Class of 2026

As the University of South Carolina Class of 2026 walks across the commencement stage, they carry memories of close friendships, newfound passions and supportive mentors and faculty.

From cheering on the Gamecocks and celebrating four trips to the women’s basketball Final Four to excelling in the classrooms  and traveling across the world, these new USC alumni took advantage of everything  Gamecock life has to offer.

We reached out to undergraduate and graduate students across the university and asked them to share some of what made their Carolina experience special. Here are just a few of their stories.

 

Meet Our Graduates

 

How USC changed my life: USC gave me the space to turn conviction into action. I came in knowing I wanted to pursue medicine and make a difference, but I did not fully understand what that would look like until I started doing it. At USC, I founded three nonprofits, led organizations serving thousands of students and community members, logged over 1,000 hours in clinical settings and spent 400 hours in a cancer research lab. The Honors College pushed me to think rigorously; the student community gave me people worth building for. More than any single experience, USC taught me that meaningful impact is not something you wait to create. It is something you build, incrementally, with the incredible people around you and at USC.

A favorite memory: My favorite memory is the TEDxCongaree Vista event. After nearly a year of planning, recruiting speakers from 260 applicants, securing $30,000 in sponsorships, and forging partnerships with 40+ organizations and two cities, watching 150 people fill that room and lean in as our speakers shared ideas was something I will never forget. What struck me most was not the logistics coming together, but the feeling that we had created something that genuinely mattered to Columbia. A student had brought a decade of silence on a stage back to life, and the room felt it.

Advice for incoming students: Start before you feel ready. Every meaningful thing I built at USC, including MedElem, PhysiLink  and TEDxCongaree Vista, began as an idea I was not sure I could execute. The resources, mentors and collaborators you need are here, but they will not find you while you are waiting for the perfect moment. Say yes to the opportunity that scares you a little, then figure it out as you go. Also, your GPA matters, but so does what you do when no one is grading you. The students who leave USC having truly grown are the ones who treated every organization, project and conversation as seriously as any exam.

What helped me succeed: The Free Medical Clinic volunteer community changed the way I think about medicine. Working alongside physicians, nurses and fellow students to serve uninsured and homeless patients in Columbia showed me that health care is not just a science; it is a moral commitment. The clinic grounded my ambitions in something real and urgent. On the academic side, the USC Honors College consistently challenged me to pursue depth over breadth, and the faculty who supported my research gave me the confidence to ask harder questions.

What’s next: I plan to spend a year working in clinical research or health care service before beginning medical school in fall 2027. Longer term, I hope to practice medicine in a way that integrates patient care, research and advocacy, working at the intersection of clinical excellence and health equity. USC gave me the foundation. Now I am ready to build on it.

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How USC changed my life: USC helped me to become a confident, young professional. I truly feel I have learned so much about myself as a person and as a professional. The opportunities that I have gained from being at USC have prepared me to make a real impact in my future career.

A favorite memory: I studied abroad during the spring semester in 2024. Being in Dublin, I couldn’t stream any of the women’s March Madness games, which was a bummer because we were on quite the run. When we made the final to play for the National Championship, I was calling everyone I knew to help me watch the game. Eventually a friend FaceTimed me and set me up on her sofa for the entire game. I made everyone in my study abroad cohort watch and even some Irish locals. We were all screaming in the early morning hours when the clock hit zero and we took the title. Even though I wasn’t on campus at USC, it truly felt like the Gamecock spirit had no borders.

Advice for incoming students: Say yes! Try out that club, go to the free events and get involved. Just say yes and give everything a go, that’s how I met some of my closest friends.

What I’ve learned about myself: I have learned how much I value experience and my independence. At USC I’ve had so many opportunities to learn outside of the classroom, which has deepened my understanding of my field. I’ve been able to attend conferences in California, listen to guest speakers, work a multitude of internships and more, which have all made me cherish the importance of professional experience.

What’s next: I have been accepted into a master’s program studying music business in London at the University of Westminster.

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How USC changed my life: It provided me with outlets to allow my passions to grow. From marching band to concert ensemble and chamber groups, there’s no shortage of music programs at USC. Having those opportunities shaped me into the person I am today, and I’m eternally grateful.

A favorite memory: Getting to travel to New York City with the Carolina Band to perform in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. That moment was honestly a dream come true, and I still think about it all the time. Getting to spend a week in New York with some of my best friends while also representing the university (and the win over Clemson the following weekend) was truly unforgettable.

Advice for incoming students: Don’t be afraid to try new things. Go to events in your residence hall, markets on Greene Street, a sporting event or even a concert. Even if you go by yourself, you’ll end up finding people to enjoy it with.

What I’ve learned about myself: That change is inevitable and OK. I’m not the same person I was four years ago, but I’m ultimately a lot happier and more carefree.

What’s next: I’ll be pursuing a career as an elementary music teacher.

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How USC changed my life: The friends I made here are lifetime friends. My first year of law school was one of the hardest things I have ever been through, and the people I bonded with over these three years carried me through it. We challenged each other, supported each other and grew together. These are people I will remember and stay connected to forever, and I would not trade that for anything.

A favorite memory: My favorite moments were never the big events. They were the in-between moments in the Counselors Cafe, catching up with friends between classes, laughing, debriefing after a tough lecture or just sitting together when none of us had the energy to talk. Those small, unplanned moments are what I will carry with me.

Advice for incoming students: Breathe. Take it one day at a time. Pressure is a privilege, and being at this university is a privilege. They accepted you for a reason, so trust that. Show up, put in the work and make the most of every opportunity in front of you. It goes faster than you think.

What helped me succeed: The Black Law Student Association played a crucial role in my success at law school. Beyond helping me navigate the academic demands of law school, it gave me something irreplaceable: community and mentorship. As a first-generation law student without a lawyer in my immediate family, having mentors and peers I could turn to made a tremendous difference in my legal education and career trajectory. But it goes deeper than that. Being in a space with people who look like me, who understand what it took to get here, who carry the same history I carry, was transformative. There was a time when people who looked like me were not allowed in spaces like this. So to be here now, to bond with like-minded people who understand the weight of that reality, to celebrate this achievement together, it meant everything.

What’s next: I will be moving to Indianapolis to work at the NCAA. I am excited to combine my legal education with my background as a former Division I gymnast and step into a space where I can make a real impact in college sports. This next chapter feels like exactly where I am supposed to be.

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How USC changed my life: College was the first time I really had the freedom to make my own decisions. Some of them were great and others honestly weren’t, but that’s part of figuring things out. No matter where I went, I would’ve been in that same position, but what made USC so important to me is that I never had to go through it alone. The people here supported me through every mistake and every success, and that made all the difference.

A favorite memory: During my second year, I was working really hard to obtain an internship. Because of the Career Center's resources and my on-campus job at Healthy Carolina, I felt fully prepared and supported to keep searching and interviewing for a summer internship. In March, I received an offer from my top choice internship, and I ran to my Healthy Carolina supervisor to tell her the news. We jumped for joy together. It was so moving to feel supported like that, although she was my boss, she celebrated my wins like my friend.

What I learned about myself: As a psychology major with a business administration minor, I was not thrilled about taking an Intro to Painting class at 8:05 in the morning to fulfill a humanities credit. I went in skeptical and honestly a little annoyed. But that class ended up changing the way I see things. It introduced me to a kind of creative storytelling I had never experienced before and taught me how to slow down, be intentional and stay patient.

Every painting started off looking rough, sometimes even terrible, but that was part of the process. If you stuck with it and kept going, something beautiful would eventually come together, often when you least expected it. What made the final result so meaningful was the messy, uncertain work that came before it.

That lesson stayed with me beyond the classroom. It reminded me that if I want something meaningful, I have to keep going even when I feel unsure, even when it feels like nothing is working. The effort matters, even if the outcome looks different from what I originally imagined. I am really grateful I took that class, and I would recommend it to anyone.

What played a role in my success: Studying abroad with Dr. Matt Childs to Peru last winter made the experience even more meaningful. He challenged us to be patient, observant and flexible, and his deep knowledge of South American history was inspiring. He helped me see that people are not defined by appearances or assumptions, but by their history, cultural traditions and the strength of their communities. That way of thinking stayed with me.

What’s next: I will move to Washington, D.C., to join the Sonepar Training for Emerging Professionals program.

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How USC changed my life: The University of South Carolina changed my life for the better by being the stage for a set of experiences that have changed my perspective and pushed against my comfort zone, reshaping my boundaries. I joined organizations, even becoming the vice president of the Black Social Work Student Association. Through the events hosted by the university to help build community and allow new connections through shared experiences, I have found another form of family away from my hometown that has shown me the support needed to pursue goals I previously only viewed as simply out-of-reach dreams. Through the values and mission of USC, I push to change the field of social work for the betterment of the world around me and uphold the integrity taught to me as foundational while being the difference in the world I wish to see.

Advice for incoming students: Do all the events possible and join multiple groups, especially if you are someone who normally keeps to yourself. The best way to build community and find friends is to engage in the culture and activities around you; these shared experiences will not only open doors for you socially but can be beneficial to you later academically and professionally. Expand your mind, because this is the time to grow into a new you and polish the parts that are already as you wish them to be. Take in all the knowledge that lecturers, professionals and advisers have to give, as this is a time where you are surrounded by great minds that have different opinions, and to expand your perspective. Overall, the best advice I can give is to count on yourself and embrace the mistakes along the way, as you are on a learning journey that is not just academic.

What’s next: Grad school for my Master of Social Work. My goal is to be a clinical social worker.

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How USC changed my life: I remember sitting in my Stadium Suites apartment during my first few weeks at the USC, asking myself, ‘Is this really worth it?’ I had run out of food, I did not have a car, and I felt stuck. For the first time, I regretted my decision to come to USC. Then one class changed everything. My lecturer said, ‘Ask for help.’ It sounded simple, but it stayed with me. So, I reached out to an MBA student I barely knew and asked if he could take me to get groceries. His response was immediate. He drove me to Target and Walmart, and that moment changed how I saw everything. I realized that if I did not ask, I would struggle alone.

From then on, I stopped fearing rejection. I started asking, showing up and taking chances. I have represented USC in case competitions, traveled to Germany and served as a graduate student ambassador.
USC did not just change my opportunities. It changed my mindset. It taught me that growth begins when you are willing to ask.

A favorite memory: One of my favorite memories was attending my first football game at Williams-Brice Stadium. As someone from Ghana, I had never watched American football before. So when people started shouting about quarterbacks, downs and ‘first and 10,’  I was completely lost. But even without understanding the rules, I could not ignore the energy.  The noise, the music, the chants, it was loud in a way that pulled you in. When the Gamecocks ran onto the field, the entire stadium erupted, and I just followed along.

At some point, I found myself cheering, shouting and high-fiving strangers like I knew exactly what was going on. I did not, but it did not matter.  That experience showed me USC is not just about academics. It is about community. Even when you do not understand everything, you can still feel like you belong.

What played a role in my success: One of the most impactful parts of my experience at the Darla Moore School of Business was the Graduate Consulting Club. When I arrived, I became part of a small group of students who helped bring the organization to life. As the organization developed, I took on more responsibility and eventually served as director of operations. In that role, I helped coordinate projects, support members and ensure the club continued to grow.  The club gave me a space to apply what I was learning in the classroom to real world problems. Being part of building something from the ground up showed me what I am capable of, and that is something I will carry with me beyond USC.

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How USC changed my life:  When I first arrived as a freshman, I was unsure of myself and hesitant to put myself out there. One of the most impactful moments came during Family Weekend at the McCutchen House, when a dean approached me, introduced herself and mentioned that her office was hiring. At the time, I felt intimidated and unsure, but I decided to take a chance and apply. That decision turned into a job that I held through my final days at USC. Through that experience, I gained confidence, built meaningful relationships and developed skills that will stay with me beyond college. It also gave me a strong sense of belonging on campus. USC showed me that growth happens when you are willing to take risks and embrace unexpected opportunities. Because of that, I’ve become more confident in myself and more open to new experiences — something that will continue to shape my future.

A favorite memory: One of my favorite memories  was becoming a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and having the opportunity to meet A’ja Wilson when she returned to campus for her book tour. Joining AKA was a significant milestone for me, as it represents sisterhood, service  and a commitment to excellence — values that have shaped my college experience.

Shortly after becoming a member, I attended A’ja Wilson’s event on campus. As a former Gamecock and someone who has achieved so much through hard work and determination, she has always been a role model to me. Hearing her speak about her journey, challenges and success was incredibly inspiring and motivating. Getting the chance to meet her reminded me that with dedication and confidence, it is possible to achieve your goals. Being surrounded by my sorority sisters during this moment made it even more special, as we all share similar values of leadership and empowerment.

What played a role in my success: A key group that played an important role in my success was the HRSM Innovation Tours led by Erica Lake, the vice dean for organizational development and innovation. Being selected for these experiences was incredibly meaningful, as students are picked based on their potential and engagement.  Through the Innovation Tours, I had the opportunity to travel to Las Vegas and Paris —experiences that were truly transformative. In Las Vegas, I saw large-scale hospitality operations and innovation in action. In Paris, I gained an international perspective on hospitality, culture and business. These experiences went far beyond what I could learn in a classroom.  Dean Lake’s leadership and investment in students made a lasting impact on me. Her commitment to creating these opportunities helped me build confidence, expand my network,and better understand my career goals.

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How USC changed my life: I have loved the school spirit that we have here. Coming to an SEC school from the Midwest, I wasn’t prepared for the lifelong dedication to Gamecock sports and school culture, and I have loved getting to be a part of this amazing community. I made so many memories from football games, campus events and Honors classes, and I made some lifelong friends. The past four years have been more than I could have imagined for a college experience.

Advice for incoming students: Take a deep breath and start slow. No matter how confident someone appears to be in their first months on campus, they are never more qualified to be that than you are. I was always terrified that I was behind, not in enough clubs, or didn't have enough friends. But the good and long-lasting things will accumulate with time. Finally, my senior year, I feel like I have curated my schedule to prioritize the things that are the most important to me. If my freshman self saw myself now, she would be so shocked and insanely proud — don’t put too much weight on first semester of freshman year. It is hard and you learn and grow and figure yourself out slowly.

Who helped me succeed: My biomechanics professor, Dr. Tarek Shazly, was one of the best professors I have had at USC. His class was the most interesting and engaging class I've taken, and it really stretched me to learn and study in a way I hadn’t before. He was insanely supportive in my graduate school search and journey and quick to write me a letter of recommendation for medical school. He always believed in me, encouraging me through the class, then checking in on me during my application process.

What I’ve learned about myself: I can handle a lot, but that doesn’t mean I should. From the moment I stepped on campus, I had a list of things I wanted to accomplish, and I started joining everything I could. It was overwhelming at first, and I was quite stressed for awhile, but slowly, I started learning how to prioritize and balance rest with my busy schedule. It took me until my second semester of senior year to finally feel the effects, though, so it is a slow process.

What’s next: I am attending USC’s School of Medicine next year, and I am incredibly excited to continue my education here. I feel so connected to the community in Columbia, and I have had great opportunities through USC to help me succeed.

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How USC changed my life: USC gave me the tools to grow in ways I didn’t even realize I needed. I learned the true meaning of perseverance and developed a strong sense of independence. USC also gave me a network that I will be forever indebted to. I was introduced to many valuable opportunities and discovered my passion for health care equity.

A favorite memory: One of my favorite memories from my time at USC was the football game against Tennessee during my freshman year that ended in a major upset. That game solidified me as a die-hard Carolina fan and made me fall in love with Williams-Brice Stadium. The energy was incredible and getting to rush the field was a top-tier experience I will never forget.

Advice for incoming students: My advice to incoming students is to get involved, try new things and give yourself grace as you adjust to your new environment. Find clubs within your major and stay connected with your professors. Do not be afraid to communicate and ask for help early. Take advantage of resources like the Student Success Center whenever you need support.

What helped me succeed: The TRIO Opportunity Scholars Program played a major role in my success at USC. OSP gave me a community I didn’t know I was looking for. As a first-generation college student, it helped me build confidence and find my place on campus. Serving as the Ladies Take the Lead social media coordinator also allowed me to grow as a leader. The OSP community provided a strong support system, gave me long-lasting relationships that I will cherish and connected me to a valuable network. It also made my transition to college much easier than I anticipated.

What’s next: Graduate school

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How USC changed my life: The University of South Carolina has not only allowed me to learn more about myself and my passions, but also connect with other individuals from around the world. I have had the incredible opportunity to learn from others, gain mentor  and experience an environment where I'm pushed to succeed every day.

A favorite memory: During my time at USC, I have been fortunate to have created so many amazing relationships and friendships with peers. One of my favorite memories during my time at school has been the ability to visit multiple friends as they studied abroad. I was able to travel the world and visit friends in Dubai, Morocco, France, Spain, Istanbul, Vietnam, Ireland and South Korea.

Advice for incoming students: Get involved! Find others who have similar goals and passions as you, and use those relationships to build something great. Remember those who have helped you along the way and work to become a leader to inspire others as you once were.

What’s next: After graduation, I’ll be starting the next chapter of my life in Seattle, Washington, working in the tech industry.

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How USC changed my life: As a first-generation college student, coming to USC felt both exciting and overwhelming. I knew I loved storytelling and creating content, but I didn’t know what that could look like for my future. Through my classes, internships and the people I met along the way, I was able to turn that interest into something real. USC gave me the confidence to take risks and grow into who I am today. Along the way, I also found a community that made such a big campus feel like home, which is something I’ll always be grateful for.

A favorite memory: One of my favorite memories at USC was stepping completely outside of my comfort zone and rushing Alpha Sigma Rho, an Asian-interest sorority, my freshman year. It was such a big leap for me, but it ended up setting the tone for the rest of my college experience. Through that process, I found a sense of community I hadn’t had before and pushed myself in ways I never expected. I still remember standing on the stage in Russell House Theatre during reveal, dancing, singing and speaking in front of a crowd, something I never would have imagined myself doing. That moment showed me that I was capable of more than I thought, and it gave me the confidence to keep saying yes to new opportunities.

Advice for incoming students: Invest in yourself. Take the time to figure out what genuinely interests you and what you’re passionate about, even if that means trying things alone at first. Believe in yourself and be your own biggest supporter, because no one else will advocate for you the way you can. Rejection isn’t embarrassing, it’s part of the process, especially if you’re putting yourself out there and working hard. Be loud about your ambitions, go after what you want and don’t be afraid to take up space.

What played a role in my success: The University of South Carolina social media team played such a meaningful role in shaping my experience at USC. Through my internship, they gave me the opportunity to work on real projects that pushed me creatively. Their mentorship and constant support helped me build confidence in my ideas and skills. More than anything, they created a space where I felt encouraged to grow, take initiative and learn without fear.

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A favorite memory: One of my favorite memories at USC was a trip to Baruch Marine Field Lab in Georgetown. It was my first taste of real field sampling and working with animals in an experimental setting. We had been sampling in the marsh and estuary all day, and later set out for a night trawl. I had a blast exploring the different organisms we caught, including chromatophores (color changing cells) on a squid. I also saw bioluminescence from plankton for the first time in the wild. It was a cathartic experience driving on the boat under the stars, and eventually the driver stopped the boat so our group could have a few minutes of silence drifting in the estuary. Listening to the water lapping and the wildlife chirping was a truly peaceful moment that allowed me to connect with nature, and realize why I love my major and the field as a whole. And I could not have had this experience without USC and the wonderful School of Earth, Ocean and Environment team that made it happen.

Advice for incoming students: My best advice for incoming students is to not compare yourself to others, and know that no path is a straight line. In my first couple of years here, I felt behind and thought I would never be able to reach the goals I had set for myself. But I continued working through classes and remained open to new opportunities, and eventually I got my dream internship while having unforgettable experiences in the process. These things just happened in a different way and at different times than I thought they would. I know it sounds cliché, but trust the process, be open to anything, and know that you have what it takes to reach your goals.

What’s next: I am excited to be joining the Walt Disney Company as a participant in the Disney College Program. I hope to use the program as a stepping stone to a career in animal husbandry or conservation with the company down the road.

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How USC changed my life: USC shaped me into the educator and person I am today. Through meaningful experiences, supportive mentors and hands-on learning, I gained the confidence and passion to make a difference in my future classroom.

A favorite memory: One of my favorite USC memories was my freshman year in the Carolina Band when we traveled to Jacksonville, Florida for the Gator Bowl. Having a police escort and performing at a huge pep rally surrounded by so many passionate Carolina fans made it such a fun and unforgettable experience.

Advice for incoming students: Get involved, stay organized and don’t be afraid to ask for help. College goes by quickly, so make the most of every opportunity.

What I’ve learned about myself: One of the most important things I’ve learned is that failure is inevitable, but it doesn’t define you. What matters most is how you learn from it and use it to grow into a stronger, more confident version of yourself.

What played a role in my success: The College of Education, along with professors Jenny Powell, Stephen Thompson and Matthew Cunningham, played a huge role in my success. Their passion, guidance and constant encouragement created a supportive environment where I could grow and succeed. I will always be grateful for the impact they had on my journey.

What’s next: After graduation, I plan to begin teaching at the elementary level. I’m excited to create a classroom where students feel supported, engaged, and inspired to learn.

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How USC changed my life: USC has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. Growing up in the Lexington and Columbia area, some of my earliest memories are going to Gamecock football games with my family. My mom, aunt and sister all attended USC, and many of my closest friends went there as well, so the university was always a big part of my life. Spending time around campus, going to sporting events and experiencing life in Columbia made the school feel like home long before I officially finished my degree here. Some of my best memories and lifelong friendships came from that time, whether it was football Saturdays, games and concerts at Colonial Life Arena or nights in Five Points. Being able to eventually complete my BSN through the College of Nursing made that connection official and turned a place that had always meant a lot to me into the university I’m proud to call my alma mater.

What I’ve learned about myself: One of the most important things I learned is that I’m capable of reaching goals even when the path isn’t traditional. My journey didn’t follow the typical four-year timeline, and there were times when finishing felt uncertain. But staying persistent and continuing to work toward the goal showed me that success doesn’t always happen on a perfect schedule. Sometimes it just takes determination and the willingness to keep going.

What helped me succeed: Several people played an important role in helping me reach this point. My faculty advisor, Sheila Mull, along with the nursing faculty, provided guidance and support throughout the program and helped me stay on track academically. My family was also a huge source of encouragement and support along the way. Most importantly, my faith helped keep me grounded and motivated during the challenges that came with balancing work, school and life.

What’s next: After graduation, I plan to continue working as a critical care nurse, relief staff leader and ecmo specialist in in the cardiothoracic ICU at MUSC. I’m also preparing to apply to nurse anesthesia school.

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How USC changed my life: Over the past four years, I have gained experiences and friendships that will last a lifetime. I came in not fully sure of who I was or what I wanted, and I am leaving as someone more confident, driven and sure of myself. Through my engineering projects and involvement in AIAA (the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics) the Carolina Flight Club and the Gamecock Barbell Club I pushed myself outside my comfort zone by taking on leadership roles and discovered what I am capable of. Some of my favorite moments came from working with others and being part of something bigger than myself.

A favorite memory: One of my favorite memories from USC was hosting the AIAA Region II Conference this year. I loved seeing everyone come together after so much planning, especially alongside the exec team and volunteers from AIAA and the Carolina Flight Club. It was a lot of work, but everyone showed up excited and ready to make it happen, which made it very rewarding. One of the best moments was the event at the Jim Hamilton-Owens Airport, where we had 15 local aircraft on display. Seeing students and pilots connect and share that excitement for aviation made all the effort worth it. Being able to help lead something like that is something I will always be proud of.

What I’ve learned about myself: I am capable of more than I ever thought. Coming to USC to pursue aerospace engineering was exciting but intimidating. At first, I wasn't fully confident in my abilities to succeed. I worried about falling behind or not reaching the goals I had set for myself. But over time, I learned to trust myself and stay committed. Through hard work and getting involved in organizations, I was able to earn my degree and also build confidence in who I am and what I can achieve.

What’s next: After graduation, I will be part of the Edison Engineering Development Program at GE Vernova while also pursuing my master’s in aerospace engineering through Georgia Tech.

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How USC changed my life: As a transfer student, I worried I wouldn’t find a home at Carolina. Looking back, I wish I could tell myself that transferring would be the best decision I ever made. Having experienced another university, I can say that USC feels even more special because I understand what sets it apart. There’s something magical about being a Gamecock, from hearing a ‘Go Cocks!’ shouted across a grocery store aisle to spending Saturdays in the tailgate lots swapping stories with alumni.

What has impacted me most, though, are the people. The friends I have made here are like no other. I know I can count on them for anything, Through the Moore School, I’ve been fortunate to learn from professors whose experience brought lessons to life. Their passion sparked an interest in subjects I never expected to enjoy, and despite the university’s size, they made me feel seen, known and supported.

A favorite memory: If I had to choose one, it would be the Carolina vs. Clemson game my senior year. My friends and I woke up at 5 a.m. grabbed Bojangles for breakfast, and hosted the neighbors for a nice 6 a.m. breakfast before the gameday festivities began. We packed our cars up with our supplies and headed over to the tailgating lots, where we set up camp. Even so early in the morning, Willy B was on fire, and it was the best gameday atmosphere I’ve ever been a part of. Even though the Gamecocks fell short, you wouldn’t have known it from the energy in the stands. Carolina spirit was radiating through the air that day, and it was one of the best days I’ve had at USC.

What played a role in my success: My sorority, Chi Omega. I never thought I would join a sorority, but Chi Omega has truly been one of the most enriching experiences of my life. Being surrounded by such kind, driven and high-achieving women pushed me to grow in ways I never expected. Through Chi Omega, I was encouraged to step out of my comfort zone, whether that be picking up hobbies I wasn’t great at, applying for opportunities I felt underqualified for, or simply leaning on my sisters during long study sessions. Those shared experiences created some of my strongest friendships and support systems.

What’s next: I will spend my summer as a brand strategy intern with Krispy Kreme in Charlotte. Following my internship, I will move to France for a year to teach English with TAPIF (Teaching Assistant Program in France), where I hope to continue growing both personally and professionally while strengthening my French skills.

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How USC changed my life: Attending USC has not only shaped my academic journey but also helped me grow into the leader I am today. As a biological sciences student, I built strong critical thinking skills and a solid foundation for my future, but some of my most meaningful growth happened outside the classroom.  Getting involved on campus helped me discover a passion for leadership and service. Founding and serving as president of the Society of Forensic Science gave me the chance to create a community where students could connect over shared interests. Being a peer leader with Changing Carolina and mentoring first-year students through TRIO allowed me to support others as they adjusted to college life, which has been incredibly rewarding.

A favorite memory: One of my favorite parts of my time at USC has been the people I’ve met and the friendships I’ve built along the way. From classmates to connections through TRIO, the Latin American Student Association and different leadership roles, those relationships really made campus feel like home. Whether we were studying together, going to events or just showing up for each other during tough times, those are the moments that meant the most to me. The people I met at USC didn’t just make my experience better, they also pushed me to grow and become more confident in myself. Those connections are what I’ll value the most long after graduation.

What I’ve learned about myself: When I first came to USC, I wasn’t very confident in myself, but over time, I found my voice and grew into who I am today. Balancing classes with leadership roles and mentoring pushed me to become more resilient, manage my time better and stay grounded through it all. More than anything, I realized that I feel most fulfilled when I’m serving others and being part of something bigger than myself. That’s a lesson that’s really shaped my personal growth and the path I want to follow moving forward.

What helped me succeed: The TRIO Opportunity Scholars Program has been a huge part of my success at USC. It gave me more than just academic support, it gave me a real sense of community and belonging. The advisors and mentors were always encouraging me to step outside my comfort zone and go after opportunities I might not have considered on my own. TRIO also gave me the chance to give back by mentoring first-year students, which ended up being one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience. Helping others navigate that transition reminded me of how much I had grown and really strengthened my passion for leadership and service.

What’s next: I plan to take a gap year and apply to graduate programs. My long-term goal is to become a forensic pathologist’s assistant, where I can combine my passion for science with my interest in investigative work.

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How USC changed my life: The University of South Carolina will always have a special place in my heart. It has forged my passion of making a positive impact in the lives of others. USC provided me with a healthy environment that supported my education, my social life and plenty of opportunities to explore my own interests. I will never forget how USC gave me beautiful places to study, lifelong friends and a drive to do better every single day. Because of USC, my love for the health care field is fully reinforced. My drive to serve the underserved is made a priority. 

USC blessed me with the opportunity to meet my girlfriend of more than three years. We have been together since freshman year when we both lived at the Capstone dorm.

Advice for incoming students: To you future Gamecocks, always remember to breathe and take steps back to see the bigger picture. There were so many times I felt lost as a student, as a friend, as a peer, as a group member, as a student organization leader, as a boyfriend and as a son. I was too caught up in the daily struggle of responsibilities. Take time to step back. Take a walk around the beautiful campus that you are so lucky to have at your disposal. Go eat at the packed dining halls and nourish your brain and body. Find your favorite spot and just think for a moment. The bigger picture is you being healthy in body and mind. Enjoy what this school and what life has to offer. Find joy in everything that you do. Be healthy enough that you can help others around you. Never be afraid to ask for help along the way.

What’s next: I am currently training to obtain my certification to work in the cardiac catheterization lab as a technologist. We work alongside doctors, nurses  and other medical staff to diagnose and treat problems associated with the heart.

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How USC changed my life: USC has changed my life by completely transforming me as a person. I came to the university coming out of a very dark period of my life grieving my father, and USC brought my spark back.

A favorite memory: My Honors creative senior thesis has been the most transformative experience during my time at USC. Through my research, I developed a nonprofit organization, Kennedy’s Cause, in honor of my childhood best friend, who tragically passed by suicide. Honoring her memory, researching the impact of proper suicide media reporting and connecting resources to others has been an extremely meaningful way to turn devastating loss into meaningful action.

What I’ve learned about myself:  It is OK to not be perfect all the time. Prior to coming to college, I really struggled with the idea of appearing ‘perfect’ to others at all times. My time at USC has taught me, however, that vulnerability is a strength, and knowing when to reach out for help is one of the most valuable skills you can learn. I will always be grateful for the staff and resources available to me here that taught me it’s OK to not be OK.

What played a role in my success: Changing Carolina Peer Leaders within Healthy Carolina has forever impacted me and my life. Through CCPL, I have gained the ability to facilitate honest and meaningful conversations with students surrounding mental health, sexual health, healthy relationships and holistic wellness. It is extremely rewarding to give back to a community that has given so much to me, as well as CCPL is full of the most supportive people I’ve met during my time at college.

What’s next: I will be attending Penn State Dickinson Law School in the fall. I am continuing my advocacy work through my nonprofit, Kennedy’s Cause.

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