Accepted Students Day gives potential students glimpse of the Wingate experience

By Samantha Bare

Potential students got a flavor of all Wingate has to offer them at the annual Accepted Students Day. On Saturday morning, around 200 students and their families entered the Batte Center rotunda, most with nervous excitement, and some rubbing the sleep from their eyes.

Any lingering traces of sleepiness were blasted away by the energy of the NaviGATEtours (student tour guides), peer mentors and staff who greeted the students and their families.

“The energy and enthusiasm at Accepted Students Day was contagious!” said Admissions Counselor Liz Nowry. “We’re really looking forward to the new students starting in the fall.”

After the opening session in McGee Theater, students and their parents split from each other. Students were able to win free Wingate merchandise in their next session by answering Wingate trivia questions, posed by Dane Jordan, minister to students. They also learned more about academic support services, tutoring opportunities and the freshman orientation program now known as Gateway 101.

After that session, students experienced some of the other opportunities Wingate offers. One session featured campus recreation and Residence Life information, while the other one got students to start thinking about the various clubs and organizations available on campus.

“When a student attends Accepted Students Day they are able to get a wealth of information all in one day,” said Laura Salter, the visit coordinator in the Office of Admissions. “They are able to meet current students, faculty members, staff and other prospective students. Many students will meet the person who becomes their roommate. This day really gives a prospective student a real glimpse into life at Wingate University.”

Students also met with professors in their fields of interest. “I learned a lot about the career path I’m choosing,” said prospective student Samantha Kiker.

In between sessions, students and parents were able to snag free cookies, provided by the women of Alpha Xi Delta. Other activities included a photo booth in the DPC. After lunch, students and parents reunited in the DPC and signed up for GateQuest trips, talked with representatives from student organizations and more.

Admissions counselor Eric Osterhus said it was “great” for students to interact with so many current students at Wingate. “It was a great chance for next year’s incoming class to get a taste of the Wingate experience,” he said.

Families also had the chance to tour campus. “I learned a secret to college life: keep your room clean. You never know who has a key to show it off!” said Kiker.