Meet Robin Dennis ’25, our second featured #HumansOfUpstate!
A proud graduate of the Mary Black College of Nursing, Dennis chose USC Upstate because it offered the right balance of affordability, scholarships and a close-knit campus community. “The tuition and scholarships made paying for college easier on me and my mother than any other school I applied to. On my tour, I felt like I could easily get to know the campus and get comfortable fast,” Dennis said.
That first impression set the stage for a remarkable four years filled with leadership, involvement and mentorship. From serving as an RA and Peer Academic Coach with Housing and Residential Life to holding roles in the Student Government Association, Campus Activities Board, the Green Team and the Chancellor’s Leadership Institute, Dennis found purpose in guiding others.
I have always been somebody who was involved in a lot of extracurriculars in high school, so I knew when I came to college I wanted to be more than just a student who went to class.
Working in Housing and Residential Life, particularly as an RA for the Nursing Living & Learning Community, had a lasting impact. “Seeing how my residents looked to me for advice and how people naturally gravitated to me pushed me to get more involved on campus,” Dennis said. “I still have people that were my residents as a sophomore reach out to me, and it really makes me feel like I made a difference.”
Her hard work did not go unnoticed. Among her proudest accomplishments were receiving the Earl Gordon Medal from Student Affairs and the Dean’s Choice Award from the Mary Black College of Nursing, all while maintaining a 3.8 GPA.
Memories from coordinating student events, like Water Day and Rodeo Night, are also highlights. “Something about creating a space for people to come out and genuinely enjoy themselves makes you happy,” Dennis said.
Being a leader is not about being in charge, it’s about inspiring and motivating others.
Looking back, she credits the people of Upstate—faculty, staff and fellow Spartans—for shaping her college journey. “By the time I was ready to graduate, Upstate felt like home away from home,” she said.
Now, as a registered nurse, Dennis carries forward the lessons she learned on campus. “Everything I learned at Upstate outside of the classroom translates into my new role. All the leadership and professional qualities I gained will help me achieve whatever goal I decide on—and that’s thanks to Upstate for granting me so many opportunities.”
I have so much experience that makes me stand out, and that’s all thanks to Upstate for granting me so many opportunities.