University of South Carolina - Columbia Reviews

"Attending the University of South Carolina was the greatest decision I have ever made. The university is continuing to grow each year with brand new buildings and facilities popping up all the time. It is an affordable and quality education that you will receive. The school pride at University of South Carolina is incredible. Students support each other's organizations, they support all sporting events, and we partake in massive amounts of philanthropy events. Our Greek Life is huge at USC, but there are plenty of people who are not involved in Greek Life as well. Overall an amazing school and place to be."

"I attended the University of South Carolina, in Columbia, SC. While there, I was a student in the Honors College and the Moore School of Business. I had attended a small, private middle and high school, and I was excited to go to a school that offered diversity of thought, culture, and economic background. USC offered me a variety of academic paths as well as extracurricular organizations with which I was able to be involved, and within these I was able to build a diverse community with lasting relationships. The Honors College is a tight-knit group, a small school within a big school, and it was easy to make friends with like-minded, intelligent, and driven people with varying (and interesting!) interests. The curriculum of the Honors classes and requirements themselves provided and elevated level of education. I encourage all Honors students to live in the Honors housing - especially the historic dorms on the Horseshoe. You have your whole life to live in an apartment, but only three short years to enjoy the Historic Horseshoe and call it your front yard. I could not speak more highly of the Moore School of Business. Be sure to meet Brian Shelton - the best adviser they have! If you can take his section of U101, that's the best way to build a relationship with him. He will advocate for you to no end. The new school building is cutting edge with the latest technology, and the curriculum amply prepared me for my first job as a manager of 20-person team at a Fortune 500 insurance company. USC also offers a diverse array of extra curricular with which you can get involved. My best advise I've shared with my younger brothers as they've stepped into their undergraduate experience is to try something totally new, something completely outside-of-the-box, and something you could only try while in this special place of college. I found myself hosting a radio show with a friend of mine for 3 years at 90.5 WUSC-FM. I am a conservative academic, and I found myself building an unbelievable community of creative, radical thinking, and super cool friends who introduced me to all new forms and styles of music, art, and philosophy. One of my brothers took my advice and starting a curling team at his school! (Yes - curling! With the stones and brooms on ice!). He's gotten to travel all over the country for tournaments and meet incredible people as well. All in all, make sure you attend one of at least every major sporting event even if you're not an athletic enthusiast (the Gamecock spirit is something special!), don't miss a Chicken Finger Wednesday and always get the honey mustard, pizza at Pandini's and the pita chips from Santorini's are comfort food you'll miss after graduating (believe it or not), find your special study spot and make it your home away from home (whether it's Cool Beans, a study carrel at T. Coop, or the RuHo Starbucks) - you'll bond with other graduates over your special place as an alum, climb the rock wall at the Strom, play at least one game of Frisbee or football on the Horseshoe, go to at least one Carolina Productions event a semester (they are always well put together - I got to see J.G. and M.N.! And their Rocky Horror Picture Show is hysterical and so fun), see at least one show at New Brookland Tavern, the T-Bird is the BEST sub at Beezer's (don't let anyone tell you anything else otherwise), President P. is super nice and approachable - don't be afraid to say hello and engage him in conversation, go to class (seriously - you'll regret it in the future if you don't take advantage of learning what you can while you can), likewise it's ok to miss a class or two for a worthy cause and to make a memory, if you can study abroad (boy do I wish I did! It's way harder to find the time and money to travel now, but travel will teach you so much about yourself and others!), take a zillion pictures and don't worry about posting them online - keep them for yourself for one day, the campus health center can answer all of your questions (even the hard, scary, and embarrassing ones) and they won't judge you, make sure you find the squeaking clapping spot behind Russell House, and lastly make a wish in the fountain behind the Caroliniana Library - I can tell you from personal experience that mine came true."

"South Carolina is a warm place - both the people and the weather. I had full access to each of my professors throughout my entire college experience, and was able to experience both large and small class sizes. The Psychology department does a really nice job at creating an active learning environment. USC will always feel like a second home to me."

"The University of South Carolina is a fine institution which provided me with access to countless opportunities to expand my knowledge in the field of public health and helped prepare me for my graduate studies and future career. In addition, I received the wisdom and advice of faculty dedicated to my success. Beyond academics, USC has an incredible student body filled with individuals who are passionate about any and every subject you can imagine - from sports to social justice issues to film and video games. It isn't possible for a student to go through all four years without finding their niche! I would highly recommend USC to any prospective student who is looking for both a quality education and exciting extracurricular opportunities."

"The strongest point of my program are the courses and professors who take the time to teach us. In pharmacy school, our lectures turned into phenomenal discussions. We looked at how medicine has been portrayed from all angles and all types of text. It was learning that I couldn't have done in any other setting. The course material challenged the way that I thought about medicine and the human body. This class made me realize the incredible diversity of life that exists that we cannot even see- microbiology. I could tell the professor taught the course because he loved it and that love for the course caused me to love it as well. I remember how they tested your ability to react to new situations and apply what you learned in a new way. An amazing professor really connects things and his lectures are always memorable. Some even receive rounds of applause at the end of class!"

"As the first member of my family to attend an out-of-state university, I felt like I had an opportunity of a lifetime. I was thoroughly excited and a little anxious to begin this chapter of my life. As soon as I stepped foot in the 90 degree, perfectly sunny, Columbia-based campus, I knew I made the best decision for myself. Throughout my entire collegiate career, the University of South Carolina has offered me the most incredible experiences. From outstanding courses and classes to extracurricular activities that allowed me to make the closest of friends, I loved my undergraduate education and life at the University of South Carolina. Not a day goes by where I reminisce about the incredible opportunities that were provided for me. USC led me to find an amazing job which has guided me to being accepted into Graduate Schools. Thank you, University of South Carolina!"

"I attended the University of South Carolina between 2005-2009 to complete a double major in business administration marketing and management, with a minor in English, language, and literature. I chose to go to this school, partially because it was an in-state school in SC, as well as having one of the top-ranked international business programs in the country. I wasn't sure of the direction that I wanted to take my degree, but I found a home in the Darla Moore business school, in my original intended degree (marketing) and my second degree that I sort of fell into - management. The class sizes were fairly large, depending on the type of course, but I always felt that I could get the help that I needed in any classes that were challenging. During my time there, I was also heavily involved in a service fraternity, Alpha Phi Omega, which really shaped my experience in college. APO did a lot of great work and was a wonderful opportunity for socializing with new people and helping to serve the college and the community. I would encourage anyone who is interested in meeting new people and helping make the world a better place to consider joining USC's chapter of APO!"

"I thoroughly enjoyed my undergraduate experience at the University of South Carolina. I obtained my bachelors degree in nursing, and I couldn't have felt more prepared for the workplace. The University offered wonderful resources to enhance my learning."

"The MFA program at the University of South Carolina is outstanding. The professors are helpful and challenge each student to grow while also supporting their success. The program is organized and creates many opportunities to engage with the local and national writing community. I strongly recommend this program."

"Academics: Media Arts: The teachers within the Media Arts undergraduate program were really incredible: they are very intelligent, talented human beings with generally a great sense of humor (in particular I loved E.M.,S T., and his wife. I have to admit the adjunct faculty does not meet quite the same standards, which is very unfortunate, although this is perhaps because they tended to teach the evening classes. Beyond that, the program was in the midst of change when I came in, something that was very much needed in the curriculum. It's not focused enough to really hone in on a skill unless you spend a lot of time practicing outside of class (which is not to say you can't, nor that they don't produce good work from the program). At the end of the day I took many film (Moving Image) classes, and found them to be the most informative. Evening Classes: Over all the evening classes were a flop (I took Media Arts courses, Art History courses, Philosophy, and more in the evening). It seemed like the teachers assumed that since you were there at night, they didn't have to actually teach. It really is a shame for students that have work, and need to take more classes in the evening for a day time position. General Classes: Nothing special, nothing horrible. I would say you should go for more unusual classes when fulfilling your general education requirements. You may feel out of place in the classes full of more knowledgeable folks, but the teachers tend to be much more energetic and passionate (for example, I often took 300-500 level courses instead of entry level if permitted). Art History: Professor Brandt is the best. Hands down. Didn't care for the head of department- unfortunately he teaches the capstone course for Art History, and it's not a very fun class as a result. _________________ Resources: USC is a really big school, so they have amazing resources! There are more than I have listed here... Libraries: The main library is huge, and you should definitely make sure you spend time there in your studies (I regret not going there more often). They also have an old library (the Caroliniana) dedicated to historical sources- again, really spectacular if you have a love of history. Health Center: The health center is a great resource too, as they have a lot to offer (especially if you enroll in the great deal that is student health insurance that the school offer -as of 2015-). If you ever have trouble with the health center, make sure you reach out and complain (there is a contact form on their health center website), as the woman that fields the complaints is truly there to make sure you are happy. I had trouble there with a Women's Health doctor, which resulted in a hospital visit and a big bill. The woman that handled my complaint made sure the health center reimbursed me for the costs, and ensured me she would have a meeting with the entire Women's Health staff about proper conduct. Sexual Education: Within the health center, there is also the sexual education room. They give out so many free things: condoms (both male and female), lube, literature, etc. Make sure you utilize this place. They wont even look at you when you walk into the office to get free goodies, unless you ask them a question. Counseling: While USC does offer counseling, I wouldn't recommend it despite the many free sessions each student gets. My first counselor really led to a further decline in my mental health (after losing my father). He was not sympathetic, nor interested in me as much as he was the clock. I requested a new counselor with little better experience- she seemed more concerned with her time slots than my visit. Beyond personal experience, I have had several friends report negative experiences as well: one transferred to a counselor off campus, another committed suicide under their care (after being dragged through the mud by the staff), and a third feels as though it was so negative she would not seek out further counseling off campus. Student Disability Services: Don't rely on these guys too much to answer your needs. When you meet with them, they'll promise more than their program outlines. Just stick to what the program outlines. Also understand they don't answer their e-mail. You should probably go to the office to schedule an appointment. Financial Aid: They did wonders for me! I received many grants, and scholarships. I was also put into a first generation college student program, which further lowered my bill, and gave me good advising. In the end I was able to use financial aid for housing, and didn't have to worry about debt. Movie Theater: There is an on campus movie theater in the main student building. You can go to new movies for free if you're a student! The space is really nice too. _____________ Miscellaneous: Sports: I wasn't a sports person, BUT, I know that people there really love their teams. The games are accessible. People love tail gating here. It's a big party when there's a football game in town. Fitness Center: The fitness centers are really great! They have good hours too, for the hardworking student. I spent a lot more time here than I expected, especially after taking a weight training class. The newest center has a great indoor pool, as well as rock climbing wall. They also have indoor rooms for various sports- great for the winter. Parking: Horrible. Don't bring a car. Columbia is supposedly one of the top cities in the nation for parking per capita, but it is all privately owned and under utilized. Campus Food: It's honestly a bit pricey if you aren't on a meal plan (and even then you might still say it is). It is diverse though- you can get vegan, Taco Bell, pizza, Chick'fil'a, burgers (veggie burgers too), dessert galore. They have many many canteens and small food spaces- I didn't even get to try them all!! Advising: I can't say I ever had a good advisor. They use teachers that are not greatly informed on the overall process. My one advisor, Evan Meaney, made sure you were prepared (and theoretically would therefore know what you needed). I recommend e-mailing him and asking for his semesterly e-mail to outline what you need to do to prepare for advisement. Off campus: There are a lot of things really close to campus too that really feel like they are a part of the campus community: you can go swing dancing weekly, contra dancing monthly, or the C.S. Lewis House daily (highly recommend if you like board games, tea, or prayer- the prayer is optional and no one will even talk about religion). _________ Columbia: This is a small, but nice city. Everything you need is within walking distance. You can get a taste of everything- art, sports, great food, shopping, etc. It gets admittedly small once you've lived there awhile, but for four years of college, it is quite perfect. Diversity: Overall the student population is mostly white, wealthier kids. That's not to say you wont find a group that suits you if they aren't your forte. The campus has tons of clubs related to different cultures, hobbies, and more. The city itself also has many organizations, which will give you a community if USC cannot. Puppets: Columbia is one of a handful of places in the USA to have it's very own puppet theater (as well as raunchy adult nights of puppetry)! If that ain't cool, I don't know what is."

"College was an enjoyable experience for me. I was exposed to a variety of viewpoints and was challenged to think critically. I also gained a good foundation for law school. Perhaps most importantly, though, I met a lot of interesting people, many of whom are still good friends today."

"I loved my experience at the University of South Carolina. It was the place that helped me find an identity as an adult, helped me determine a career, and helped me stretch my mind beyond where I thought it could go. The atmosphere was somehow both high energy and nurturing, and the friends I made there are my friends for life."

"The University of South Carolina is a top-tier public university that has a variety of majors and resources. It's a big school where a student can feel lost but also has all of the tools and resources to allow a student to be successful in whatever major they choose."

"I was enrolled in the online/distance learning program, a two year program. The program was extremely conducive to my day job and other responsibilities."

"It was a big school. Okay courses. Fun athletics"

"The University of South Carolina provided an awesome overall undergraduate experience. Large universities, like USC, offer opportunities to get involved with so much inside and outside the classroom. While studying I participated in a sorority, student organizations, clubs, internships, and so much more. In the classroom I felt my professors offered engaging curriculum and a lot of support if I needed it. Because of all this I felt like I left the school as a well rounded graduate. I enjoyed my experience so much that I'm starting my Masters of Business Administration at USC in January 2017!"

"The University of South Carolina was an amazing school! Not only were the teachers helpful, the classes were very informative. I have learned so much about the career path that I'm choosing and I'm excited for whatever the future has in store for me!"

"The University of South Carolina offers a diverse academic environment with varied programs and offerings. The campus is beautiful, and the collegiate atmosphere is outstanding. It would be very difficult to find a school with more pride and loyalty in its athletics than USC, and that causes the university to be a very fun environment. As far as campus life is concerned, the Greek life scene thrives on the campus, and the students are generally very welcoming and inclusive. I would highly recommend the University of South Carolina to any aspiring attendee, as there truly is something for everyone at that great school."

"The University of South Carolina's Masters of Accountancy program was a great experience and and a fairly decent value."

"Although the campus and area is nice enough, it also rests on a very steep hill. Mainly the core subjects will be taught in the main part of campus. The College of Engineering & Computing buildings have a major train problem."