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(From left to right) John Corvinelli and his daughter Rachel, and Tina Milicevic and her mother Vera, proudly show off their new Queen’s umbrellas during this year’s SOAR activities. Rachel and Tina will begin their first year of studies at Queen’s in September.

Queen’s Summer Orientation to Academics and Resources (SOAR) is in full swing, with more than 1500 incoming students and their family members expected to visit campus.

The day-long sessions, organized by the Student Experience Office in the Division of Student Affairs, run from July 4 to July 15, and are intended to introduce students and their families to the many resources the university offers and to orient them to the campus before they arrive in September. There are specific days for Arts and Science, Engineering and Applied Science, Commerce and Nursing.

“We have been receiving very positive feedback from incoming students and their families,” says Ann Tierney, Vice-Provost and Dean of Student Affairs. “Students and their parents are pleased to have the opportunity to speak to faculty, staff and upper year students about the services and supports available to ensure students are well prepared for a successful transition to university life.”

Participants can receive academic advising and course selection guidance, as well as attend sessions on academic success, career paths, finances and registration. A faculty member speaks to the incoming class about what to expect in university classes, and a campus resource fair highlights the many services available to Queen’s students.

“Faculty members, student leaders and staff from across campus have been enthusiastic about getting involved in this program,” says Ms Tierney. “We appreciate their time, energy and expertise.”