Center for Access & Success
At Bucknell, we believe success encompasses far more than academic achievement. Thriving in college means growing through self-discovery, intellectual exploration and community bonds — and it begins with robust resources for enhancing student opportunities and experiences, both on campus and beyond.
The Center for Access & Success provides a cohesive system of support for students enrolled in Bucknell's five national and signature pathway scholarship programs. Accessible throughout all four years, this support includes personal, relationship-based mentoring designed to champion and advise students as they chart their unique educational paths.
Qualifying Scholarship Programs
Supportive Programming
The center's initiatives are designed to enrich the college experience and foster an environment where all students can thrive academically, personally and socially. Students will find resources and opportunities aimed at helping them succeed while promoting equity and belonging across campus.
First-generation Support
The center is home to several initiatives to help first-generation students thrive. GenFirst!@Bucknell empowers first-generation students through education, mentorship and community-building programs, while the annual First-Generation College Celebration fosters pride and raises awareness of students' contributions.
Candland Educational Impact Grants
Students at the center can access transformative opportunities through Candland Educational Impact grants. These grants cover travel, living and enrollment costs for study abroad, research and internships, eliminating financial barriers and ensuring all students can engage in experiences that promote personal, academic and professional growth.
Access to Global Education
Designed to spark interest in international travel and make studying abroad a core part of the Bucknell experience, this program guides students through obtaining a passport, developing cultural humility, and navigating planning and financial aid. It culminates in a spring break trip abroad, followed by continued support for study abroad planning.
Access to Career Advancement
This program boosts professional readiness with resources for exploring career interests, building skills, and preparing for internships and jobs. Students access resume labs, workshops, career fairs, alumni panels and field trips. Those who complete the program receive a professional headshot, networking business cards and a stipend for professional attire.
Meaningful Mentorship
The center ensures students from diverse backgrounds have the support they need to thrive through personalized mentorship. Programs like Access Advocates, Posse Mentors, BCCSP Summer Mentors, and GenFirst mentors pair students with dedicated faculty and staff who provide dedicated guidance for the college journey.
The Axis Lounge
With community at its core, the center hosts the Axis Lounge where students gather to connect. The welcoming environment serves as a cornerstone of the center's efforts to support belonging at Bucknell. Events in the lounge also introduce students to important campus resources that can enrich their Bucknell experience.
The center's programs helped me feel at home. They opened my eyes to all Bucknell has to offer, helped me find my community and made me fall in love with the University.
Kaylin Reynolds ’27, English — creative writing