The Capstone Experience
Hi, all! My name is Kylie Sheaffer and I’m a sophomore broadcast journalism student. I’m involved with campus media and am currently working on a student-run television show called Carolina Tonight. I’m also a student employee and have a job working with undergraduate admissions on campus as a telecounselor. Lastly, I’m a member of the Capstone Scholars program here at the University of South Carolina. I’ve been involved with Capstone since the beginning of my first year at Carolina, and have loved being a part of the program.
If you’re like me, then I’m sure we shared the same kinds of questions regarding our invitation to the Capstone program at the University of South Carolina. “What is a Capstone scholar?” “What kind of work would I have to do to stay in Capstone?” “Is this like Honors?” No worries-I’m here to help answer some of your questions. Whether you’ve just been accepted to the program, or are interested in joining Capstone in the future, there are many wonderful reasons to choose Capstone.
One of the best things about Capstone to me is that it isn’t a huge time commitment. If you’re interested in being involved on campus, Capstone requirements won’t hinder your ability to branch out and try other clubs and commitments as well. Students involved in the program are required to complete four pillars a semester, but they aren’t limited to only four. It’s up to you if you’d like to go beyond the requirements of the program. The four pillars focus on academics, service, social involvement, and leadership. Academically, you can fulfill one of your pillars by maintaining a strong GPA. You can fulfill your second pillar by devoting time to your community, and I’d personally recommend working at one of Capstone’s “Service Saturdays” because it allows you to fulfill a pillar and meet other Capstone students at the same time.
The Social pillar is achieved by meeting one-on-one with a Capstone advisor. The purpose of Capstone advisement is to check on a student’s well-being and to help them set goals while at USC. Finally, the leadership pillar can be completed by facing one of your fears or by really committing yourself to a leadership role on campus. Capstone president, Dr. Hickey, really inspired me and my decisions for fulfilling this pillar because he’s accomplished many fears in his life. He’s afraid of heights, and yet he’s summited Mt. Everest and frequently goes sky-diving. I’m not saying that you have to go sky-diving to fulfill this pillar, but you should try to push yourself out of your comfort zone. It’s made me a more well-rounded individual and has pushed me to accomplish goals I never would’ve expected myself to complete.
I have loved my Capstone experience at USC. A huge benefit for joining Capstone is the opportunity to network with all of the students involved. It’s a great connection and some of the best friends I’ve made at USC were because of the Capstone program. My Capstone U101 and my Capstone English 101 class are two of my most favorite courses I’ve taken at USC. They led me to my best friends and helped me to develop a great relationship with both professors. There are many great reasons to choose the Capstone program at USC, and I’m so excited for you and your future journey.