Fourth-year English student Syd Sandford is one of many in her generation that uses tattoos as a form of self expression. She carries on her skin a permanent collection of ink that ties her to family, friends and herself, that not only connect Sandford to her key life values, but help her love the woman she sees in the mirror each day. 

The phrase "freshman 15" has been used for decades to characterize the so-called inevitable weight gain that freshmen get when they enter college. The phrase creates weight stigma and makes it seem like that weight gain is bad, when in reality weight change is a normal a part of development. 

Speaking up on your mental health can be challenging, but if it's something you want to do, do it. 

Having alone time or "me time" benefits everyone's mental and physical health. Without it, we aren't able to function in a way that is beneficial to ourselves and others. 

COVID-19 has had a lasting impact on students' mental health, such as an increase in feelings of stress, anxiety and loneliness. The pandemic also gave students time to focus on themselves and what works best for them, creating a better overall routine for them as students.

For four former residents of Capstone House, getting lost in music is how they relieve their stress. Through its lyricism and time spent playing, The Third Floor band has found a way to express its mental health by sharing its music.

The Daily Gamecock spoke with 40 different students to see where they currently stand with their mental health. While USC students have developed strategies to manage their mental health, they said the university could do more to support and aid them. 

The Daily Gamecock spoke with 40 STEM students to see whether or not they feel supported by professors in regards to mental health. These students reported that while the curriculum is rigorous, it depends on the professor for how much support they receive.