Whether you were born and raised in the heart of SC, or this has been your home away from home, the memories and friendships made in Columbia will last a lifetime. It’s hard to believe that after all those hours studying and the countless cups of coffee consumed, that it’s all come to an end. But before you say your final goodbyes, it’s time for one last hurrah, so grab your family and friends to celebrate this huge milestone.
Take a Campus Tour
You know your campus like the back of your hand, but what better way to soak it all in one last time than with a tour? As you make your way around campus, notice if anything has changed since you took your first tour all that time ago, and use this opportunity to show off your school pride to your family and share your favorite memories.
Graduation Pictures
If you didn’t take graduation pictures, did you even graduate? Well, of course. You have a diploma to prove that, but graduation pictures are a rite of passage, and you’ll want them to look back on one day (not to mention, the parents and grandparents will be asking for some to hang on the fridge). Grab a camera, or your trusty cell phone, and snap some pics at your favorite campus spots. The South Carolina State House, the public art found throughout our city, and your favorite late-night-eats place, also make for great, Instagram-worthy photo opts.
Sit Down for a Nice Dinner
So long, dining hall food and microwave dinners! We can’t let you leave before having a proper meal and sharing a taste of Columbia with your family and friends. For something trendy and delicious, head over to West Columbia and enjoy a French-inspired meal at Black Rooster and cheers to your accomplishments on their rooftop bar. In West Columbia, you’ll also find the newly renovated Terra, where fresh, local ingredients and craft-cocktails reign. If you’re near the Five Points district, you can’t go wrong with a Columbia classic, Saluda’s. What used to be an officers’ club built after the First World War, Saluda’s is a perfect place to salute our Ft. Jackson graduates.
Bucket List
Whether your next chapter takes you to a new city, or this is the last time for a while that your squad will all be together, it’s time to check off any last-minute Columbia bucket list items. Is there anything that you’ve wanted to do, but between juggling school and other commitments you haven’t gotten around to yet? It could be a visit to one of our museums like the Columbia Museum of Art or the South Carolina State Museum, a trip to the Riverbanks Zoo, or a hike at Congaree National Park. Maybe it’s seeing a concert at The Senate, catching a Fireflies Baseball game, or grabbing a bite to eat at that place that everyone has said you have to try. Regardless of what it is, now’s the time to make it happen.
Grads, congrats and cheers to this incredible accomplishment! When you’re ready to take a trip down memory lane, Columbia SC will be ready to welcome you back.
