Every three years, Bucknell launches the MyVoice Student Experience Survey, coordinated by the Division of Student Affairs, to better understand how students experience life outside the classroom. It is an effort to pause, listen, reflect and ask students what makes Bucknell feel like home and where it can do better.

Students are invited to share how they feel about Bucknell being the right fit for them, an honest reflection on what defines their four years here. So many surveys are shared throughout the year, but each of them play their own role in collecting specific data for the University to utilize in different spheres. The more students who respond to a survey, the more accurate and truly representative that data will be— in other words, make sure you click that link!

Bucknell reports the statistics that they receive. If a report is citing that 70 to 80 percent of students feel a certain way, but only 30 to 40 percent actually completed the survey, what’s being reported is a reflection of the sample size that was available.

Dean Moe McGuinness explained, “Your feedback helps us make Bucknell even better for every student.” Much has already shifted in recent years, from more inclusive programming to stronger community support, and this year’s survey will help guide the next phase of that progress.

Still, for any meaningful change to happen, participation is key. In a community of nearly 4,000 students, even half of the student body responding could make a huge statistical difference. This is a chance to represent your own voice, and shape the culture you are a part of. Collective action is less effective with a smaller collective; real issues will go unheard if the Herd does not unite.

A few students shared their thoughts on the process, as well as what they’re hoping to see go into effect. Maygan Douglas ’28 feels that the timing of the survey’s availability “being packed between all midterms might not be the most effective,” and wishes that it would be situated on a slightly different timeline.

Eliza Horne ’27 added, “Extending the timeline might help more people participate.”

Ellyn Ngo ’26 offered a broader reflection: “It sometimes feels framed to highlight the negatives, but I hope people reviewing it see that it is not because Bucknell isn’t good. Even when students feel at a disadvantage, work is being done. Bucknell is always evolving, and it is amazing to see how it has handled challenges.”

There is a little incentive, too. The first 100 students to complete the survey will receive $10 in Dining Dollars, and every participant will be entered into a drawing for prizes such as an electric scooter, AirPod Max headphones, a round of golf for four at the Bucknell Golf Club, an annual Campus Theatre membership, a private chef dining experience for six or a reserved table at Cafsgiving for eight.

The survey is simple, quick and easily accessible. It is a chance to make your time at Bucknell, and that of future students, even better. When it comes to shaping the campus experience, your voice is what really makes a change.