In the last three issues of The Daily Gamecock, graduating seniors will reflect on their college experiences
Dear USC,
This year has felt like the "Year of Goodbyes," with every event being my last here as a student; goodbye Williams-Brice Stadium, goodbye 5 Points, farewell 8 a.m. classes (can't say I'll miss you), adios Chicken Finger Wednesdays. But my time here in Columbia has meant so much more than a few football games and dollar beer nights.
I am sad to say that I have only had the privilege of spending three years at this university, having transferred as a sophomore from a school up north. But having one less year under my belt doesn't mean I haven't loved every minute of my time here, and it doesn't mean I'll miss it any less. If anything, I will miss it more than most, because I know what it's like to attend another university and feel like you don't belong. When I came here, I knew I had found something special, and I wanted to take advantage of every moment I had left. Four years is a short time, but three years is even shorter. And so I consider myself lucky for my somewhat abbreviated college experience, because I know what it means to truly appreciate it. I can say without a doubt that I have loved USC.
To my sisters of Omega Phi Alpha, you have been such an inspiring group of young ladies and I am so proud to count myself among you. Though I am leaving, I will take a piece of you with me wherever I go. Continue to be the unique, driven and genuine people that you have always been. I look forward to catching up on all of your hard work. You have taught me that you don't need a lot of money or even a lot of people to make a difference in this world, and I know I will continue to "Do the Service!" in your honor. Thank you for allowing me to serve as your treasurer this year, it has been a great experience and I hope I have served you well. And for Molly's sake, remember to bring your check books to meetings and please pass that envelope.
To my best friend Rory Flynn, you brought me here because in many ways, you knew me better than I knew myself. You knew this is where I needed to be, and I cannot thank you enough. I wouldn't be half the person I am today if it wasn't for you. Thank you for showing me what I had been missing. I love you.
It's hard to imagine that in just a few short weeks I will be leaving this campus for good. Sure, I'll be back to visit (Can you say SEC Championship next year?!), but it will never quite feel the same. I am so proud to call myself a Gamecock and South Carolina Alum. I only wish that I had the chance to do it all over again. It's been quite a ride, and I wouldn't change a thing.
So goodbye, USC ... hello, world!
Here's a Health Carolina!
Nicole Fitzmaurice
BS Accounting
Class of 2011