Beginning or starting college again can be an exciting time for students. University of South Carolina Aiken students are no exception, with the Class of 2027 taking time to explore and familiarize themselves with the campus as part of Freshman Orientation on June 28.
The excitement kicked off at the university's Etherredge Center with a welcome celebration by USC Aiken's pacesetters, a group of peer mentors who help guide new students. "We've been getting ready for this moment for months," said Anyah Farmer, a junior accounting major from Charlotte, North Carolina. She's a devoted pacesetter who says it's important that students get involved, especially if they want to join student organizations one day. "If you want to get involved, have an open mind and explore your options because that's what I did," she said. "I would say start off small and get to know the campus as well as the people and once you start networking yourself, you'll be in it."
During the welcome celebration, each pacesetter got a chance to introduce themselves in their own creative way. The student leaders even performed a team dance to the tune of "All Star" by Smash Mouth to a captive audience.
USC Aiken Chancellor Dr. Dan Heimmermann told students it's important to major in what you have a passion for. "The most important thing about college is pursing to finish and getting a degree or credential. As you begin taking courses that's the time to explore your passions."
"College is what you make it," Student Body President Judson Pickett Jr. said. "Getting more involved has made me feel more a part of this school and the more school events I go to, the prouder I am to be a pacer."
The freshman class also got a chance to learn about what financial aid and business services have to offer. A session with faculty also provided insight into academic majors and degree requirements.
Incoming freshman Whitney Goodwin explains why she chose USC Aiken, "I decided I wanted to come to USC Aiken because I want to learn more about the atmosphere." She's looking to major in earth systems science with hopes of one day becoming a meteorologist.
Jacob Martin says he chose his major, computer science, because he's always had an interest in coding. He says he's also looking forward to his college experience and making new friends.
The day concluded with students and parents learning about support services and different opportunities on campus.
Visit www.usca.edu for more information on future orientation dates.
For more information, contact Angela Saxon, Angela.saxon@usca.edu