BuckWild
Grab a paddle. Pitch a tent. Hike across boulders. Gear up for an outdoor adventure with BuckWild, a dynamic Pre-Orientation program that takes you into the beautiful Central Pennsylvania wilderness for five days of hands-on activities in the woods, on the river and beyond.
Whatever excursion you choose, you'll connect with fellow first-years, meet mentors, learn about campus culture, build teamwork, enhance your leadership skills and broaden your perspectives as you build relationships in small-group settings. BuckWild is a great foundation of support for the rest of your time at Bucknell, and all levels of outdoor experience are welcome.
What You'll Do
The Pennsylvania Wilds region brims with outdoor activities including hiking, backpacking, kayaking, rock climbing, camping, challenge courses and more. You'll choose from several trip options, all within easy distance of campus. Previous trips have included paddling on the Susquehanna River, backpacking and camping in the mountains, and rock-climbing along the Appalachian Trail.
The best part? We provide everything you need, including equipment and instruction from experienced staff and upper class student leaders. Hone your outdoor skills or dare to try something new as you get to know a different side of Bucknell.
2024 Pre-Orientation Dates to Know
- Wednesday, Aug. 14:
- GC3 Begins
- Friday, Aug. 16:
- 7 – 11 a.m. Move-in for Pre-O participants and tabling fair
- 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Pre-O participants and their parents and families are invited to join us for lunch in Bostwick
- 12:30 p.m. Program meetings (students, parents and families)
- 1:45 – 3:30 p.m. Parent & Family Reception & University Welcome (Please contact your Pre-O Program leader with questions about program meeting locations and other program details.)
- 2 p.m. Programs begin for students
- Tuesday, Aug. 20:
- Last day of Pre-O programs
- Wednesday, Aug. 21:
- New Student Orientation begins for all first-year Bucknell students
Note: Dates and times are tentative and subject to change.
Pre-Orientation Move-In Day Schedule
| Friday, Aug. 16 | |
| 7–11 a.m. | Arrival and Check-in |
| 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. | Lunch Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center All Pre-Orientation participants, their families and friends are invited to lunch as guests of the University (no charge). Pick up your lunch tickets at Pre-O check-in. |
| 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. | Resource Fair Ground Floor, Elaine Langone Center Representatives from a variety of campus offices will be present to answer your questions. Meet staff from Bertrand Library, Bucknell Nutrition, Bucknell Student Health, Campus Activities & Programs, Dining, Equity & Inclusive Excellence Offices, Global & Off-Campus Education, Public Safety, the Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau, Undergraduate Fellowships and Research and more. |
| 12:30 p.m. | Program Meetings |
| 2 p.m. | Students: Programs Begin |
| 2 p.m. | Families: University Welcome Weis Center Concert Hall University officials welcome and advise family members on the first year at Bucknell. Light refreshments will be served before the welcome; parents and families are invited to stay after to mingle. |
More details about the move-in day schedule will be shared in early 2024.
Whom It’s For
All first-year students and transfer students new to Bucknell are welcome, and no prior outdoor experience is necessary. Detailed information, including medical and waiver forms, will be provided when you register.
Cost
$375, including all meals, program expenses and a T-shirt. Financial waivers are available if needed.
Contact
Morgan Costello, assistant director
Outdoor Education & Leadership
oelbuckwild@bucknell.edu
Quick Guides
Questions? Contact Us
CAP Center, Elaine Langone Center, ground floor
570-577-1217
oelbuckwild@bucknell.edu