In order to protect our resident birds from the ongoing avian influenza outbreak, ALL visitors are required to use the disinfecting mats located at the main entrance of the Klingsberg Aviary. Thank you for doing your part to help our Avian Ambassadors stay safe and healthy! Learn more

ORION Expedition

Find Your Place in PennsylvaniaORION

Are you enrolling at Penn State in the summer? The fall? At a different campus? Want to explore the wilderness surrounding University Park? Then ORION is for you! AURORA’s longest running expedition — since 1996 — ORION has been the foundation of a successful college career for many Penn State students. Earn three credits on a five-day backpacking adventure as you explore central Pennsylvania and ease your transition into Penn State. University Park students will be grouped together; likewise, Commonwealth students will backpack with other Commonwealth students, typically from their own campus.

During ORION, You’ll…

  • Engage in fun, challenging outdoor experiences
  • Meet other incoming students and explore together
  • Foster your personal wellness; bolster your self-esteem
  • Learn for life the skills of backpacking and camping
  • Discover a stronger appreciation of the natural world
  • Gain insight into life at Penn State and how to succeed

Wanna Know More?

All of our expeditions are unique in their own way. Take a look at ORION’s frequently asked questions to learn more about our most popular program.

Registration Information

ORION Session for LEAP Students:
August 4–8, 2023

ORION Fall Week:
August 14–18, 2023

$295 class fee

ORION FAQ

Register

Essential Information Packet

Download the Essential Information Packet to prepare for your adventure.

ORION LEAP 2023 (PDF)

ORION Fall 2023: University Park (PDF)

ORION Fall 2023: Other Penn State Campuses (PDF)