Originally, going to the University of South Carolina was never on my radar. I never wanted to attend college in Columbia because I felt like if I stayed, I'd never leave the city. My guidance counselor convinced me to apply to USC as my final college application and I'm so thankful he did.

Here are five reasons why I'm glad I decided to attend the University of South Carolina.

1. I get in-state tuition.

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Going to college is not cheap and staying in-state is a great way to save money! It works out that USC is a wonderful school and it's right up the street from where I grew up.

2. It's a great school for my major.

I'm a Broadcast Journalism major and I want to either be a sports broadcaster or work in the entertainment industry. USC is one of the top schools in the country to get a Broadcast Journalism degree.

3. It doesn't feel like the same Columbia I grew up in.

Growing up, Columbia felt very small and boring. When you go to USC and live on campus, it's a whole new world. You're surrounded by so many new people and there is always something going on around campus.

4. You meet so many people from around the state, country and even the world!

Although a large number of people I grew up with go to USC, I rarely see them around campus. When I meet new people, the majority of them aren't even from South Carolina. They're from Georgia, Virginia, New York and other states that I never thought someone would leave to move to Columbia, South Carolina! There are also many students who decided to leave their country to attend this university and immerse themselves into not only American culture but Southern culture as well.

5. You get to go to SEC football games.

Growing up, I wasn't much of a sports watcher. I decided when I went to college, I'd go to more sporting events. Carolina football games are fun to attend. They're a bonding experience with your friends and even people you've never met! I've never felt so connected to people as much as I do cheering on the team. It's also cool that full-time students get free tickets for sporting events. Football season is one of my favorite times of the year.

Go Cocks!