Sixty Union County Public Schools (UCPS) students spent a week living, learning and building their futures at Wingate University during Wayfind Camp—a college readiness experience designed to inspire and empower rising high school scholars.
The camp is part of the Wayfind Program, a growing partnership between UCPS and Wingate University that helps students navigate the path to college through mentorship, academic support and hands-on exposure to higher education. Since launching in 2019, the program has served students from East Union Middle, Monroe Middle, Forest Hills High and Monroe High. Sun Valley Middle, Sun Valley High, Porter Ridge Middle and Porter Ridge High joined in the 2024-2025 school year.
Each day of the camp offered scholars a chance to grow, connect and prepare for life after high school. They lived on campus, explored college options through campus tours, participated in service projects at local organizations, and attended sessions on time management, professionalism and finding their purpose. A day at Carowinds provided them with time to unwind and build friendships.
For many, it was their first time experiencing life on a college campus—and it all culminated in a celebration on Friday, June 27, at Wingate University’s LaVerne Banquet Hall, where families, staff and students came together to recognize a week of learning and growth.
“Honestly, I just enjoyed the community,” said Isaiah Williams, a rising senior at Forest Hills High. “I liked getting a real college experience, meeting people, and walking around campus. It felt like this was where I belonged.”
For Hayley Corona-Camps, also a rising senior at Forest Hills, the opportunity to volunteer stood out.
“My favorite part was the community service,” she said. “We sorted and packed food donations, checked expiration dates—it felt good to help others. And staying on campus gave me a feel for what college life is really like.”
Students connected not only through shared experiences but also through moments in the dorms, during meals and in class-style sessions that covered practical life skills.
“We had etiquette classes and learned how to write professional emails,” said Jocelyn Izoteco-Lopez, a rising senior at Monroe High. “But it was also fun — we walked to breakfast together, met new people, and got to live the college experience, even just for a week. It was a meaningful way to grow and learn in a different environment.”
The week concluded with a celebration ceremony that included remarks from Wingate University President Dr. Rhett Brown, who reflected on his journey as a first-generation college student.
“You are the talent,” Brown told the students. “We gather as college leaders and CEOs to ask: How do we encourage you, teach you and prepare you for the future? Because the world needs you, and we want you to be ready.”
The afternoon included awards for the highest grade point average, the Legacy Award for leadership, the Spoons Award for camp spirit and the presentation of Wingate University admissions letters to rising seniors who completed their applications earlier in the week.
“For us, it’s about access,” said Jenn Ambrose, Wingate’s Director for Regional Admissions. “Wayfind gives us a meaningful way to work with students throughout high school so they know college is possible—and that Wingate can be an affordable, supportive option.”
To close the event, camp counselors were recognized and celebrated for their role in mentoring and supporting students throughout the week.
Wayfind Camp wasn’t just about exploring a college campus—it was about showing students that they belong there and that higher education is within reach.
07/02/2025
