SOAR Leader FAQs

Explore our SOAR Leader FAQs to learn more about this student-leader position.  Still have questions?  Email us at soar@csulb.edu or DM us on Instagram @lbsoar.

 

There are several steps to the selection process that include the following:

  1. Attend a SOAR Leader Information Session – Visit the SOAR Leader Information Session (Info Session link available October 24 through February 15) survey to view all upcoming session dates, and then reserve your specific info session date and time. 
  2. Complete the SOAR Leader Online Application – Only applicants who attend a SOAR Leader Information Session will have access to the online application. Applicants must complete and submit their application by 5:00pm on Monday, February 24.
  3. Notification of Application Status – After submitting your online application, it will be reviewed and evaluated by a team of current SOAR Leaders and staff.  Those who meet the SOAR Leader Qualifications and receive a passing score on the essay component will be invited to attend the SOAR Leader Experiential.
  4. SOAR Leader Experiential – This in-person and interactive event allows you to showcase your communication style, as well as your problem-solving and team building skills.  It also helps us get to know you and determine your potential as a member of the SOAR Team.
  5. Group Interview – After completing the SOAR Leader Experiential, applicants will sign up for a one-hour, group interview with the SOAR staff.
  6. Selection Announcement – Finally, applicants will be notified of their application status by early April.

Applicants must…

  1. Have a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA (undergraduate) or 3.25 cumulative GPA(graduate)
  2. Be a current Long Beach State undergraduate or graduate student (exceptions are considered for graduating students)
  3. Attend a SOAR Leader Information Session during the current academic year
  4. Be in good academic and disciplinary standing at the University
  5. Be flexible, adaptable, enthusiastic and motivated
  6. Be able to work with a culturally diverse campus community
  7. Display effective communication and interpersonal skills
  8. Support newly admitted students as they begin their transition to the university
  9. Serve as a positive role model for first-semester students
  10. Uphold the mission and goals of the University, Division of Student Affairs, and New Student & Family Program
  11. Champion the university’s commitment to Inclusive Excellence along with diversity, equity and inclusion

The SOAR Leader Application is due by 5:00pm on Monday, February 24. 

Students gain access to the online application after attending the required SOAR Leader Informational Session.

SOAR Leaders participate in an intensive and thorough training that prepares them to lead interactive workshops, educate on policies and protocol, foster a sense of belonging, and serve as a university ambassador.  All staff members are required to attend the SOAR Staff Pre-Training sessions, SOAR Leader Retreat, and SOAR Leader Training.

Students who are spring graduates can work the full summer up to the last day of summer classes. Students who are applying to graduate school can be hired under the condition that they are admitted to a graduate program for the following fall semester.

Compensation for first-time SOAR Leaders is minimum wage.  SOAR Leaders, like all student employees, receive their monthly pay on the 15th day of the following month after their start date.

SOAR Leaders work primarily during the summer and winter, but do have additional responsibilities during the fall and spring semesters.  These responsibilities include supporting student success programs like First-Year Beach Connections along with student-centered events such as Lifeguard Stations, Week of Welcome, Parent & Family Orientation, NSFP Pop-Ups, Mentorship Fair, Student Resource Fair, Majors & Minors Fair, Spring Break Kick-Off, etc.

One of the many benefits of serving in this role is creating stronger connections to the campus.  This includes working directly with academic advisors and administrators, being recommended for advanced student employment opportunities, discovering campus resources/services, and learning about University policies.

SOAR Leaders gain professional experience to hone essential Soft Skills such as...

  • Communication
  • Problem Solving
  • Teamwork
  • Adaptability
  • Multitasking
  • Strategic Thinking
  • Cultural Awareness

Please contact us by calling 562.985.5515, emailing soar@csulb.edu or DMing us on Instagram @lbsoar.