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Student Affairs

Experience: Graduation

BORN TO BE A TIGER


Ginger Dailey has been coming to Clemson most of her life. And not just for Tiger football games. At the age of 4, she unexpectedly found herself in a Clemson classroom on more than one occasion.

“In 2006, there were at least two instances where I didn’t have a sitter and had to bring Ginger in a stroller into the classroom,” recalls her father, Bobby. “To her credit, she was very good and did not cause a disruption.”

The beginning of Ginger’s long-standing relationship with Clemson University came as her father was closing his first chapter, one delayed eight years following service in the United States Navy.

Ginger Dailey and Her Father Bobby in their Graduation Gowns
Ginger Dailey and Her Father Bobby Graduating from Clemson College of Business

A THRIVING STUDENT

Ginger lived in Douthit Hills as a freshman while taking pre-business classes. When it came time to declare a major, she was interested in marketing after taking Cooper Fine’s introductory course. Since that time, she’s engaged in several meaningful experiences in support of her degree program. She’s helped run a golf tournament with a sports marketing class. She’s utilized graphic design skills to create a consumer ad. And much more.

The most meaningful experience may have been an internship with the Student Affairs creative services team, where she regularly contributes social media content and has even found a niche as a video host.

“It was the first position I’ve held that interested me in exactly what I wanted to do,” she says. “It’s helped diversify my portfolio and showcase the creative media aspect I’m interested in.”

“Clemson was 100 percent the right fit for me. If I had gone anywhere else, I would’ve ended up transferring to Clemson.” - Ginger Dailey

A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE

Citing both a decline in the newspaper industry and desire to gain new skills, Bobby (’06) looked into pursuing an MBA from Clemson. He enrolled in January 2021. In a unique twist, he and Ginger were enrolled in classes at the same time.

Toward the end of sophomore year, Ginger’s academic adviser informed her she only had three semesters remaining to qualify for early graduation. As Bobby began looking at his own degree progress, he realized earlier this year he could potentially finish in December — same as Ginger.

Bobby delayed one of his classes so they could be on a path together toward graduation on Dec. 21, exactly 17 years to the day he earned his first degree from Clemson.

“It’s such a unique experience, to be graduating beside my dad,” Ginger says. “I’m looking forward to the ceremony, but I’m fully prepared to bawl my eyes out.”

Ginger at her Student Affairs Creative Services Internship
Division of Student Affairs
Division of Student Affairs | 202 Sikes Hall, Clemson, SC 29634