Design Thinking Leadership
Learn to thrive when the answers aren't obvious. Design Thinking Leadership is a program for incoming first-year students who are interested in innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship. You'll learn new ways to analyze and solve problems, build connections with classmates, get to know Bucknell and the surrounding community, and have fun!
If you enjoy new challenges, brainstorming and collaboration, you'll enjoy thinking creatively and presenting your ideas to real companies in Design Thinking Leadership. Embrace the unfamiliar in this rewarding program — it's an inspiring start to your Bucknell career.
What You'll Do
Through design thinking workshops and small-group activities, you'll develop a strategic mindset for problem-solving. Get results in real time as you engage with local businesses to help them develop innovative solutions to real-world challenges. Your journey will be guided by the mentorship of alumni, faculty, staff and upperclass student leaders. Learn valuable skills that will enhance your studies in any field, and build relationships you'll draw upon again and again throughout your years at Bucknell.
You'll also enjoy exploring local favorites with your new classmates and peers. Typical off-campus adventures include getting to know each other while kayaking down the beautiful Susquehanna River, an afternoon at Knoebels Amusement Resort, a friendly bowling night, and dinner in downtown Lewisburg.
Whom It's For
Students of all academic interests are welcome to join Design Thinking Leadership, and no experience in entrepreneurship or design is necessary. You only need to be interested in connecting with like-minded students, learning valuable new ways of thinking, and having fun.
Capacity is limited to 24 people.
Notice: The DTL program includes some light physical and outdoor activities.
Cost
None
2026 Program Dates
Friday, Aug. 14–Tuesday, Aug. 18
(New Student Orientation begins Wednesday, Aug. 19.)
Contact
Ty Derk
Asst. Director of Campus Activities
td016@Bucknell.edu
570-577-3080