Boston, MA, February 6, 2026

News Summary

Boston University introduces the BU Common Read program, aimed at fostering a shared intellectual experience among incoming students. With selected readings and themed events, the initiative encourages critical thought and community engagement within the academic environment. The inaugural book is ‘Orbital’ by Samantha Harvey, recognized for its literary acclaim. The program highlights the importance of integrated learning and discussions, designed to strengthen the academic bonds among Boston University’s students, faculty, and greater community.

BU Libraries Inaugurate Common Read Series

Boston University fosters intellectual community and shared experience with “Orbital”-themed events for new students.

Boston, MA — Boston University’s academic landscape is further enriched this year with the introduction of the BU Common Read program, a new initiative designed to cultivate a shared intellectual experience among incoming students. This program, announced by the BU Libraries, marks a significant effort to foster academic discourse and build community from the outset of a student’s collegiate journey. The launch reflects a commitment to traditional academic values while embracing innovative methods for student integration into Boston’s vibrant higher education environment.

The program encourages all first-year and new transfer students to engage with a designated book, creating a common ground for discussion and critical thought across disciplines. Such initiatives underscore the value of a unified intellectual pursuit in shaping well-rounded individuals ready to contribute meaningfully to their academic and civic communities. By promoting a shared text, Boston University aims to stimulate intellectual curiosity and dialogue, foundational elements of a robust university experience.

Forging a Shared Intellectual Foundation

The core of the BU Common Read is its commitment to establishing a universal academic touchstone for new students. Launched this year, the program encourages both first-year and new transfer students to read the selected text, providing a shared basis for intellectual engagement. This initiative seeks to integrate new members of the Boston University community by offering a common topic for discussion, fostering a sense of belonging and collective intellectual exploration. The program emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility in academic preparation and participation from the very beginning of a student’s university career.

“Orbital”: A Catalyst for Critical Thought

The inaugural book selected for the BU Common Read is “Orbital” by Samantha Harvey. This acclaimed novel has garnered significant literary recognition, including being shortlisted for the Booker Prize in 2024. Critically, it has been described by a prominent national newspaper as “ravishingly beautiful”. The choice of such a distinguished work reflects Boston University’s dedication to academic rigor and to providing students with literature that provokes deep thought and varied interpretations, aligning with the principles of academic freedom in exploring diverse perspectives.

Engaging Events Across Campus Libraries

To complement the reading experience, the BU Libraries are hosting a series of “Orbital”-themed events throughout the spring semester. These scheduled gatherings are designed to facilitate discussion, critical analysis, and a broader appreciation of the novel’s themes. Events are scheduled for February 19, from 7-8 pm, and again on March 5, from 7-8 pm. These sessions will be held in collaboration with various library branches, including the African Studies Library, the Astronomy Library, and the Frederick S. Pardee Management Library. This collaborative effort highlights the interdisciplinary nature of intellectual inquiry and the university’s commitment to providing diverse academic resources.

Building Community and Academic Discourse

The BU Common Read program extends an invitation not only to students but also to faculty and other members of the university community. By engaging a wider audience, the program aims to enrich the academic discourse across campus and strengthen the communal bonds within Boston University. Such collective intellectual endeavors are vital for building leadership qualities and fostering a sense of shared purpose, reinforcing the idea that education is a collaborative journey that impacts the entire community. This fosters an environment where diverse viewpoints can be discussed respectfully and insightfully.

An Innovative Model for Student Integration

This new program represents an innovative approach to orienting and engaging new transfer and first-year students at Boston University. By providing a shared academic experience, the university helps students connect with peers and faculty over substantive content, thereby encouraging discipline in scholarly pursuits and personal responsibility for academic growth. The BU Common Read serves as a strong foundation for students to develop critical thinking skills and to appreciate the rich intellectual life that Boston University offers, preparing them for future leadership roles and positive community impact within Massachusetts’s educational and economic ecosystem.

The introduction of the BU Common Read program stands as a testament to Boston University’s ongoing commitment to enriching student life and fostering a vibrant intellectual community. By uniting first-year and new transfer students through a shared literary experience and associated events, the program cultivates critical thinking, encourages academic discipline, and builds a stronger sense of belonging. Readers are encouraged to explore the rich offerings of Boston University and to stay informed about upcoming campus events that further intellectual growth and community engagement within the dynamic landscape of Boston MA college news and Massachusetts higher education.

Keywords: Boston University, Boston MA college news, Massachusetts higher education, Student academic engagement, BU Common Read.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BU Common Read program?

The BU Common Read program is a new initiative by Boston University that encourages all first-year and new transfer students to read a designated book to foster a shared intellectual experience and community.

Which book has been selected for the inaugural BU Common Read?

The inaugural book for the BU Common Read is “Orbital” by Samantha Harvey, which was shortlisted for the Booker Prize 2024.

When are the BU Libraries Common Read events?

The BU Libraries are hosting “Orbital”-themed events on February 19, from 7-8 pm, and March 5, from 7-8 pm.

Which BU Libraries are involved in hosting the events?

The events are being held in collaboration with the African Studies Library, the Astronomy Library, and the Frederick S. Pardee Management Library.

Who is encouraged to participate in the Common Read program?

All first-year and new transfer students are encouraged to participate in the BU Common Read program, and the invitation extends to faculty and other university community members.

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