How was Scholars Day???

PA_Mom
Mon, 27 Mar 2006 09:06:44 +0000

I apologise in advance for the length of my post.
My D and I flew in to Columbia Fri night - nice little airport.
We met EAdad and his DW and DD for breakfast which was really nice. Our girls seemed to enjoy having someone their own age to hang around with and I enjoyed the company as well. Thanks to CC and EAdad for the opportunity.

Program started at the Strom Thurmond Center with registration - the students received a bag with a program, map, Cocky beanie and a t-shirt. There was a welcome by the Director of Admissions, followed by an Academic and Student services Fair. Various groups had tables set up where you could pick up brochures and ask questions - there were some freebies as well - lots of pens, etc.
Next there was a poolside reception with Dr Sorenson - a nice table set up with juice, fruit, cheese, etc.
Then the students had a choice of 14 classes that they could attend. Our girls chose " Super Bowl Adverstising" taught by an assoc Prof. of Journalism
They really enjoyed it.
Meanwhile the parents had a choice of 3 infosessions - we chose Capstone Scholars Information Session and picked up a few additional tidbits.
Next we had a Student Panel question and answer session with boxed lunces provided for all.
Since we had all taken a guided tour previously we skipped that part and went out on our own touring several of the residence halls which were open for tours. We all liked Capstone , were a little less enamored with Columbia. My daughter also liked Patterson - thought it had a fun vibe. We also looked at South Tower which was kind of interesting as well. The one constant that we noticed was that the study rooms on each floor were not very inviting - not sure if they are actually used much. I guess it is up to the student to make their own room as inviting as possible and deal with the rest.
Of course we had to hit the bookstores and found a great selection of USC apparel. I think my D has a whole new wardrobe.
While we were there we tried the atm machine and my D’s card from a small credit union in PA worked so that was good. We checked out some of the dining options in Russell Hall. It looks like they are set up to use your meal plan pretty well - so that was good news.
Went to dinner in the Vista area - pretty nice.
Next morning we had brunch at the “Top of Carolina” They have it set up so everyone gets a nice view. It was an intersting perspective on the campus.
From there we said goodbye to Eadad and fam and drove around the surrounding area a little. It is a pretty nice area diredtly near campus so my daughter felt safe.
We drove out to find the mall and other shopping areas and took a detour to the Riverbanks Zoo. It was a cute little zoo and I am sure my daughter will have an annual pass ( probably her favorite place in the world) It is fairly close to campus.
The mall had a number of chain restaurants around it, a Wal Mart, Best Buy, Books a Million, and just about anything else you could want.
Overall my daughter left feeling very content with her choice and excited about heading back in the Fall. The campus was beautiful and safe and looks to offer a lot for students.
I am sure that Eadad will be able to add more info when he returns so look for that !