Exploring Tufts Wilderness Orientation: Building Community Before College Begins
Before the school year officially kicks off, Tufts offers a variety of ways for first-year students to connect and feel confident.
Starting your first year of college can be intimidating, but Tufts offers many opportunities to help incoming students build connections and feel part of a community even before classes begin. One major way Tufts does this is through its pre-orientation programs, which range from civic engagement and community service to art focused opportunities in Boston. These programs give students a chance to meet new people and get comfortable on campus early.
One unique option is TWO, Tufts Wilderness Orientation. TWO is a five day outdoor experience designed to help first-year students develop technical and personal skills in nature. Participants can choose between backpacking, canoeing, camping, or trail crew trips in New Hampshire, Vermont, or Maine.
Students arrive on campus a week before official orientation begins, giving them time to settle into their residence hall and unpack. Then, they set out into the wilderness in groups of 10 students led by 2–3 trained leaders for a five-day adventure. Regardless of the trip type, all students will have the chance to build strong bonds, learn outdoor skills, cook meals on the trail, and sleep under the stars. Additionally, this is for everyone who is interested in getting outdoors, there are different levels of trips, affinity groups, and allergy trips! There is no experience required. Sleeping bags, backpacks, stoves, and other necessary equipment can be provided upon request.
Beyond hiking and camping, TWO is a space to ask questions, talk about the transition to college, and gain confidence in yourself as you enter this new chapter of life. After returning to campus, the program wraps up with a group dinner and a warm send-off into the official Tufts orientation. The sense of community doesn’t end with the trip, throughout the year, leaders often host group dinners and activities, continuing to support and connect first-years well into their time at Tufts.
TWO is a unique way to start your time at Tufts, but there are so many different pre-orientations to join and it is something that many students recommend!