Garnet & Black Spring 2013

all of your sex qu estions

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Show Your Pride

STUDENT MAGAZINE of the UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jordan Osborne

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Garnet & Black magazine is produced four times a year by students of the University of South Carolina and is distributed free to members of the University community. All editors and staff members can be contacted at (803) 777-1149. The office is located in Russell House room 339. Email letters to the editor to gandbe@sc.edu or to Garnet & Black magazine, Student Media, 1400 Greene Street, Columbia, SC 29208. Letters should be 250-400 words and must include name, address, phone number and academic information (if applicable). Garnet & Black reserves the right to edit for libel, style and space. Anonymous letters will not be published.

Fourth-year visual communications student, Zac Baker, is the previous BGLSA president and wrote this issues cover story about coming out. “Being gay in the South is not all rainbows and NOH8 stickers” he says. “It’s not easy: the intersection of politics, God, and sexuality creates an environment unlike any other in which real folks are challenged to write their life stories with dignity and authenticity.”

Second-year visual communications student Morgan Epperson’s photos can be seen on P. 9 and 18-19. “I loved getting to shoot these two completely different subjects for each of the stories. Getting creative with each of the assignments was a lot of fun, especially the “Body Talk” feature.”

Fourth-year marketing and management student, Lauren Leadmon is putting her minor in graphic design to good use on P.16. “I first became interested in graphic design after being t-shirt chair for my sorority, Alpha Chi Omega. I loved creating the designs so much that I decided to add it as my minor and haven’t stopped since. I am thrilled to be able to contribute to this issue of Garnet & Black magazine.”

First-year studio art student, Casey Ksau, has brought his distinct illustrations to all three issues of G&B this year. To see his multilayer designs, check out the Opinion article on P. 42.

LAUREN LEADMON

MORGAN EPPERSON

ZAC BAKER

CASEY KSAU

COLUMBIA’S PREMIER student living

Before heading home for winter break last semester, I came to the bitter realization that I had become one of “those people” that lets life and school get the best of them. I eagerly counted down the days until I knew I could go home, get my wisdom teeth extracted and do nothing but sit and drool at my favorite rom-coms, mountain of mashed potatoes in hand.

During the month I spent at home, however, I had the epiphany I’d been anxiously awaiting for months. Stuck in a funk brought on by purposeless classes, overcommitting myself, slacking at the gym, too many all-nighters and people who clearly undervalued my time; an angel sang to me in the form of an overplayed, two-year-old Top 40 hit.

Those who have spent any amount of time around me since then know that I have dubbed these next four months of my life “Pretty Girl Rock” semester (if you spent the end of 2010 outside the country, YouTube Keri Hilson’s power jam for clarification).

What does this mean, you ask? Well, consider the last moment you thought to yourself, “I’m the sh*t! I can accomplish anything I want to, and no scale, bad hair day or jack ass can get in my way!” Inject that confidence with Lance Armstrong’s steroids and you’re halfway to Pretty Girl Rocking.

Narcissistic as that attitude may seem, life is all about realizing your self-worth, potential and willingness to be yourself regardless of how others perceive you. As with all schools of thought, everything is best in moderation. I am by no means advocating that you go out and imitate Kanye West or make a string of alcohol-induced bad decisions; you’ll end up much like the one-night-standers whose fate is diagramed on page 18.

This is much more about owning what you bring to the table and realizing that every minute you spend comparing yourself to anyone else is wasted. Confidence (not cockiness) is attractive, and if you make it evident that you love yourself and what you do,

others will too.

Whether it’s coming out on a Southern college campus (p. 24) or pursuing your passion from the ground up (p. 8), Being comfortable in your own skin will bring you substantially closer to living a happy, fulfilling life.

Don’t be discouraged if every night you venture downtown doesn’t end like your favorite episode of Sex and the City. Remember that it’s not a matter of what you can do to make cute boys like you, it’s how you can become the type of person that cute boys like.

Need a little inspiration? Pandora offers an excellent “Pretty Girl Rock” station. If you’re looking for an opportunity to try out your new and improved attitude, Carolina Cup is right around the corner and our guide will you have you strutting your stuff in no time. Just be sure to stay hydrated; there’s nothing cute about a lobster tan.

Superlatives

BY JARED OWENBY

Pedro De Abreu was born in Brazil, into a life of poverty and hardship. Many times he roamed the streets wondering what he would do in life and how he would be able to do it. In 2005, at the age of 15, he moved to the United States not knowing any English and realized the odds were against him. However, the resilient young man was ready for whatever battles he would face on the road to success. Today, Pedro has achieved more in the few years he has been in the US than most people do in a lifetime.

After high school, Pedro moved to Los Angeles where, along with two partners, he helped found a multimedia company before deciding to attend university. Back in South Carolina, Pedro established the Check Mate Foundation, a non-profit organization that teaches chess and leadership to children.

Currently in his third-year year at USC, Pedro is triple majoring in Business Economics, Management and Organizational Leadership, all the while maintaining a 4.0 GPA. For

all his accomplishments, the Coca-Cola Foundation and USA Today named Pedro as South Carolina’s New Century Scholar for 2011.

Even with all the success and rewards he has gotten for his hard work, Pedro will admit that his greatest joy in life is helping others achieve their goals and dreams. “What keeps me motivated is having the awareness that I can make a difference and that I can impact someone’s life. One of my goals is to let people know that they can do the same thing.”

In recent years he has become a sought after motivational speaker, teaching topics of self-awareness, self-motivation, and achieving goals. Here are five things Pedro wants USC students to remember on their journey to success:

•Know where you want to go in life

•Be passionate

•Be patient

•Get rid of low self-esteem

•Know that you are capable of achieving anything

PHOTOS BY JEREMY AARON, NICK JOHNSTON, & MORGAN EPPERSON // DESIGN BY CARLY KEITH

most likely to:

MOST LIKELY TO SUCCEED

Oh Boy! South Carolina has a new MC on the rise and he doesn’t plan on stopping until he gets to the top. Fourth-year advertising student Charles Washington, aka Chuck Teez, and sometimes Mr. Star Move, is making moves to become the next big thing in the rap game. Born in Japan and raised in a military family, Charles has seen a lot of the world. The majority of his upbringing was spent in Charleston, South Carolina, however Charles traveled the globe as a youngster gaining experiences he would later use to create his music.

Charleston, known as Chucktown to many, was the birthplace of the name Chuck Teez. “My friends called me Chuck, and they started playing around and calling me Chuck Teez - it kind of stuck from there,” he says. Charles tells G&B he came to USC to ‘put on’ for the Gamecock Nation and will focus on his degree for the time being.

Chuck Teez

The young rapper has some pretty impressive achievements to date. He has worked with old school rap legend Dana Dane, best known for his single, ‘Cinderfella’, released in 1987. In fall 2011, Chuck’s single, ‘Star Move’, was first played at a Dallas Cowboys football game. After recording the song, Chuck thought it would be a good fit for the Cowboys so he started calling the franchise to promote it. It took a while to find the right person to get his song played, but he didn’t give up. “That’s my mind set– I’m always thinking outside the box, never thinking local, always thinking global.”

Chuck is currently working on an album with the goal of eventually landing a deal with a record label. As for the future, he plans to focus more on promotion and a possible tour. For more information about Chuck Teez and what he is up to, visit facebook.com/The RealChuckTeez, @Chuck_Teez, or chuckteez.com.

From Macbeth to Hairspray, fourth-year theatre student, Katie Marissa, knows how to capture an audience with genuine acting and believable emotion. Before becoming an actress, Katie was heavily involved with dance. She first began dancing at the age of five, which led to cheerleading and eventually acting. Clearly Katie first performed in front of an audience at a very young age, and she doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon.

She has already built an excellent resume of projects that include eight different plays, films, and commercials. Katie is also trained in basic stage combat and aerial silk, a type of performance found in shows such as Cirque du Soleil, in which an artist performs acrobatics while hanging from a piece of fabric, free of any harnesses or safety nets.

After graduation, Katie plans on moving to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting. Her goal is to find work in film rather than theater, but if need be, she has no problem getting back on stage and performing. “I don’t think I’m really in a position right now to be too picky. I like doing stage and there is plenty of it out in California.” Currently, she is working on a student film, ‘The Saint,’ a supernatural/action short about a duo named The Saint and Gabi. Having completed the first episode of ‘Outpost 409’, which can be viewed on You Tube, there is talk about continuing the sci-fi comedy web series. To learn more about Katie and her upcoming projects, you can check out videos, and more at her website, www. katiemarissa.com.

MOST LIKELY TO BE HEARD ON THE RADIO

MOST LIKELY TO DEFY GRAVITY

BY TIERRA EDENS // PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATRICK FRANCIS // DESIGN BY HILLARY DADOURIS

o you ever wonder why more students aren’t talking about their visit to President Pastides’s house on the Horseshoe? Although many of us pass by the historic home daily, I always imagined that showing up unannounced would result in being carried off by security guards in suits. As long as I’ve been a student here, the president’s house always seemed off limits. I made it my mission to get behind those doors and check out the Pastides’s digs for myself.

After scheduling an interview with Mrs. Pastides, I arrived at the house and rang the doorbell. Before entering, I was asked to identify myself so I announced my name, affiliation with Garnet & Black and my appointment with the First Lady to Lisa, the house manager. She escorted me into the living room and offered me tea and cookies as I awaited Mrs. Pastides.

As I sat, I noticed that the living room was immaculate. It reminded me of a former time period but with a modern southern feel. Glancing around the room, I observed a piano thoughtfully placed in the corner, family photos, hanging portraits on loan from the Caroliniana Library, and a corner near the front

window filled with photos of well-known figures President Pastides has met during his time at USC. I also recognized the marble-topped, oriental coffee from the online virtual tour.

Minutes later, Mrs. Pastides floated down the staircase, greeted me with a warm smile and immediately made me feel welcome. We then embarked on my own personal tour, starting with the second floor. On the second level, one of the first things I saw was the chair John Paul II sat in when he visited the president’s house in 1987. Also on the second level was the Reception Room, which Mrs. Pastides remarked offers the best view of the Horseshoe along with the Faculty Awards. Professor Book Publishing Receptions are held in this room during Christmastime and she invites local children to come and hear holiday stories as she reads aloud.

The remainder of the three-story home is full of high ceilings, original windows from its development in 1854, winding staircases, well-decorated rooms, and wooden floors. It’s a dream home; but if you aren’t sold yet, next we ventured to Mrs. Pastides’s pride and joy - her garden.

Outside the house (during the winter) are rows of kale, collards, cabbage, asparagus and arugula. These delectable veggies are sometimes used for oncampus events, and at the end of each school term, the excess is often donated to the Harvest Hope Food Bank. Also, for those with a green thumb interested in growing their own garden, there are twenty raised beds alongside the Pastides’s garden that faculty, staff and the Outdoor Recreation club can use to cultivate their own vegetables.

When I asked why the president’s house doesn’t offer regularly scheduled tours, Mrs. Pastides explained that she and President Pastides host over 200 events a year and are always breaking down or setting something up. Many of these events do involve students, including those selected for the Presidential Ambassadors Program.

If you have the opportunity before you graduate, I strongly suggest you make a visit to the president’s house. The landscape, vegetable garden, stories and, most of all, the company and hospitality make it well worth it. Mrs. Pastides said it herself, “Anybody can ring the doorbell. Come and ring the doorbell.”

ACTING Masters in Fine Arts

BY: RILEY CARITHERS

// PHOTOS: JEREMY AARON// DESIGN: CHRIS SIM

Most students complain about attending class just fifteen hours a week. Students in the Master of Fine Arts Acting program however put in enough hours to more than double that of a regular course load. Beginning at 10 a.m. and ending as late as 11 p.m., mornings are filled helping teach undergraduate courses, followed by afternoons in class perfecting their own techniques and evenings spent in rehearsal. If that weren’t enough, the already packed schedule is supplemented by weekends spent in more rehearsal. This schedule alone shows the commitment, true dedication and passion these students have for their craft.

The MFA program at USC is a graduate degree at USC that focuses on a specialization in acting, making it the only program of its kind in the state. Headed by professors Robyn Hunt and Steve Pearson, the three-year degree program works like a small company. A select group of students are accepted every two years through national auditions. The students then spend two academic years training at USC before using the third year for a professional internship.

Built upon the idea that, “all training is actor training,” students in the program enroll in a combination of traditional acting classes, which may for example, focus on Shakespeare, but range to voice training and even brushing up on skills such as clowning. The integration of actor training is part of what makes USC’s program so unique. Professor Robyn Hunt explains, “When I went to school for my MFA it was very different – all the training was so separate. One of the things we attempt

to do here is make sure that it all addresses that moment when you go on stage and have all systems be ‘go’.”

Professor’s Hunts MFA physical movement class, based upon a philosophy taken from Japanese actor training, is just one example of the combination of techniques and influences that give the program its distinction. Focusing on manifesting emotion through physical expression over an internalization of feeling, first year MFA student Trey Hobbs explains

medium, the education that you are getting is learning to be truthful in imaginary circumstances whether you are doing film or stage, that is at the core.”

With such an unusual course load, much different than a stereotypical acting studio, it seems fitting that their building is a bit out of the ordinary, too. A pair of unassuming, oversized, white doors tucked away on the horseshoe mark the entrance to USC’s center for performance experiment. Enter the doors and behold a collection of tall scaffolding structures, framed by sheets of neutral fabric hanging from the ceiling. There isn’t a stage in sight– and although it may appear similar to an over-sized playground, the MFA acting students’ talent makes it clear their work is much more than child’s play.

the work, “deal[s] with how instead of showing a feeling - how do we just ‘do’ and how do we make our bodies express what our mind and imagination is capable of.”

The long hours and different teaching styles prepare the students to graduate abilities to perform across all platforms, in stage, film or commercial and even with the credentials to teach at the college level.

First-year MFA student, Cory Lipman, explains, “What is wonderful about the program is that regardless of the

Professor Steve Pearson, explains its significance, “[the program] is sort of centered around this space. All of working around theater is an experiment, with any kind of art - you are working on change and you are working on something that you don’t know what the out come is going to be.”

The MFA Actors perform throughout the semester, putting on their own productions and performing in some of the Theater Departments mainstage shows. Whether an experimental production or a well-known comedy, their performances are surely worth the experience, for as Professor Robyn Hunt explains, “Acting isn’t about whether the actor feels the emotion, it is about whether the audience feels the emotion, that is who you are trying to change.”

WHAT TO DO:

WHAT NOT TO DO:

body

BY JULIA HIENZ // DESIGN BY SARAH SNEDECOR

WE’VE ALL DONE IT: Flirtatiously made eyes with that hottie across the room secretly (or blatantly, maybe) hoping that they’re single. Although it may be impossible to know exactly what someone is thinking about you, being able to read body language can help decode some of their opinions. G&B has done the research and picked out the most important physical cues to familiarize yourself with before heading down to Five Points. Read on and let the bodies do the talking.

NIGHTLIFE

Private Eyes

As obvious as it seems, making and holding eye contact is the first clear hint that someone may be into you. This goes for both sexes, and if eye contact is followed up with a smile or they move to be in a closer proximity, chances are they feel some attraction. Additionally, if you find yourself face-to-face with someone and notice that their pupils dilate (get larger), it’s good news: this is a physiologic response that occurs when a person finds someone attractive.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall

Another common body language sign of both males and females is mimicking each other’s movements. It can be as subtle as uncrossing legs or taking a bite of food after the other person does. Mirroring allows one to sympathize with another without using words, and puts two people in sync. Pay attention next time you are sitting with a crush and see if they copy your moves!

Call Me Maybe

Men’s sexual body language errs on the side of primitive in comparison to women’s. One example being extremely loud laughter or talking. Bellowing chuckles allow a man to “mark his territory,” so to speak. It alerts to other males in the surrounding vicinity that the woman being spoken to is “theirs.” A subtler way that attracted men “mark territory” is by finding any opportunity to touch you, even in the slightest.

I’m Kind of a Big Deal

Another interested body language indicator is displayed when a guy sits up straighter or tries to make himself appear larger when you’re around. Attempting to be the largest shows that a man desires to be the “alpha male.” Prehistorically, the alpha male of a group was also the man most desired by women. A guy is probably REALLY interested if he also has open body language, like spread legs, uncrossed arms or is faced towards you.

Nose Knows

If you’re talking to a cutie and want to know if they think you’re cute, too, look no further than the nose. This may be one of the smallest attraction hints, but flared nostrils many times indicate that a dude is turned on by your presence. A nervous, rapid heart beat requires more oxygen and flared nostrils allow for more air to enter the body. So don’t be creeped out if you see this, he’s probably just breathing heavier, not trying to get a whiff of your perfume.

lady lingo

Whip My Hair

Females do a variety of subconscious things to attract potential mates. One of the most telltale signs that a woman digs you is if she touches or fixes her hair when you’re around. General primping, also known as “preening” shows a woman is attempting to look their best and amp up attractiveness. If you’re spitting game to a girl and you notice she’s doing this: keep it up. She’s into you.

Jitterbug

Women tend to fidget when they’re nervous. It’s a natural reaction that helps the body rid excess energy caused by anxiety. If you see a girl playing with her jewelry or steadily tracing the rim of a glass while around a certain person, she probably likes them and may have preoccupied thoughts about what she looks like or what to say.

Kiss This

Reading lips (and I don’t mean from your buddy, mouthing the words “it’s in the bag” from across the bar) is another way to decipher a woman’s feelings about you. When a female finds someone attractive, she will do anything and everything to draw attention to her mouth. Common motions include pouting, licking, biting, and/or touching their lips.

One Night e

PART

BY CAITLYN MCGUIRE

Picture this: After a night in Five Points, you end up back at the apartment of the boy who bought you vodka cranberries all night and told you your eyes were “so pretty.” Waking up in a daze, you awkwardly accept his “Shacking Shirt,” paired with your skirt from the night before. To be courteous, he asks for your number and you trek down the stairs of his apartment barefoot, heels in hand. Just when you thought things couldn’t get more awkward, sitting on the couch is not only his roommate, but also the kid you have been talking to in your Poli Sci class. Perfect. Sound familiar? Being in college, most of us have either experienced or heard of a similar horror story.

One-night stands have become so common they don’t hold the same shock factor, as say, for our parents’ generation. A possible bevy of physical and emotional dangers relating to one-night stands, the choice is yours. But before staying the night, it is important to learn the “who’s, what’s and whys” of college one-night stands.

WHO’S HAVING THEM?

In college, it could be anyone. Sometimes it’s the most unsuspecting ‘nice’ boy or girl that can regale you with tales of their late night romps. Needless to say, this does not mean everyone is doing it. From speaking with students, G&B found that there are those that haven’t, those that have, and those that have had too many.

HOW BAD ARE THEY REALLY?

One-night stands can be harmful physically and emotionally. The cause and effects of one-night stands vary greatly among students, from harmless to devastating. When the outcome may be unpredictable, here are a few things to keep in mind.

GETTING PHYSICAL

Be aware of the unknown. Bringing a stranger home for one-night puts a lot of trust into them. You don’t know their personality well enough to predict their actions. Never disregard the possibility of physical and sexual abuse, daterape drugs, or even theft.

SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES (STDS)

We are much too old, wise and educated to pretend STDs do not exist on campus, because they do - and more readily than you’d think. Using protection is a frontline defense against STDs but it isn’t effective 100% of the time. Even though it may have been your first one-night stand it does not mean it was your partners’ first one too. Furthermore, some people who have an STD may not even realize it. In a report from the University of North Carolina, chlamydia, genital herpes, gonorrhea and hepatitis B may not show any symptoms while affecting an individual.

PREGNANCY

An accidental pregnancy is life-changing and a one-night stand is far from the support system needed at such a scary

time. As we know, a great majority of one-nighters happen after a long night of drinking. In a 2012 study conducted by the National Coalition of STD Directors, almost half of college freshmen that were under the influence did not use a condom during sex. It’s assumed after freshmen year, that the nearly 50% did not all of a sudden begin wearing condoms during intoxicated sex. Birth control is an effective method of pregnancy prevention, however nothing is 100% effective and while Plan B is an option, it’s an expensive one.

CAUSE AND EFFECT

Aside from the possible physical side-effects, one-night stands can leave impressions lasting much longer than a single evening. Although touted as a carefree activity, for most, it’s hard to keep emotions separate from intimate encounters. Here are some of the common emotional aspects behind staying the night.

One-night stands can occur from simply being caught up in the excitement of a moment. When we asked, USC students, a common answer was that a person having a one-night stand was in some way expressing personal insecurities. Everyone faces their insecurities at some point, but how they deal with them can manifest in different ways. A third-year male student describes one-night stands as “instant gratification for people who aren’t satisfied with themselves.” A 2010 Kansas State University research journal suggests the more people engage in one night stands, the lower their self esteem may become. If one-night stands are used to temporarily ease self-esteem issues, the ensuing chain of effects - avoiding problems as opposed to confronting them, can possibly lead to depression.

If the night didn’t end up being all you thought it would, ruminating on regretful decisions made from the past will only make you feel worse. It’s important to take responsibility for your own adult actions and understand the risks at hand. In college, sex happens. Whether you are engaging in it or not, be aware of it and its effects.

BY KALYN OYER // PHOTOS BY JEREMY AARON // DESIGN BY G&B STAFF

Though our focus here at Carolina is on the glories of fall football season, spring’s arrival doesn’t mark an end to rooting on our Gamecock athletes. Along with spring’s main sport of baseball, USC hosts a whole crew of club sports. Two such teams, men’s rugby and the men’s ultimate frisbee team, are not only accomplished on the field, but are making an impression on the Columbia community off the field.

ON AND OFF THE FIELD

The Ultimate Frisbee team at USC travels across the southeast and has even been all the way out to Colorado to compete in large-scale tournaments throughout the year. They boast a pretty solid record, finishing 7th in the Atlantic Coast division in 2012. The team will be featured this season on the leading ultimate Frisbee site, Sky’d Magazine, and has had a member advance to a spot on the All-Region team. Although they boast an impressive record, the club players don’t just spend time travelling the country and winning games. They focus on two main areas that bring the sport back to Columbia: hosting a local college tournament and hosting an intramural league.

The local college circuit tournament that the USC club team hosts brings local colleges together to focus on the sport and join in friendly competition.

“We want to create a community so every ultimate-loving student can experience what we do: tournaments, camaraderie, glory, defeat, and getting to wear a jersey on your back that means something…we’ve got some pretty sick jerseys too,” says team captain and fourth-year marketing and entrepreneurial management major, Alex Abel.

The team’s goal to bring that sense of community back home to the USC campus. As another project, they host an intramural league open to community members, friends and alumni. And as most college league competitions are out of town, this spring, the team plans to host Clemson for a one-night expedition game, bringing the historic rivalry to campus once again.

“As a senior, and speaking for all the other seniors on the team, our goal is to win. You always want to be the best team there ever was, and that would mean getting past quarterfinals in the regional championship. Our main goal is to be the obvious number one source any new student goes to when looking for Ultimate at USC,” explains Abel.

They also want to spread awareness about what it is like to be a part of this club sport.

“We really want to get the word out to students of what we are about. The team can be very intense at times, but the more commitment we receive the more depth we will have to help

Tackling, diving to the ground, running up and down the field - what more perfect sport to replace football than rugby? To get your Gamecock fan fix, check out this club team as they strive to qualify for the Southeastern Rugby Championship. The oldest club sport at USC, rugby started in 1967 and has only grown and excelled since.

Rugby players are known to be tough and aggressive on the field, but the team has found a way to give back - participating in multiple philanthropic activities year-round.

The team often participates in sanc-

accommodate those that want to train and play for the title and those that just want to have a good time. We want students to know that we are very welcoming and accept all levels of skill and interest. One of our main goals as a club is to help grow the sport we love and share it with our school,” Abel says. Getting involved is as simple as showing up and introducing yourself.

tioned Relay for Life events, has sold “Cocks against Cancer” wristbands and gone so far as to hold a player auction to raise money. In 2010, the team raised roughly $8,000 for the organization. Since then, the team has continued their strong support to this cause, raising a three-year total of almost $35,000 for the American Cancer Society.

To support rugby within the Columbia community, the USC team works with the South Carolina High School Rugby organization, which was founded by a team alumnus. Men’s rugby seeks to host several matches to local “ruggers,” providing fields, facilities, equipment, referees, and “Man of the Match” awards for outstanding players both on and off the pitch.

Through their Rookie Rugby program, the players aim to promote the sport of rugby to a younger age group. The USC team donates equipment to various Midlands elementary and middle schools to incorporate rugby fundamentals into their

PE curriculum. In addition, they have supported numerous promotional events to endorse health and wellness amongst local youth.

“Our investment into Rookie Rugby helps to expose high school students to the game at a young age and prepare them for collegiate play in the future. Additionally, the program for elementary and middle school students helps to give children the option to choose rugby over more popular sports such as football, soccer, or baseball,” says team captain and fourth-year human resource management student, Tim Holkenborg.

The community service doesn’t just end there. The team works to reach out and support other organizations’ philanthropy events. Each year, Carolina Rugby plays in Kappa Kappa Gamma’s annual flag football tournament, participates in the Carolina-Clemson blood-drive and “McHappy Day” for the Ronald McDonald House charity.

With all this service, it’s surprising these players have any time to…well, actually play!

CLOTHING BY JAMES TEAGUE

A personal piece

Attempting to eavesdrop, I paced up and down Greene Street, stealing glances at the rainbow-infested booth. Loud conversations spilled over from the flamboyantly decorated Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian Straight Alliance table. Why couldn’t I overcome my hesitation? Long rows of tables corralled students as they walked through the Fall Student Organization Fair on that muggy September day. Did people know? Could people sense my gayness?

A thin brown haired boy wearing slim jeans smiled and handed me a flyer welcoming me to the first BGLSA meeting. My hand reached out as my heart jumped out of my chest –goodbye heart. “Was that all? Am I ‘gay’ yet,” I remember thinking. “I think I’m ready to come out.”

Four years ago, no one knew. I was excellent at hiding my sexuality and instead, soaked up every church opportunity available: choir, Bible study, Sunday school, camps, mission trips and Vacation Bible School. I absolutely loved it. Church was a second home, but I couldn’t be my true self there. I was hiding because of what I believed the Bible said about “same-sex attraction.” In high school, I initiated

conversations with church leaders to help fix me. They reacted in love, directing me towards resources to help me “conquer” these desires. I cried. I prayed. I cried some more, but it didn’t work.

College changed me. Little by little, I learned that it is okay for Christians to have different conclusions about tough biblical topics. What matters most is loving God and loving others. In four years, I have reconciled both my spirituality and my sexuality. My experience may be similar to other LGBTQ people of faith, but in the greater context of the coming out process, each bisexual, lesbian, transgender, queer, or gay individual has a different story to tell.

Time to come out

Coming out as bisexual, gay, lesbian, transgender or queer takes thought, courage, integrity and patience. In the greater context of the coming out process though, everyone has their own journey and story to tell.

Love dragged third-year anthropology student, Kenneth Brown, out of the closet. “I started coming out in 9th grade because I met a boy,” Kenneth says.

However, some are still extremely cautious about who they tell. They might live one life at home and another at school. “I haven’t come out to family and friends, but I would consider myself out to people around USC,” first-year english student Jessica Davies explains. “I decided over the summer that when I went to college, I wasn’t going to hide who I was anymore, and I’ve been gradually working myself up to telling my parents,” Jessica said.

Many families may assume their loved one’s orientation. Sometimes it makes it easier. Sometimes it makes it awkward. “I came out because my parents already knew and we were just dancing around the topic and avoiding it,” third-year music education student, Caleb Coker, recounts. “I figured I would just clear the air.”

Coming from a supportive family and community, some people no longer feel the need to have a “coming out of the closet” experience. “I will feel the need to ‘come out’ as gay when heterosexuals feel they need to ‘come out’ as straight. Until that day, I have no desire to label my love as something different.” says third-year psychology student and BGLSA President, Mason Lee Branham. A growing trend, being raised in the southern “Bible belt,”

WRITER: ZAC BAKER

DESIGNER: DANIEL SHELLEY // PHOTOGRAPHER: ELLE OLIVIA ANDERSEN

there are typically still more hurdles to overcome.

For some, being in the closet feels like you’re playing a character, except you are in character 24/7. Secondyear sociology student, Kaitlin Jones, says that managing a double life was exhausting. “I’m a very outspoken person and hiding my true feelings felt almost like a full time job. I don’t like lying to my friends and family, either. It took some urging and a series of unfortunate events to get me out of the closet fully.” Kaitlin Jones says.

In the same way, the coming out experience for transgender individuals is also similar to putting on a show. First-year computer science student, Rukia Brooks, explains: “It’s easy for folks to keep their sexuality secret, but if you’re transgender it is much more difficult since your name, your appearance, and the pronouns in which you are referred to are very public things.” Furthermore, Rukia adds, “I basically did “drag” every day growing up... presenting as male. Now, when I wear make up or put on a dress, I’m not out there to perform. I’m out there to be me.”

Sometimes it’s timing that keeps people from coming out, second-year electronic journalism student, Jenny Iler, explains. “My freshman year of high school I broke a really sweet girl’s heart, because I wasn’t ready for the world to know how I felt about her,” Jenny remembers. “I [recently] just started dating a girl, and we walk around the halls holding hands. That’s the biggest statement you can make.”

Needless to say, the scariest part of coming out is admitting it to yourself. Realizing that you’re not like everyone else is quite terrifying. From that moment on, you are trusting people with information that you already know. It’s a process. You begin to understand that although it is not a choice to be gay, it is quite certainly a choice to identify as gay.

Second-year public relations student Chris Rosa says coming out occurs in stages. “I realized the “half-out” stage I experienced my entire freshman year was awkward, difficult, and unsatisfying. I could only truly be myself around maybe five people. Around the rest I had to wear layers. The decision was natural,” Chris says. “I got close to so many people at USC and wanted to share this part of myself, wanted to be free.”

Second-year biology student, Brice Duckworth, reflects on similar feelings, “I didn’t really feel like it was something I should keep from my best friends, and eventually from anyone . . . It’s just a part of what makes me, me. It doesn’t change my personality or how I treat others.”

Although there is no “right” way to come out of the closet, here are some key things to remember:

1) Accept yourself for who you are and not as the person others believe you should be.

2) Surround yourself with friends who will be supportive during your journey.

3) Understand that not all parents will move from unsupportive to affirming in one day. It takes time for hearts and minds to open and sort through the information.

Changing culture, changing Carolina

In 1982, USC’s Gay Student Association sued the university to become an officially recognized student organization. Times have changed.

“Despite being in the heart of the south, we have students, faculty, and even a university president who believes in equality,” says Mason Lee Branham.

10 years ago, BGLSA members received pushback from some students participating in National Coming Out day. In contrast, this past October, participants received nothing but support and affirmation from administrators, faculty, and students.

“I think USC is an accepting place to be out. I feel very comfortable here, despite being in the South. BGLSA has made me feel very at home and comfortable with myself here on campus,” Jessica says. “I know that I’ve always got a place to go full of people who I can talk to about anything.”

This attitude change on campus may be due in part to a rapidly changing and increasingly accepting culture as well as an evolving political landscape. Each year, more and more states legalize protection and rights for same sex couples. Third-year sociology student, Brandon White, says that the media has also helped move USC, along with our culture, in a more progressive direction.

“As more positive and less stereotypical LGBT figures are seen in the media, such as Ellen DeGeneres, or how LGBT rights and issues are handled on shows such as The New Normal, we are beginning to see a change in the opinions of younger generations, which leads to more acceptance on college campuses,” White explains.

"The scariest part of coming out is coming out to yourself: that moment when you realize that you're not like everyone else is quite terrifying. It's a process. You begin to understand that although it is not a cHoice to be gay, it is quite certainly a choice to identify as gay"

So, it seems that things are relatively good at USC for queer kids, but is there room for improvement? The answer is a resounding “Yes!”

Jessica thinks we have more work to do when it comes to making the transgender community feel just as “at home” on campus than the rest of the LGB community. Kenneth agrees: “I believe that giving attention to things like gender neutral housing, and making the student body more aware of things like LGBTQIA history month could improve student’s perception.”

We still have a long way to go with our transgender community. Trans folks don’t get the advocacy and support they deserve within our community, and slurs and hate speech are still occurring in residence halls. We need to continue responding with an educational approach, teaching about acceptance not just tolerance, and letting all members of the Carolina community interact with people

who are different than them. The good news is that the genderneutral housing project conversation is happening now with student government and university officials. If approved, this project will provide a safe living space for individuals who might not feel comfortable with a traditional same sex housing assignment.

Passing the torch

As May and the time for graduation draw near, I can’t help but look back at the transformations that have occurred at USC over the past four years. The university created an official LGBT Program and Services department, hired a full time coordinator, and produced an “It Gets Better” video. BGLSA membership has tripled, and is more visible than ever. Without our predecessors, we would definitely not be where we are today, but the past few years have most certainly

brought a tremendous amount of progress. It’s time to pass the torch, and I know BGLSA and USC’s LGBT community will continue to grow and change university culture.

The past four years have changed me as well. I have found a vibrant and welcoming faith community on campus. I am leaving USC a different person. My faith feels deep, my worship is genuine, and I own my beliefs. I focus more on loving others than obsessing about what they think. And most importantly, I’m not hiding anymore. I’m finally me.

I won’t lie, sometimes it is still difficult knowing my parents don’t fully support me. While they love me, their disapproval of my choices is clear. But maybe in the end, this is how growing up is supposed to be.

Do you prefer a boy to man-scape?

Yes, if they don’t at least trim I’m out: 15%

Yeah, but I’m not too picky: 60% Definitely, needs to shave everything: 5% Doesn’t matter to me, natural’s cool: 20%

Do you always wait for a guy to make the first move?

“Texting is fine. That’s what everyone does these days anyway. But if he calls, know he’s on a more serious level. He gets more points for that.”

“If you always wait, you’re going to be waiting a long time sister.“

What are signs that a date went well or not?

Responding without hesitation for a second date, talking/ texting immediately following, smiley faces in texts

Is the way that someone texts a turn off?

Yes: 87% No: 13%

“Yes, not fully typing things out (ghetto type) wut, 2nite, etc. AND THE WORST ‘Can I get a picture?’

Yes: 76% No: 24% “ys if dey tlk lik3 diz den haf 2 seckz dem immediately.”

“Yes, eye h8 thos gurls”

How long after seeing/ “talking to” someone should you bring up the possibility of being exclusive?

A couple weeks

“If you’re sleeping together or feel that you or he would be hurt if you casually hooked up with another.”

1-2 months

When you’re interested in a person, what’s a dealbreaker?

Do you like girls that play hard to get?

a. Yes: 29%

b. No: 39%

c. Sometimes: 32%

“No, that’s obnoxious. Nothing else worth having plays hard to get.

Do you think friends with benefits can work?

Yes, if you set ground rules: 42% Never, hit it and quit it: 5% No, they always get attached: 24% Yeah, but only for a short period: 29%

After having a one night stand would you ever consider a relationship with that person?

a. Yes: 66%

b. No: 34%

“If the night was so awesome its worth repeating.”

If a guy just got your number, do you prefer they text or call you?

Text: 72% Call: 17%

Text then call: 11%

Have you ever participated in a threesome?

Yes: 3% No: 97%

“Nope! I like all the attention.”

“No, but I have been offered and felt awkward when I declined.

”

*poll taken from 100 college students

Bad breath, teeth, shoes, can’t make me laugh, unkempt nails, player, STD’s, lack of motivation, no job and no reason for not having one (school, military, etc.), being flaky

Bad teeth, smoking, clingy, unintellectual, had sex with their friends, man hands

What’s the weirdest thing a partner has done during sex?

“Pulled the whole ‘Oh didnt know that was your butt, sorry,’ thing.”

“Not during sex but this guy used to lint roll his bed every time after...LOL”

“Pretended to be a European who doesn’t speak much English.”

Do you ever lie about how many people you’ve slept with? (Over or under?)

a. Yes, over: 5%

b. Yes, under: 24%

c. No: 71%

What’s your definition of “dating”? What’s your definition of “a relationship”?

Dating is: casual, hanging out one on one, occasional sex, can see other people.

Relationship is: exclusive, changed facebook status, calling them your girlfriend.

G&B: Can students expect any more free food? *crosses fingers*

Coach Martin: [laughs] If you look at the top 10, 12, 15, programs in the country, you also have the best home environments in the country, and with all due respect to the folks that pay a lot of money and make donations to schools, the student body is what gives you the building that becomes special. The student body is who determines the personality that takes place on the court during the game. I’ll do everything I can to thank those students, whether it is shirts, food, or anything I can as a way of thanking them for helping us.

G&B: Are you an iPhone or Android type of guy?

Coach Martin: I was a Blackberry guy until I got to South Carolina. I’m still learning how to use an iPhone. I’m not great with technology, but I’m learning, I’m getting better.

G&B: Do you have an inspirational quote that you revert back to?

Coach Martin: The one thing that I try to relate to our players is that a lot of times we’re taught that life’s not fair, and I think it’s the

I’m always trying to evolve as a teacher. To figure out different ways to reach people, to expect a lot out of young people because if I don’t do that every day then I’m cheating them, and that’s not fair to them.

complete opposite. I think life is fair because we all get 24 hours every day to do with it as we choose, and if we want to walk around and feel sorry for ourselves, then we can’t fault anybody for our inabilities, lack of success or for not being able to move forward. I try to live life by that one [quote] and understand every day that the good Lord allows me to wake up regardless of how good or bad things feel - I’ve got focus on the opportunity I have to make today better than yesterday.

G&B: Before this season is over, what do you want students to know about you as a coach?

Coach Martin: I love people and I’ve got tremendous passion for people. Some of the most difficult moments for me are when we take to court and we’ve got those seniors that have gone through the life lessons, the experiences, the negative, the positive, and the raw emotion that 4 years of college brings to you. I know I’m not perfect, so I don’t continue to hold people in judgment as to whether they’re perfect or not. Hopefully, one day, when the players or myself walk onto the court for the last time, we all can know we have made this a better place, a better university because of the passion we have for what we do.

All photos courtesy of University of South Carolina Athletic Media Relations

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A

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- jordan osborne editor - in - chief

a romance in retrospect

Stylist: Erin Chiet

Styling Assistants: Anna Mathias, Michael Cottingham

Hair & Makeup: Amy Schaming

Models: Kristen Steiner, Chris Hakos

Photography: Elle Olivia Andersen

Photography Assistants: Jeremy Aaron, Patrick Francis

Creative Direction: Stephanie Pope

Design: Ashley McGarry

ON HER: Dress & Necklace: Bohemian

ON HIM: Suit: Gentlemen’s Closet Shirt, Bowtie & Scarf: Brittons

Pocket Square: Circa 1332

Lace Robe: Vintage

Nighty: My Kim Collection

Earrings: Brittons

ON HER: Blouse : Bohemian Skirt: Bohemian Necklace: Brittons

ON HIM: T-shirt & Sweatshirt: Salty’s Board Shop Pants: Gentlemen’s Closet

ON HER: Dress: My Kim Collection Jacket & Clutch: Bohemian

ON HIM: Jeans, Button-down & Cardigan: Salty’s Board Shop

ON HIM: Pants & Button- down: Salty’s Board Shop

Cardigan & Pocket Square: Circa 1332

Sport Coat & Tie: Gentlemen’s Closet

ON HER: Metallic Skinny Jeans & Blouse: Bohemian

Necklace: Brittons

BY: XAVIER EDWARDS DESIGN: CASEY KSAU

GAS BUDDY ROAD NINJA

Gas prices seem to rise and fall of their own accord, while keeping a steady pace above $3.00. Fortunately, GasBuddy can help you find the cheapest pumps in your area through the use of reported prices from registered users. You can sort by grade (regular, premium, etc.) and even get directions to your station of choice. (Android/iOS: Free)

If you're traveling back home after a rough semester or taking a trip with friends and want to try something new along the way, you'll want RoadNinja handy. This is an awesome app that can find information about things to do at upcoming exits, nearby locations or places across the U.S. Categories range from attractions and education to nightlife and tacos. (Android/iOS: Free)

iStudiezPro TeamBox

Looking to get more organized this semester, but don't want to carry around extra books and folders?

iStudiez pro is a powerful planner used to sort your homework assignments, tests, exams and everything in between. The interface is simple, and allows you to input deadlines, locations and even teacher contact information all within the same assignment. What's more, iStudiez allows syncing to iPads and MacBooks so you're never out of the loop. (iOS: Pro-$2.99 | Lite-Free)

Trying to coordinate and collaborate with a group of people can be a real pain. But through its project management tools, Teambox aims to make the process more streamlined without sacrificing any power. It features a Twitter style timeline for communication, and boasts integration with Dropbox, Github and Google Apps through the Chrome Web Store. You can create several project files right from your iPad and, from there, assign tasks, add people to different projects and participate in an integrated group chat. (iOS: Free)

AlcoDroid Textalyzer

Every night on the town doesn't need to end with fights, lost wallets or random encounters—awesome as they may be. Alcodroid was created to help you drink responsibly by measuring your blood alcohol level throughout the night and predicting when you'll sober up. After inputting your weight and sex, add drinks by choosing from a few presets, or create a new preset if your particular drink isn't listed. The only trick is remembering to add another drink after your third shot. (Android: Free)

Two ingredients that never mix well together, alcohol and bitterness, can be an even more toxic combo when technology comes into play. This is why Textalyzer exists—to prevent you from messaging your ex when you’re several scotch-and-sodas deep. First, enter your “forbidden list”—those folks you fumble through your contacts to find every time you’re hammered. Then, when last call rolls around, you’ll have to complete a series of tough memory and concentration tests if you want to unlock the list and make some bad decisions. It’s the sober babysitter you never knew you needed. (iOS: $0.99)

AppsFire

Trying to keep up with new apps can be a daunting task. Fortunately, there's an app for that! Appsfire is updated on a daily basis to give you information about featured products, apps that have dropped in price and, if you connect via Facebook, apps your friends have downloaded. Android users can also choose to get results from Google's Play Store or Amazon's own app store. (Android/iOS: Free)

FILM MUSIC literature FILM MUSIC literature

DOCUMENTARY:

Gun Fight: In light of last year’s tragedies and the increasing number of gun related deaths, American gun control laws are worth another round of consideration. That being said, this film is a bit biased due to the people portrayed on both sides — cautious intellectuals versus lowbrow gun lovers, but the bigger discussion concerning tighter gun control should still be explored.

INDIE:

Beasts of the Southern Wild: A story showcasing the development of a nineyear-old girl, Hushpuppy, and the culture behind a group of people willfully separated from society. The young actress, Quvenzhané Wallis, puts on an excellent performance and is currently the youngest actress nominated for an Academy Award.

EDUCATIONAL:

Four Hour Work Week: Get ideas and techniques from Princeton graduate, Tim Ferriss, on ways to enjoy a millionaire lifestyle. Ferriss tells you his story of how he became a record holding tango dancer, a cage fighter, business owner, and much more, all while asserting that your ideal lifestyle can be achieved by working only four hours a week.

A CLASSIC:

A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man: It may do some good to take another look at this classical tale, and follow James Joyce’s semiautobiographical story of religious rebellion, sexual frustration and a struggle for independence. One overarching theme is the potential dichotomy between loyalty to society and loyalty to oneself. Sound familiar?

TECHNOLOGY

Tons of new electronics are released every year, and 2012 had its own fair share of high quality products and useless commodities.

For starters, Microsoft released the eighth version of Windows late last year, but should you upgrade? Good question! No, you probably shouldn’t. Windows 7 is very well established at this point and, aside from a portable, “metro” inspired interface, Windows 8 ($69.99) doesn’t bring a whole lot to the table.

Instead, I would suggest taking that money and spending it on the newly designed fitness tracker, Fitbit One ($99.95). If you’re interested in monitoring the number of calories you burn or the distance you travel each day, this is the device for you. It also monitors how well you sleep at night, which can play an important role in your overall health.

RAP:

“R.A.P Music” | Killer Mike – Producer El-P creates an interesting mix of new and old school style beats, as Killer Mike delivers energetic verses over each track. If you want something different from the radio hits, give this album a try. Notable tracks: “Go!”, “Don’t Die”, “Willie Burke Sherwood”

ROCK:

“Yellow and Green” | Baroness – This is a fun double disc undertaking that offers a nice mix of high energy and melodic tracks to dig into. The changes of pace often happen during songs, which keeps things interesting, though the second disc is a little more stagnant than the first. Notable tracks: “Twinkler”, “Sea Lungs”, “MTNS. (The Crown & Anchor)”

If you want to play catch-up from the past year or so, here are some suggestions for the best items you may have missed.

Problems Problems Carolina Carolina

SHOULD USC BE SMOKE FREE?

The Carolinian Creed outlines standards that all students should strive to follow in order to maintain an environment of dignity and harmony. The current tobacco policy violates this, because students that use tobacco on campus are disrespecting the rights and property of others. Personal property includes one’s body, and those who choose to smoke on campus are disrespecting our bodies.

The current tobacco policy requires that students smoke 25 feet away from all University of South Carolina buildings. Besides the fact that very few smokers in the Carolina community follow this rule, the policy needs to be changed because it is not the buildings that are being harmed by tobacco users, but peers who face the long-term consequences of secondhand smoke.

Tobacco use on our campus needs to be banned because the current policy contradicts the very doctrine that binds our community. When students are called into question about their academic integrity, professors and faculty often reference the Carolinian Creed. Why is it that student smokers are given a pass to break the rules?

What are your #CarolinaProblems? Tweet us @garnetandblack and share your Carolina Problems.

We don’t need to change the current tobacco policy because we’re tired of sitting next to people in class that reek of smoke. We need to change it because the only way we will grow as a university is by challenging every member of the Carolina community to not only follow the Carolinian Creed, but to respect it and make sure other students do as well.

As a student who doesn’t smoke, my first thoughts regarding the tobacco ban revolved around the thought, “Who cares?” I certainly don’t. Smoking on campus has never bothered or affected me, and in fact, I hardly ever notice it. Taking a closer look though, this ban isn’t just going to affect those who use tobacco. It will take a toll on all USC students, faculty and staff, and perhaps the community as a whole.

1.) In order to enforce this university-wide tobacco ban, USC police will be on foot patrolling campus looking for the use of tobacco products.

2.) Tobacco is legal for people 18 or older. Why can’t people who are of age be allowed to consume a product they have every right to? It is a matter of personal liberty to use a legal substance as long as you don’t affect other people. Essentially, the ban is an infringement of personal rights based on people’s personal beliefs.

3.) The tobacco ban will change our current policy of being 25 feet away from university owned or leased buildings to a blank campus-wide smoke-free policy which bans all forms of tobacco. One of the objectives of this change is to get rid of second hand smoke. However, chewing tobacco, which doesn’t even affect bystanders, would be banned under this tobacco-free policy. As products such as chewing tobacco are subject to free will, how is eliminating tobacco products that don’t even affect bystanders relevant?

The fact of the matter is that we have it correct to start with. The current policy is enough and trying to ban all tobacco products might cause more problems than solutions. Anyone on campus, regardless of being a student or visitor, would have to adhere to the tobacco ban under the watch of police patrolling the campus. Why fix what isn’t broken?

PRO // WRITTEN BY GRACE KERLEY

CON // WRITTEN BY JOYBELLE BARLOW

UPCOMING EVENTS

BY MEREDITH GAZES // DESIGN BY AMORY THOME

2.24-2.28 Carolina Beautiful Week

To commemorate National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, USC will be hosting multiple events to promote positive body image. Check out the Beautiful Lengths event on Feb. 24th where you can receive a free haircut and a bag of giveaways from local boutiques in return for donating 8 inches of your hair. Save yourself a little money and help out a great cause.

Location: February 24th - Russell House Ballroom @ 6 p.m.

For a full list of events: http://www.sa.sc.edu/shs/cw/cb/

3.1-3.3 Craftsmen’s Classic Art & Craft Festival

Voted one of the top 100 craft shows nationwide, this festival is a great place to see work from artists across the nation. Admission costs $7 and tickets can be used for all three days with your free return pass. What a great, relaxing way to spend the weekend!

Tickets: $7

Location: SC State Fairgrounds

Time: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (varies slightly)

www.gilmoreshows.com

3.9 Columbia SC Marathon & 5K

Not only is this event ‘Famously Hot’, but also is more than just a marathon. In its second year after a great inaugural turnout, a 5k and half marathon have been added to the day’s events, welcoming more leisurely runners. Both the half-marathon and marathon give a full tour of Columbia, passing through the Congaree Vista district, the USC Campus, Five Points and by the northern end of the lake.

Registration Fees: $40-$115

Start time: 7:30 a.m.

4.13 & 4.14 Columbia International Festival

This daylong event attracts over 10,000 people annually and features a variety of music, fashion and culture from groups represented in South Carolina. In its 18th year, there will be international food court for sampling a variety of cuisines, making it a great place to go for dinner or lunch with friends.

Tickets: $5

Location: Cantey Building - SC State Fairgrounds

3.30 Carolina Cup

Head out to Springdale Race Course in Camden this year for the 81st annual Carolina Cup for some “Horses, History, and Hospitality.” Less than an hour away, Carolina Cup is South Carolina’s own Kentucky Derby. Gates open at 9 a.m. so prepare for an early start.

Tickets: General Admission Advance $30

Location: Springdale Race Course –Camden, SC

3.19-3.24 Les Miserables

If you missed seeing it in theaters, this spring you have the chance to see Broadway come to Columbia. A series of Broadway plays will be performed at The Koger Center, just steps from campus. Other shows include; The Midtown Men and Dreamgirls.

Tickets: $46-$66 at the Koger Center Ticket Office or online at Capitoltickets.com

Location: Koger Center

3.16 St. Pat’s in 5 Points

This staple Columbia event needs no introduction. The daylong festival features live bands, the 10th Annual Get to the Green 5k & 1-mile walk and a parade. Make sure to get back early from Spring Break so you can take part in the festivities.

Tickets: $12 in advance, $15 at the gate Location: Five Points Time: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. www.stpatscolumbia.com