Pre-Orientation

FaithWorks is a service-immersion program in Providence, R.I. for first-year students at Providence College.

FaithWorks enables new students to build community with their peers, serve vulnerable populations in Providence, and reflect on the significance of this work for their lives. The program is facilitated by a campus minister and student coordinators in collaboration with many faith-based organizations in the greater Providence area. FaithWorks seeks participants with a diversity of spiritual backgrounds and welcomes individuals of all religions or none.

Through direct service work and conversations in the community, FaithWorks allows participants to understand the city of Providence from the perspective of Catholic social service agencies and the underprivileged residents, groups, and neighborhoods those programs serve. In years past, FaithWorks participants had the opportunity to serve and learn at a wide variety of placements connected with the Church in Providence: St. Pius V Church and School, Mary’s House, My Brother’s Keeper, Providence Public Schools, Little Sisters of the Poor Nursing Home, Habitat for Humanity, and the R.I. Department of Corrections.

Group reflection is central to the FaithWorks program. Campus Ministry staff and student coordinators will facilitate conversations that ground the group’s service work in spiritual values and beliefs. FaithWorks also includes fun daytime and evening activities in the Providence area. It is a great opportunity to meet other students, learn more about PC, and delve into questions about faith and justice.

FRAME (Fostering Reflection Arts Meaningful Expression) is a multidisciplinary intro to the arts at Providence College and the city of Providence, bringing together students who are interested in the cultural arts, enthusiastic to share their interests, and eager to learn.  Incoming FRAME students will immerse themselves in social issues and meaningful expression through various art mediums and places throughout the Providence area.

Students will also be supported by upperclassmen PC students, who will serve as FRAME leaders throughout the program. By the end of the 4-day program, we hope that students will leave with a greater sense of belonging and inspiration to incorporate the arts and build upon our beloved community during their time at PC. We encourage incoming students of all majors and art levels and experience to join.

Rec Connect is designed to help incoming students build connections, explore recreational activities, and get familiar with campus life before the official start of the semester. It typically includes outdoor adventures, team-building exercises, and social events to promote wellness, leadership, and community engagement.

Transitions allows multicultural and first-generation students to preview the campus, network with key faculty​ and staff members, and meet fellow multicultural classmates and student leaders.

Urban Action is designed to increase students’ understanding of urban issues while also introducing them to the Providence community. Through UA, students spend three days volunteering at local sites in the city of Providence, and one day volunteering on campus helping fellow classmates move in. Students also explore neighborhoods in the city of Providence and take a trip to explore greater Rhode Island. Through dedication to service and reflection, they learn about and make a difference in their new community. This is also a great opportunity to meet other students and to learn more about Providence College.