The Freshman Dialogue is intended to put incoming students in close contact with a faculty member even before classes begin, to unify the class around a common activity, and to introduce students to the rich intellectual and cultural life of the College, the University, and the City. Over the summer all first-year students read a text chosen to explore a particular theme; when they arrive in August they participate in small discussion groups led by well known NYU faculty members and then attend a theatrical performance related to the issues raised by the text.   Lectures, field trips, film series, and other events continue the Dialogue throughout the semester. The final, and perhaps most important experience, however, takes place in residence halls, corridors, and over coffee as College freshmen engage in a continuing and informal dialogue.  Over the past thirteen years, the Freshman Dialogue has examined a variety of themes.