WAU Hosts High School Students for Campus Experience, Awards $1.6 Million in Scholarships

Takoma Park, Md.— Washington Adventist University (WAU) hosted students from several high schools for a campus experience on the weekend of Oct. 5-7, 2024. The event aimed to provide a firsthand look at university life, with participating schools including Greater New York Academy, Highland View Academy, and Crawford Adventist Academy, as well as individual students and families. Visitors traveled from as far as New York, Canada, and around Maryland to take part in the event.

President Dr. Weymouth Spence personally welcomed the students in WAU’s gymnasium, where the atmosphere was lively with Student Association (SA) officers leading icebreaker activities to help students get comfortable and make new connections.

Throughout the weekend, students participated in various events designed to showcase both academic and extracurricular aspects of life at WAU. An academic fair, organized with the support of faculty members including the Chairs of the departments, who provided an overview of the university’s academic programs. Students also took part in a friendly basketball competition with WAU’s players, giving them a chance to interact with the athletic community.

Cultural activities were a highlight of the weekend, with a Hispanic Heritage concert celebrating the diversity of the campus community, followed by a dynamic worship service. The evening concluded with a special acrobatics show by WAU Acro Airs, offering entertainment and a glimpse into the university’s vibrant student life.

On Oct. 7th, students sat in on classes alongside current WAU students, experiencing the university’s academic environment firsthand. The weekend’s pinnacle event was a scholarship ceremony, where President Spence awarded nearly $1.6 million in academic scholarships to the visiting students, underscoring WAU’s commitment to making higher education accessible and supporting future leaders.

In addition to the weekend’s engaging activities, WAU received many applications as a result of the campus preview day, reflecting the interest sparked by the immersive experience.

Before the group departed, they split into two activities. Some students had the opportunity to tour Washington, D.C., exploring the nation’s capital and its historical landmarks, while others remained on campus for an extended tour. As a special treat, Crawford Adventist Academy contributed a mini concert in partnership with WAU’s Ministries Department, blessing the campus with a joyful musical celebration.

The event successfully provided a comprehensive WAU experience, leaving students inspired about their academic futures.

You can find more pictures on our Flickr account.