Hi there! I’m Amanda, a graduate student at Clemson University studying Landscape Architecture. I’m originally from Pomaria, South Carolina — a small town with big heart — and I’ve always had a passion for creativity, storytelling, and exploring the world around me. At Clemson, I’ve found a community that pushes me to grow while staying true to myself. Whether I’m working on design projects, streaming on Twitch, or soaking up campus life, I love finding ways to connect with others. I’m excited to show you what makes Clemson feel like home and help you picture yourself as a Tiger too!

Hometown

Pomaria, South Carolina

Major(s)

Landscape Architecture

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Themed Entertainment Association, Clemson Online Student Advisory Board, Mindset, Lavender Graduate Association, Under the Umbrella, Clemson's Club of Neurodiversity, Clemson Game Development

Describe your college experience

My college experience has been a journey of growth, self-discovery, and stepping into my creative passions. Transitioning from a small town like Pomaria, SC to a larger university setting was definitely an adjustment, but Clemson quickly became a place where I felt supported and seen. I started building connections through student involvement, leadership opportunities, and creative projects that allowed me to express myself and develop my skills. Now as a graduate student in Landscape Architecture, I’ve been able to dive deeper into what I love — combining design, nature, and storytelling. Balancing school, work, and personal goals hasn't always been easy, but it's helped me become more confident and resilient. Each semester has pushed me to explore new paths and pursue opportunities I never imagined, and I’m proud of the growth I’ve made so far.

Tip for future students

One of the biggest tips I’d give to future students is: don’t be afraid to ask questions and get involved early. Whether it’s joining a club, chatting with professors, or just exploring campus, the more you engage, the more Clemson starts to feel like home. I also wish I had known that it's okay not to have everything figured out right away — your path can (and will) change, and that’s part of the journey. Lastly, take advantage of campus resources — from academic help to mental health support — Clemson truly has people who want to see you succeed. You don’t have to do it all alone!

Favorite class

So far, my favorite class has been Introduction to Travel and Tourism. I had the privilege of learning from an incredible professor who genuinely cares about her students and goes above and beyond to connect each lecture to real-world experiences. Her passion for the subject made every class engaging, and it really opened my eyes to the depth and impact of the tourism industry. I absolutely loved it — it’s one of those classes that sticks with you long after the semester ends!

Career goals

After college, my goal is to work for Universal Studios in Orlando—combining my love for design, storytelling, and themed entertainment. I’m passionate about creating immersive outdoor environments that bring people joy and unforgettable experiences. With my background in Landscape Architecture and Travel & Tourism, I hope to contribute to the design and planning of spaces that not only look amazing but also tell a story. Whether it's working on park expansions, guest areas, or themed landscapes, I’m excited to be part of a team that shapes the magic behind the scenes at Universal.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal way to spend a free night is winding down with something creative or cozy. I love hopping on Twitch to stream or watch others, working on a fun design project, or catching up on a good show or movie (especially anything Harry Potter or mystery-themed!). If the weather’s nice, I’ll take a walk around campus or downtown Clemson — sometimes just grabbing a treat and enjoying the peaceful vibe. It’s all about relaxing and recharging in a way that still feels like me.

High school or secondary school

Mid-Carolina High School, Prosperity, SC

Previous college

I attended Tri-County Technical College and participated in their bridge program during my undergraduate studies. The program was a great stepping stone that helped me transition smoothly into Clemson University by strengthening my foundational skills and preparing me academically for the rigors of a four-year university. The experience gave me confidence and clarity about my academic goals, making the transfer process much more manageable.