When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Wake Technical Community College- Southern Wake Campus
Why Wake Technical Community College- Southern Wake Campus is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Wake Technical Community College's Southern Wake Campus, the original Wake Tech campus established in 1963, offers a welcoming and resource-rich environment ideal for meeting up with friends and pursuing academic goals together. Located on 139 spacious acres in Raleigh, this campus features modern facilities including a gymnasium, specialized labs for Culinary Arts, Cosmetology, heavy equipment, and skilled trades. Students benefit from a vibrant atmosphere with a bookstore, STEM Center, open computer labs, distance education testing center, and comprehensive student support services such as counseling and food options. Whether classmates are collaborating on projects or socializing between classes, the campus offers diverse spaces and opportunities for connection. Academically, the campus caters to university transfer students through Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, and Associate in Engineering degrees, as well as offering numerous applied science degrees and workforce certification programs. The accessible location combined with Wake Tech's affordable, flexible course formats—online, hybrid, and in-person—make Southern Wake Campus an inviting place to learn and build lasting friendships in a supportive community setting.
Here's what people think of Wake Technical Community College- Southern Wake Campus
As of recent, Wake Technical Community College- Southern Wake Campus holds a 3.5-star rating based on 281 reviews.
Reviewers of Wake Technical Community College consistently praise the knowledgeable and supportive faculty, emphasizing the positive impact of their genuine investment in student success. The availability of flexible course formats—including online and hybrid classes—received significant appreciation for enabling students to balance education with other responsibilities. Modern, well-maintained campus facilities and useful student resources such as tutoring and career services also garnered positive remarks. The diversity of programs, such as unique offerings like Sonography, appeals to many students seeking specialized fields not commonly found at other colleges. However, some negative reviews highlight challenges with communication and responsiveness from administrative departments, particularly financial aid and advising, as well as high demand limiting course availability for certain classes. Despite these concerns, the majority of feedback identifies Wake Tech as a great community college with a solid educational foundation and a welcoming environment, making it a valuable option for students at many stages of their academic and career journeys.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mary Kiser
I’ve had the worst experience trying to go back to school in my 30’s here. The lack of communication in general and between admissions and certain programs is seriously lacking. While I had a good experiences with the individuals in the admissions department they just don’t have a good system in place or training to know what each department needs for you to be prepared for classes. The amount of times I’ve tried to reach out to the individual department heads and got ZERO to very delayed responses is ridiculous. I ended up going private and it’s been the best experience in continuing my education. Highly recommend looking into other community schools or private if that fits your means.
Angela T
I went to a Notary Public class and the class was led by a great instructor who made it fun and entertaining and I was happy to pass the exam to become a notary. However, when we talked about how to sign and our signature, I had a question as my signature is unique. He confirmed it with the SOS and he said I’ll be good to go. Well, I was lied to. When I mailed in my paperwork I didn’t hear back for the longest so I called and they claimed they didn’t receive it on time so they told me I have to re-take the class and of course pay again. I told them I had mailed it way before the end date and I had to email them the USPS receipt as proof. They accepted my application and processed it. However, due to my unique signature they ended up denying it. When I told them the reason behind it and the fact that it was confirmed with the instructor and SOS saying that it’ll be fine, they didn’t even care about it. They said “you can’t sign it like that”. I have signed everything the same way for 30+ years! Wouldn’t you think someone is trying to forge my signature when I don’t even sign that way? After a month of back and forth with them, sending multiple documents (passport, driver’s license etc.) as proof (that they didn’t care about either) that I have signed my name the same way since I was able to write, I gave in and signed it the way they wanted me to as I needed to be a notary for my job. I was also on the phone with the instructor and SOS who both ended up saying they never told me that about my signature and he rudely asked me “Do you even know who you’re talking to?” because I was upset about being lied to and switched up on! I didn’t care for her title, especially not with both of their nasty attitude towards me. Months later I received an email about me having to send in proof due to my status as a non-US citizen in order for me to stay a notary which I wasn’t aware I would have to either as my stamp didn’t expire until 2 years later! I replied letting them know I have moved out of state and they asked me to mail a letter of resignation and my stamp. I mailed it in, they received it 3 days later and then I got an email one month after they received it stating they received the stamp but not the letter. How? It was in the same envelope. So I emailed them the same letter as I made a copy for myself and they replied stating they received it. Just an FYI to everyone that works at this place, people from different countries and different cultures may do things differently than people who were born and went to school in the US and you need to be more open to that. I get that there are certain things that have to be a certain way but denying someone’s signature and handwriting is a little too much especially not getting an explanation why and after being told it won’t be a problem.
Carlos Lanza Jr
As a college student in Southern Wake Tech, its a decent place to learn and explore, but it could be better if they made it interesting with new things to add in like food areas which was either one or not there when I went there, add more classes to learn more of different subjects and the Bookstore could add better equipment, supplies and merchandises if any students of Wake Tech want to support their school.
Sky
The International Student Office is a joke. Anyone who's applying here as an International Student, do not. I myself applied as a local and they somehow managed to put me under the International Student status and has my account on hold. I missed my class registration date and couldn't register my classes at all because my account is on hold for unknown reasons. Called them on the same date of class registration, NEVER picked up the phone. Called the next day. Same stuff. Kept sending me into their voicemail. Plus they don't even have those International Student Offices in every campus. They only have it at their main campus which is here and the other location I don't know of. Convenient much. Don't even get me started on ADVISING. They don't explain stuff to you. Literally just put how ever much classes you want under ur profile. Asks if you have any questions and tells you, you can go. You call this ADVISING??
Roger Olson
Academic Advising was fast and helpful. I received answers and direction to all my questions.
How to reach Wake Technical Community College- Southern Wake Campus
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Why Wake Technical Community College- Southern Wake Campus may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Wake Technical Community College - Southern Wake Campus with your friends?
If you are seeking a welcoming and versatile venue to gather friends or family, Wake Technical Community College’s Southern Wake Campus offers more than just educational opportunities—it provides a friendly community atmosphere with ample facilities to make any meetup memorable. Nestled on 139 acres near Raleigh, North Carolina, this campus is historic as Wake Tech’s original site, combining modern facilities with a rich community-centered heritage. Whether you want to engage in recreational activities, attend learning workshops, or simply enjoy a casual group outing, the Southern Wake Campus has a lot to offer. The availability of gymnasiums, culinary labs, and other specialized spaces fosters an environment where friends can try new hobbies or relax together. With a 3.5-star rating from over 280 reviews, many visitors appreciate the balance of welcoming staff, practical amenities, and diverse options on-site, making it an ideal setting for both casual and semi-structured gatherings. Beyond just study halls, this campus invites visitors to experience a blending of education and community spirit, making it a unique rallying point for groups interested in enriching their meetups with activities that stimulate both mind and body.
What group activities and facilities make Southern Wake Campus perfect for meetups?
One of the strongest appeals of Wake Tech’s Southern Wake Campus for group meetups is its impressive range of facilities designed to engage various interests and comfort levels. First, the campus houses a gymnasium, which can serve as a great place for sports, fitness sessions, or even informal games, making it an ideal spot for physically active groups who want to socialize and stay healthy together. Alongside this, the campus features several specialized training labs, such as those for Culinary Arts and Cosmetology. These provide fantastic opportunities for groups interested in cooking classes, beauty workshops, or learning a new skill in a fun, hands-on environment. Imagine rallying your friends for a team cooking session in a professional kitchen setup or learning practical cosmetology tips while enjoying each other’s company.
Additionally, the campus supports skilled trades and heavy equipment training, which while more technical, can still offer engaging demonstration tours or workshops for those curious about these fields. With open computer labs, a STEM Center, and distance education testing centers, tech-savvy groups or study-focused meetups have quiet, resource-rich spaces perfect for collaborative work or intellectual exchange. Beyond these, Southern Wake offers student food and vending options, ensuring your meetup has easy access to refreshments without needing to leave the campus. This mix of social, educational, and recreational spaces uniquely equips the campus to host a wide variety of group activities, from casual get-togethers to goal-oriented workshops or study sessions.
Why are the conference and event spaces at Southern Wake Campus ideal for hosting group gatherings?
Wake Tech’s Southern Wake Campus has thoughtfully designed spaces specially suited for meetings, conferences, and social events, making it another excellent reason to rally there with friends or family. The campus features a conference center with four rooms, each about 1,785 square feet, that can be rented individually or combined by removing dividing walls. This flexibility means a small group can find a cozy space for intimate chats, while larger groups can use the expanded rooms for celebrations, presentations, or workshops. The venue’s theater seating with a capacity for 100 attendees is perfect if your group wants to host movie nights, lectures, or any sit-down events that need audiovisual support.
Each room is equipped with “smart” technologies like ceiling-mounted LCD projectors, lecterns with PCs, screens, and whiteboards, which enhance presentations, collaborative sessions, or training workshops. These setups allow seamless sharing of content, making the campus suitable not only for casual social gatherings but also for purposeful meetings or educational meetups. The campus also has banquet tables and round tables, supporting flexible seating arrangements adapted for dining events, casual group work, or social mingling. For groups looking to combine formal and informal elements, Southern Wake’s facilities provide all the essential comforts and professional features needed to host in style.
How does Southern Wake Campus support a welcoming and convenient experience for group visitors?
When planning group outings, convenience and support services often determine how enjoyable the experience is—and Southern Wake Campus delivers strong on both fronts. The campus offers student success counselors, reflecting a supportive community that extends even to visitors, ensuring any logistical or accessibility questions can be smoothly addressed. There is a bookstore on campus for last-minute supplies or souvenirs, adding an element of convenience so you can pick up materials without detours offsite.
Food options available on campus, including vending machines and casual eateries, help keep your group nurtured and energized throughout the day without the need to leave. The large campus also has open computer labs, providing essential connectivity for groups needing access to the internet or printer facilities. With campus administration, including the President's Office and the Wake Tech Foundation housed here, the campus environment maintains a well-organized and secure atmosphere—key factors that add comfort and confidence for any group visit.
Moreover, the Southern Wake Campus is easily accessible, located near Highway 401 and close to intersections that make driving straightforward for guests coming from various directions. Ample parking and clear directions further remove stress from group arrivals and departures. These thoughtful support features make any meetup more convenient, especially for larger groups or those organizing special events.
What unique educational opportunities at Southern Wake Campus enhance your group gatherings?
One of the signature advantages of hosting a meetup at Wake Tech’s Southern Wake Campus is access to its rich educational environment, which can genuinely enrich your ongoing connections with friends or family. The campus provides Associate in Arts, Science, and Engineering degrees alongside Associate in Applied Science degrees in fields such as Culinary Arts, Cosmetology, heavy equipment, and skilled trades. For groups interested in deepening their knowledge or simply exploring new fields together, the campus environment sparks curious conversations and shared learning experiences.
Moreover, Southern Wake regularly offers short-term, non-degree courses that lead to workforce certifications. Imagine gathering a group of friends to try a weekend cooking class, an introductory cosmetology workshop, or a professional development course, turning your meetup into a productive but fun experience. The proximity to skill-building labs and expert instructors means your gathering can go beyond socializing to include tangible takeaways—skills and certifications you can carry forward.
The access to the STEM Center and distance education facilities also means groups focused on science, technology, engineering, or math have a resource-rich setting for collaborative study or projects. This blending of educational opportunity with social connection turns Southern Wake Campus into more than just a spot to meet—it becomes a hub for growth, discovery, and shared accomplishment.
Can Southern Wake Campus accommodate diverse group sizes and types of events?
The Southern Wake Campus is designed with versatility in mind, making it an excellent choice regardless of your group size or event type. Whether you’re planning a small meetup or a larger family gathering, the campus has space configurations to suit your needs. For intimate groups, smaller classrooms and breakout rooms allow private, focused gatherings. For bigger crowds, the conference center’s ability to combine rooms and the theater seating for up to 100 people provide ample space without feeling cramped.
The availability of banquet and round tables ensures that mealtime or social hours are comfortable, facilitating easy conversation and mingling. For sports-minded groups, the gymnasium serves both as a space for friendly competition and physical activity that energizes the whole event. Additionally, the outdoor 139-acre campus provides plenty of open space for casual strolls, outdoor games, or impromptu picnics, giving your group options to enjoy nature alongside indoor amenities.
The campus’s flexible scheduling options, including daytime, evening, and weekend hours across various programs, mean you can find the right time to convene without conflicting with the academic schedule. This adaptability is a major plus for groups juggling different availability and ensuring everyone can participate. All these factors combine to make West Tech’s Southern Wake Campus an all-encompassing venue prepared to host a wide range of group activities, from casual hangouts to structured events.
How does the historical and community context of Southern Wake Campus enrich your meetup experience?
More than just a physical space, Southern Wake Campus holds historical and community significance that adds special meaning to your gatherings. Established in 1963 as Wake Tech’s original campus, it is rooted deeply in the local community’s educational and developmental history. Meeting at such a place connects your group to decades of learning, growth, and community engagement that continue to shape Raleigh and its surroundings.
The campus being home to Wake Tech’s leadership offices, including the President’s Office and Foundation, reaffirms its role as a leadership and innovation hub, inspiring visitors to appreciate the importance of education and community service while they socialize. This rich backdrop encourages conversations not only about current activities but also about community development, future aspirations, and the value of lifelong learning.
Groups rallying at Southern Wake Campus thus partake in an environment that values inclusion, progress, and opportunity. Your meetup becomes more than a social occasion—it becomes a part of a living legacy, encouraging connections that are as meaningful as they are enjoyable. This combination of history, community commitment, and modern facilities makes the campus a uniquely impactful meeting place.
In conclusion, for your next group gathering, consider Wake Technical Community College - Southern Wake Campus as more than just a venue. It combines versatile, well-equipped spaces with educational, recreational, and historic elements that enrich the experience for everyone involved. From sporting activities and culinary adventures to conference facilities and flexible event spaces, this campus caters to diverse groups seeking a productive and memorable meetup in a supportive, welcoming environment.