New Student Orientation Schedule
During New Student Orientation, the entire Bucknell community is ready to welcome you. The program is centered on scholarship, community and the rich traditions you'll find at Bucknell.
You'll bond with classmates through a variety of events while becoming familiar with Bucknell and the resources available to you. Your faculty will introduce you to the collegiate classroom, providing information about your fall course schedule and all the academic opportunities Bucknell has to offer.
Fall 2026 Orientation Dates
Wednesday, Aug. 19 – Sunday, Aug. 23
Jump to a Schedule
Class of 2030 Orientation Schedule
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8 a.m.–noon Arrival and Check-in
Residence Halls
Our Orientation Assistants (OAs) will meet you outside your residence hall to help you unpack the car and carry your belongings inside.11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Lunch
Elaine Langone Center
New students, their families and friends are invited to lunch as guests of the University (no charge).11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Resource Fair
Ground Floor, Elaine Langone Center
Representatives from a variety of campus offices and community organizations will be available to answer your questions.11 a.m.–noon First in the Family Reception
Arches Lounge, Third Floor, Elaine Langone Center
Open to all students and families, this reception will showcase campus resources and networks available to support first-generation students and families. First-generation students and families are encouraged to attend. Enjoy light refreshments, build your network of Bucknell families, faculty and staff, and receive a personal welcome from President John Bravman and other University representatives.12:30–1:30 p.m. Multicultural Welcome Reception for Students and Families
Terrace Room, Elaine Langone Center
Join members of the Orientation team, Multicultural Student Services, the Black Alumni Association, Student Affairs, student leaders and faculty and staff for a campus welcome while enjoying light refreshments. Open to all students and families.1:30 p.m. First-year Student Hall Meetings
Residence Halls
Class of 2030 students will begin community conversations with their Residential Adviser (RA), Orientation Assistants (OAs) and, if part of a Residential College, their Junior Fellow (JF).3:15 p.m. College Welcomes for the Class of 2030
Students will join the deans of their college for an introductory meeting.- College of Arts & Sciences
Weis Center Concert Hall - College of Engineering
Trout Auditorium, Vaughan Literature Building - Freeman College of Management
Forum, Elaine Langone Center
4:15 p.m. Community Meetings
Students will meet with staff from Residential Education and Public Safety to learn about Bucknell’s expectations for students living in community and University policies related to health, wellness and safety.5–6 p.m. Family and friends depart 6:15 p.m. Welcome Dinner
KLARC U Lawn, Kenneth Langone Athletics & Recreation Center
(rain location: Sojka Pavilion)
The Class of 2030 will enjoy its first meal together.7:30–8:45 p.m. I Am Bucknell
Weis Center Concert Hall
New students will gather together and receive a warm welcome into the Bucknell community. The event will conclude with a procession to the Rooke Chapel Lawn and through the Christy Mathewson Gates — a Bucknell tradition!8:45 p.m. Just Touched Down
Christy Mathewson-Memorial Stadium (rain location: Gerhard Fieldhouse)
Don't miss this special late-night program hosted by your Orientation Leaders and Orientation Assistants! In this high-energy event, you'll get to know other members of the Class of 2030 and what it means to be part of Bucknell's herd. - College of Arts & Sciences
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8:30 a.m. Breakfast
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you.9 a.m. Pre-health and Pre-law Information Sessions
Pre-health: Forum, Elaine Langone Center
Pre-law: Gallery Theatre, Elaine Langone Center
Students interested in law or health professions are welcome to attend one of these information sessions. If you have a conflict during this time, individual appointments will be available through the Center for Career Advancement. Please call 570-577-1238 to set up an appointment with Dr. Alison Patterson (pre-health) or Molly Gorby (pre-law).10 a.m. First Meeting of Foundation Seminars
See Bucknell app or ask your OA for meeting locations
You will meet with your Foundation Seminar instructor for an introduction to academic life and discuss the transition to college-level work. You will also make an appointment with your instructor and adviser to receive individual advising. Make sure to bring something to take notes.11:30 a.m. Finance Breakout Sessions (McDonnell & Vedder residents)
- Personal Finance & Budgeting
Trout Auditorium, Vaughan Literature Building - Student Loans & Debt
Forum, Elaine Langone Center
11:30 a.m. Lunch (Swartz & Smith residents)
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you.12:30 p.m. Finance Breakout Sessions (Swartz & Smith residents)
- Personal Finance & Budgeting
Trout Auditorium, Vaughan Literature Building - Student Loans & Debt
Forum, Elaine Langone Center
12:30 p.m. Lunch (McDonnell & Vedder residents)
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you.1:30–2 p.m. College of Arts & Sciences Group Advising Meetings
Students in the College of Arts & Sciences will meet with faculty from their departments to discuss degree requirements.1:30–2:30 p.m. Freeman College of Management Group Advising Meetings
Trout Auditorium, Vaughan Literature Building
Students in the Freeman College of Management will meet as a group with Associate Dean Ivy Kepner and Academic Support Specialist Leslie Velz to discuss the academic progress report (APR) and degree requirements.1:30–3:30 p.m. ENGR 100 First Meeting
Sojka Pavilion
Students in the College of Engineering will join their classmates and professors for a fun teamwork and problem-solving activity. This session is required for all engineering students as well as Arts & Sciences and Management students enrolled in ENGR 100. Arts & Sciences and Management students should attend their college's group advising meetings at 1:30 and come to the ENGR 100 meeting immediately afterward.2–5:30 p.m. College of Arts & Sciences Individual Advising Appointments
Faculty offices
Students in the College of Arts & Sciences can use this time to meet with their faculty adviser(s) individually and discuss changes to their course schedule. The Registrar’s Office, located in Marts Hall, will be open to make approved changes. If you don't know who your adviser is, check your Academic Progress Report in Banner Web.2:30–3:30 p.m. Countdown to Calculus Drop-in Session,
Science Quad (rain location: Olin Science 451 & 475)
Are you taking MATH 192 or MATH 201 this fall and still working on the Countdown to Calculus course? Do you like sweet treats? Join us for a casual, drop-in session! This is a chance to talk about what to expect in calculus and answer your questions about Countdown to Calculus. You are welcome to bring a device to work on the program while you snack. (Vegan and allergy-conscious options will be available.)2:30–5:30 p.m. Freeman College of Management Individual Advising Appointments
Faculty offices
Students in the Freeman College of Management can use this time to meet individually with their faculty adviser to discuss changes to their course schedule. The Registrar's Office, located in Marts Hall, will be open to make approved changes. If you don't know who your adviser is, check your Academic Progress Report in Banner Web.2:30–5:30 p.m. Pathways Portfolio
On your own
Use this time to continue creating your Pathways ePortfolio and work on your August reflection assignments. Check your Bucknell email for a message with more details and instructions to help you move through this process.- Login to Digication to get started.
- Visit the Pathways Program website for instructions on setting up your portfolio and working on assignments.
3:30–4:30 p.m. College of Engineering Group Advising Meetings (declared engineering students)
Students who have declared an engineering major will meet with faculty to discuss course and major requirements. Undeclared students are welcome to attend to learn more about a specific major (please attend the meeting of your first-choice major). There is a required group meeting for undeclared students at 4:30 p.m.4:30–5:30 p.m. College of Engineering Group Advising Meeting (undeclared and 5-year engineering students)
Gardner Lecture Hall, Dana Engineering 113
Undeclared College of Engineering students will meet with faculty to discuss course and major requirements.5:30–6:30 p.m. Can I Kiss You? (McDonnell and Vedder residents)
Weis Center Concert Hall
This live show is a fun and revolutionary approach to understanding sexual and intimate boundaries. The founder of The Center for Respect and author of Can I Kiss You?, Mike Domitrz will lead a thought-provoking program about dating, respect and intimacy.5:30–6:45 p.m. Dinner (Smith and Swartz residents in the College of Arts & Sciences and Freeman College of Management)
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you.6:45–8 p.m. Dinner (McDonnell and Vedder residents in the College of Arts & Sciences and Freeman College of Management)
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you.7–8 p.m. Can I Kiss You (Smith and Swartz residents)
Weis Center Concert Hall
This live show is a fun and revolutionary approach to understanding sexual and intimate boundaries. The founder of The Center for Respect and author of Can I Kiss You?, Mike Domitrz will lead a thought-provoking program about dating, respect and intimacy.8–9 p.m. Breakout Discussions
Various Locations (OAs will direct)
Students will meet with their OAs, RA, JF and hallmates to participate in a group conversation about the Can I Kiss You? presentation and learn more about related campus and community resources.9:30–11:30 p.m. Late-night Breakfast and Bingo
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you. Stop by Bostwick to play bingo, win prizes and enjoy a delicious late-night breakfast cooked by your OAs!10 p.m.–midnight VIP Night at Barnes & Noble
Barnes & Noble at Bucknell University Bookstore, 400 Market St. (shuttles available at Freas Hall)
The bookstore will open to offer an exclusive shopping night for new students. Stop by and enjoy refreshments, prizes and games. Bookstore staff will individually assist you in finding your textbooks, or you can pick up pre-ordered books. You’ll also learn about the benefits of rental textbooks, digital books, charging to your B-bill, and refund and exchange policies. - Personal Finance & Budgeting
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8:30–10 a.m. Breakfast
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you.8:30–10:30 a.m. Individual Advising and Course Schedule Changes
Faculty Offices and Registrar's Office
Students can use this time to meet with their faculty adviser(s) individually and discuss changes to their course schedule. The Registrar's Office, located in Marts Hall, will be open to make approved changes. If you don't know who your adviser is, check your Academic Progress Report in Banner Web.9–10 a.m. Exploring Languages and Cultures Sessions
Various locations
An opportunity for our newest Bucknellians to learn about language courses, cultural engagement opportunities and study abroad programs.9–10:30 a.m. Countdown to Calculus Drop-in Session
Science Quad (rain location: Olin Science 451 & 475)
Are you taking MATH 192 or MATH 201 this fall and still working on the Countdown to Calculus course? Do you like sweet treats? Join us for a casual, drop-in session! This is a chance to talk about what to expect in calculus and answer your questions about Countdown to Calculus. You are welcome to bring a device to work on the program while you snack. (Vegan and allergy-conscious options will be available.)9–10:30 a.m. EIE Drop-Ins
Bucknell has a number of programs and spaces to support and celebrate various identities. Many of these spaces are organized under Equity and Inclusive Excellence. Please feel free to stop by the spaces listed below to meet the staff and some current students working with these offices. All are welcome to stop by for snacks and to learn about our campus communities.10 a.m. Academic Experience Panel (Students will alternate between the Academic Experience Panel and Library Unbound)
Weis Center Concert Hall
A panel of your faculty will share tips and tricks to adjust to college classroom expectations and their perspectives about how to be a good community member inside the classroom.10 a.m. –noon Library Unbound (Students will alternate between Library Unbound and the Academic Experience Panel)
Bertrand Library
At this casual, drop-in event, you can enjoy a snack, enter to win prizes and learn how Library & Information Technology resources, services, spaces and staff can help you succeed academically. The library is the academic center of campus; make it your home away from home!Noon–2 p.m. Lunch & Class of 2030 Photo
Christy Mathewson Memorial Stadium1-1:50 p.m. Mindfulness Meditation Session
Rooke Meditation Chapel1–2 p.m. Orthodox Christian Community Lunch
Elaine Langone Center 241
A time for fellowship with Orthodox Christian community members, all welcome.1–2 p.m. Muslim Community Prayer and Lunch
Muslim Community Space, Davis Hall, South Campus Apartments
Get a taste of Campus Muslim Life by joining for weekly congregational worship in the Muslim Community Space. Taking place every Friday (known as the Day of Assembly in Arabic), this service features a two-part sermon known as the khutbah, with a pause between the two parts of the sermon to allow for a time of personal prayer, or du'a. Lunch will be served after the service and all students are welcome.2–3:30 p.m. Campus Tours & Free Time (McDonell and Vedder Residents)
Various locations
Your OAs will conduct a guided tour of campus, focusing on helpful tips to help you navigate getting to class and accessing key campus resources, as well as highlighting day-to-day campus life necessities (eg, how to do laundry, where and how to print, replacing a lost BUID, etc.).2–4:15 p.m. Building Bridges: Navigating Civil Discourse and Difficult Conversations (Swartz and Smith residents)
Weis Center Concert Hall
How can we create a stronger, more connected community at Bucknell? This session provides a comprehensive guide to civil discourse and navigating difficult conversations, emphasizing allyship, empathy, and active listening. Students will gain insight into the mindset and supportive space needed for productive discourse, learning to communicate with empathy while understanding diverse perspectives.
After the presentation, you will participate in a group conversation with OAs, RAs and JFs.2–4:15 p.m. Building Bridges: Navigating Civil Discourse and Difficult Conversations (McDonnell and Vedder residents)
Weis Center Concert Hall
How can we create a stronger, more connected community at Bucknell? This session provides a comprehensive guide to civil discourse and navigating difficult conversations, emphasizing allyship, empathy, and active listening. Students will gain insight into the mindset and supportive space needed for productive discourse, learning to communicate with empathy while understanding diverse perspectives.
After the presentation, you will participate in a group conversation with OAs, RAs and JFs.4:15–5:45 p.m. Campus Tours and Free Time (Smith and Swartz residents)
Various locations
Your OAs will conduct a guided tour of campus, focusing on helpful tips to help you navigate getting to class and accessing key campus resources, as well as highlighting day-to-day campus life necessities (eg, how to do laundry, where and how to print, replacing a lost BUID, etc.).6–7 p.m. Jewish Life Open House
Berelson Center for Jewish Life, 632 St. George St.
Meet the students and staff of Hillel and tour the Berelson Center for Jewish Life.6–7 p.m. Catholic Campus Ministry Drop-in and House Tour
Newman House, 610 St. George St.
Come learn about Catholic Campus ministry and enjoy one another's company. We will have a short prayer to start the school year.7 p.m. Dinner in the Grove
The Grove
Enjoy a delicious meal in one of the most beautiful places on campus. (Rain location: Sojka Pavilion)8–9 p.m. Fri 'ray with ENGR 99
Larison Dining
ENGR 99 students will meet their Garman Guides to learn more about the program while enjoying snacks and fun activities!9:30–11:30 p.m. Street Festival
Walker Street
Join your classmates in kicking off the year with food, music, activities and dancing!9:30–11:30 p.m. Bertrand Board Game Night
Bertrand Library
Stop by the library for a night of gaming, snacks and conversation! -
9–10:15 a.m. Breakfast
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you.10:30–noon Hall Olympics
Intramural Fields
Compete for the glory of your residence hall in this Bucknell twist on the Olympics! Represent your hall in activities such as field day events, karaoke, dodgeball and more.Noon–1:30 p.m. Lunch
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you.Noon–12:30 p.m. First-year Student-Athlete Meeting
Forum, Second Floor, Elaine Langone Center
First-year student-athletes will be welcomed as incoming members of the Bison Athletics family and introduced to important information and resources. Join us to meet your fellow first-year student-athletes and learn important tips to start off a successful semester. This program is required for all first-year varsity student-athletes.1–3 p.m. Welcome to the Neighborhood
Downtown Lewisburg
The Lewisburg Downtown Partnership invites you to explore Lewisburg. Downtown retailers will welcome each new student with a small gift, special sales and coupons. Restaurants will offer an opportunity to sample the tastes of Lewisburg.3 p.m. Multicultural Student Ice Cream Social
Rooke Science Pavilion, outside Rooke Science Center
All students are invited to take a mid-afternoon break and cool off with frozen treats while getting to know your classmates and student leaders.3–4:30 p.m. Free Time 4:30–5:30 p.m. Career Communities Event
Various locations
Students will attend sessions with two different Career Communities. Schedules will be provided to students during Orientation.6–7:15 p.m. Dinner (McDonnell and Vedder residents)
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you.6–7:15 p.m. Maximize your Buzz (Swartz and Smith residents)
Weis Center Concert Hall
Swartz and Smith residents will participate in a critical conversation about alcohol and drug use with an emphasis on how to stay safe on campus and make informed decisions in social environments. You’ll learn how to make values-based choices about alcohol, the importance of taking care of friends who've overindulged, and some practical tips to make healthier choices.7:30–8:45 p.m. Dinner (Swartz and Smith residents)
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you.7:30–8:45 p.m. Maximize your Buzz (McDonnell and Vedder residents)
Weis Center Concert Hall
McDonnell and Vedder residents will participate in a critical conversation about alcohol and drug use with an emphasis on how to stay safe on campus and make informed decisions in social environments. You’ll learn how to make values-based choices about alcohol, the importance of taking care of friends who've overindulged, and some practical tips to make healthier choices.9 p.m. 'ray for the Orange and the Blue
Sojka Pavilion
Head to Sojka Pavilion, where you can paint yourself orange and blue and take a photo with Bucky. Learn about Bucknell's pride and spirit through this University tradition. You will learn the University fight song, 'ray Bucknell, root for your hall during a Hall vs. Hall relay race and play trivia while getting to know Bucknell student-athletes.9:30–11:30 p.m. Freez on Freas
Between Freas Hall and the uphill entrance to the Elaine Langone Center
Refuel with late-night treats including ice cream from the Freez Truck, pizza and donuts. Race against your friends on an inflatable obstacle course, eat s'mores and relax by the chimineas, listen to music or play lawn games.9:30 p.m.–1 a.m. Midnight Shopping at Walmart
Shuttles leave from Freas Hall
Catch the shuttle and get all of your shopping done at Walmart. -
9 a.m.–noon Brunch
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you.9:30 a.m.–noon Religious & Spiritual Life Worship Services & Gatherings 9:30 a.m.–noon Free Time Noon All Student-Athlete Welcome Back Event
Graham Field at Holmes Stadium
All student-athletes are invited to join Athletics on Graham Field for a welcome back event to celebrate the start of the year.12:30–2:30 p.m. Meet the Teams and Women's Soccer Game
Graham Field & Emmitt Field at Holmes Stadium
Come meet student-athletes from our 27 varsity sports and get to know more about them, their team & athletics at Bucknell and then cheer on the women's soccer team to victory in their game!1:30–3:30 p.m. Activities Unlimited
Dent Drive
Explore more than 150 student clubs and organizations while enjoying delicious desserts from local food trucks with your classmates.3 p.m. Access & Success Ice Cream Social
Taylor Hall
Welcome Bauer, Gateway, Langone, Langone-Walling and Posse Scholars! Please join us for an afternoon ice cream social to welcome you to Bucknell as part of Bucknell's access scholarship programs. Use this opportunity to meet fellow scholars and the Center for Access & Success team along with members of the campus community.3 p.m. Theatre & Dance Open House
Harvey M. Powers Theatre, Coleman Hall
Join the Theatre & Dance faculty and students and hear about the opportunities available for the coming year. Topics that will be discussed include the artistic season, auditions for shows (including the first-year student show), backstage opportunities and criteria for becoming a major or minor. For more information, email Theatre & Dance Academic Assistant Katie Hanes at kjh021@bucknell.edu or call at 570-577-1235.4–5 p.m Catholic Mass
Rooke Chapel
All are welcome to attend the first Mass of the academic year. Afterward, there will be a reception on the Rooke Chapel patio.4:30–6:30 p.m. Dinner
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Bostwick Marketplace is open during regular hours. Eat at your convenience before gathering with your hall and OAs for Convocation. Make sure you have your student ID card with you.7:30–9 p.m. Convocation and Candlelighting
Weis Center Concert Hall and Malesardi Quadrangle
Convocation officially opens the academic year at Bucknell. After Convocation, you will process to Malesardi Quadrangle for the traditional candlelighting ceremony.
Transfer Student Orientation Schedule
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10:45–11:45 a.m. Multicultural Welcome Reception for Students and Families
Terrace Room, Elaine Langone Center
Join members of the Orientation team, Multicultural Student Services, the Black Alumni Association, Student Affairs, student leaders and faculty and staff for a campus welcome while enjoying light refreshments. Open to all students and families.11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Resource Fair
Ground Floor, Elaine Langone Center
Representatives from a variety of campus offices and community organizations will be available to answer your questions.11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Lunch
Bostwick Marketplace, First Floor, Elaine Langone Center
New students, their families and friends are invited to lunch as guests of the University (no charge).
Please note: there will be additional seating available on the second floor in the Center Room and Walls Lounge. Beverages and desserts will also be available on the second floor.12:30–1:15 p.m. First in the Family Reception
Axis Lounge, Taylor Hall 115
Open to all students and families, this reception will showcase campus resources and networks available to support first-generation students and families. First in the Family participants and first-generation students and families are encouraged to attend. Enjoy light refreshments, build your network of Bucknell families, faculty and staff, and receive a personal welcome from President John Bravman and other University representatives.2–5 p.m. Check-in
Housing Services, Vedder Hall
Pick up your room key and student ID before getting settled into your room.6:15 p.m. Welcome Dinner
Walls Lounge, Second Floor, Elaine Langone Center
University staff will kick-off this event with an official welcome for all new transfer students. Students will also meet the Transfer Orientation Assistants, get to know other new members of the Class of 2028 and Class of 2029 and learn what awaits during the rest of Transfer Student Orientation.7:30–8:45 p.m. I Am Bucknell
Weis Center Concert Hall
New students will gather together and receive a warm welcome into the Bucknell community. The event will conclude with a procession to the Rooke Chapel Lawn and through the Christy Mathewson Memorial Gates – a Bucknell tradition! -
8:30–10:30 a.m. Breakfast with the Academic Deans and Success Coaches
Walls Lounge, Second Floor, Elaine Langone Center
Transfer students will meet with their academic deans and college success coaches to discuss academic expectations and receive updates on meetings with advisers.10:45–11:30 a.m. An Introduction to Library & Information Technology
Library Lab, Bertrand Library
Learn about the library as well as student technology systems and resources, including myBucknell, the Tech Desk, Follow-Me printing and more.11:45 a.m.–1 p.m. Individual Advising Meetings
Each transfer student should have received information about their assigned adviser and a scheduled time and location for a first meeting. If you have questions about the location or timing of your meeting, your OAs can assist you.1–2 p.m. Lunch & Snap Talks
Walls Lounge, Second Floor, Elaine Langone Center
Staff from a variety of campus offices will introduce their office and associated resources and services over lunch.3–4 p.m. Campus Tour
Your Orientation Assistants will take you on a tour of Bucknell’s campus, highlighting important offices, favorite study spots and more!6 p.m. Dinner
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you.7–9 p.m. Can I Kiss You?
Weis Center Concert Hall
This live show is a fun and revolutionary approach to understanding sexual and intimate boundaries. The founder of The Center for Respect and author of Can I Kiss You?, Mike Domitrz will lead a thought-provoking program about dating, respect and intimacy.9:30–11:30 p.m. Late-night Breakfast and Bingo
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you. Stop by Bostwick to play bingo, win prizes and enjoy a delicious late-night breakfast cooked by your OAs!10 p.m.–midnight VIP Night at Barnes & Noble
Barnes & Noble at Bucknell University Bookstore, 400 Market St.
(shuttles available at Freas Hall)
The bookstore will open to offer an exclusive shopping night for new students. Stop by and enjoy refreshments, prizes and games. Bookstore staff will individually assist you in finding your textbooks, or you can pick up pre-ordered books. You'll also learn about the benefits of rental textbooks, digital books, charging to your B-bill, and refund and exchange policies. -
9–10 a.m. Breakfast On Your Own
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you.9–10:30 a.m. EIE Drop-Ins
Bucknell has a number of programs and spaces to support and celebrate various identities. Many of these spaces are organized under Equity and Inclusive Excellence. All are welcome to stop by for snacks and to learn about our campus communities.10 a.m.–noon Academic Resource Programming 12:15 p.m. Breakout Sessions
Coleman Hall 118, 119 and 120
Choose from a variety of breakout sessions hosted by a variety of campus offices. These sessions will introduce you to campus resources and services, get you thinking about your journey after Bucknell, and help you make the most of your time on campus!1 p.m. Lunch
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you.2 p.m. Building Bridges: Navigating Civil Discourse and Difficult Conversations
Weis Center Concert Hall
How can we create a stronger, more connected community at Bucknell? This session provides a comprehensive guide to civil discourse and navigating difficult conversations, emphasizing allyship, empathy, and active listening. Students will gain insight into the mindset and supportive space needed for productive discourse, learning to communicate with empathy while understanding diverse perspectives.4:30 p.m. Free Time 7 p.m. Dinner in the Grove
The Grove (rain location: Sojka Pavilion)
Enjoy a delicious meal in one of the most beautiful places on campus.9:30–11:30 p.m. Street Festival
Walker Street
Join your classmates in kicking off the year with food, music, activities and dancing.9:30–11:30 p.m. Bertrand Board Game Night
Bertrand Library
Stop by the library for a night of gaming, snacks and conversation. -
9-10 a.m. Breakfast On Your Own
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you.11:30 a.m. –1 p.m. Lunch with Transfer Student Association Leaders and Peer Mentors
TBD
Enjoy a casual lunch with current student leaders from BUSTA – the transfer student organization – who also transferred to Bucknell and peer mentors from your respective colleges.1–3 p.m. Welcome to the Neighborhood
Downtown Lewisburg
The Lewisburg Downtown Partnership invites you to explore Lewisburg. Downtown retailers will welcome each new student with small gifts, special sales and coupons. Restaurants will offer an opportunity to sample the tastes of Lewisburg.3–4 p.m. Multicultural Student Ice Cream Social
Rooke Science Pavilion, outside Rooke Science Center
All students are invited to take a mid-afternoon break and cool off with frozen treats while getting to know your classmates and student leaders.3–6 p.m. Free Time 6–7:15 p.m. Maximize Your Buzz
Weis Center Concert Hall
Students will participate in a critical conversation about alcohol and drug use with an emphasis on how to stay safe on campus and make informed decisions in social environments. You’ll learn how to make values-based choices about alcohol, the importance of taking care of friends who’ve overindulged, and some practical tips to make healthier choices.7:30 p.m. Dinner
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you.9 p.m. 'ray for the Orange and the Blue
Sojka Pavilion
Head to Sojka Pavilion, where you can paint yourself orange and blue and take a photo with Bucknell’s athletics mascot, Bucky. Learn about Bucknell pride and spirit through this University tradition.9:30–11:30 p.m. Freez on Freas
Freas Lawn, outside Freas Hall
Refuel with late-night treats including ice cream from the Freez Truck, pizza and donuts while you relax by the chimineas, listen to music and play lawn games.9:30 p.m.–1 a.m. Midnight shopping at Walmart
Shuttles leave from Freas Hall
Catch the shuttle and get all of your shopping done at Walmart. -
9 a.m.–noon Brunch
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Make sure to have your student ID with you.9:30 a.m.–noon Religious & Spiritual Life Worship Services & Gatherings 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. All Student-Athlete Welcome Back Event 12:30–2:30 p.m. Meet the Teams and Women’s Soccer v. FDU
Graham Field & Emmitt Field at Holmes Stadium
Come meet student-athletes from our 27 varsity sports and get to know more about them, their team & athletics at Bucknell and then cheer on the women's soccer team to victory in their game.1:30–3:30 p.m. Activities Unlimited
Intramural Field 3 - Rain Location: Fieldhouse
Explore more than 150 student clubs and organizations while enjoying delicious desserts from local food trucks with your classmates.4–5 p.m. Catholic Mass
Rooke Chapel
All are welcome to attend the first Mass of the academic year. Afterward, there will be a reception on the Rooke Chapel patio.4:30–6:30 p.m. Dinner
Bostwick Marketplace, Elaine Langone Center
Bostwick Marketplace is open during regular hours. Eat at your convenience before gathering with your hall and OAs for Convocation. Make sure you have your student ID with you.7:30–9 p.m. Convocation and Candlelighting
Weis Center Concert Hall and Malesardi Quadrangle
Convocation officially opens the academic year at Bucknell. After convocation, you will process to Malesardi Quadrangle for the traditional candlelighting ceremony.
Parent and Family Orientation Schedule
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8 a.m.–noon Arrival and Check-in
Residence Halls
Our Orientation Assistants (OAs) will meet you at your student's residence hall to help you unpack the car and carry your belongings inside.11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Lunch
Elaine Langone Center
New students, their families and friends are invited to lunch as guests of the University (no charge).11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Resource Fair
Ground Floor, Elaine Langone Center
Representatives from a variety of campus offices and community organizations will be available to answer your questions.11 a.m.–noon First in the Family Reception
Arches Lounge, Third Floor, Elaine Langone Center
Open to all students and families, this reception will showcase campus resources and networks available to support first-generation students and families. First-generation students and families are encouraged to attend. Enjoy light refreshments, build your network of Bucknell families, faculty and staff, and receive a personal welcome from President John Bravman and other University representatives.12:30–1:30 p.m. Multicultural Welcome Reception for Students and Families
Terrace Room, Elaine Langone Center
Join members of the Orientation team, Multicultural Student Services, the Black Alumni Association, Student Affairs, student leaders and faculty and staff for a campus welcome while enjoying light refreshments. Open to all students and families.1:30 p.m. University Welcome for Parents and Families
Weis Center Concert Hall
President John C. Bravman, Provost Wendy Sternberg and Vice President & Fritz Family Dean of Students Moe McGuinness will welcome and advise family members about the first-year experience at Bucknell.2:15 p.m. College Welcome Events for Parents and Families
Parents and families will be welcomed by the deans from each of Bucknell's colleges, who will share information about academic expectations as well as resources and support available to students.- College of Arts & Sciences
Weis Center Concert Hall - College of Engineering
Trout Auditorium, Vaughan Literature Building - Freeman College of Management
Forum, Elaine Langone Center
3:15 p.m. Parent and Family Breakout Sessions
Parents and families are invited to choose from a variety of breakout sessions. Sessions are designed to help you learn more about life at Bucknell and will offer tips for supporting your student through their transition to college.
*Families with questions about financial aid, billing or accounts may meet individually with the offices of Financial Aid (621 St. George Street) and Bursar Services (108 Marts Hall).4:15 p.m. Words of Encouragement & Refreshments
Larison Dining, Larison Hall
Families are invited to mix and mingle and to write their students a note of encouragement that will be delivered to them at the beginning of the semester.5–6 p.m. Family and Friends Depart 6–7:30 p.m. Move-In Day Family Reception
Off-Campus - Fero Vineyard and Winery, 965 JPM Rd, Lewisburg, PA 17837
Celebrate getting your student moved into campus housing by meeting other parents and campus representatives for drinks and appetizers! Your student will be busy at orientation so take this moment to unwind and mingle with other first-year families.
This is the perfect opportunity to meet and socialize with other parents, faculty and staff.
RSVP is required (link will be added in July). $25 per guest. - College of Arts & Sciences
Explore Bucknell’s Campus
Interactive Campus Map
Our interactive campus map has all the information you need to find your way around campus and explore Bucknell, including:
• Photos and overviews of more than 100 campus locations
• 360 panoramas of iconic spaces
• Immersive virtual tours
• Turn-by-turn walking directions
• Parking and construction information