A Journey to Authenticity: A USC Swim Captain Finds Courage on Safari

Back in 2017, I originally shared this story as part one in a series celebrating key figures in LGBTQ+ history.

Embracing moments when truth shines through

"At any given moment, on any given day, at any given place, anything can happen." This quote has been my life's guiding mantra, capturing both high and low moments. My journey coming out stands as one particularly memorable high.

For a long time, I kept my true self hidden, fearing that "gay" would overshadow who I was and what I achieved. In high school, it seemed like anyone who came out was immediately defined by their sexual orientation. I was a national record-holding swimmer, a skilled pianist, an Eagle Scout, and multilingual. I was determined not just be labeled as "the gay swimmer."

During my senior-year college recruitment trips, one question kept naggling at me: "Can I see myself coming out here?" Ultimately, I chose USC, thinking it was a place where I could be honest about who I am. Still, I spent my freshman and sophomore years in hiding, hoping people would recognize me more my passions than only my sexual orientation.

A journey in self-discovery I'll never forget

The summer after my sophomore year was an adventure like no other. I traveled with a friend in London, trained with my swim team in Rome, and explored Africa with my dad, visiting Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa.

While at Kruger National Park in South Africa, under a breathtaking, starry sky, a safari guide asked if I was gay. In that remote place, I realized I could speak my truth without worrying about it spreading back home. Yet, fear held me back as I worried about my dad's reaction.

After that experience, I promised myself I'd never hide again. Once back in Los Angeles, I casually came out while admitting a crush on a male Viner. My friend's totally chill response was such a relief, and I felt a weight lift off my shoulders.

Living authentically: a celebration

Later, when another close friend came over, I greeted her with a rainbow cake and came out. Her support, along with my parents' reassurance and unconditional love, helped me feel more at ease with being openly gay.

As I shared this truth with my teammates, their encouragement was overwhelming. Our friendships deepened, and even my performance in swimming improved. I became USC's first three-time Pac-12 champion in men's 200-yard breaststroke, all thanks team who always had my back.

Setting out on a brand new chapter

Living openly has led me down unexpected paths. I'm now in grad school, diving deep in research about social perceptions LGBTQ+ community in China. I've encountered many stories, both heartwarming and challenging. Positive coming out stories often go untold, so I share my own journey—to remind others about joy that comes from being true selves.

Looking back at that moment with safari guide and everything that's happened since, I truly embrace my favorite quote: "At any given moment, anything can happen." I've learned that being authentic brings happiness, and each new day offers a chance live truthfully.

Steven Stumph, 23, a grad student at University Southern California, once captained Trojans swim team. He earned a BA in Linguistics and East Asian Language and Culture and now pursuing an MA in same field. Follow him on social media.