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Find your place at Penn State with ORION

Are you enrolling at Penn State in the summer? The fall? At a different campus? Want to explore the wilderness surrounding University Park? Then ORION is for you!

AURORA’s longest running expedition — since 1996 — ORION has been the foundation of a successful college career for many Penn State students.

Earn three credits on a five-day backpacking adventure as you explore central Pennsylvania and ease your transition into Penn State. University Park students will be grouped together; likewise, Commonwealth students will backpack with other Commonwealth students, typically from their own campus.

Class fee for 2025 ORION Expedition is $495.

ORION

2025 ORION Expedition Dates
Aug. 18–22

Prepare for your adventure

Please see the 2025 ORION Expedition Essential Information Packets (EIP) below.

During ORION, you will:

  • Engage in fun, challenging outdoor experiences
  • Meet other incoming students and explore together
  • Foster your personal wellness; bolster your self-esteem
  • Learn for life the skills of backpacking and camping
  • Discover a stronger appreciation of the natural world
  • Gain insight into life at Penn State and how to succeed

ORION FAQs