Pre-Orientation Programs
Class of 2028 — Aug. 16–21, 2024
Can't wait to get started at Bucknell? Join us in one of our Pre-Orientation programs, all of which take place just before New Student Orientation.
"Pre-O" is a great way to settle into the University community, connect with classmates and enhance your leadership skills in a program of activities designed to jump-start your Bucknell experience. You'll expand your mind, discover valuable Bucknell resources and have a lot of fun as you settle into college life.
While Pre-O programs are optional (except for Global Connections, Cultures & Community, which is required for those on U.S. student visas), past participants say they're one of the highlights of their first year at Bucknell.
Pre-Orientation Highlights
Pre-Orientation Programs
Arts First
Get creative with classmates who share your passion for the arts. In this multidisciplinary program, you'll explore the University's wide array of arts and rich cultural scene. The program includes but is not exclusive to Bucknell's Arts Merit Scholars and Arts Residential College students — all first-years who enjoy or are interested in the arts, who plan to pursue arts-related careers, or who are artists are invited.
Backstage Bucknell (Engineering Success Alliance)
Part of the Engineering Success Alliance (ESA), Backstage Bucknell is an invitation-only Pre-Orientation program where first-year engineers can create a supportive community and build a sense of belonging on campus. Students who are invited to participate will receive a notification via email in the spring before their first semester.
Learn more about Backstage Bucknell
BuckWild
Take it outside at BuckWild, Bucknell's wilderness Pre-O experience, which takes full advantage of the region's natural beauty. You'll meet classmates, learn new outdoor activities or strengthen your skills, build teamwork and learn a lot about leadership. Trip options include service-based expeditions, multi-element expeditions, backpacking, rock climbing, caving, paddling and more — no experience necessary.
Design Thinking Leadership
Connect with others interested in innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship. Through design-thinking workshops and small-group activities, you'll develop a strategic mindset for problem-solving. Apply your new skills as you engage with local businesses to collaborate on real-world initiatives under the mentorship of alumni, faculty, staff and student leaders. All first-year students are welcome. Capacity is limited to 30 people.
Learn more about Design Thinking Leadership
GC3: Global Connections, Cultures & Community
In this program, formerly known as International Student Orientation, students from around the world will quickly build a strong, globally minded community of support on campus. You'll learn about academics and cultural adjustment, make valuable connections and have fun as you settle into Bucknell life. Attendance is mandatory for new Bucknell students on U.S. student visas, including teaching assistants and exchange students. While the program is designed for international students, any first-year student is welcome to join.
Learn more about GC3: Global Connections, Cultures & Community
Interfaith Community Engagement Pre-Orientation Program (ICEPOP)
Connect with classmates, peer mentors and staff as you learn about civic engagement opportunities, discuss questions of identity and purpose, and build your leadership skills. You'll create lasting connections within a multi-faith community while getting to know Bucknell’s campus and the local community through immersive experiences. All students are welcome to participate.
Learn more about Interfaith Community Engagement Pre-Orientation Program (ICEPOP)
RAMP Up!
Join the T.E.A.M. (Together Everyone Achieves More) Peer Mentor Program and get exclusive access to RAMP Up!, a five-day retreat that builds community, introduces you to multicultural resources and provides support throughout your first year at Bucknell. Enjoy outdoor activities and workshops with campus leaders in a program designed to enhance your transition to college life and build relationships with student mentors.
Taste, Tech & Teamwork
Join fellow first-year students, experienced student leaders and Bucknell staff as you explore one of the nation's hottest tech towns. You'll travel to Pittsburgh to meet alumni business leaders at their offices, tour local foodie hotspots and test out your teamwork skills at team destinations.