COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — Downtown Columbia is about to get a little more crowded, with a wave of students making their way back to the University of South Carolina Wednesday.
About one-third of USC’s on-campus students are expected to move-in Wednesday with the start of sorority recruitment.
Students and families can head to the Russell House from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. to learn a little more about campus life.
More than 3,100 students will call Columbia home this fall.
Here’s what Gamecocks can expect as they return to campus:
Wednesday, Aug. 10 – Sorority recruitment begins
Sunday and Monday, Aug. 14-15 — Move in
Sunday, Aug. 14 — Outdoor movie night
Students will gather at 9 p.m. on Davis Field next to the Russell House for popcorn and an outdoor movie under the stars. In the event of rain, the movie will be shown at the Russell House Theater.
Monday, Aug. 15 — First Night Carolina
Tuesday, Aug. 16 — OMSA CommUNITY Welcome
All incoming and current students are invited to a CommUNITY Welcome from 4-7 p.m. at the Russell House Ballroom. The event offers the chance to learn about Office of Multicultural Student Affairs programs and activities while meeting with student organizations, campus and community partners and staff members.
Tuesday, Aug. 16 — Welcome Picnic
Carolina Dining welcomes the class of 2020 with a picnic from 5-8 p.m. on Davis Field, next to the Russell House on Greene Street.
Tuesday, Aug. 16 — Get Rec’d at The Strom
Students will head to the Strom Thurmond Wellness and Fitness Center to explore the gym, meet new friends, join a sports club, attend a kayak rolling clinic or a group exercise class. The Campus Recreation-sponsored event runs from 7-9 p.m. at the Strom on Blossom and Assembly streets.
Wednesday, Aug. 17 — Convocation
New students and their families are formally welcomed to campus at the 2016 Convocation at 10 a.m. Wednesday in the Colonial Life Arena. Students, parents, faculty and staff will mark a new beginning and learn about the Carolinian Creed and the expectations for the coming year.
Wednesday, Aug. 17 — Opportunity Knocks Part-time Job Fair
The Opportunity Knocks Part-time Job Fair from 1-4 p.m. in the Russell House Ballroom is a great opportunity for students and alumni to meet with potential employers to discuss part-time, work-study, or non-work study positions on or off campus.
Thursday, Aug. 18 — Classes begin
The semester begins. Carolina students head to class.
Saturday, Aug. 20 — Service Saturday
Sponsored by the Leadership and Service Center, students, faculty and staff will participate in a half day of service in the Columbia community. Students will check in at Davis Field next to Longstreet Theater and transportation will be provided to service sites. The community service program runs from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Service Saturdays continue through the school year.
Sunday, Aug. 21 — What’s the big deal about sweet tea?
Out-of-state students can get a taste of Southern culture, traditions and cuisine from 4 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. in the Russell House Ballroom. Sponsored by the Student Success Center, this event offers tips and tools to help students succeed in their new home. Students will be able to sample some of the foods of South Carolina, including sweet tea and boiled peanuts, and even learn South Carolina’s official state dance – the shag.