With the combination of the Outdoor Program trip leaders and a BGSU faculty member, the knowledge gained from this program
can go beyond the normal classroom. Students participating in the Freshman Wilderness Experience expeditions can expect to
learn:
Basic backpacking and camping skills
Wilderness survival skills
Bowling Green State University traditions and history
About the resources of Bowling Green State University
Diverse cultures and ideas
Intellectual, personal and social skills that will assist in future semesters at BGSU and beyond
Self-reliance and self-confidence through challenging outdoor and classroom experiences
To form friendships with fellow first year students before the semester even begins
A common reading experience is often seen as a great way for new students to embark upon the intellectual challenges of the
college experience. In addition to discussing the book in the classroom, BGSU also hosts special events related to the content
of the book throughout the fall semester.
During the Freshman Wilderness Experience expeditions students will begin discussion of the assigned common reading. Students
will also be required to keep a journal with them during the expedition and continuing through the course. In this way, the
students will be able to reflect on their experiences using both dialogue from the book and personal experiences in the outdoors.
