College life preview: Thousands of youths descend on SC State

ORANGEBURG, S.C. – South Carolina State University’s commitment to outreach, youth development, and academic readiness was on full display Saturday, Oct. 7.

Thousands of youths from area schools, church groups and other youth organizations were on campus for the annual Youth & ROTC Day.

"The most important part is exposing students to the collegiate life and the family-oriented atmosphere here at SC State," said Davion Petty, the university’s admissions director.

The event was jointly organized by SC State Athletics and the Department of Military Science in collaboration with the Office of Admissions, Recruitment and Scholarships.

One of the primary goals of Youth Day was to introduce young students to the tenacious atmosphere at SC State giving them a warm welcome with a performance from the Marching 101 band, cheerleaders, Greek-letter organizations and Royal Court.

The day also featured presentations from campus tours, allowing students and their families to explore the university's facilities and get a feel for campus life along with tailgating festivities before the football game against Virginia University-Lynchburg.

The Bulldogs delivered an impressive performance on the field that day, clinching a victory with a score of 56-6.

Dr. Manicia Finch, vice president for enrollment management, played a pivotal role in organizing the event and noted the remarkable growth in attendance, which highlights the university's dedication to fostering the next generation’s future.
"While the event was titled ROTC & Youth Day, we want to emphasize the community aspect," Finch said. "Our mission encompasses multiple goals, starting with acclimating young students to the college process.

“We want them to understand that South Carolina State University is a viable option for their higher education journey, providing them with a unique and enriching experience,” she said.

Delano Whitfield, the 10th Mr. SC State, emphasized the preciousness of life and encouraged everyone to enjoy every moment.

He added, "Meet alumni, hang at the tailgate; it's a nurturing, loving environment here." 

High school seniors who attended the event were offered an opportunity to receive on-site admission decisions by bringing hard copies of their transcripts, senior course schedules, and test scores. This initiative aimed to streamline the application process and demonstrate the university's commitment to access to quality education.

Incentives for high schoolers visiting ROTC Youth Day included various scholarships, such as the Freshman GAP Scholarship, ranging from $1,000 to $2,000. Additionally, the event highlighted a new incentive designed to bridge the gap for out-of-state students from Georgia and North Carolina, offering in-state tuition waivers.

The 1890 Research and Extension program, an integral part of SCSU's commitment to outreach and community engagement, brought about 500 youths from its extension programs to Youth Day, further enhancing the event’s success.

Finch concluded, "We view ROTC Youth Day as a steppingstone in our mission to connect young students with SC State and the incredible community and quality education we provide. We believe in offering them the best four years of their lives right here."