For many incoming first-year students, SOAR 2017 will be the moment where it becomes ‘real’. They have accepted their offer to attend Queen’s University and now it is their chance to visit campus and learn a lot more about what their life will be like come September.

This year, the Summer Orientation to Academics and Resources (SOAR) program will run from July 6 to July 9, and again on July 14 and 15. Hundreds of new students and their families and supporters are expected to visit Queen’s to take part in the one-day orientation program.

“SOAR is about helping our incoming students and their family members better understand and prepare for new academic expectations, and learn about our resources and services, to maximize their academic and personal success,” says Vice-Provost and Dean of Student Affairs Ann Tierney. “The program aims to answer their questions and concerns and help ease their transition to their new life at Queen’s.”

As part of the program, students and families will hear from professors and their faculties or schools about academic expectations and structures. Arts and Science students will also be able to consult with academic advisors about course selection. All participants will receive tips about writing and learning strategies, and how to manage common student transition issues. They will also meet upper-year students, and tour a residence room. Staff and current students will talk about the university’s initiatives related to inclusion, safety, consent, self-care, healthy choices, behavioural expectations, and student well-being.

New this year is the opportunity for incoming students to participate in one-on-one wellness consultations. These meetings, with Student Wellness Services staff, are designed to equip students to maintain their physical, emotional, mental, and overall wellbeing during their studies. They will take place during the lunchtime resource fair, alongside meetings for those with accessibility-related accommodation needs and the opportunity to meet with campus chefs to talk about food allergies and dietary restrictions.

“SOAR is a perfect way for new students to get their questions answered, meet peers, and get the advice they need to set themselves up for a great first year” says Ellen Seyers, a fourth-year history and concurrent education student who is working this summer with the Student Experience Office as the SOAR Student Coordinator. “I loved being able to interact with upper-year students when I attended SOAR as an incoming student; I left at the end of the day feeling prepared and excited for September.”

Registration for SOAR is filling up! Students and families are encouraged to visit the Student Experience Office website and pick one of your faculty/school days, sign up and get ready to SOAR!