Join the Honors Conversation!

Follow us on social media and check out our Instagram page this summer to hear more from our Honors Orientation Guides about life on campus and what to expect as an Honors student!   

Gabby Cruz

Junior | Anthropology | Hometown: Columbia, SC

Hi! My name is Gabby Cruz (she/her), and I’m a rising junior from Columbia, SC. This semester I will be working in the USC Public Heritage Archaeology Lab, GIS projects, migrant and climate change research, as well as playing for our women’s club ultimate frisbee team and working as a DJ for the university’s radio station. I spend a lot of my time during the week in the Thomas Cooper Library, and on the weekends I’m usually hanging around Columbia trying to find new hidden gems. My favorite part about USC is all of the available opportunities to explore interests--  whether that be academically with the amazing faculty here or personally through the various clubs, sports and events offered year-round. 

Fun facts:

1. On the club ultimate frisbee team! 
2. Hates bowling 
3. Hunting for best tea spot in Columbia 
4. Biggest Thomas Cooper Library fan  

Tina Sandavol

Sophomore | Global Studies | Minor: Spanish | Hometown: Columbia, SC

Hi! My name is Tina Sandoval (she/her), and I’m a rising sophomore in the Honors College. I’m majoring in global studies and have a minor in Spanish. I was born and raised in Columbia, SC, and I love being a Gamecock! I really enjoyed my experience as a first-year student in the Honors College; so much so, I will be serving as an Honors Ambassador in the fall! I will also be a peer leader for the incoming Top Scholar class! I really love socializing and can’t wait to meet all of you! 

Fun facts:

1. I’m a huge nerd for The Legend of Zelda video games. 
2. I love thrifting (and I’m pretty good at it). 
3. I love trying different cultural foods. 

Laukhika Kasetty

Sophomore | Pre-Med | Hometown: Lexington, SC

Hi! My name is Laukhika (she/her), and I am from Lexington, SC. I am rising sophomore in the Honors College on a pre-med track. This upcoming semester I plan to continue to explore my paths on the college campus. Currently, I am part of student government, Honors peer mentor program, and other student run organizations on campus like Carolina Commuters Club. This summer I am involved in undergraduate research in global food accessibility and its psychosocial impacts and also the CPRH Rural Research program through the USC School of Medicine. My hobbies include dance, swim and travel.  I am excited to share my first-year experiences with first-year students and offer guidance that can make their college transition smoother.  

Fun facts:

1. I plan my day around food. 
2. My favorite color is yellow.
3. I can do the 8th hardest dance in the world! 
4. #1 on my travel bucket list~ Antarctica.
5. I commuted to USC my first year.  

Desiree White 

Sophomore | Statistics | Hometown: West Columbia, SC 

Hi! My name is Desiree White (she/her), and I am from West Columbia, South Carolina. I am a rising sophomore in the Honors College majoring in statistics. I am a member of the Association for African American Students and will be the Special Events Chair for the Black Honors Caucus this upcoming year. My favorite place to go during my first year was Russell House to do schoolwork and hang out with friends. In my free time I enjoy going to Soda City Market, roller skating and watching movies. I am excited to talk about my experiences and all the opportunities that Honors College has to offer.  

Fun facts:

1. I love coffee.
2. Fast and Furious is my favorite movie series. 
3. I DJ at the skating rink I work at.
4. I am obsessed with Crocs.
5. I played the viola for seven years.

Ali Mathwig

Director of Advising  

If you have any questions about Honors Orientation, please contact Ali Mathwig, Director of Advising.