What is your role at USC?

I work in the Arnold School of Public Health as an academic advisor and a course instructor. I advise exercise science and public health students from orientation to graduation, helping students make informed decisions about their educational and career goals, and connecting them to campus resources. I also teach classes related to student success and transition, career management, and experiential learning.

How did your experience as a student inspire you to join and support the university?

I earned my bachelor's degree from USC in 2017 and that's when I started working for the university and then got my master's degree in 2019. I was a member of the marching band all four years as an undergraduate student and it was an instant way to be best friends with 350 other people. It was just so meaningful to me to get to perform pre-game and half-time shows in Williams-Brice Stadium, and travel to away games and bowl representing the university. In addition to marching band, I had rewarding experiences as a University 101 Peer Leader and student worker in the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Since I had all these great experiences as a student, I wanted to start my giving back journey by being an employee of the university and helping to support future students so that they have just as great of an experience as I did.

 

What motivates you to give back, and why is it personally meaningful?

When I graduated, I donated to the School of Music because the band meant so much to me so I started giving before I even graduated. Now as an academic advisor and course instructor, I see first-hand the challenges students face, and it motivates me to give back in ways that directly support their success. USC gave me so many meaningful experiences, from marching band to leadership roles and internships, and donating allows me to ensure others have those opportunities too.

 

What keeps you busy in your free time?

I am a founding member of the LGBTQ+ Alumni Council through the USC Alumni Association. We plan activities and programs that help LGBTQ+ USC alumni and their allies nationwide stay involved with the Gamecock community. One of my proudest accomplishments since being on the council is establishing and endowing the first LGBTQ+ scholarship in University history. I know this scholarship will impact students for many years to come.

 

Is there a USC cause that you feel is especially important to support?

I give $20 a pay period, which I don't even notice in my check, but I know that small amount is making a big impact. A few things I support include the Carolina Cares Fund that helps students with emergency needs and the Gamecock CommUnity Shop which helps many students with basic needs challenges like food, clothing, home goods, and school supplies. If your basic needs aren't being met, then how are you going to learn? I also support the LGBTQ+ Inclusive Excellence Scholarship, which honors and provides financial support for USC students striving to make the University a more inclusive community.

 

What career accomplishment are you most proud of?

A couple of years ago, I was one of 17 academic advisors across the nation recognized with the Outstanding Academic Advising Award from NACADA, the academic advising professional association. Getting that national award was a dream come true since no one from USC had ever won. Getting to represent USC on that national stage and to know that the hard work I put in each and every day was noticed and recognized just meant the world to me.

 

What do you enjoy most about your work at USC?

My favorite part is attending graduation each semester. I see my students who I have known the last four years since they were freshmen in my U101 class accomplishing the goal they set for themselves. I know they overcame a lot of challenges and it wasn't easy, so seeing them walk across that stage makes graduation that much sweeter.

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Are you a USC employee who wants to share why you give back? Email WattsAC@mailbox.sc.edu