Student Orientation Staff

2009 Student Orientation Staff

Coming to a new college campus can be a challenging experience. The Student Orientation Staff (SOS) program helps incoming freshmen students adapt to UCA. A staff of currently enrolled, volunteer student leaders are available to aid in welcoming you to UCA. SOS volunteers are here to support you in your orientation experience by giving tours, conducting workshops, and providing as much assistance as possible. Should you have questions about UCA, just look for the bright orange shirts which are worn by all SOS volunteers.

THE HISTORY OF SOS

The Student Orientation Staff (SOS) program began in the fall of 1979 under the leadership of Dr. Fred Rhodes, then Dean of Students. The students were selected from the Student Senate (later called the Student Government Association (SGA)) and Royal Rooters (later called the Bear Den) organizations.

The following year an orientation interview process was created and group leaders were established to serve as coordinators of an orientation committee. In 1987 the position of co-director was established. These two individuals were to guide the group leaders and work closely with the advisor to ensure the program’s success.

The first S.O.A.R. (Summer Orientation & Academic Registration) program was offered in 1992. To date the Office of Orientation offers five S.O.A.R. programs, one of which is designed specifically for the Honors College.

The premise behind the UCA orientation program is to establish and develop programming for students and the intent is to serve students in all capacities. Our goal is to inform new students, allow them the opportunity to feel a part of their new community and to help them feel good about their decision to attend UCA.