In the final issue of The Daily Gamecock, graduating seniors reflect on their college experience
Dear USC,
This is just one in a long list of goodbyes and thank yous I've been giving over the past few weeks. When I first started at Carolina, I wasn't sure that I would be able to handle being almost 1,000 miles away from home for four years, but now Carolina has become a home to me. In the past few years, I've had so many incredible experiences here that I couldn't even begin to describe or list them all.
Coming to USC was the best decision I've ever made, and I say that genuinely and emphatically (and not just because of the gorgeous weather).
USC has provided me with an opportunity to grow academically, personally and socially. I have been a part of our out-of-state student mentoring program for all four years, and was a lead mentor for the program this year.
This role allowed me to work with a variety of students, and I was excited to be able to share with all of them what is so special to me; about being a Gamecock and why I love Carolina — everything from intriguing classes, to championship athletic teams, to our historic and beautiful campus.
There are far too many people who have made an impact on me during my time here to mention each one. Professors, administrators, my fantastic Phi Mu sisters and, of course, my friends have become a part of my Carolina family.
A special shout out goes to my roommate and best friend, Tara Higgins, without whom I might have been much more inclined to consider looking at transfer options. All the fans I've interacted and cheered with at sporting events — the Gamecock Nation — are a part of my Carolina family, too.
It breaks my heart to think that I'll be leaving Carolina in a few short weeks. I'll miss sunny days on the Horseshoe, the best fans in the world, the wonderful activities and events sponsored by the University and fun times with my friends.
What I'll miss most of all, though, is the sense of community and the home that I've developed over the past four years.
My cousin visited USC as an admitted student a few weekends ago. My brother and sister are hoping to be Gamecocks one day. I have no doubt that this is due in large part to my deep love for USC, and my willingness to explain that to anyone who asks.
I am incredibly proud to be a Gamecock and will forever be proud to tell people of my alma mater. I fully intend to be an alum with a massive collection of Carolina merchandise, and I plan to stay as involved as possible through alumni activities.
I've seen a wonderful amount of achievements, progressions and firsts, both academically and athletically, in my time here.
I feel incredibly lucky that I've been a part of this campus for four years, and I know I'll miss it every day. I'm already planning to be back for Homecoming next year.
So thank you, USC, for giving me four of the best years of my life.
Here's a health, Carolina, forever to thee — and go Gamecocks!
