Abstract: The University Advising Center’s “Advisement Tools Workshop” presentation provides students with an introduction to the advising tools and resources that will help them navigate their academic and experiential journey at USC. Students will build an understanding of curricular and co-curricular technologies utilized through advising at USC. Students will learn about additional advising resources and will have the opportunity to begin academic planning and preparation for advisement. This presentation is only offered during the first 5 weeks of the semester.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to:
1. Navigate the DegreeWorks audit and identify course options to meet degree requirements.
2. Navigate the My USC Experience Engagement database and identify engagement options related to academic program of study.
3. Identify advising resources and begin academic planning and preparation for advisement.

Abstract: The Anne Frank Center Tour brings to life the story of the young Jewish girl who – in the pages of her world-renowned diary – documented two years of hiding in German-occupied Amsterdam during World War II. By sharing Anne’s legacy with U101 students in a guided-tour, the Anne Frank Center seeks to inspire our students to never be bystanders but instead to stand up together against antisemitism, bigotry, and inequality wherever they may exist today. The Anne Frank Center at USC is the official North American partner of the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to:
1. Visit the Anne Frank Center and learn about the life of Anne Frank, the rise of Nazism, and the Holocaust in the twentieth century. The tour discusses how these historical events influenced peoples in Europe and beyond.
2. Define and reflect on the concepts of identity, race, antisemitism, and authoritarianism. The tour enables students to consider their own values and identity; and, to articulate how these can shape perspectives and relationships with people who are like, or different from, themselves.
3. Understand the choices facing everyday people when confronted with the dangers of antisemitism, racism, and discrimination during the Holocaust and WWII period. The tour delves into the decisions facing Anne Frank and her family, the people that helped keep her safe while in hiding, as well as the Nazi perpetrators and their accomplices.

Abstract: "Cultivating Civil Rights & a Community of Care" is an interactive presentation that educates students on their rights at the University related to discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct. This presentation will also apprise students of the supports and options available to them through the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX. Additionally this presentation will allow students to explore strategies to intervene in situations where harm is happening and will encourage open, honest dialogue to empower students to treat members of our community with dignity and respect.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to:
1. Identify intervention techniques and inclusive practices.
2. Recognize their rights and responsibilities as Carolinians.
3. Evaluate appropriate responses to possible incidents of discrimination or harassment.

Abstract: This presentation discusses the importance of academic integrity at USC. It addresses Honor Code policies, ways to avoid academic dishonesty (i.e. using campus resources, building relationships with faculty members, etc.), how cheating impacts the USC community, as well as an individual student's reputation and value of degree. "Cocky Never Cheats" is an interactive educational program that uses discussion, activities, and online quizzes to provide students the opportunity to think critically about decision making skills, discuss why students should not violate the honor code, and how to avoid potential violations.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Be able to articulate the philosophy of the University’s Honor Code, as well as its policies, procedures, and possible outcomes of violations.
2. Be able to identify and locate resources related to academic integrity.
3. Be able to evaluate the importance of academic integrity on the value of their USC degree.

Abstract: Students engage with a peer leader from the minute they step on campus. From their initial campus tour, New Student Orientation, move-in day, various student organizations and their University 101 courses, a peer leader has been there for them every step of the way. Now, as new Gamecocks, they can do the same! This presentation will highlight the peer leadership experience at South Carolina and the benefits of peer leadership. Current peer leaders from various organizations and offices will share lessons from the road and invite the class to identify roles to get involved with on-campus.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Understand the role and purpose of a peer leader at the University of South Carolina.
2. Identify the academic, social and personal benefits of participating in peer leadership positions during their time at South Carolina.
3. Define methods for seeking and obtaining peer leadership opportunities.

Abstract: “Gamecocks Stand Up” is an interactive presentation that educates students on bystander intervention, strategies to use to intervene/help in situations, and resources. By participating in discussions, students can reflect on their own experiences with intervention, explore strategies for intervening, learn about resources available to support them, and use scenarios to practice thinking about their actions and responses. Information about on and off-campus resources will be provided.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of the presentation, students will be able to...
1. Recognize potentially harmful situations.
2. Decide to be an active bystander.
3. Identify resources and strategies to step in and speak up for their fellow Gamecocks.

Abstract: This educational and interactive presentation introduces three different dimensions of physical wellness: Eating, moving, and sleeping. Through a combination of lecture, small group activities, and individual reflection, students will learn strategies for balancing their time, attention, and energy to care for themselves at USC and beyond. This presentation is facilitated by the Changing Carolina Peer Leaders and heavily emphasizes the free support resources available on campus that can support students in building sustainable and healthy habits.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Identify strategies for eating balanced meals on campus.
2. Identify examples of joyful movement.
3. Recognize the importance of sleep in the different dimensions of wellness.

Abstract: “Healthy Relationships, Communication, and Consent” is an interactive presentation that educates students on consent, healthy relationships, and interpersonal violence. By defining and explaining consent, we will discuss how consent helps to foster healthy relationships and describe what a healthy relationship feels like. The presentation will also examine three forms of interpersonal violence: sexual assault, stalking, and relationship abuse, and identify the resources on and off campus for support and further education. Through discussions, students are able to reflect on their personal values, explore the parameters of consent, and learn more about how to recognize healthy and unhealthy relationships.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Understand what consent is and recognize how consent fosters our relationships and interactions with others.
2. Be able to describe what constitutes a healthy relationship and warning signs of an unhealthy relationship.
3. Be able to identify resources on and off campus for reporting and help.

Abstract: Resilience is defined as the ability to recover quickly from difficulties and to persevere in the face of adversity. The "How to Fail: A Building Resilience Workshop" is an interactive presentation that will teach students about building resilience and how resilient behaviors can lead to a successful college experience. This presentation is perfect for students who would like to learn how to set and manage expectations, practice self-compassion, and develop effective tools to manage their stress.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Identify three resilience-building behaviors that they can adopt.
2. Name three strategies to use in the face of adversity and difficult circumstances.
3. Learn how resilience can enhance their emotional well-being, coping skills, positive help-seeking behavior and improve their chances of academic success.

Abstract: Feel like your brain has too many tabs open? Mindfulness can help quiet the chatter. It teaches us to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we are doing. It allows us to not be overly reactive or overwhelmed by what is going on around us, as well as, improve sleep habits, and increase focus. Research also suggests that mindfulness can be an effective tool that leads to academic success. This presentation will give students a chance to learn about mindfulness and how they can adopt and customize the practice to fit into their lives.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Describe the difference between mindfulness and meditation.
2. Practice at least two mindfulness techniques, including ideas to complete daily tasks more mindfully.
3. Identify thinking traps they may fall into and how to get themselves out using mindfulness.

Abstract: Join us for a conversation about the basics of identity and diversity, as we explore how to progress to creating an inclusive environment for all. In addition, students will have the opportunity to practice what they’ve learned by engaging in a conversation with their peers and facilitators about any questions they’ve ever wanted to know about issues of diversity and social justice.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Examine how their identity has been shaped and how it relates to others.
2. Understand and articulate "what is" diversity.
3. Understand how those two concepts create social justice; and focus on the need to get people full and equal participation in a society that is shaped to meet their needs.

Abstract: First-year students will likely be making significant financial decisions for the first time that will impact both their current and future well-being. “Money $mart” is an interactive presentation that will challenge students to make several post-graduation financial decisions based on their needs and wants. Students will leave with tangible strategies they can use to improve their financial behaviors.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Recognize the importance of understanding ones financial situation and how it impacts their future.
2. Understand the fundamentals of a budget, including income, expenses, and savings.
3. Discuss the implications associated with credit.

Abstract: This presentation uses career assessments, SuperStrong and Gamecock GradStats, to help students learn more about themselves and career options. We will review results and provide guidance on what to do with the career assessments. Additionally, students will be introduced to Handshake, the Career Center's career management platform where students search for jobs, internships, career, and networking opportunities. Students will have the opportunity to reflect on career interests, potential career paths, and how to interact with our office through available career services.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Better understand their interests and how their personality relates to their career interest/s.
2. Identify and explore career paths and industries. 
3. Search for career development activities and events that is related to their career interests and potential career paths.

Important Note: Prior to the presentation, the Career Center will email instructors asking that students complete the SuperStrong Assessment, activate Gamecock GradStats, and complete the Personality Inventory. More information will be in that email. 

Abstract: The Education Abroad Office’s “See the World” presentation is designed to give students the tools necessary to start thinking about the many international education opportunities available at USC. Peer ambassadors and graduate assistants highlight their own international experiences and facilitate a discussion on opportunities for overseas study, internship, research and service. With this highly interactive environment, no two presentations are exactly alike. “See the World” presenters will discuss the benefits of international education, an introduction to the available programs, and the steps needed to begin the study abroad process.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Understand the importance of international education to personal, academic and professional development, and learn reasons to get excited about studying abroad.
2. Understand the basics of the study abroad process, including general information about the range of overseas programs available, scholarships and financial aid, and the academic approval process.
3. Identify first steps in the study abroad process, and how the Education Abroad Office can help.

Abstract: This "presentation" will be a unique opportunity that will bring together three U101 sections that occur during the same time frame for a trivia contest in the hub of Student Life & community at USC, the Russell House University Union. Student Life students will facilitate several rounds of trivia that will let U101 students have fun, get creative, meet their fellow students from different sections, and learn more about Student Life and how it shapes the Gamecock student experience.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of the presentation, students will be able to...
1. Actively build community as a class and a cohort of u101 students.
2. Learn more about ways to get involved on campus.
3. Reflect on the value of making positive connections and meaningful relationships on campus - both inside and outside of the classroom.

Abstract: Students have many different approaches to learning and studying. It is critical to demonstrate the importance of higher order learning as well as recognize and build upon study strategies that work best for each individual student. This presentation will utilize interactive activities, discussions, and will provide tools that will identify the current study behaviors of each student, and those that could be improved. Students will leave with tangible strategies they can use to improve their academic behaviors in order to help lead them to academic success.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Students will understand higher order learning (i.e. recognition vs. recall).
2. Students will identify current study habits and explore new study skill strategies.
3. Students will incorporate their study schedules into their weekly routine.

Abstract: Too often, we limit Sustainability to the process of recycling. It's a great tool, but there's so much more! This interactive presentation zooms out to consider what sustainability is in a more holistic way. Participants will discover the overlap of environmental, social, and economic issues, take part in a self-assessment of their own ecological footprint, and learn about the sustainability practices in action at USC and how they can play a part. 

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Describe the term sustainability to include the social, economic, and environmental pillars.
2. Apply sustainability principles in their personal, academic, and professional life.
3. Understand the opportunities to get involved in sustainability on campus and in the community.

Abstract: The Sustainable Carolina Garden is an urban organic farm on campus, near Green Quad. Founded in 2007 by students, for students, it has continued with that mindset ever since. We invite U101 classes to tour our garden, learn farming techniques, lend a hand, and maybe even sample some of the produce! A portion of the produce is donated to the Gamecock CommUnity Shop and the rest is sold at the Healthy Carolina Farmer’s market on Greene Street. We hope that by touring and volunteering in the garden, students feel more connected to the campus community and more rooted to USC.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Define and describe permaculture, hydroponics, and compost.
2. Experience the benefits of spending time in the outdoors, which is linked to decreasing stress and increasing mindfulness. 
3. Understand the opportunities to get involved in sustainability on campus and in the community via Sustainable Carolina Garden, Gamecock CommUnity Shop & Healthy Carolina Farmers Market.

Abstract: "Take the Risky Out of Frisky" is an interactive presentation facilitated by Changing Carolina Peer Leaders and Healthy Campus Initiatives. Through group dialogue and self-reflection, we provide students with medically-accurate information on sexual health, including methods of protection and contraception, STIs and HIV, getting tested, and tips for relationship communication and risk reduction. Students will leave with knowledge of campus and surrounding community resources and information to set the stage for capacity building. A laptop, projector and dry erase board will be required.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Identify medically accurate facts associated with oral, anal, vaginal, manual, and non-penetrative sexual activities.
2. Describe techniques for safer sex and healthier relationships, including, but not limited to the importance of communication, testing, protection and contraception.
3. Identify available campus/community resources for sexual health and relationship communication.

Abstract: "Thinking Globally" offers your students an exciting first-hand experience with international students focused on expanding their cultural perspectives and global citizenship. Students will learn about different countries of the world through engaging presentations and conversations with USC international students, known as Thinking Globally Ambassadors. The Ambassadors bring to life various aspects of their cultures through the use of visual aids and interactive discussions, often comparing their culture with American culture. Students will also learn how to further their newfound cross-cultural interest by participating in USC programming opportunities, foreign language study, and study abroad.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Interact with international students and learn about the cultures from which they come and their perception of American culture.
2. Address cultural differences in an engaged dialogue in order to develop a better sensitivity and appreciation of diversity and the cultures represented.
3. Be introduced to opportunities for future international and cross-cultural experiences.

Abstract: “Top Five Ways to Get Kicked Out” begins by discussing what issues students may face in their first-year of college. The goal is to prevent students from ending up in the conduct office for avoidable errors in judgment. We set a mantra, “What could go wrong?” as a decision making model. The interactive presentation is focused on commonly occurring incidents. For each of the violations the group walks through scenarios and decision making turning points. Students and facilitators enjoy laughter while addressing some foibles of student mentality and the predictability of how their environment affects their decisions.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Identify the most commonly violated laws and policies.
2. Identify decision making pitfalls, the repercussions they carry, and the benefits of legal and safe decisions
3. Connect their decision making to adult accountability and responsibility.

Abstract: Tradition comes in many forms at USC - from what we say and wear, to the events we attend year after year. And let's not forget about that school in the upstate we love to compete against annually! This presentation will take a deep dive into the spectrum of tradition that lives at USC - both the well known and the up-and-coming traditions we celebrate - in the hopes of recognizing the importance of traditions as part of one's college experience both now and into the future.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Learn about traditions (some of which may be unknown to the student) that take place here at USC.
2. Learn the importance of experiencing traditions as a college students and what it means for life after college.
3. Learn how traditions evolve.

Abstract: The Office of Undergraduate Research wants students to get excited about participating in research. Students should come away with an idea as to what research looks like, the benefits of participating in research, how to get started, and the resources available to them through the Office of Undergraduate Research. This presentation will introduce University 101 students to examples of research projects, how to find a mentor, funding opportunities, and direct them to get started in the advisement process.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Define research and dispel common myths about the research process.
2. Recognize the benefits of participating in undergraduate research and understand that any student can engage in it.
3. Understand how to get started in research and begin exploring their own research interests.

Abstract: One of the most difficult transitions for first-year students is adapting to the range of writing contexts and expectations throughout their college experience. This presentation is structured around five insights that will help students adapt new processes, strategies and mindsets for college writing success. This presentation will utilize interactive activities, discussions, and reflective exercises to leave students feeling more prepared to navigate the complexities of college writing.

Learning Outcomes: 

As a result of this presentation, students will be able to...
1. Identify the range of writing contexts they will encounter throughout college and their future careers.
2. Learn new writing processes, strategies and mindsets best suited to college writing.
3. Become familiar with writing resources on campus.