New Student and Family Programs is preparing for next summer’s SOAR sessions. (Yes, already!) A key to our success is selecting strong students to serve as orientation leaders. 
As a former orientation leader, I found the experience to be valuable and fulfilling. Here are six reasons I would encourage your student to apply to be a SOAR leader.
Building skills
SOAR leader training helps students build highly-demanded skills, such as
- Group discussion and facilitation
- Public speaking
- Critical thinking
- Teamwork
Better still, they sharpen these skills through practical, real-world application.
Earning perks
SOAR leaders earn several perks for their service, including:
- Wages (usually 40 hrs/week)
- On-campus summer housing
- A summer meal plan
- A SOAR uniform
Campus departments ask our students to test new programs, provide feedback, or apply for other jobs or leadership positions. Being a SOAR leader has its perks!
Building relationships
This position allows SOAR leaders to form bonds with:
- New students they mentor
- Fellow SOAR leaders, who often become lifelong friends
- Faculty and staff advisors, who often mentor them
- Other University administrators, including the University president!
Learning from others
The SOAR team is a diverse one, made of individuals with different majors, interests, and backgrounds. Students often find that listening to and working with their teammates provides them a new understanding of the Missouri State community.
Using campus resources
In learning how to help new students and families, SOAR leaders learn about Missouri State resources that will help them, too. Many SOAR leaders report taking advantage of resources they learn about during their training.
Representing the school your student loves
SOAR leaders represent Missouri State University and help welcome new members of our community. We rigorously select leaders to ensure they take this responsibility seriously. Selection to the team is an honor, and SOAR leaders are very proud of their role.
Please encourage your student to join us at our information sessions to learn more about becoming a SOAR leader:
- Tuesday, October 9 at 5:30 PM in Glass Hall 354
- Monday, October 22 at 6 PM in Glass Hall 354
- Tuesday, October 23 at 5:30 PM in Glass Hall 354
At this meeting, we will discuss leader’s duties, qualifications, and responsibilities. We will also provide tips for applying for the position.
Students can also visit our Become a SOAR Leader page or contact us for more information. Your student can apply to be a SOAR leader here.