In the last two issues of The Daily Gamecock, graduating seniors reflect on their college experiences
It seems like just yesterday that I stepped foot onto our beautiful campus back in August of 2007. I was nervous and excited, not knowing what the next four years were going to hold. But I never could've imagined the experiences I would have during my journey at Carolina. It didn't take long to realize that USC wasn't just school. USC became home.
I am the person I am today because of the University of South Carolina. There's no doubt about it. I've been afforded some of the most amazing opportunities while a student here.
But more importantly, through all of my experiences, what I'll remember most is the people. My first-year resident mentor who first encouraged me to get involved in Student Government. Those other history students who got me through some of the toughest classes I'll ever take. My sister who I got to spend one year with as a fellow classmate and Gamecock. The countless residents I oversaw who always presented a challenge but a constant reminder of how great freshman year is. The advisers and graduate students who I consider mentors, who have become some of the best life coaches. The 80,000 other screaming fans packed into Williams-Brice Stadium on any given Saturday in the fall. A journalist and friend who always said catching flak wasn't always a bad thing. A university president who took the time to care and was always interested in students' well-being. Two fellow executive officers who helped me become a better leader on our road to leaving a legacy while at Carolina. And finally, to my best friends who have been the most influential in my life and made the greatest impact.
USC's Alumni Association has a campaign that asks current students and alumni to describe their Carolina and what it means to them. Here's what "My Carolina" would read:
My Carolina is spending late nights with lifelong friends and then waking up for early morning classes, getting goose bumps every time "2001" is played and toasting my school at the end of our alma mater. My Carolina is reading the bricks laid on the Horseshoe, smiling at the thought of one day having my name etched in USC's history, too. My Carolina is having the privilege to serve 28,000 fellow Gamecocks as their student body vice president and giving back to the university that has given me so much more. My Carolina is the comfort in knowing "Once a Gamecock, always a Gamecock." My Carolina is my love.
I graduate May 7, 2011. And while it is so very bittersweet to think about, I smile in knowing that my heart belongs to USC. No matter where I may be or what I'm doing in the future, I'm always a Gamecock. Here's to the best four years of my life. Here's to the people I'll never forget and to whom I am forever indebted. Here's to senior year!
Here's to you, Carolina. Forever to thee.