USC Aiken was thrumming with activity on Tuesday morning as new students attended the university's first freshman orientation service.

The event, which in some ways resembled a cross between a "Toy Story"-themed party and a pep rally, took place at the Etherredge Center on campus.

"'Toy Story' ended up winning because it's got a really friendly vibe to it," said student leader and rising USC Aiken sophomore Samuel Boyd. "We really like it. It looks great."

The new freshman were treated to breakfast, toured the facilities and got a brief glimpse into what life as a college student is like.

"First day of class, they’re going to give you something called a syllabus," said keynote speaker and former USCA faculty member Michael Ritchie. "A syllabus is a Latin word for 'you ain’t going to believe all the stuff you’ve got to do.'"

Ritchie, who was a professor of management at the university, encouraged students to embrace change, take advantage of university resources and opportunities, and to tackle academic studies and challenges with an "I-dare-you" attitude of enthusiasm and confidence.

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Leslie Hull-Ryde and Pace Setter Sam Boyd pose for a photo in their Your Story outfits during freshman orientation at USC Aiken.

He also gave everyone an idea of the freedom they would have as college students and as legal adults at USC Aiken, and the kind of responsibility that comes with that freedom.

"If you get up for class, it’s because you want to get up," Ritchie said. "If you want to do your homework, it’s because you want to do your homework. It’s up to you now."

Ritchie lightened his speech with jokes about college life. He warned students they would have to learn to fix their own Pop Tarts, suggested against trying to read a whole Shakespeare play in a single night, and hoped one of them will invent a zero-calorie Snickers bar. He also shared his faith in their abilities and all they could accomplish in their time at USC Aiken.

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"I know that somebody in this room is going to major in biology and come up with a cure for cancer," Ritchie said. "I know that will happen."

Other speakers at the event included Student Body President Brandon Eberl and USC Aiken Chancellor Sandra Jordan, who both shared their experiences with the university and the importance of higher education.

After the speakers had their turns at the podium, student leaders called Pace Setters led groups of freshman around on campus for orientation and provided information to curious students and parents. They were introduced to the crowd by dancing on stage together and giving advice about college life. 

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For many students, freshman orientation is critical in smoothing the transition from high school to college, which can be jarring. USC Aiken's orientation gives students a chance to meet some of their future classmates and provides information on aspects of college life.

"I think it's very important," said Kevin Nolan, USCA assistant director of student life. "This is where they sign up for their classes for the fall. It's a two-day event…it's a great opening for incoming students, so they can get their feet wet, relax a little bit and get good information."

Classes at USC Aiken begin Aug. 23. Three more orientation services will be held throughout the summer.


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