USC mascot identity reveal is celebrated at graduation. It’s getting national attention
Sarah Sylvester wore an unusual piece of regalia to the University of South Carolina’s graduation last weekend: two big, yellow feet.
Sylvester, a biomedical engineering student, finally got to share one of the best-kept secrets on campus at Saturday’s ceremony: she is one of the students who has played Cocky, the university’s mascot, for the past two years. And she’s gaining national attention.
Per tradition, when a mascot graduates from USC, they show it with a nod to the iconic character. A video of the big reveal was shared on USC’s social media platforms and took off. The video has accumulated almost a million views on TikTok, and posts on Twitter, Instagram and Reddit received significant traction.
Clad in cap and gown, Sylvester ran through the aisles of students, hyping up the crowd, just like she would at a football game.
“It’s crazy to reflect on this moment in time and realize how far I’ve come. But it’s bittersweet because I have come so far and I’m letting so much go,” Sylvester told USC . “I also know I have nowhere to go but up.”
On Tuesday morning, NBC’s “Today” show featured the video, with hosts saying Sylvester “exuded joy.”
“You would be hard-pressed to find a mascot more beloved than Cocky,” said Craig Melvin, a “Today” show host and Columbia native.
On Tuesday evening, Sylvester was also featured on ABC’s “World News Tonight with David Muir.” Sylvester told Muir that being Cocky has given her a whole new perspective on life.
“One that I hope I can carry with me in my future,” Sylvester said.
“Sarah, we love your spirit,” Muir said.
