As the December Class of 2025 prepares to walk across the commencement stage, graduates leave the University of South Carolina with memories of enduring friendships, newfound passions, supportive mentors and life-changing experiences.
The University of South Carolina is expected to award 3,154 degrees systemwide as part of its annual fall semester commencement ceremonies this month.
As the university marks the celebration of First-Gen College Celebration Week, we caught up with first-generation students, alumni, faculty and staff who are thriving in the classroom and beyond.
Heading into 2025, the field of higher education faced significant challenges. But at the University of South Carolina, all signs point to dynamic growth and institutional strength.
Six finalists with ties to USC were recognized by the 2025 InnoVision Awards, with three winning top honors. The winning businesses are led by students in the South Carolina Honors College, alumni and graduate students from the Molinaroli College of Engineering, and alumni from the Darla Moore School of Business and the Honors College.
The University of South Carolina had 140 total faculty members across 11 different colleges or schools honored on a recent list of the world’s top-cited researchers.
(feat. Jeremiah Donati, athletics) The Stadium Business
(feat. Susan O’Malley, sport and entertainment management) Sports Business Journal
(feat. Tyler Gonzalez, orthopedics) Becker's Spine Review
(feat. Allison Marsh, women’s and gender studies) IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) Spectrum
Studying abroad during undergrad at USC helped JD Dawson, a third-year medical student at the School of Medicine Greenville, develop a global perspective on health care that he’s carried into his postgrad education.
USC Honors College student and public health major Hannah Brennen, who was a Rhodes scholar finalist, plans to attend medical school to pursue her interest in maternal health.
As a first-generation student, Jonathan Aun's path to becoming a doctor wasn't easy. In USC's Honors College he found friendships, memories and an environment of support and exploration in which to lead and help others do the same. Whether called Major Aun or Dr. Aun today, he continues to build compassionate connection with his patients — and is a true Gamecock at heart.
Senior Gracie Bellah started at USC with her plans mapped out. A history and anthropology double major in the Honors College, she dove into historical research and became a leader in student organizations. Her experience helping other students as a McCausland College ambassador helped her decide to take her career plans in a new direction.
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