The first-year experience at Bucknell isn't the warmup act. It's the main event. From your first semester on, you can audition for the mainstage play, work on fascinating research with your professor and use the latest high-tech equipment.

It starts with New Student Orientation. Your first days at Bucknell will immerse you in scholarship, tradition and opportunities to discover what it means to become a member of the campus community. Many students will choose a Pre-Orientation program, giving them a fun head start on what's ahead.

These opportunities and programs will help shape your experience during your four years here. You may find a new hobby, discover a new academic interest and make bonds with your fellow Bucknellians.

First-year Common Reading

Each year, Bucknell selects a book that all members of the incoming class will read and discuss. The reading encompasses current events and social issues. New students will have the opportunity to discuss the book with their fellow classmates, orientation leaders and faculty during New Student Orientation.

Learn more about the Common Reading

First-year College Mentors

Each of Bucknell's three colleges has its own first-year mentoring program to help students start pursuing life-changing experiences on and off campus from day one. Peer mentors answer questions and connect first-year students with opportunities like internships, events, clubs and organizations, undergraduate research, study abroad and much more.

Explore all three first-year mentoring programs

Get Involved on Campus

With more than 200 clubs and organizations, students have the opportunity to explore new interests, make new friends and take on leadership opportunities.

Explore our clubs and organizations