SOAR: Student Orientation, Advising and Registration

Access My Portal in order to verify your student information is accurate and up-to-date. This is also where you will locate your student ID number and university email. 

Many advisors set up meetings with their students prior to SOAR in order to discuss what classes to register for during orientation. Make sure you are checking your email in order to meet with your advisor and ask any questions!

Placement tests are critical in ensuring you are registered for the appropriate level coursework during your first year, helping you save time and credits. It also gives you the most flexibility in scheduling your courses by knowing which classes are necessary for your first semester. Placement tests can be taken at home at a time that is convenient for you.

Make sure to complete placement tests at least two weeks prior to your SOAR session.

On the Friday of your SOAR session, you will register with the assistance of your college administrators and student orientation leaders. They will be able to answer questions on which classes to register for and how to navigate My Portal. 

Before coming on campus, please make sure that your FAFSA has been submitted. Financial Aid team members will be available on Thursday and Friday of your SOAR session to discuss any questions or concerns one-on-one. Walk-ins are welcome.

To ensure all students have full access to all aspects of their education, our Student Accessibility Services Office facilitates accommodations and advocates for students with varying abilities. If you need to request accommodations, please contact Student Accessibility Services in advance of your SOAR session so we can ensure accommodation needs are met for your orientation experience.

SOAR includes an overnight experience in our residence halls. For students staying on campus, a list of suggested items are below:

• Sleeping bag/bedding and pillow for your bed
• Towel, toiletries and shower shoes
• Casual, comfortable attire. We will be spending time outside and around campus, so bring attire and shoes that are comfortable for the whole day!
• Small fan

All students will need to have their student ID number and access to their My Portal log in credentials in order to register for classes.

The agenda for SOAR will be posted online in May. 

You will enter campus through the West McNichols Road entrance. When you arrive on campus, please park in Lot D. Registration begins at 8 a.m. in the Student Union, First Floor, Fountain Lounge. Orientation leaders will be around campus to help direct you and a campus map can be found here.

The program begins at 9 a.m. in the Student Union, Second Floor, Ballroom.

Brunch will be available throughout the registration period, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Students must meet in the Student Union, Second Floor, Ballroom by 9:15 a.m. to check in and be placed into groups for registration. 

Friends and family members are welcome to join us in the Student Union, First Floor, Fountain Lounge during the registration process. Only students are allowed to attend registration areas and will meet back in the Fountain Lounge when they are done.