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Orientation

When You Arrive

Learn more about travel, parking and what to bring to New Student Orientation. 

There isn’t much you need to bring with you your session, but there are still a few items that will help: 

  • VIP ID and USC system password. You will use this to access university WiFi and accounts.
  • Transcripts and records. As well as AP/IB scores and any other relative correspondence. 
  • Appropriate technology. Business, nursing, social work, global studies and cyber intelligence majors will need to bring a laptop.
  • Your parking pass. This will be sent to you via email. 
  • Donations for the Gamecock Pantry. Learn more about the Gamecock Pantry and what to bring here. 
  • A state issued ID and/or driver’s license. You will need this to pick up your CarolinaCard. 
  • Comfortable shoes for walking.
  • Comfortable clothes for evening activities.
  • A light jacket and/or umbrella.  

Within Columbia, we have the Columbia Metropolitan Airport. 

The Charlotte Douglas International Airport is less than a two-hour drive from Columbia. For those arriving through Charlotte, Columbia Charlotte Shuttle is the leading provider of transportation between South Carolina and Charlotte Airport. Be sure to ask about their 10-Pack discount! 

All students are required to stay on-campus during New Student Orientation in Patterson Hall.

When you arrive on-campus to check-in for your session, you will also check-in and drop off your belongings in your room. We recommend packing the following items:

  • Sheets and blankets or a sleeping bag
  • Towels
  • Pillows
  • Toiletries
  • Comfortable shoes for frequent movement and migrations
  • A light jacket and/or rain coat
  • Any other items you may need for a two-day, one-night stay

While students are required to stay on-campus in our residence halls during their session, families and supporters will book accommodations off-campus. Here are a few of our recommendations:

During your session, parking will be available in the Bull Street Garage (611 Bull Street, Columbia, SC 29208). This was included in your Orientation registration fee and you will not have to pay upon your arrival.

Check-in will begin at 8 a.m. on day one in the Patterson Hall Courtyard, located directly across from the parking garage. Please have your QR code (shared via email) ready to scan when you arrive.

 

 

 

 

 


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