Fire Department responded to the 8:41 Thanksgiving-eve call. The student was found "unresponsive and not breathing." Kim, a print and digital journalism major, "was transported to California Hospital and was later pronounced dead," explains DPS Capt. David Carlisle.
The cause of Kim's death has not been released. USC has counselors available to help students cope with Kim's sudden death; Michael L. Jackson, vice president of student affairs, pledged support and expressed condolences via an email sent to all Pardee Tower residents.