Join Us in Exploring New Haven Through Service and Reflection

Welcome to FOCUS on New Haven!

Dear first-years, sophomores, transfer students, and Eli Whitney students,

FOCUS on New Haven is an exciting pre‑orientation program organized by Dwight Hall for first-year, sophomore, transfer, and Eli Whitney students. This immersive experience offers a deep dive into community engagement, social justice, and activism through service, exploration, and reflection.Dear first-years, sophomores, transfer students, and Eli Whitney students,

What is FOCUS?

FOCUS is a four-day program that allows you to engage directly with New Haven, its communities, and its diverse neighborhoods. You’ll spend your time volunteering with local nonprofits, meeting change-makers, and exploring the relationship between Yale and New Haven through meaningful discussions on social justice and systems of oppression.

The program is designed to help you:

  • Serve the community by volunteering at local nonprofits.

  • Meet and learn from local leaders who are making a difference.

  • Explore New Haven through its neighborhoods, restaurants, and cultural gems.

  • Form lasting friendships within your FOCUS family, a small group led by upperclass mentors who will guide you through the experience.

What You’ll Experience

  • Community Service: Volunteer with New Haven organizations focusing on education, food security, housing, and more.

  • Cultural Exploration: Visit neighborhoods, try local food, and learn about the city’s rich history.

  • Reflection and Learning: Participate in thoughtful discussions on activism, systemic inequality, and the role of Yale in the broader community.

  • FOCUS Families: Form close bonds with a group of peers, supported by upperclass mentors throughout the program.

Why Participate?

  • Engage with New Haven’s community in a meaningful way beyond the Yale campus.

  • Build a strong network of peers and mentors to support you through your college experience.

  • Challenge yourself with critical thinking around social justice, activism, and community involvement.

  • Immerse yourself in the city’s culture while making an impact on the local community.

Join Us!

We’re excited to welcome you home in August! In the meantime, check out our memories and updates on Instagram (@FOCUSonNewHaven) and explore our website for more details. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at focus@dwighthall.org.

We can’t wait to meet you and start this journey together!

Best, 

Ishnan, Shriya, Allie

FOCUS 2025 Co-Directors