Engineering EXCELerator Program

Engineering students working on a car.

The Engineering EXCELerator program recognizes talented incoming Bucknell engineering students who are interested in design, want to develop their skills in prototyping and fabrication, and want to get a head start in calculus and physics instruction. The four-week, on-campus program encourages applications from students who are admitted to the College of Engineering.

Who It's For

Incoming first-year students who have been admitted to the College of Engineering, especially students who may have had limited opportunities for exposure to hands-on engineering design projects, makerspaces, mathematics courses beyond pre-calculus, or hands-on physics laboratory experience.

What It Costs

The program is free for accepted students, and students will receive free on-campus housing, a limited meal plan and a living stipend.

What to Expect

A focus on meaningful projects and making, with preparation for academic success.

If you join the Engineering EXCELerator program, you'll get to know your faculty and peer mentors; learn design, prototyping and fabrication methods; and begin to transition to college life. You'll live with your peers in a community that brings together your experiences inside and outside of class, and take part in a hands-on design project with close mentorship.

In the Engineering EXCELerator program, you will:

  • Learn design, prototyping and fabrication methods
  • Complete a design project with a mentor and team of peers
  • Attend workshops on academic success and the transition to college
  • Participate in group activities and weekend excursions
  • Receive a stipend, limited meal plan and on-campus housing
  • Be expected to stay on campus for the duration of the program
  • Participate in an exposition of your work at the conclusion of the program

How to Apply

Select students who have been admitted to the Class of 2029 will be invited to participate in the Engineering EXCELerator program and should reply by May 1, 2025. Students wishing to apply should email engineering.excelerator@bucknell.edu.

Program Dates

Dates for the 2025 Engineering EXCELerator program have been set for June 22 to July 18.

Terri Norton, Associate Dean of Engineering

Location

235 Dana Engineering Building

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