Prospective students arrived to see what Wilkes had to offer in terms of academics, and any questions they might have had for faculty.

This past Saturday the only thing uneventful fortunately was the weather. As many as 180 students and their relatives from all over joined in for what would become a busy day.

Those in attendance had to check in at 8:30 a.m. in the Henry Student Center Lobby, and then were welcomed by faculty and some current volunteer students at 9:30 a.m. Following that were a few sessions including lunch around noon, and then a tour of the campus.

Wilkes’ open house features a one-of-a-kind format that occurs during the fall and winter called “instant decision.” This allows prospective students to find out on the spot if they have been accepted to Wilkes. To receive an instant decision toward the end of the day, high school seniors needed their transcripts, SAT/ACT scores, and completed application. The college transfer students brought with them their previous college transcripts and application.

“We’re the only college in the area that does an instant decision,” Melanie Wade, vice president for Enrollment Services, said. The admissions office usually makes a decision while they’re touring campus.”

“It’s been going on for about 10 years now. Years ago as students started applying online, they wanted quicker gratification and response time.”

On Saturday around half of the students had their necessary materials for an instant decision.  In addition, Wilkes will host V.I.P. Day March 22 in which only accepted students will come back for another tour and attend “mini classes.” Anyone interested in Wilkes University can check out the open house page section on its website.