USCA Students Advocate for Higher Education at Carolina Day

On Tuesday, Feb.11, students, staff, faculty, and alumni from across the state gathered at the State House to celebrate Carolina Day, engage with lawmakers, share their concerns, and discuss changes they’d like to see within higher education.

Anayah Farmer, a senior business marketing major at USCA, shared her concern about rising tuition costs. “Some students are already struggling to afford school,” Farmer explained. “I felt the leaders addressed the issue clearly, and it helped me understand why tuition may continue to increase.”

Although Farmer is not considering a political career, she appreciated the chance to ask legislators, including Representatives Melissa Oremus and Tim Young, about student experiences on campus. “It was enlightening to hear directly from lawmakers about what they’re doing to help,” she said.

Rep. Melissa Oremus, who graduated from USCA in 2001 with a Business Administration/Marketing degree, spoke with students during Carolina Day. As an elected official since 2019, Oremus shared her passion for public service. “There are days when you wonder why you’re doing this, especially when it takes time away from your family,” Oremus reflected. “But when you solve someone's problem and make a difference, it’s rewarding.”

Oremus also offered advice to students considering a political career, emphasizing the importance of representing your community, regardless of political affiliation. “It doesn’t matter if you're a Democrat or a Republican,” she said. “There’s always a need to represent your constituents and give them a voice.”

Rep. Tim Young, from Senate District 24, echoed Oremus’s point, stressing that meaningful change often happens locally. Both legislators encouraged students to consider politics to serve their communities and make a positive impact.

For more information, contact USCA Marketing & Communication at news@usca.edu.