'Campus Conversations' reveal student resilience

Posted on: November 27, 2020; Updated on: November 27, 2020
By Caleigh McDaniel, stucomm@mailbox.sc.edu

Every week for the past few years, we have interviewed students for “Campus Conversations” to highlight their accomplishments on and off campus. Since the campus closure in March, a pattern of resilience during the pandemic became increasingly clear in almost all of the conversations. Students have faced a diverse array of challenges due to COVID-19, and their stories and positivity throughout it all are truly incredible.

Check out these students who have adapted to and overcome obstacles brought on by the pandemic.

Student Body Vice President Hannah White has had to adapt a lot of programming due to the pandemic. Read more about her 12-hour "podcastathon" that raised more than $10,000 and highlighted the Black excellence and rich history that is tied to the university in her "Campus Conversation."
International student and UofSC tennis player, Silvia Chinellato, wasn't able to be with family or go home to Italy due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. Read more about Chinellato's experience as an international student during the pandemic and the uncertainties she faced in her "Campus Conversation."
As an intern for Gamecock Entertainment, Sam Hopler has worked to create fun activities for students that are safe and follow safety guidelines. Read more about Hopler's experience navigating event planning during the pandemic and his plans for next semester in his "Campus Conversation."
Anya Carney's broadcast journalism senior semester in the newsroom was cut short when campus closed in March. Read more about her experience having to work from home in her "Campus Conversation."
James Collins' job as an intramural sports leader has changed significantly due to COVID-19. Learn more about Collins' experience as a campus recreation employee during the pandemic in his "Campus Conversation."
Abby Gerwit was only able to spend a month of her spring semester in Italy. Read more about her experience having her time abroad cut short in her "Campus Conversation."
As soon as Aliyah Abrams heard about the opportunity to work with UofSC's SAFE COVID-19 testing, she knew she wanted to help. Read more about Abrams' experience working for SAFE testing and her tips for getting tested in her "Campus Conversation."
Resident Mentor Tom Santiniello has had to navigate connecting with residents while staying safe. Read more about how housing looked different this year and how Santaniello is working to provide a more inclusive environment in his "Campus Conversation."
Class of 2020 graduate and former GoupX Instructor Elizabeth Thompson didn't let lockdown stop her from teaching exercise classes and taking care of her health. Read more about Thompson's advice for staying active during the pandemic in her "Campus Conversation."