As the December Class of 2025 prepares to walk across the commencement stage, graduates leave the University of South Carolina with memories of enduring friendships, newfound passions, supportive mentors and life-changing experiences.
We asked students across the university to share some of what made their Carolina experience special. Here are just a few of their stories.
Meet Our Graduates
A favorite memory: Most of my favorite memories center on living on the Horseshoe in DeSaussure for three years and getting to be in the middle of all the spontaneous campus activity. I enjoyed making dinner for my friends, picnics on the Horseshoe and wandering around campus when it was quiet. My freshman year, my friends and I got dressed up, got Cook Out, and wandered around the Horseshoe talking about all the plants, signs and details. I most remember rambling about the pineapple fence statues and “pineapple mania,” when Europeans were crazed by the introduction of pineapples from the New World and would rent them to display at parties as a sign of class and hospitality. It felt great to find friends who wanted to talk about the same “nerdy” things I did.
Advice for incoming students: I would recommend that incoming students try things that seem at all interesting to them at least once. As someone interested in neuroscience, I can attest that your brain really does light up when it experiences new things. In addition to on-campus clubs, I committed to doing one new activity within the Columbia community a semester. Also, your professors want to talk to you (and about their own projects) more than you know. I have learned so much and been given so many opportunities by setting a topic or two and sitting in professors’ offices or Cool Beans and letting them tell me about their work.
What played a role in my success: Three professors in particular were instrumental to my success: Dr. Sarah Edmunds (psychology), Dr. Rebecca Smith-Hill (education), and Dr. Matthew Simmons (Southern studies). These mentors fielded my every question and provided me structured ways to learn how to answer them. They went above and beyond in showing me resources outside of class curriculum and providing me opportunities within their respective disciplines. Being in the BARSC program was crucial to being able to make and maintain these cross-discipline relationships and learn how to weave them together to see problems from multiple angles.
What’s next: After graduation, I am applying for master’s degrees and Ph.D. positions in the U.S. and in Scotland (through Fulbright) to study science/health communication and implementation science.
How USC changed my life: The University of South Carolina completely changed my life by showing me how far hard work and curiosity can take you. As a first-generation immigrant, I came here wanting opportunity, but the Moore School gave me direction — real skills, mentorship and the confidence to chase big goals early. It’s where I discovered my passion for process improvement and realized I could use it to make a real impact.
What I learned about myself at USC: The most important thing I’ve learned about myself is what I actually want to do. When I first came to USC, I had no idea that operations and supply chain even existed, but once I took my first class, it just clicked. I realized how much I enjoy solving problems, finding inefficiencies and improving systems — it’s the kind of work that feels meaningful to me. Learning that has shaped everything about how I see my future.
Who played a role in my success: Three professors at the Moore School had a huge impact on me. Dr. Blair Flicker’s class was the first time I realized how much I enjoyed operations and supply chain — it completely changed the direction of my career. Dr. Sanjay Ahire’s class taught me Lean and DMAIC concepts that I ended up using every day during my internship at Northwestern Medicine, which really made me stand out among the interns. And Dr. Sung-Hee Park’s data analytics class gave me the skills to build Power BI dashboards and analyze data in ways that impressed my managers. Each of them pushed me to think critically and apply what I learned beyond the classroom, and that made all the difference.
How USC changed my life: When I first arrived on campus, I was unsure of my place and hesitant to step outside of my comfort zone. USC helped me find my confidence and purpose. Through being a University 101 Peer Leader, serving as vice president of Collegiate Curls, and studying exercise science, I discovered a community that challenged and supported me in ways I never expected. Each experience taught me something different, from leading with compassion to communicating better and believing in myself even when things felt uncertain. This campus has given me more than an education. It has given me lifelong memories, meaningful connections and the confidence to keep growing long after graduation.
What I’ve learned about myself: Real growth starts when you stop doubting yourself. When I first got here, I was shy and unsure of who I wanted to be. With time and experience, I learned to trust myself and step into new opportunities even when they felt uncomfortable. I realized I don’t need to have everything figured out to keep moving forward.
Who helped me succeed: Dr. Raymond Thompson, my former anatomy professor, played a huge role in my success. His class was one of the most challenging I have taken, but it quickly became one of my favorites. I went to his office hours after almost every class, not just to go over material but to really understand the “why” behind what we were learning. He always took the time to explain things in a way that made sense and encouraged me to think like a future health care professional rather than just a student trying to memorize information for an exam. What stood out most about Dr. Thompson was his passion for teaching and how much he genuinely cared about his students’ success. The lessons I learned in his class went far beyond anatomy. They taught me perseverance and strong discipline.
What’s next: After graduation, I plan to attend physical therapy school.
How USC changed my life: The University of South Carolina’s online MSN program gave me the flexibility to work full-time while advancing my education. The program strengthened my confidence, helping me grow as a clinician and leader while allowing me to continue supporting the children and families I serve every day.
A favorite memory: My favorite memories at the University of South Carolina are all about finally becoming a Gamecock in my own right. USC has always been a part of my family’s story — my dad, twin sister, brother, uncles, cousins and my husband all went to Carolina. I grew up wearing garnet and black and attending games at Williams-Brice and Sarge Frye Field at a young age. Walking across the graduation stage, knowing I am continuing a family legacy and officially joining generations of Gamecocks before me is a moment I know I'll never forget.
Advice for incoming students: Be proud to wear garnet and black. You’re not just earning a degree, you’re becoming part of something that lasts a lifetime. Once a Gamecock, forever a Gamecock.
What’s next: I will continue to work as nurse care manager for Midlands foster families.
How USC changed my life: The University of South Carolina has changed my life by shaping me into a more confident and purpose-driven person. Through my courses, campus organizations and people I've met, I have grown as a leader, built relations that'll last my entire life, and developed discipline and empathy that I will carry into my career.
A favorite memory: My freshman year when we beat Texas A&M in football 30 to 24. That night was one of the most exhilarating nights of my life. In the very beginning of the game, Xavier Legette ran the ball 100 yards on the kickoff return and I remember the entire stadium going crazy. I even remember there being rumors that the cheering from the fans caused the state to pick up earthquake detections.
What I’ve learned about myself: The most important thing I've learned about myself is that I find purpose in serving and leading others. Whether it is through my student organizations or academic challenges, I discovered that I'm most fulfilled when I'm helping create a positive impact for those around me. It is this passion for others that led me to the career path that I am on now.
What helped me succeed: The Graduation and Retention Network's Student Advisory Board has played a key role in my success. I currently serve as the chair for the student outreach committee and I have appreciated every moment of it.
What’s next: I am planning to attend law school in fall 2026. My career goal is to become an attorney, return home to rural South Carolina and continue what I've done here at USC, help the people within my community.
How USC changed my life: Coming from a smaller town, I wasn’t sure what to expect stepping onto such a large campus, but USC quickly became the place where I discovered who I am and what I’m capable of. The university gave me the space, resources and support to grow beyond my comfort zone, meet people from different backgrounds and explore new parts of myself. It taught me independence, confidence and how to embrace new experiences.
A favorite memory: Attending football games and truly becoming a die-hard Gamecock fan. There is nothing like the energy of Williams-Brice Stadium on game day with the sea of garnet and black, the sound of “Sandstorm” blasting, and everyone coming together to cheer for the team. Those moments made me feel connected to something bigger than myself and reminded me how special it is to be part of the Gamecock family.
Advice for incoming students: Get involved early on. College goes by faster than you think, and the experiences you have outside the classroom are just as important as what you learn inside it. Joining organizations, attending events and meeting new people can help you find your place on campus and make USC truly feel like home. Getting involved not only helps you build connections but also teaches you more about yourself and what you’re passionate about.
What played a role in my success: The NAACP played a major role in my success. After becoming vice president of the USC chapter, I learned the true meaning of advocacy and leadership. This experience taught me how to use my voice to stand up for what is important to me and to create spaces where others feel heard and supported.
What’s next: Graduate school.
How USC changed my life: As an immigrant whose first language is Spanish, moving from Mexico at 17 years old to the U.S. was a huge cultural shock. I grew up with the idea that I would go to college in Mexico, and suddenly I was studying in a different country, in a new language, surrounded by a completely different culture. It was exciting but also overwhelming at first. USC did not disappoint. It quickly became my home away from home, a place where I found people who supported me, believed in me and helped me grow. USC gave me confidence, community and a sense of belonging that I will always carry with me.
A favorite memory: I remember walking around the Horseshoe the first time I toured and seeing students from so many different backgrounds playing Frisbee, doing yoga, having picnics and just enjoying life together. It was such a beautiful mix of cultures and people, and it inspired me. That moment made me fall in love with the university. One of my other favorite memories was my first USC football game. I didn’t fully understand the game at first, but the energy, the cheers and the feeling of being part of something so big made it unforgettable. Everyone was united, celebrating together, and I felt that same sense of belonging I had imagined the first day I visited.
Advice for incoming students: Don’t be afraid to feel uncomfortable, and don’t give up when things don’t click right away. When I first came to USC, I joined a sorority, Bible studies and even the basketball club. None of them felt like the right fit for me, but I kept trying. Eventually, I found my place in the Latin American Student Organization (LASO), where I met people who understood my culture and experiences.
Who helped me succeed: Dr. Kirk Randazzo has been one of the most influential professors. I met him during a Maymester class in my sophomore year and later took a class with him. He inspired me to push myself and not pity myself for my language, writing or confidence struggles. His classes were tough, but they made me stronger. Now I always think, “If I can take a Dr. Randazzo class, I can do anything.”
What’s next: After graduation, I plan to attend law school.
How USC changed my life: USC changed my life by teaching me the true meaning of mentorship and leadership. My journey began before my first semester, when I participated in the Pillars for Carolina program. Pillars immediately gave me a sense of belonging and confidence. I made friendships that have lasted throughout college. A year later, I returned to Pillars as a mentor, guiding incoming students through the same transition that once felt so overwhelming to me. This passion for mentorship led me to join the Honors Peer Mentor Program, where I supported honors students in navigating academic challenges and making the most of their college experience.
A favorite memory: One of my favorite memories was traveling to Cusco, Peru, as a clinic intern with Volunteers Around the World. Each day, we traveled to rural communities and set up free medical clinics where we took vitals, assisted physicians, communicated with patients and distributed medications. Over the course of this initiative, we treated over 500 patients with limited access to health care. During this trip, I saw firsthand how language, culture, and environment shape access to medical care. This experience didn’t just ignite my passion for health care; it solidified my commitment to provide medical care to those who need it most. When I returned home, I channeled this purpose into action. After 224 hours of training, I earned my EMT certification and began volunteering with Fort Mill EMS, a nonprofit 911 service in my hometown. Since then, I have accumulated over 800 hours of clinical experience as an EMT.
What played a role in my success: My experience as an undergraduate research assistant with the SEARCH Food Security 2 Study has been one of the most defining involvements at USC. Under the mentorship of Dr. Angela Liese, I discovered my passion for research and public health. Her guidance helped me refine my analytical skills, think critically and communicate complex findings. My work was supported by the Honors College Research Grant, which allowed me to explore the intersection of food insecurity, diabetes management and mental health.
What’s next: After graduation, I will work full time as an emergency department technician at Prisma
Health Richland, before applying to physician assistant school in the spring.