By Tavaris Tweetie, Christopher Grey, and Calvin Talbert, 11th Graders at Brian McMahon High School
Wilkes University was the last school on our college tour itinerary. After visiting large schools like Temple University, medium schools like the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and small schools like Chestnut Hill College, we were armed with the knowledge to make an informed decision about Wilkes University.
By now, we have become accustomed to seeing colleges nestled in small towns with historic buildings and a small-town vibe, and Wilkes was another school with the same attributes. It is located in Wilkes-Barre, PA, a medium-sized school with over 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students. We arrived on campus and enjoyed seeing the contrast between old mansions and modern buildings, set against well-kept lawns. We were greeted by Mason Mitchell, the assistant director of undergraduate admissions, who gave us a comprehensive presentation on Wilkes University.
He explained that Wilkes has a 98% job and graduate placement rate, a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and $41 million in scholarships and aid. Scholarship opportunities range from $20,000 to $28,000 annually. There are merit scholarships and special programs available for high-performing students with a GPA of 3.8 or higher. Applications to the school can be made through the Common Application, and a 2.0 GPA is required for admission. Wilkes offers more than 50 undergraduate majors and programs, 11 graduate programs, four doctoral programs, 23 DIII sports teams, and intramural sports, as well as events and trips to Philadelphia and New York.
We were introduced to our tour guide and student ambassador, Craig, who led a tour around the campus. Even though the campus was quiet because it was Easter break, you could still tell Wilkes has an active and supportive student life. We were immediately struck by how lively and engaging the student environment was. There are over 80 clubs, and the school offers helpful resources like tutoring, a counseling center, and a career center that helps students find internships. They also have different options for where to live and eat on campus. Craig is an engineering student who is knowledgeable, sincere, and passionate about Wilkes. We got a welcoming feel as we toured the campus and its facilities, which included traditional dorms, mansions, suites, and clean bathrooms. Intriguing was The Towers, a modern-day apartment building for sophomores, juniors, and seniors. The high rise offers the independence of off-campus living with the amenities of on-campus housing.
Wilkes University was a valuable experience that helped us imagine what college life would be like. Thanks to the generosity of the donors, we appreciate the chance to go on this tour. It has inspired us to think carefully and thoughtfully about our futures. We're thrilled to head to Six Flags Great Adventure for fun and thrilling rollercoaster rides.
Student Voices from the Road: This final blog post, like the others shared throughout this week, is written by Carver students participating in Carver’s 53rd Annual Spring College Tour. These reflections offer a firsthand look at their experiences visiting colleges and universities across the East Coast as they explore their futures and share what inspires them along the way.
