Volunteers needed for move-in 2025
Posted on: June 5, 2025; Updated on: June 5, 2025
By Collyn Taylor, collyntaylor@sc.edu, 803-777-3691
It’s never too early to start thinking about the newest wave of Gamecocks who will be here in August, and the university needs help from faculty and staff to welcome the Class of 2029. Last year, over 840 faculty and staff volunteered for move-in — with hundreds more at other Welcome Week events.
Faculty and staff volunteering for move-in will receive a T-shirt and meal swipe as an incentive for participating.
This year, early move-in is Aug. 8 and full move-in is on Aug. 16. USC is expecting a large freshman class — last year's incoming class was 7,290 students — so faculty and staff on campus will see an increase in vehicle and pedestrian traffic on those days.
There will be some adjustments to the traffic pattern around the Horseshoe, on Sumter Street and in other high-traffic areas around campus. More information on traffic patterns will be announced closer to move-in.
Faculty and staff are also invited to join in on the First Night Carolina festivities Aug.18. The event starts with an academic welcome from USC administration before the spirit and traditions portion of the event.
USC has a warm and welcoming culture, and First Night exemplifies this spirit, where the Gamecock community comes together to welcome new and returning students and their families to campus.
How to volunteer
Move-in weekend
Greeter: Greeters will welcome families as they arrive to residence halls. They will guide families on where to park, how to unload and the next steps in getting their student moved into their room. Three-hour shifts are available on Aug. 8 and 16.
Post office support: Volunteers will assist USC postal services at student package pickup at the Blatt PE Center. Shifts begin at 10 a.m. and will be four hours.
First Night Carolina (Aug. 18)
First Night Carolina needs volunteers to help set up, direct students along a route through campus to the Horseshoe and assist with activities and cleanup on the Horseshoe. The shifts vary by start time and longevity. Visit the volunteer sign-up page for details.
Other volunteer opportunities
Faculty and staff can volunteer to assist during panhellenic recruitment before classes start. Shifts are available Aug. 9 and Aug. 16.
Faculty and staff are encouraged to serve as part of the Gamecock Greeting Crew on the first two days of class, Aug. 19-20. These volunteers will work in two-hour shifts, providing directions across campus to students, handing out planners and cheering students on as the semester starts.
If faculty and staff are not able to volunteer for move-in, USC Family Weekend also is accepting volunteer signups. Visit the Family Weekend website for details.