Incoming First-Year Students
Begin your Moravian journey even before New Student Orientation begins by giving back to the community and getting a jumpstart on building new relationships and developing your leadership skills.
1742 Experience
The 1742 Experience is a one-week pre-orientation program designed to introduce a select group* of incoming first-year students to the Lehigh Valley community through meaningful service opportunities. In addition to engaging in community service, participants gain an early opportunity to build connections with peers who share a commitment to service while developing their leadership skills.
The program is led by upperclass students who serve as mentors, offering guidance and support to all participants. Throughout the week, students collaborate with local nonprofit organizations to advance their missions and address some of today's most pressing social issues, including:
- Education
- Environmental conservation
- Healthcare
- Homelessness
- Poverty
*Spots are limited. If interested, applicants must participate in a short interview.
Residential students move directly into their fall housing assignment. Meals are provided. Questions can be directed to campuslife@moravian.edu.
Apply
Schedule
Sunday, August 23: Arrive on campus. Meet the Team Leaders, Associate Director of Campus Life, and fellow 1742 Experience participants. Enjoy dinner, relax, and unwind before the exciting week ahead.
Monday, August 24 to Thursday, August 27: Early morning breakfast followed by full days of service in the community. In the evenings, team leaders plan engaging activities to help you get to know each other and campus.
Friday, August 28: Join the Class of 2030 for New Student Orientation! Families may choose to return, but there is no expectation that they are on campus for Friday.
Housing
Both commuter and residential students are encouraged to participate in the program. Residential students will move into their housing assignments early. In rare cases, participants could be assigned temporary housing until their official fall room assignment is available. The Associate Director of Campus Life will coordinate the move in process with the Office of Housing.
Application and Selection
and must be submitted by Wednesday, July 1, 2026. Zoom interviews will be conducted by the Associate Director of Campus Life and team leaders in early to mid July. Applicants can expect a decision by July 20, 2026.
Participation and Conflicts
For those participating in the 1742 Experience, full engagement in all activities is required. While there will be free time in the evenings, we encourage students to spend this time relaxing, exploring their new home, and building connections with fellow participants. Make the most of this amazing opportunity!
Many incoming first-year students have commitments, such as fall sports and marching band, that often conflict with the time commitments of the 1742 Experience. Since full participation in all program activities is expected, students with these obligations are unable to participate. However, we encourage you to reach out to the Office of Campus Life to explore opportunities available throughout the school year.