Some experiences influence how students begin college. Others define how they remember it.
At Missouri State University, the Student Orientation, Advisement and Registration (SOAR) program does both. It helps new students navigate campus, connect with advisors, build class schedules and get a clear sense of college life.
What makes the SOAR program stand out is the students leading it.
“SOAR leaders play a key role in helping our new students transition throughout their entire SOAR session,” said Maggie McGowen, coordinator of new student orientation. “They support advising, answer questions and create an environment where students feel comfortable from the start.”
From experience to leadership
Junior biomedical sciences major Kaylee Williams draws on her own experience navigating SOAR for the first time in her role as a SOAR leader.
“I’m a first-generation college student, so coming through SOAR was a very intimidating experience for me,” Williams said.
That moment shaped how she approaches leadership today. After serving as a McQueary College of Health and Human Services (MCHHS) SOAR leader last year, she returns this summer as part of the College of Natural and Applied Sciences (CNAS) team, bringing both experience and perspective.
“I wanted to welcome students who might be feeling overwhelmed,” she said.
Her approach is simple and intentional, centered on connection.
“Students are more likely to open up when they feel like they’re talking to a friend,” she said.
That connection helps students ask questions, build confidence and begin their college journey with clarity.
Stronger support through collaboration
This summer, MCHHS and CNAS will be collaboratively delivering their academic SOAR programming, in an effort to enhance the student experience. Bringing these two colleges together will give the affiliated SOAR leaders an opportunity to learn more about two academic colleges, professionally connect with more staff and faculty and work with a more diverse group of majors.
The idea to collaborate grew from a SOAR practice piloted last summer that allowed undecided students exploring professional health-related pathways to be directed to academic colleges. The goal of the collaboration is to create an experience that helps students better understand the academic contributions each of the two participating colleges present while also encouraging exploration without pressure.
“All of the affiliated SOAR leaders between both colleges will focus upon creating positive experiences that emphasize openness to all the academic opportunities available to them,” said Hillary Mayes, director of MCHHS Student Success and Advisement Center.
SOAR students will participate in shared academic sessions across both colleges. They will hear from multiple advisors, learn about different academic options, and connect with a broader group of peers. This approach will create consistency in information while giving students more flexibility to explore their interests. It also strengthens the sense of community early in the students’ college experience.
2026 MCHHS SOAR leaders
This year’s MCHHS SOAR leaders are committed to supporting new Bears through the transition to Missouri State. They serve as guides, mentors and trusted voices.
Group 10
Adam Medlar and Faith Barkefelt
Group 11
Oliver Kempker and Sonora Haake
Group 12
Fabian Solano and Kenzie Jasnoch
Group 13
Hannah Helton and I’ron Bell
Group 14
Addison Pollard and Lauren Riddle
