Customize your Experience

Introduction
Most people's first impressions of Bucknell are based solely on our campus. It's a gorgeous place, with classic architecture and well-cultivated landscaping that is enough to win most people over. What lies underneath the exterior is, in my opinion, equally as beautiful if you're the kind of person willing to be proactive about your education and get involved. The opportunities available here, despite what people might think given our relatively rural locale, are truly endless, but as with most opportunities they don't begin to make a difference until the student steps up to the plate.

I chose Bucknell for both of those reasons -- its aesthetic beauty and the bounty of opportunities -- among others. I wanted an environment where I could become a recognizable presence amongst my peers, which our relatively small undergraduate population allows. I always wanted to become a leader in a multitude of ways, and not have to limit myself to one club or organization. As a result of this drive I have done a lot with my four years, which beyond helping me grow as an individual has put me in contact with a diverse group of students, faculty and staff. In those faces and personalities you see that Bucknell is much more than the stereotyped, yuppie student population that many believe us to be. We're men and women from across the country and around the world, each individual with his or her own family history, socioeconomic background, cultural beliefs or political viewpoints. It's a dynamic place that has the power to change everyday if you make the effort to seek out new things.

Campus Life and Social Life
The social life on campus is what you make of it. For individuals interested in partying, there is always something going on either at a fraternity or downtown. For some people this scene can get old quickly, and may be the cause of initial frustration because they think partaking means you have to be involved in a Greek organization. As an upperclassmen I've been able to find other ways to enjoy myself, not centered on Greek life or the party scene, which has a great deal to do with finding a close group of friends who aren't interested in doing the same-old thing week after week. Also, once you get over the hype of going to "college parties" you'll realize that there are activities of more value and enjoyment going on. These include concerts (Saves the Day, J5, The Ataris, OAR), speakers, slam poets, sporting events, etc. etc. Our location is also a virtue, despite what some might say -- there are a wealth of natural areas in the nearby area, where you can go hiking and enjoy being outdoors. It sure beats a lazy weekend watching movies in your dorm.

As with most places there are going to ups and downs in your social schedule, but the best advice for remaining active and really getting the most out of your time here is to try new things. I've taken advantage of a lot of University sponsored events I once scoffed out, only to find myself really enjoy them. It's also another way to meet more people, expand your social circle, and fill your calendar for upcoming weeks. Academics
As with most places, there are going to ups and downs in your social schedule, but the best advice for remaining active and really getting the most out of your time here is to try new things. I've taken advantage of a lot of university sponsored events I once scoffed out, only to find myself really enjoying them. It's also another way to meet more people, expand your social circle, and fill your calendar for upcoming weeks.

It's true what a lot people say about students at Bucknell - many (including some engineers) pursue double majors, but that's not because the work load is easy. This statistic is a function of the driven, motivated nature of our student body. We were all top-achievers in high school, and find it difficult to settle with doing the minimum amount of work to get by. I have had a wonderful academic experience in both of my major departments, as well as in elective classes. The professors are knowledgeable and accessible, although you will occasionally experience someone who seems to know less than the average student. The emphasis on lab experience for all students (including non-science majors) is great, and my undergraduate research and thesis, though challenging, have probably been the most rewarding experiences of my time here. I wouldn't recommend Bucknell for students who are interested in being challenged, or who want to glide through college without getting their feet wet, but for anyone else it's an ideal learning environment.

Student Body
I think it’s unfair to try and characterize a "typical" Bucknell student, because as I said everyone here has their own story, history, interests, etc. In all honesty, most of us were probably the students who could never be pinned down to a certain clique in high school, as our varied interests and involvement had us running in many different social circles. At Bucknell our "jocks" are often engineers, and "preppy rich kids" are the presidents of community service organizations. I think one thing that is typical of a Bucknell student is depth, as what you see on the exterior rarely gives any indication of the motivation and altruism that often lie underneath.

As for where students are from, many hail from the NE region, but we also have a very substantial West-coast and international population. Students are into anything and everything, from sports and dance to pottery and music. You can likely find the activities you're looking for here, and even some you didn't know you had an interest in.

In Closing...
For me, Bucknell has been the perfect stepping stone into bigger things and places. The environment is conducive to close friendships and relationships, and the location allows you to feel safe and comfortable. Classes are challenging, providing great preparation for a career or graduate school, and the social/extra-curricular activities are endless. This is a place to hone your skills as a leader before moving up and out. Bucknell isn't for everyone, especially those who aren't interested in working hard or getting involved, but for me it was the ideal place to spend these 4 years.