Opportunities for Gatton Students at Western Kentucky University

The Gatton Academy is a residential, STEM-based program for high school juniors and seniors. Located on Western Kentucky University’s campus, Gatton offers many opportunities for students to engage in the university’s clubs, research, and more while taking college courses.

Potential Opportunities:

Choir: Western Kentucky University features multiple choir groups like the WKU Chorale and WKU University Singers. Students can audition to be a part of these groups. No music major is required! Many Gatton students who participated in choir at their high school or are passionate about it join WKU’s choir to stay connected to their hobby and participate in a great community. Many choir performances occur throughout the school year, allowing Gatton and WKU students to sing their hearts out!

Band: Western Kentucky University’s Symphonic Band is an amazing opportunity for students interested in band. Students can audition to take part in rehearsals and performances. Auditions take place at the beginning of each semester, allowing students ample time to prepare and practice that semester’s pieces. Joining WKU’s Symphonic Band is an excellent way for students who were invested in band or music lessons at their high school to continue playing music at Gatton!

Clubs and Organizations: Western Kentucky University has plenty of clubs and organizations! Whether you love to paint, are passionate about biology, or are interested in stargazing, WKU has a club for everyone. Club flyers hang around campus or are handed out at club fairs and provide detailed information about events and meetings. In previous semesters, Gatton students have participated in Habitat for Humanity, Water Professionals, Spanish Club, Association of Computing Machinery (ACM), and more!

Research: As a part of the Gatton experience, students can participate in undergraduate-level research with almost every department. Research can be STEM-related, with many students conducting research in biology, chemistry, math, psychological sciences, and other areas. Others choose to perform non-STEM research in subjects like management, English, and finance. Regardless of your interests, WKU’s numerous research opportunities will allow you to explore and discover new things!

Why Are These Opportunities Important?

Many Gatton students participate in activities during high school that are important to them. The opportunity to join choir, band, and clubs/organizations at WKU ensures that students do not have to leave their hobbies behind to enjoy their time at Gatton. In addition, participation in WKU activities and research allows students to explore their interests at a college level. Because of Gatton students’ ability to participate in WKU’s activities, students can continue doing what they love in a vibrant, supportive community!