Wingate University

By Jermel Bynum (10th grader) and Chase Mobley (11th grader) at Brien McMahon High School

Wingate University was added to the itinerary for the first time in the 51 years of the Carver Spring College Tour. Staff and students alike were eager to tour Wingate. If we were to choose two words to describe Wingate, it would be “high-end.”

We arrive at a spectacular view of fountains, manicured lawns, beautiful trees, flowers, and plants. The buildings were both older in architecture and modern. Our group was ushered into the admission/welcome center. We were all impressed with the look, feel, and newness. After a short presentation, we were joined by our tour guide, Lydia Connelly.

Wingate University is in Wingate, North Carolina, near Charlotte. The school’s current enrollment is 3,436 students, of which 2,484 are undergraduates. There is a 16-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio. Teaching assistants teach no courses. Wingate is ranked the #1 Independent University in North Carolina. Students are offered thirty-eight majors, forty minors, ten pre-professional programs, and seventeen career concentrations. Seventy-five percent of the students live on campus, and there are 75 student organizations, including fraternities, non-organized sports, general clubs, and organizations.

Wingate has a reputation for winning in the NCAA Division II. Students represent over forty-eight countries and thirty-eight states. We were surprised to learn that 46% of the students are students of color. 

There is no application fee for admission to Wingate. When you apply to Wingate, they have a quick two-week decision period and a 78% acceptance rate. 

Fun fact: their health center is open from 7 AM-5 PM on weekdays, and everyone on campus has free healthcare access. In addition to the tuition cost, food is a deciding factor in our decision. This school offers various foods at different stations like home style, global eats (fry chicken, mac-n cheese, etc.), fresh fruits and vegetables, and a salad bar. Vegan and gluten-sensitive students have access to vegetarian and gluten-free. 

Campus life seems to have a balance of entertainment and education. Students have access to many resources, including multiple places to study and multiple access to computers, cafes, and places to relax and enjoy a nice day. Wingate has an auditorium and a state-of-the-art performing center and has hosted Opera, plays, art shows, and orchestra performances hosted by the performing arts students. Senior art students often perform or perform a show as a final class project. 

One thing we truly liked about this school is the 16:1 student-teacher ratio. Coming from a high school that has 25 students in a class, having 16 in a class makes a difference. Each classroom is set up differently based on the professor's teaching style and preferences. This is a great way to keep students engaged. Lydia also stressed the academic support available to students. 

Again, we have two words to describe Wingate, “high-end,” and the gym complex is a perfect example. In addition to the amazing basketball arena are a practice court and total gym with top-of-the-line equipment. Several racquetball courts double as volleyball courts. Upstairs in the complex is a circular indoor track available year-round. Students have access to it all.

Our overall experience at this school was great. They pay attention to every detail required to give students a comfortable and engaging experience. There are many job opportunities available to students on campus. We noticed the groundskeeper blowing and fluffing all areas with pine straws from one end of the campus to another. The campus was designed with attention to detail, and the many fountains inspire pride in the student body. We will consider applying for admission to Wingate.