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What is Start with the Arts?

Start with the Arts is an exciting visual and performing arts-based program for incoming freshmen at Sacred Heart University. A select group of students will embark on a week of exposure to and experience in the arts—on the Sacred Heart campus, in the surrounding community, and throughout the extensive artistic resource of New York City.

What will Start with the Arts participants do?

Students selected for the Start with the Arts program will have the opportunity to explore arts programs on the SHU campus, as well as  work closely with local theater professionals, learning to create interactive plays and perform those plays at a local elementary school.  Examples of other possible activities include visiting a TV studio, learning stage combat and comedy improvisation, song and dance training and portrait sketching.  In addition, a trip into New York City is planned that will give students an opportunity to see the performing arts up-close in the Big Apple—attending a show on Broadway and participating in a behind-the-scenes workshop with a Broadway professional.  Due to the nature of the program, exact activities can vary.

When does Start with the Arts take place?

Start with the Arts will take place during the week before “Welcome Days”.  Participants will move into the residence halls on the afternoon of Sunday, August 24, and will be introduced to each other and the staff during a dinner that evening. Activities begin the following morning, August 25, and the program concludes on Saturday, August 30.                                                   

Who facilitates the program?

The Start with the Arts staff is composed of all 5 professional Mentors in the Student Mentor Office, as well as two Start with the Arts Student Leaders, SHU upperclassmen with past experience in the program.  Theater-related sessions will be facilitated by local actors and theater professionals, art sessions by local artists, and other workshops by Sacred Heart staff and faculty.

How much does this program cost?

Start with the Arts is subsidized by the Mentor Office and the department of Student Affairs, and is able to be offered for only $50* per participant.

Who is eligible for this program?

The Start with the Arts program is open only to incoming freshmen. During Orientation, all freshmen will receive a brochure and application. It is important to note that prior experience in the performing arts is NOT a requirement for acceptance into the program. Although there is a selection process due to size restrictions, all students demonstrating a willingness to participate and learn will be considered.

What will I gain from this experience?

Upon completion of the Start with the Arts program, each participant will have gained a better sense of self through cooperating with fellow freshmen in the creative process. Students will also gain an appreciation for the arts and its impact on human development within the greater community.

 

If you want to see a glimpse of the students' experience from last year, you can view this video.  It includes the students' vocals from the behind-the-scenes workshop in which they participated.

 

View the Start with the Arts Brochure here:

 

*If cost is prohibitive, please contact Dr. Wherley in the Mentor Office with any questions.