Frequently Asked Questions About Serving as a SOAR Leader

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

1. Attend a SOAR Leader Information Session – dates and details will be announced once the campus re-opens..
2. Complete the online application – Only applicants who attend a SOAR Leader Information Session will have access to the online application. Candidates must fully complete the application by TB0.
3. Online Personal References – In addition to submitting the online application, applicants must submit two (2) personal references, of which at least one must be from a current University staff or faculty member. See application for details and directions. The deadline for references is TBD0.
4. SOAR Leader Experiential – Upon successful submission of the online application and two personal references, those selected to continue in the process will be invited to attend the SOAR Leader Experiential which is an interactive, team-building activity. Two dates will be offered, but applicants are required to attend only one SOAR Leader Experiential.
5. Group Interview – After completing the SOAR Leader Experiential, candidates will sign up for a one-hour, group interview with the SOAR staff.
6. Selection Announcement – applicants will be notified of their application status by TBD0.

1. Applicants must have a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA (Undergrad) or 3.25 cumulative GPA(Grad)
2. Applicants must be a current Long Beach State undergraduate or graduate student. (Special consideration may be given to graduating seniors and candidates applying to a University graduate program for the upcoming fall semester.)
3. Must attend a SOAR Leader Information Session during the current academic year
4. Must be in good academic and disciplinary standing at the University
5. Must be flexible, adaptable, enthusiastic and motivated
6. Must be able to work with a culturally diverse campus community
7. Must display effective communication and interpersonal skills

The Online SOAR Leader Application is due by TBD, while both Online Personal References are due by TBD.

A completed application is a packet that includes:

1. A clearly written and complete Personal Information section (Part I).
2. Well thought out and thorough responses to the questions posed in the Short Answer Responses (Part II). The assignment should not exceed two pages. Responses showing lack of effort or thought will be disqualified.
3. Two, completed Online Personal References. At least one reference must be from a University faculty or staff member. Other acceptable references may be current or former employers or other professionals who know your abilities, potential, and or work ethic. References from friends, other University undergraduates, and/or family members will not be accepted.

Upon successful submission of the Online SOAR Leader Application, applicants will receive a message with directions and a link to the Online Personal Reference Form. Applicants should copy and paste the included message, as well as provide their references with their name and Beach ID number (campus ID number). It is suggested that you ask for your references several weeks in advance. All references are due by TBD0.

SOAR Leaders participate in intensive and thorough training of approximately 100 hours. New SOAR Leaders are required to attend SOAR Leader Pre-Training sessions that provide a solid foundation which transitions into the summer training program. The SOAR Team participates in a 2 day retreat designed to build a sense of community. Some of the topics training covers include department and General Education advising, campus history and traditions, faculty expectations, public speaking and leadership skills, classroom management, etc.

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.

SOAR Leaders are compensated by a predetermined hourly wage. The pay range starts at minimum wage.

SOAR Leaders work primarily in the summer, but do have responsibilities throughout the academic year. SOAR Leaders will be paid for the work supporting Classroom Tours and Lifeguard Stations along with hosting Social Hours. Additionally, SOAR Leaders are asked to volunteer their time as support staff for a wide range of University programs such as Week of Welcome and Spring Break Kick-Off. SOAR Leaders hired will be required to work winter workshops as well.

Should you have further questions about the selection process or about the position, please contact SOAR by emailing soar@csulb.edu.