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Office of Undergraduate Admissions

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How to make the most of your campus visit

Brittany Wilson, Visitor Center manager of communications

Whether you're visiting from across the country or just down the block, we want you to have an enjoyable experience when you visit the University of South Carolina! Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your time on campus and in Columbia.

Ask questions.

Take every opportunity you can to ask questions! Our ambassadors love answering questions and talking about their experience at South Carolina. If you have questions related to admissions, take time before or after your tour to stop in and see one of our admissions representatives. They are available for walk-in appointments and are conveniently located one floor above the Visitor Center.

Take notes and pictures.

Odds are, South Carolina won't be the only campus you visit throughout your college search. Take notes whenever you hear something you want to remember. Looking for the quintessential "I visited USC" picture? Consider the Cocky statue or the steps of the Visitor Center. Your family and friends will want to hear about your visit when you go home, so have stories to tell and pictures to show! We'd also love to see your photos when you visit, so don't forget to tag @UofSCAdmissions and @UofSCAmbassadors.

See more of campus.

While our guided campus tour will give you an overview of the main parts of campus, you may want to spend some time checking out other areas that interest you. The west side of our campus includes highlights such as the Arnold School of Public Health, School of Music, Darla Moore School of Business, Wellness and Fitness Center (which is the largest gym in the state!) and Greek Village. If you're interested in athletics, drive around and see Williams-Brice Stadium, Colonial Life Arena, Founders Park, Stone Stadium and the facilities in our Athletics Village. If you get hungry during your visit, be sure to check out any of our 30+ campus dining locations. 

Bring a friend.

Some of your friends might also be interested in touring South Carolina. During your visit, you'll receive a lot of information over a short amount of time. Bringing a friend along gives you someone to combine and compare notes with after the visit! Also, friend photos are super cute. 

Explore Columbia.

If you have time before or after your tour, we highly recommend exploring Columbia. It could end up becoming your future home! If you're limited on time, we recommend strolling around one of our downtown districts. The three closest districts to campus are Five Points, Main Street and the Vista. Each have their own unique attractions, plus plenty of dining and shopping options. If you'll be in town on a Saturday, visit the Soda City Farmers Market on Main Street. It's a popular weekend destination for both students and the Columbia community. If you plan to spend additional time in Columbia, stroll along the Riverwalk, explore one of our many museums or see the animals at the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.

We can't wait for you to experience South Carolina! To book your tour, go to sc.edu/visit.


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