AURORA Penn State Outdoor Orientation Programs

Hey, we get it. You’re new to Penn State and wondering where to begin. Luckily, Penn State’s AURORA program offers you the chance to ease your transition through one of our unique outdoor expeditions.

What is AURORA?

AURORA is Penn State’s award-winning Outdoor Orientation Program. Operating since 1996, we have supported thousands of students during their transition to life at Penn State.

The program offers five-day backpacking and community service experiences for incoming first-year and transfer students. Our trips provide a unique experience for students to escape life’s distractions, gain firsthand knowledge about life on campus from folks currently living it, and earn class credit along the way.

We seek to share insight into how to successfully navigate the challenging transition to life on a college campus while fostering a sense of belonging and community. Students will also learn tangible skills related to backpacking, community service, and communication.

We have also provided leadership opportunities for hundreds of student staff, developing in them skills they can carry forward to their future careers—be it in the outdoors, the boardroom, or anywhere in between.

Not sure how to start college? Earn credit outside.

Each expedition gives you the opportunity to meet other incoming students, get outside, earn 3 General Health and Wellness (GHW) credits, and learn about life at Penn State from students already here — all while having fun on an unforgettable adventure.

Our fall expeditions run before the semester begins, so you’ll have a huge head start before classes begin! Even better, there’s no outdoor experience required. For more than two decades, thousands of students have taken their first step toward collegiate success with AURORA … will you?

Learn about AURORA and its expeditions