Orientation & Transition 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 five reasons I would encourage your student to apply to be a SOAR leader.

Building skills

As a SOAR leader, students strengthen useful and highly-marketable skills through practical, real-world application. These skills include:

• Group discussion and facilitation
• Public speaking
• Critical thinking
• Problem-solving
• Teamwork and collaboration

Earning perks

SOAR leaders earn several benefits for their service, including:

• Paid compensation (typically 40 hrs/week during summer months)
• Free on-campus housing during SOAR
• A free meal plan and Dining Dollar during SOAR
• Free BearWear

Campus departments often ask SOAR leaders to test new programs, provide feedback, or apply for other jobs or leadership positions. Being a SOAR leader has its rewards!

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 and provide professional references
• 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 or deeper 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 report taking advantage of resources they learn about during their training.

If your student is interested in becoming a SOAR leader, encourage them to visit MissouriState.edu/SOARleader to learn more and apply.

They can also attend our upcoming Zoom information sessions on:

• Monday, October 5 at 4 p.m.
• Monday, October 19 at 6 p.m.
• Thursday, October 22 at 4 p.m.

During these sessions, we’ll discuss leader’s duties, qualifications, and responsibilities. We’ll also provide tips for applying for the position.

Your student can also contact us with questions. We’re looking forward to meeting your student!