By Mia McCauley, Student Affairs Intern
The Student Orientation, Advising, and Registration (SOAR) program at UW–Madison serves as the backbone for assisting students in their transition to campus. This year, SOAR has already welcomed more than 7,000 new Badgers to campus, with nearly 1,500 still expected in the final weeks.
A two-day program, SOAR offers a combination of information sessions, peer bonding opportunities, and a chance for students to explore key campus facilities, like the new state-of-the-art Bakke Recreation Center, in addition to meeting with an academic advisor and registering for courses.
SOAR Orientation Coordinator Cassie Fencl, describes the SOAR experience as lively, informational, and encouraging. “SOAR is the starting point in a student’s transition to UW-Madison,” said Fencl. “They learn about campus resources, meet other new students, hear from current students about their experiences, and enroll in their first semester courses.”
A central theme woven throughout SOAR is belonging. Dean of Students Christina Olstad and Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Fernie Rodriguez highlight this in their session, encouraging students to find their communities and engage fully with campus life. SOAR also introduces key support services, including the Multicultural Student Center, Mental Health Services through University Health Services, and basic needs and food access support.
“The transition to college life does not happen in one day,” said Fencl. “SOAR serves as the opportunity for students to learn, feel seen, supported, and ultimately ease into this new community, together.”
As SOAR winds down in mid-August, the excitement continues with Wisconsin Welcome, running August 25-October 5. Featured events include The W Project and New Student Convocation. The Wisconsin Welcome call for events remains open until August 11. For more information, visit the Wisconsin Welcome website or contact Brad Lanza, coordinator of welcome programs.
