This
hCalendar-compliant page
is optimized for search engines. View this calendar as published at
www.sc.edu.
Palmetto Concert Band
.
Admission Cost: FREE.
Sunday, May 24, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM.
Koger Center Auditorium, See Description for Event Location.
Summer Undergraduate Researcher Professional Development Workshops
These workshops are designed to help undergraduate researchers build the skills and confidence needed to thrive in academic and professional settings. From strengthening communication and presentation abilities to exploring career pathways and preparing for graduate school, these sessions provide practical tools for success. By participating, students will gain valuable experiences that complement your research and support long-term growth. Undergraduate Researchers from all disciplines are welcome, no registration is required. for questions regarding workshops, please contact Ashley Collins as ashley.collins@sc.edu. Workshops are hosted by the USC Office of Undergraduate Research.
Admission Cost: $0.
Wednesday, May 27, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Jones Physical Science Center 006.
Public Archaeology Day
Join Kelly Goldberg, Ph.D. and students on Thursday, May 28 for a Public Archaeology Day on the Historic Horseshoe!
Visitors are invited to stop by the active excavation site in front of the McKissick Museum between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. to meet the team, learn about the project and see students and professional archaeologists actively excavating. Guests will also be able to explore select artifacts and maps from current and past field seasons and may even have the opportunity to help screen for artifacts themselves.
The excavation is being conducted by Anthropology field school students, building on the work of classes in the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences and the South Carolina Honors College. The site under investigation is a 19th - 20th century structure believed to have served as a kitchen building associated with the first President's House and housing for enslaved individuals on campus.
Thursday, May 28, 2026, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
See event description for more details.
John Crist Live
About This Show
John Crist is one of today’s fastest-rising stand-up comedians, earning more than one billion video views, more than 7.9 million fans on social media and sold-out shows from coast to coast and continuously charts as one of Pollstar’s Top 10 Global Touring Comedians. John has sold out the majority of his 2025 U.S. ‘Jokes For Humans’ dates and recently launched a Fall extension – which kicked off at Las Vegas’ Encore Theater and will visit cities like Austin, Louisville, Cleveland and more later this year.
His latest comedy special John Crist: Emotional Support (February 18), showcases his skills in delivering witty, pop culture commentary through clean humor. Filmed just six miles from his childhood home in Lilburn, GA, John Crist: Emotional Support sees the viral comedian diving into the ever-changing dynamics of growing up Christian in the 90s, navigating family group texts, mediating fights on the neighborhood Facebook page and more. In its first three weeks, the special earned more than…
Admission Cost: $17.87 - $161.75.
Sunday, May 31, 2026, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
Koger Center Auditorium.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, June 1, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
Undergraduate Research Conference Presentation Grant Deadline
All applications for the Undergraduate Research Conference Presentation Grant should be submitted by 11:59pm today. Students should refer to the grant page of the Office of Undergraduate Research website for more specific information on this grant and others.
Wednesday, June 3, 2026, 8:00 AM – 8:30 AM.
See event description for more details.
Summer Undergraduate Researcher Professional Development Workshops
These workshops are designed to help undergraduate researchers build the skills and confidence needed to thrive in academic and professional settings. From strengthening communication and presentation abilities to exploring career pathways and preparing for graduate school, these sessions provide practical tools for success. By participating, students will gain valuable experiences that complement your research and support long-term growth. Undergraduate Researchers from all disciplines are welcome, no registration is required. for questions regarding workshops, please contact Ashley Collins as ashley.collins@sc.edu. Workshops are hosted by the USC Office of Undergraduate Research.
Admission Cost: $0.
Wednesday, June 3, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Jones Physical Science Center 006.
Clue
A mansion. A murder. A mystery.
Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.
©2026 Hasbro. All rights reserved,
For more information please call 803-777-7500 or email kogercenter@sc.edu.
Tickets may be purchased in person at the box office, by phone at 803-251-2222 or online.
Buy Tickets.
Admission Cost: Tickets: $24 - $93.
Saturday, June 6, 2026, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Koger Center for the Arts.
Clue
A mansion. A murder. A mystery.
Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.
©2026 Hasbro. All rights reserved,
For more information please call 803-777-7500 or email kogercenter@sc.edu.
Tickets may be purchased in person at the box office, by phone at 803-251-2222 or online.
Buy Tickets.
Admission Cost: Tickets: $24 - $93.
Sunday, June 7, 2026, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM.
Koger Center for the Arts.
Southeastern Piano Festival Celebration Concert
The School of Music’s illustrious piano faculty (Phillip Bush, Scott Price, and Nicholas Susi) will perform.
Tickets go on sale May 1!
Purchase tickets in person at the Koger Center Box Office or online. New this year: save $ by purchasing an event package of all SEPF signature concerts!
Admission Cost: $5 USC Students; $25 General Admission.
Sunday, June 7, 2026, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM.
School of Music 206 Recital Hall.
Clue
A mansion. A murder. A mystery.
Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.
©2026 Hasbro. All rights reserved,
For more information please call 803-777-7500 or email kogercenter@sc.edu.
Tickets may be purchased in person at the box office, by phone at 803-251-2222 or online.
Buy Tickets.
Admission Cost: Tickets: $24 - $93.
Sunday, June 7, 2026, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM.
Koger Center for the Arts.
Southeastern Piano Festival Artist Spotlight: Nicholas Susi
Described in The WholeNote as “an innovative musician and aggressive thinker with a gift for keyboard brilliance,” Nicholas Susi will present a recital featuring two of his passions: French Impressionism and the music of Franz Liszt.
About the Artist:
Nicholas Susi recognizes that Classical music has been a transformative force in his life, and seeks to share its power with others through his teaching and performing. He is Assistant Professor of Piano at the University of South Carolina, President of the American Matthay Association and Associate Director of the Southeastern Piano Festival. He previously taught piano and music theory at The College of St. Scholastica in Duluth, MN. He completed his doctorate at the University of Michigan, with previous studies at the University of Kansas and at the Hochschule für Musik und Tanz Köln as a two-time DAAD grantee. Primary teachers include Zena Ilyashov, Jack Winerock, Nina Tichman and Arthur Greene.
Tickets go on sale May 1!
Purchase tickets in person…
Admission Cost: $5 USC Students; $25 General Admission.
Monday, June 8, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
School of Music 206 Recital Hall.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, June 8, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
Southeastern Piano Festival Artist Spotlight: Pedja Muzijevic
In the 1970s, cassette players revolutionized how we experienced music at home. For the first time, we could record, curate, and create our own playlists, free from algorithms or formulas. Mozart next to Dolly Parton? Steve Reich alongside Peggy Lee? Why not? These were our personal mixtapes.
Pianist Pedja Muzijevic has created a refreshing program as a tribute to that era.
Structured like a classic 60-minute cassette, the performance unfolds in three chapters, offering a rich and eclectic journey through time and sound. From the theatrical flair of Carl Philip Emanuel Bach and Joseph Haydn to the playful, tipsy waltz of György Ligeti, each piece invites the audience into a new world. The program also features the tender nostalgia of Valentyn Silvestrov, from the war-torn Ukraine, the sonic innovations of George Crumb and Henry Cowell, minimalism of Philip Glass and the passionate romanticism of Dora Pejacevic and Amy Beach.
This is more than a concert; it’s a celebration of the art of listening, a…
Admission Cost: $5 USC Students; $25 General Admission.
Tuesday, June 9, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
School of Music 206 Recital Hall.
ONLINE Thesis & Dissertation Workshop
Attend one of our thesis and dissertation workshops to learn everything about the format check process. You will also learn how to ensure your document meets requirements for digital accessibility. Sign up today by visiting our registration page.
This event will take place on Zoom, and you will receive the Zoom link in an email after registering. Please visit the Graduate School's Thesis and Dissertation Calendar to view other workshops.
Admission Cost: Free.
Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM.
See event description for more details.
Summer Undergraduate Researcher Professional Development Workshops
These workshops are designed to help undergraduate researchers build the skills and confidence needed to thrive in academic and professional settings. From strengthening communication and presentation abilities to exploring career pathways and preparing for graduate school, these sessions provide practical tools for success. By participating, students will gain valuable experiences that complement your research and support long-term growth. Undergraduate Researchers from all disciplines are welcome, no registration is required. for questions regarding workshops, please contact Ashley Collins as ashley.collins@sc.edu. Workshops are hosted by the USC Office of Undergraduate Research.
Admission Cost: $0.
Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Jones Physical Science Center 006.
Southeastern Piano Festival Artist Spotlight: Blair McMillen
Hailed by The New York Times as “prodigiously accomplished and exciting,” Blair McMillen takes the stage with a dynamic program featuring the music of Claude Debussy, Brian Wilson, Margaret Bonds, William Bolcom and more.
About the Artist,
Hailed by The New York Times as “prodigiously accomplished and exciting” and as one of the piano’s “brilliant stars,” pianist Blair McMillen has forged a musical life that is unbounded by convention. He is well-known for his advocacy of living composers and contemporary music, as well as for championing very early keyboard music and more recent neglected masterpieces. For more than two decades, McMillen has divided his time as piano soloist, chamber musician, music festival director, and educator/teacher.
Blair McMillen is the co-founder and co-director of the Rite of Summer Music Festival. Rite of Summer is a free, outdoor contemporary-music series held on New York City’s Governors Island. The festival has presented boundary-pushing artists such as the JACK…
Admission Cost: $5 USC students; $25 general admission.
Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
School of Music 206 Recital Hall.
Sacred Service, by Ernest Bloch
Baritone soloist & the Varna International Choir and Orchestra,
Conductor: Gregory Buchalter, The Metropolitan Opera,
Experience the profound beauty of this monumental work. Sacred Service by Ernest Bloch — a majestic fusion of spiritual depth and symphonic power, which combines Jewish sacred text based on Old Testament scriptures with the grandeur of late Romantic symphonic writing.
The large Varna International chorus includes soloists and choristers from throughout the USA, joined by the internationally renowned, award-winning Bulgarian female choir “Detska Kitka”.
The concert is a celebration of the sister-city relations between the cities of Columbia, SC and Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Brought to you by Varna International – producer of the Muzika! Festival.
For more information please call 803-777-7500 or email kogercenter@sc.edu.
Tickets may be purchased in person at the box office, by phone at 803-251-2222, or online.
Buy Tickets.
Admission Cost: Tickets: $32 - $91.
Thursday, June 11, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Koger Center for the Arts.
Southeastern Piano Festival Artist Spotlight: Soyeon Kate Lee
2026 Spoleto Festival USA Chamber Music attendees will have a second opportunity to hear pianist Soyeon Kate Lee, praised by The New York Times for her “huge, richly varied sound, lively imagination and firm sense of style.”
About the Artist,
First prize winner of the Naumburg International Piano Competition and the Concert Artist Guild International Competition, Korean-American pianist Soyeon Kate Lee has been lauded by The New York Times as a pianist with “a huge, richly varied sound, a lively imagination and a firm sense of style,” and by The Washington Post for her “stunning command of the keyboard.”
Highlights of recent seasons include appearances at the National Gallery, Library of Congress, Gina Bachauer Concerts, Purdue Convocations, Music@Menlo, Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center on tour, San Francisco Performances, Camerata Pacifica tour, Chamber Music Chicago and the Cleveland Art Museum. She was a member of Lincoln Center Chamber Music Society’s Bowers program, and is a regular…
Admission Cost: $5 students; $25 general admission.
Thursday, June 11, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
School of Music 206 Recital Hall.
From Stage to Screen
Varna International’s soloists, choir, and orchestra,
Conductor: Gregory Buchalter, The Metropolitan Opera,
Back by popular demand with a new program!
Join us for an incredible evening of music as the Muzika! Festival soloists, choir, and orchestra transport the audience to the big stage through musical theater solos, duets, trios, and choral favorites from the past 80 years of Broadway and iconic Hollywood film scores. This choral-orchestral performance will bring life to your favorite soundtracks – from stage to screen!
Join us for an evening of Broadway and movie music magic brought to you by Varna International – producer of the Muzika! Festival.
For more information please call 803-777-7500 or email kogercenter@sc.edu.
Tickets may be purchased in person at the box office, by phone at 803-251-2222 or online.
Buy Tickets.
Admission Cost: Tickets: $32 - $91.
Friday, June 12, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Koger Center for the Arts.
Arthur Fraser Piano Competition Winners Recital
Festival participants compete for a chance to perform with the South Carolina Philharmonic in a Masterworks concert and more than $10,000 in cash prizes.
Tickets go on sale May 1!
Purchase tickets in person at the Koger Center Box Office or online. New this year: save $ by purchasing an event package of all SEPF signature concerts!
Admission Cost: $5 USC Students; $25 General Admission.
Saturday, June 13, 2026, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
School of Music 206 Recital Hall.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, June 15, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
ONLINE Thesis & Dissertation Workshop
Attend one of our thesis and dissertation workshops to learn everything about the format check process. You will also learn how to ensure your document meets requirements for digital accessibility. Sign up today by visiting our registration page.
This event will take place on Zoom, and you will receive the Zoom link in an email after registering. Please visit the Graduate School's Thesis and Dissertation Calendar to view other workshops.
Admission Cost: Free.
Tuesday, June 16, 2026, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM.
See event description for more details.
Summer Undergraduate Researcher Professional Development Workshops
These workshops are designed to help undergraduate researchers build the skills and confidence needed to thrive in academic and professional settings. From strengthening communication and presentation abilities to exploring career pathways and preparing for graduate school, these sessions provide practical tools for success. By participating, students will gain valuable experiences that complement your research and support long-term growth. Undergraduate Researchers from all disciplines are welcome, no registration is required. for questions regarding workshops, please contact Ashley Collins as ashley.collins@sc.edu. Workshops are hosted by the USC Office of Undergraduate Research.
Admission Cost: $0.
Wednesday, June 17, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Jones Physical Science Center 006.
Botany Walk on the Historic Horseshoe
Join the A.C. Moore Herbarium staff on a 1-hour walk to explore the plant life of the historic Horseshoe. The group meets on the steps of McKissick Museum on the third Wednesday of each month. Plants featured or discussed will vary with group interest and by season.
Admission Cost: Free.
Wednesday, June 17, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
See event description for more details.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, June 22, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
Summer Undergraduate Researcher Professional Development Workshops
These workshops are designed to help undergraduate researchers build the skills and confidence needed to thrive in academic and professional settings. From strengthening communication and presentation abilities to exploring career pathways and preparing for graduate school, these sessions provide practical tools for success. By participating, students will gain valuable experiences that complement your research and support long-term growth. Undergraduate Researchers from all disciplines are welcome, no registration is required. for questions regarding workshops, please contact Ashley Collins as ashley.collins@sc.edu. Workshops are hosted by the USC Office of Undergraduate Research.
Admission Cost: $0.
Wednesday, June 24, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Jones Physical Science Center 006.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, June 29, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
Summer Undergraduate Researcher Professional Development Workshops
These workshops are designed to help undergraduate researchers build the skills and confidence needed to thrive in academic and professional settings. From strengthening communication and presentation abilities to exploring career pathways and preparing for graduate school, these sessions provide practical tools for success. By participating, students will gain valuable experiences that complement your research and support long-term growth. Undergraduate Researchers from all disciplines are welcome, no registration is required. for questions regarding workshops, please contact Ashley Collins as ashley.collins@sc.edu. Workshops are hosted by the USC Office of Undergraduate Research.
Admission Cost: $0.
Wednesday, July 1, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Jones Physical Science Center 006.
Format Check Deadline for Theses & Dissertations
If you are graduating in Summer 2026, then you must submit your thesis or dissertation for the first time no later than this date to be eligible for graduation.
To meet this deadline, you only have to submit your document for the first time. You do NOT need to pass the format check by this date.
Please review the Preliminary Format Check Sample to see what is acceptable to submit by this date. Visit our Thesis and Dissertation page to learn more.
Admission Cost: Free.
Friday, July 3, 2026, 11:30 PM – 11:59 PM.
See event description for more details.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, July 6, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
Summer Undergraduate Researcher Professional Development
These workshops are designed to help undergraduate researchers build the skills and confidence needed to thrive in academic and professional settings. From strengthening communication and presentation abilities to exploring career pathways and preparing for graduate school, these sessions provide practical tools for success. By participating, students will gain valuable experiences that complement your research and support long-term growth. Undergraduate Researchers from all disciplines are welcome, no registration is required. for questions regarding workshops, please contact Ashley Collins as ashley.collins@sc.edu. Workshops are hosted by the USC Office of Undergraduate Research.
Admission Cost: $0.
Wednesday, July 8, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Jones Physical Science Center 006.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, July 13, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
Botany Walk on the Historic Horseshoe
Join the A.C. Moore Herbarium staff on a 1-hour walk to explore the plant life of the historic Horseshoe. The group meets on the steps of McKissick Museum on the third Wednesday of each month. Plants featured or discussed will vary with group interest and by season.
Admission Cost: Free.
Wednesday, July 15, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
See event description for more details.
Defense Deadline for Theses and Dissertations
If you are graduating in Summer 2026, then you must defend your thesis or dissertation no later than this deadline. Please visit our Thesis and Dissertation page to access resources and learn more.
Admission Cost: Free.
Wednesday, July 15, 2026, 11:00 PM – 11:59 PM.
See event description for more details.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, July 20, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
Final Submission Deadline for Theses and Dissertations
If you are graduating in Summer 2026, then you must submit your final, committee-approved, correctly formatted document by this date. You cannot make changes to the content after this deadline.
Please visit our Thesis and Dissertation page to access resources and learn more.
Admission Cost: Free.
Friday, July 24, 2026, 11:00 PM – 11:59 PM.
See event description for more details.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, July 27, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, August 3, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, August 10, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
First Night Carolina
Twas the night before classes, and all through the school, Student Life threw a bash that was nothing but cool! Join us on August 17 for First Night Carolina, your official kickoff to an unforgettable year filled with spirit, tradition, and Gamecock pride!
Whether you’re a first-year student or returning for another amazing year, this high-energy event is your chance to connect, celebrate, and get pumped for everything ahead. You won’t want to miss it!
Monday, August 17, 2026, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
SEC Conference Room, RHUU Greene Street, RHUU Russell House Patio, RHUU Russell House Patio Stage, Davis Field I - RHUU Side, Davis Field II - Longstreet Side, Greene Street Preston Side, Greene Street Petigru Side, Davis Field II - Thomas Cooper…
Stargazing at the Melton Observatory
This historic observatory adjacent to the Horseshoe of the USC Columbia campus (1429 Greene Street) is currently open to the public on clear Monday nights from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm EST (9:00 pm to 11:00 pm during EDT), weather permitting. Anyone is welcome to come by and observe through the 16-inch Cassegrain telescope in the dome and other small telescopes on the observatory deck. See the Moon, planets, stars, clusters, and more through our telescopes free of charge! To find out if the observatory is going to be open on a particular Monday night, please see its Facebook page or call 803-777-8105 or 803-777-8104.
Admission Cost: Free.
Monday, August 17, 2026, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Melton Observatory 201.
First Day Photos
Come celebrate the start of the semester by taking your official first day photo on August 18th in front of the Thomas Cooper Library fountain! Whether it's your first #FDOC or your last, we would love to capture the moment for you. We will be there 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Hosted by the Office of New Student Orientation.
Tuesday, August 18, 2026, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM.
Davis Field II - Thomas Cooper Library Side.
Botany Walk on the Historic Horseshoe
Join the A.C. Moore Herbarium staff on a 1-hour walk to explore the plant life of the historic Horseshoe. The group meets on the steps of McKissick Museum on the third Wednesday of each month. Plants featured or discussed will vary with group interest and by season.
Admission Cost: Free.
Wednesday, August 19, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
See event description for more details.
NBA Jam 3x3 Tournament
NBA Jam 3x3 Tournament brings a semi-competitive basketball social event to the central street of campus, offering students an exciting way to connect and compete!
This event is open to all students, fostering an energetic and engaging atmosphere where participants can showcase their skills, build community, and enjoy the spirit of competition. After hosting this event last year, we have refined it to be even more inclusive, allowing for greater participation and impact. By enhancing the experience, we aim to make it a key part of Welcome Week, bringing students together in a fun and memorable way.
Admission Cost: N/A.
Wednesday, August 19, 2026, 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM.
RHUU Greene Street, Greene Street Middle, RHUU Greene Street - Stage.
Part Time Job Fair
Are you looking for a part-time/summer job on- or off-campus? If yes, the USC Career Center invites you to the Fall 2026 Part Time Job Fair in the Russell House Ballroom!
Prior registration on Handshake is encouraged, but not required. This event is open to USC Columbia students, at all levels and from all majors. Be sure to bring your smart phone for faster check-in.
Come as you are in casual attire- professional dress is not expected for this event. Drop-in between classes or on your way to lunch!
The full list of employers will be available a few days before the fair. Check Handshake periodically as new employers are added as they register. If you have questions prior to the fair, contact the Career Center.
Thursday, August 20, 2026, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
Russell House Ballroom.
SophoMORE Welcome Back Carnival
Admission Cost: FREE.
Thursday, August 20, 2026, 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM.
RHUU Greene Street.