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McCausland College of Arts and Sciences

Cheers to the Class of 2025!

Posted on: May 6, 2025; Updated on: May 6, 2025

We are proud to celebrate the incredible achievements of our graduates at the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences. Hear from the class of 2025 as they reflect on what they’ve learned, their best memories and their next steps. 

Student smiling in front of a scenic cityscape with red rooftops and a large suspension bridge in the background.

Luz Clarita Amezcua Reyes

Major: International Studies

How USC changed my life: From studying abroad in Spain to leading student organizations and serving the USC community as a tutor and mentor for my TRIO family, whom I hold immense gratitude for, USC has been integral to my growth. It has shaped me into a better person, both personally and professionally, and I will always cherish the experiences and relationships that have empowered me along the way.

Advice for incoming students: Take advantage of every opportunity the University of South Carolina has to offer, and don't let fear stand in your way. Study abroad and immerse yourself in a different culture, dive into research projects, take on that part-time job on campus, and step up to lead organizations and clubs. At the same time, don't forget to enjoy the little moments—sit on the Horseshoe, share lunch with friends at Russell, or read a book by the fountain. Take your time and truly enjoy this incredible chapter in your life.

Graduate in a black USC cap and gown with honor cords poses in front of blooming pink flowers, smiling on a spring day.

Reece Bell

Major: Media Arts, Film and Media Studies

A favorite memory: My favorite memory from my time in the College of Arts and Sciences was getting to be a part of the Stormwater Collaborative Residency this past year. I got to make an experimental film and exhibit it at an art gallery which is something I thought would be way beyond the realm of possibility for me. I also got to work alongside other artists and learn more about their disciplines up close, which was a great experience.

What’s next? After graduation, I'll be working with the Get on Set Initiative on their production of SUPERVOID. I'm so excited to be getting to work behind the scenes on a feature film for the first time.

Student wearing equestrian gear stands beside a horse adorned with multiple award ribbons after a competition at the Palmetto Classic.

Kaitlyn Giammarco

Major: Biology

A favorite memory: My favorite memory of my time at USC has to be getting my love for biology back! 

Advice for incoming students: I would tell incoming students to reach out for help if you are starting to struggle and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself.

Student presenting a research poster titled “Kolmogorov-Arnold Networks for Molecular Property Prediction” at a conference.

Christian Geils

Major: Data Science

What are you most proud of: Starting the Gamecock Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Association, the first AI club at USC.

Advice for incoming students: Try new things, explore your interests, and get involved in as many research and extracurricular activities as you can. USC is a big enough school that you can use its resources and opportunities to pivot your career or future education into whatever direction you like.

Read More about Christian Geils in 2025 graduate follows the data into research bridging biology, chemistry and AI.

Students smiling and wearing University of South Carolina Gamecock hats, enjoying a fountain celebration with a cheering crowd.

Julia Gifford

Major: Political Science and History

Advice for incoming students: The best piece of advice I have heard is not to worry about what the people around you are doing. The memories I made, the lessons I learned: those all came with experience. I stopped focusing on what everyone else was doing, I found some of my passions, I studied abroad, I became a peer leader and got to influence new freshmen who were in the same shoes I was in only a few years prior. I found my own path, and it seems to be better than I could have ever hoped.

What’s next: I will be starting a full-time position at the South Carolina Office of the Attorney General.

Two students laughing and posing together in the rain at a spirited USC event, surrounded by a crowd.

Molly Claire Lynch

Major: Criminology and Criminal Justice

How USC changed my life: The university challenged me in meaningful ways, helped me build confidence, and introduced me to some of the most important people in my life. I’m leaving not only with a degree, but with lifelong friendships and experiences that will always stay with me.

Advice for incoming students: Give yourself grace and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Be friendly and open to making connections—not just with other students, but also with professors, advisors and staff. Engaging deeply with your coursework can actually inspire you, boost your confidence, and leave you feeling more prepared for life after graduation. The effort you put in now truly pays off.

Two women wearing USC National Champions gear, smiling and standing side-by-side indoors.

Eryn Mangrum

Major: Sociology

What I’ve learned about myself: During my college experience, I learned to really trust the process. Deviating from a plan or idea can be daunting but things always work out exactly how they are supposed to. 

What helped me succeed: Working for Student Health and Well-Being and Campus Recreation has helped me learn so much about myself and others. I have been able to challenge myself and grow professionally, while meeting the most amazing people.

Student wearing a “Gamecocks” t-shirt, smiling while standing on a baseball field.

Zach McClure

Major: Philosophy and Political Science, minor in Mathematics

How did USC change your life? USC gave me the opportunity to find internships within the state government easily. With the State House being so close by, I was able to work there and make it to classes in less than 10 minutes!

Who played a role in your success? One of my best experiences here was taking Dr. Meyer-Gutbrod's Senate Simulation class. We simulated U.S. Senate floor sessions during class time, wrote legislation and made floor motions. Dr. Meyer-Gutbrod was especially helpful as my thesis director and a law school recommender, and because of that I’ll be attending Yale Law School in the fall!

Student in a formal outfit smiling confidently in front of the columns of the U.S. Supreme Court.

Emily Rabon

Major: History and Political Science, minor in Law and Society

How did USC change your life? Internships have been a cornerstone of my college experience. Over the past four years, I have had multiple opportunities to learn beyond the classroom through internships at the South Carolina Supreme Court and the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals. These experiences have been formative to me, solidifying my desire to attend law school and allowing me to meet mentors in the field.

What’s next: I'll be attending Harvard Law School in the fall. That dream is becoming reality because of the research and internship opportunities that I've had here at USC.

Blond girl sitting on a rock smiling with Mountain View behind her

Alexandria Sirard

Major: Psychology, minor in Counseling Education

How did USC change your life? USC changed my life by giving me a place to grow deep roots, something I rarely had the chance to do while moving often with the military. USC became more than just a school, it became a home. I found community through my job in Barnwell College with the most amazing staff, through my honor society Psi Chi, and by working on research teams and learning from inspiring professors, like Dr. Zarrett, Dr. Vahlstrom, Professor Myers, Dr. Reynolds and Claire Miller-Sword. I felt supported to grow both personally and professionally in ways I had only dreamed of before.

What advice would you give to incoming students? Allow yourself the space to fail. Try new, intimidating things, even when you’re scared. The only real failure is choosing not to try at all. Growth comes from discomfort, and every stumble brings you closer to discovering who you are. 

What’s next after graduation? I’m thrilled to be continuing at USC as I pursue my Master of Human Resources at the Darla Moore School of Business.

A man dancing with one leg and one arm extended

TJ Warren

Major: Dance Performance and Choreography

How did USC change your life? USC widened my view of the world, and the impact I can have. This university allowed me the opportunity to learn and connect with others but also learn and connect to myself. 

What have you learned about yourself during college? I have learned how to use my voice, how to ask for the things I want and deserve. With that I have learned that I am deserving of success, years of hard work have led me to big moments like this, and I have the right to be proud of myself.

What’s next after graduation? I will be working with Unbound Dance Company, as well as Gaspard and Dancers, a company based in Durham, North Carolina. 

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