PTV: Prologues, Transitions and Viewpoints

August 20 - 23, 2024

Prologues, Transitions and Viewpoints (PTV) is the final part of freshman orientation.

Prologues is a unique program focusing on academics and emphasizing interaction, integration and connection with faculty. You will be introduced to Detroit Mercy professors from various disciplines who will discuss academic success in college. Next, you will attend special sessions to hear from faculty in your specific major. The time spent alongside members of the University's faculty will help prepare you for the rigors of academic work.

Participation in Transitions will give you a good foundation to begin collegiate life by developing a personal identity and interpersonal relationships with current Detroit Mercy students and the campus community. You will participate in activities to create awareness of personal value and a sense of connectedness. We want our students to be successful, and this starts with a solid transition to college.

Viewpoints is an introduction to Detroit's remarkable social and cultural environments. The program will help you begin to understand the needs of the city and its residents, and ways you can develop the leadership skills necessary to address those needs. You will spend a few hours engaged in service learning at one of the several social service agencies in Detroit, such as Focus: HOPE, Crossroads, the Catholic Worker or Habitat for Humanity. Then, you will take a guided walking tour of Detroit's downtown area and its landmarks. You will learn how the city has begun a residential and commercial revitalization process that will take Detroit into the future.

Reservations are not necessary, as all freshmen will participate.

Tuesday, August 20

Families of incoming freshmen are invited to attend First-Year Convocation. This event formally marks the beginning of the college experience. The program features a student processional, introduction to key administrators and a keynote speaker. Dinner for all guests will be served following the ceremony. Reservations are not required.  Students should plan to dress casually.

First-Year Convocation Attire

Students may dress casually.

Service Project Attire

Students will live out the Detroit Mercy mission by spending a morning at a social service agency committed to doing positive things in Detroit. Since the service projects often involve gardening, clean-up work or even painting, students will need to wear clothes that can get dirty, along with gym shoes. Students may not wear open-toed shoes, sandals or flip-flops. Additionally, some of the sites do not allow tank tops, so please bring a shirt with sleeves.

Packing List for Commuters Staying in the Residence Halls

• Sleeping bag / bedding
• Pillow
• Towel
• Bathrobe (optional)
• Shower shoes / flip-flops
• Personal toiletries
• Casual attire (including service project clothes)
• Small fan