Welcome back to Learn with Livvie! It’s almost my favorite time of year, SOAR! If you didn’t know, SOAR stands for Student Orientation Advisement and Registration. It is one of the most important steps to being a student here at Missouri State University.

As someone who has gone through SOAR, been a SOAR Leader  and is now a Professional Staff member, I can say for certain that I love SOAR! I have had such an incredible time in this program, and it has been such a key part of my college career. Today, I am going to tell you some of the best ways I believe can make you prepared for SOAR. Heading off to college can be stressful and intimidating, but the purpose of SOAR is to help you feel more prepared for college.

Know What SOAR is 

What is SOAR at Missouri State University? SOAR is where you meet advisors, register for classes, work with our beloved SOAR leaders who are leading others within your specific major, learn about campus resources, and have FUN! Make sure you are registered for a SOAR session as soon as possible. If you have any issues, you can always call our office during business hours, 8:00am to 5:00pm at 417-836-7641. 

One of the most important things you’ll do at SOAR is, with the help of our SOAR leaders and advisors, register for classes! We help prepare you for everything and are with you every step of the way. As a student, I have seen firsthand how amazing our advising staff is. I have had an incredible experience and have been set up for success!  

As a student attending SOAR, you will also stay overnight in Hammons House to get the whole experience! This was really fun for me as a SOAR student. I recommend you bring anything you would bring to a sleepover, such as basic hygiene products, an extra change of clothes, any needed medication, a phone charger, driver’s license, anything you would feel you would need to stay overnight. Don’t forget, bring an umbrella!

You don’t have to bring sheets, a blanket, towels or a pillow (feel free to bring them if you want), those are provided.  The rooms get cold so you might want an extra blanket. 

Submit Your Housing Application 

Before you come to SOAR, it is important that you apply for housing! Unless you are planning on commuting and have submitted the required paperwork, all single students under the age of 21 who have completed fewer than 27 hours of transferable credit AFTER high school graduation are required to complete a housing contract before registering for classes. Also check and make sure your meningitis records are on file at Magers Health and Wellness Center!  

Deciding a Major 

Deciding your major can be tough if you don’t know what to pick. But we have options! You can always be an Undeclared major, meaning you will meet with our Academic Advisement and Transfer Center. You have the exact same experience at SOAR as any other group; you will just have opportunities to explore different paths. If you have a declared major, you will just be put into that group with that specific college.

Typically, most students that come into SOAR are taking General Education requirements, depending on the number of credits you bring in. The goal of these courses is to make you a well-rounded student, as well as explore different options outside of your major. If you are having any concerns declaring a major, we have incredible resources here to guide you in the right direction! 

You Are Not Alone 

This can be a stressful time for everyone. Leaving home even for just one night is often anxiety inducing a lot of students, especially since there is a lot to expect from this experience. Your feelings are NORMAL! And if you don’t feel nervous, but more excited, that’s okay too! I know I felt the anxiety and pressure of this new chapter. Take some extra deep breaths, get a good night’s rest before you come, and know that you will be taken care of.

You also do not have to have everything figured out in a day. SOAR leaders are also students, as well as Professional Staff. We are all here for one reason, to support you and help set you up for success here. It’s a huge accomplishment that you are here!  

 Thanks for reading, and if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office, as we are here to help you! Happy SOAR preparation!