Our
View
Viewing the SOAR program from a student
perspective
The fall semester at Cal State Long Beach
is around the corner bringing incoming freshman
and transfer students.
To welcome these students the university
offers the Summer Orientation Advising and
Registration workshops.
The SOAR program is available to incoming
students who wish to participate at a cost
of $50 for students. Students
who have special circumstances may apply
for a waiver by sending a written request;
if approved they are offered a
partial waiver.
SOAR offers a variety of different sessions,
which may include an overnight stay and
a college specific day.
Students generally are able to register
for classes, are advised on their majors
and oriented as to what services are
available. In addition, the program offers
SOAR II in which students are offered an
extensive tour of the campus,
information as to how to get involved in
various organizations and what services
are available to them through a
collaborate effort between various departments.
Continuing students should encourage the
participation of friends and family members
in this program as the
benefits in participating are well worth
the money. Katie Tincher, an incoming recreational
and leisure studies major
said she found it very helpful in understanding
the CSULB course catalog and requirements.
"I found it very helpful in understanding
how important the general education, upper
division, word proficiency exam
requirements," said Christie McGonagle,
incoming public relations major.
A few things to keep in mind is that while
students are able to register and get their
printouts for their classes during
the program, classes are not specifically
reserved for SOAR students. Also, a lengthy
national survey is administered
during the orientation process, which some
may find time consuming. However, Kenneth
Kelly, director of Star
SOAR program states "the survey gives
an overview of students to serve students
better serve their needs. The
information is beneficial in helping the
university understand what they are about."
While these facts may deter some students
from participating in the programs when
coming in, students may find
that going through SOAR will help them ease
their way into their college life at CSULB.
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