Partly because I'm procrastinating writing this paper and partly because I sympathize with planning far, far in advance, here are some answer from a greek Trojan
1. I am of a mixed race, my mom is hispanic, and my dad is caribbean and white. Does race really come into play in terms of being in a sorority? In other words, do they tend to be very prejudice? I know there are the NPHC sororities, but does that mean that only african-amercians can be in those and not any other one?
In all honesty, appearances will play more into it more than race. SC is pretty diverse, but a large majority of girls that rush are white so obviously the pledge classes are going to reflect that, but it won't hurt your chances.
2. What is rush week truly like?
Craziness. One of the most tiring, amazing, gruesome, and fun experiences you will have. (read any rush story on here, it's basically the same set up, just longer/shorter depending on the school)
3. How long can you be in a sorority? Like, is it by semester or by the school year?
As long as you pay dues, you're in it all four years (plus alum status if you don't deactivate)
4. Do you need recommendations, and if so, from who?
Not necessary, but helpful if possible. Won't make a HUGE difference, but could make you stand out. Preferably from an alum of the sorority that knows you very well.
5. What are frat parties truly like?
Some epic, crazy fun nights, some boring ones. I'm sure you have an idea of what college parties are like? A lot like that.
6. If you are a part of greek life, to you, what is the greatest thing about being in a fraternity/sorority?
All of my best friends are in my sorority and I literally can't imagine where I would be without them. So definitely the people.
7. Is being in a sorority very time consuming? Will it be easy for me to be friends with other people outside of greek life, and can i easily participate in other "non-greek" activities?
You can be as involved or uninvolved as you want. The more involved you are, though, the less involved you will be with "non-greek" activities. Not that it's a bad thing, but your best friends will become greek and that will take up a lot of what you WANT to be involved in. Greek life can become a little bubble that's sometimes obnoxious, but for the most part great.
8. Are girls from different sororities friends with each other, or is it very cliquey?
Both. In groups, houses can be very catty toward each other especially during rush/when it comes to the top houses battling for PNMs, reputation, etc. But on an individual basis, I have friends in just about every house!
Hope this helps somewhat. Above all, FOCUS on your grades. USC has become so competitive and you have to get in before you can rush

Fight on!