First Year Students
Freshman Orientation
Freshman orientation is designed to continue to introduce you to the Detroit Mercy community and provide you with the information and experiences you will need to be successful in college. The program consists of two parts (SOAR and PTV) and is required for incoming freshmen during their transitory summer.
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SOAR 🔥
Student Orientation, Advising and Registration (SOAR) is Part I of our freshman orientation program. This two-day, overnight event is designed to give you the opportunity to become more familiar with collegiate life at Detroit Mercy by meeting other new students, touring university facilities, learning about available resources and registering for classes.
PLACEMENT TESTS 🔥
Before registering for the fall semester, you will need to meet with your academic advisor, who will help you choose your classes. Your placement test results will be used to help place you in appropriate-level English, math, chemistry and foreign language classes. Placement tests need to be completed at least two weeks before attending SOAR and meeting with your academic advisor.
ACADEMIC ADVISING
Academic advising is a collaborative effort to track your progress toward your educational and career goals. You will need to consult with and obtain the approval of your academic advisor when scheduling classes, changing classes and contemplating curriculum changes. As a new freshman, you will meet your academic advisor just before or during your SOAR session.
UNDERGRADUATE CATALOG
The undergraduate catalog is the document of authority for students. It contains important information about courses, majors, minors, policies and procedures. You are required to follow the catalog exhibiting the year you begin classes.
PARENT ORIENTATION
Parent Orientation is a one-day program. Guests will meet deans, faculty and support personnel to learn about the campus resources available to help their students achieve success. Parents can choose to attend one of the sessions offered during June and July.
MOVE-IN 🔥
August 18, 2025
If you are interested in living on campus, you will need to submit a Residence Hall Application. Have your My Portal log in credentials (sent to you via email) available to access the application; contact Admissions if you need assistance in retrieving this information. Students living on campus will receive their room assignment along with information about the move-in process during the summer.
PTV
August 18 - 22, 2025
Prologues, Transitions and Viewpoints (PTV) is Part II of freshman orientation. This three-day program is comprised of meeting faculty, connecting with current students and immersing yourself in the culture and history of Detroit. It takes place the week before the fall semester begins.
NEW BEGINNINGS RETREAT
August 17 - 18, 2025
The New Beginnings Retreat is an opportunity to meet new people, forge relationships and reflect on your spirituality and faith in college life. Focused around the theme of transition, you'll hear stories from upperclassmen, engage with peers in small group discussions, reflect on hopes and expectations and have plenty of time for rest and recreation.
This retreat will take place prior to move-in day. Students living on campus who register for the retreat will be able ot move in early in order to participate.
