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BUCS Bridge Pre-Orientation & Mentorship Program

The Building Unity & Cultivating Success (BUCS) Bridge Program is a pre-orientation and peer mentoring program designed to serve first-generation college students; Black, Indigenous and/or People of Color (BIPOC) and students from underrepresented groups. It is open to both first-year and transfer students. This two- day program introduces incoming students to Whitworth's faculty, resources and peers before Orientation and school year begins. After the pre-orientation, participants will get a dedicated peer guide (student mentor) to receive ongoing support throughout their first year. Students involved in BUCS Bridge experience the benefits of community-building, gain skills in college navigation and further develop their multicultural identity. For more information about this program, contact BUCS Bridge Coordinator Marina Davis at mdavis@whitworth.edu. 

Incoming students will receive an email inviting them to register. BUCS Bridge 2026 will take place Sept. 3-4, 2026. 

Campus Resources

Learn More About the Program

Frequently Asked Questions

What is BUCS Bridge?

It is a pre-orientation and mentorship program at Whitworth University designed to give first-generation and/or historically underrepresented racial and ethnic population (UREP) students a smooth and successful first year of college. BUCS Bridge serves both first-year students and transfer students. The three pillars of BUCS Bridge are college navigation, community building and identity development.  

The pre-orientation program includes activities that help you familiarize yourself with campus, resources and the community. You have the opportunity to move into your assigned room early, meet with faculty, learn about how to apply for a job on campus, access health and other resources, understand your class schedule and course demands. In addition to making sure you feel prepared and confident as a college student, you will also have a built-in community through peer guides (our experienced and trained student leaders) and fellow first-year students like yourself!  

What is a peer guide?

Peer guides are current Whitworth students that lead small groups of protégés (BUCS Bridge mentees). They have knowledge and experience to help you find your way and be successful at Whitworth. 

What is a protégé?

That's you! As a participant in this program, you are called a protégé (mentee). A protégé is a person of outstanding talent who has been selected to receive personal guidance and support from a more experienced person to fulfill their greatest potential. 

When is BUCS Bridge Pre-Orientation?

The pre-orientation takes place Sept. 3-4, 2026. 

Will pre-orientation be on campus or virtual?

BUCS Bridge offers completely in-person services and activities.  

What is the pre-orientation schedule?

Please note: a detailed schedule will be provided several days prior to pre-orientation

Thursday, Sept. 3
9 a.m.-noon BUCS Bridge check-in  
Hixson Union Building (HUB), lobby area, main level. Students can move in after check-in. 
12:30-1:30 p.m. BUCS Bridge lunch (free for students and families)
1:50-2:40 p.m.   BUCS Bridge family welcome & resources session (for students and families)  
3-8 p.m.   Variety of fun activities with peer guides, Whitworth resources and sessions (breaks included)
Friday, Sept. 4
7:30 a.m.-8 p.m.   Breakfast, variety of resources and activities (breaks included), talent show 

Can my parents come?

Families are invited and encouraged to attend (locations will be provided on the day of check-in): 

  • Thursday, Sept. 3:
    • BUCS Bridge lunch (free for students and families) – 12:30-1:30 p.m.
    • BUCS Bridge family welcome & resources session – 1:50-2:40 p.m.

Additional opportunities after our pre-orientation ends:  

  • Saturday, Sept. 5: Parents are also welcome to join us for the new students' orientation day activities (resources and more). Some sessions are mandatory for students.
  • Sunday, Sept. 6: Another part of New Student Orientation and an official welcome by Whitworth’s president.  

For information regarding the Whitworth New Student Orientation (mandatory for students), please visit: www.whitworth.edu/orientation. 

What do I get with my registration?

The BUCS Bridge $40 registration fee includes a BUCS Bridge T-shirt and helps us cover your housing and meals. 

What if I can't afford registration?

Please contact BUCS Bridge Coordinator Marina Davis if the registration fee is a barrier for you: mdavis@whitworth.edu. 

What can I expect from my BUCS Bridge Pre-Orientation experience?

We will do small and large group activities so you can get acquainted with your peers and build community here at Whitworth. We will also be doing activities in a variety of buildings, to get you familiarized with campus (peer guides or coordinator will bring you there). Additionally, we will introduce you to services available at Whitworth, like career services, student success, health services and more, and host a meet and greet with faculty.  

Can I choose to attend pre-orientation but not take part in the mentoring program?

No. Protégés will continue with the peer mentoring program for the entire first year. 

What is the BUCS Mentoring Program?

After pre-orientation, students continue BUCS Bridge through the mentorship program, free of charge. Students will be reached out to and will occasionally meet with their assigned peer guide throughout the school year and in their transition to Whitworth. These meetings are opportunities for students to share their highlights of college or struggles so that peer guides and staff can celebrate with students or give them the resources and guidance they need. 

Why should I participate in the BUCS Mentoring Program?

The first-year college transition can be a challenging one. This program is designed specifically to provide support to first-year students through peer mentorship. A more seasoned, older student can provide guidance and tips on how to navigate classes, balance responsibilities, talk to professors and figure out life on campus! Protégés can expect to meet with their peer guide, usually once a month throughout the year, receive one-on-one support from staff, and cultivate community and a sense of belonging with fellow first-year Pirates! 

Besides the mentoring program, we also host a variety of small and mid-size events and social events (attendance to this is optional).  

Where will I be sleeping?

Through BUCS Bridge, you will get to move into your residence hall room early! You will sleep in your regular housing during pre-orientation just like the rest of the academic year. For those who are living at home, we invite you to join us for all the day and evening activities.  

What do I need to pack for the year?

Our amazing friends in Whitworth's Residence Life & Housing put together a few helpful packing lists. Click on the links below for more information. 

Am I responsible for getting to Whitworth?

Yes.

Do I need to attend Orientation if I am participating in BUCS Bridge Pre-Orientation?

Yes. Orientation and pre-orientation are separate and distinct programs. Each has unique information, outcomes and participants. It is very important that you attend both. In fact, parts of Orientation are mandatory. 

What is the contact information if I have questions or concerns?

For additional information about BUCS Bridge, you may contact: 

Marina Davis
BUCS Bridge Coordinator
Email: mdavis@whitworth.edu

We can't wait to meet you!