Division of Student Affairs

Recreation and Wellness FWE

Freshman Wilderness Experience and Retention

The Department of Recreation and Wellness’ Freshman Wilderness Experience (FWE) has enjoyed much success. The FWE, which began in 2008, involves both a week-long trip for incoming freshman during July prior to their first semester and a BGSU 1000 course in the fall semester. Students have the choice of backpacking on the Appalachian Trail in North Carolina or canoeing on the Manistee River in northern Michigan. The leaders of the trip include undergraduate students, graduate students, faculty, and staff from across campus.

The success of the program is evident from the retention rates of the students who participate. Between 2008 and 2011, students who have participated in the Freshman Wilderness Experience have been retained at an average of 87%. For more information about  2012 FWE programming, call 419.372.2146, email outdoorpro@bgsu.edu or visit BGSU Outdoor Program – Wilderness Experience.