student affairs : orientation

Student life at MECA begins with New Student Orientation, which offers a preview of college life and makes for a smooth transition into the MECA community. Activities include explorations of Portland, hands-on artmaking and volunteering on a community service project.

First Year Seminar

This is a required, non-credit pass/fail course for all new first-time students that meets weekly during the fall semester. This seminar functions as an extended orientation program and is designed to aid in the transition to college and strengthen study strategies, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and time-management skills.

The Service Project
The Service Project is the culmination of the First Year Seminar. In the second semester, interested students help create and implement a community service project with the Peer Mentors, the Coordinator of Creative Community Partnerships, and a local artist. In 2004, , students revitalized the neighborhood playground, located at the YWCA. Students created a project titled "Building Relationships" an art installation at the Portland Public Market in 2003; and "The Gift Exchange" at Monument Square in 2002. In 2001, students worked with juvenile inmates on a garden project at the Maine Youth Center; and in 2000, students created a 'Living Tapestry' with families at the Center for Grieving Children. The Service Project is another example of the College's commitment to service learning, and is one of the most exciting projects of the First Year Seminar.