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Office of Undergraduate Admissions

  • Cocky dancing with students at pep rally on the Horseshoe.

First Week at South Carolina

Each fall, we roll out the garnet carpet for our new and returning students and their families. The bustling week of activities, which begins on Move-in Day, includes a number of fun, on-campus events such as First Night Carolina, Convocation, the start of classes and more!

Curious what your first week at South Carolina will look like? I’m here to tell you. Picture this. Moving day is finally here. You’re leaving for the University of South Carolina. Your stuff is all packed, you’re excited and maybe even nervous, but you’re ready for your new adventure.

Move-in Day

When you first to campus, it will be a fast flurry of boxes, new faces and a lot of excitement. If you’re unsure how to decorate, check out these dorms! Once you unpack and settle into your dorm, it will be time to say goodbye to your family and hello to your new roommates and the start of your new life at USC. Now let the fun begin! My first night in the dorm, I found myself surrounded with a big group of 25 new friends playing Cards Against Humanity. Just remember, making friends is easy because everyone else is feeling the same way you are! Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.

New Student Convocation

The day before classes begin, you’ll attend New Student Convocation and hear from guest speakers to commemorate your new beginning as a Gamecock. Convocation is the first time your entire class will gather together as a group, and it certainly won’t be the last. You should receive an invitation in the mail sometime in July. This day is all about celebrating you and your new home!

First Night Carolina

First Night Carolina is among one of the best nights you’ll experience at USC! All of the incoming students gather on the Horseshoe for a pep rally, hear from President Caslen, and enjoy food trucks, dancing and fireworks! Ya’ll, the food is amazing, and the Gamecock spirit you feel throughout the night is incredible! Check out this video for a glimpse.

Before Classes Start

In your spare time, you will likely attend more welcome events (there were 28 last year), get your textbooks and learn your way around campus before classes begin. It will be a whirlwind of meeting new people and new experiences. Pro Tip: Be sure to attend some soccer games and other sporting events to not only show your Gamecock pride, but also to start earning points and increase your chances of getting good football tickets! Learn more about the student ticketing request system.

First Day of Classes

On Aug. 20th, you’ll have your first day of classes. That Thursday will potentially be your first time in a college class, and it will be a starting point on your path as a college student! In the weeks following, get ready to join new organizations, explore your interests and make memories and friends that will last a lifetime.

It may seem far off, but this week will be here before you know it. It will be a crazy and exciting time, and you’ll be shocked just how many amazing people you’ll meet. My first week was unforgettable, and it really established South Carolina as my home. Class of 2024, I can’t wait for you to have the same experience!


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