SOAR
We will Begin Accepting SOAR 2012 Applications on 2/6/12!!!! See the SOAR Information Packet for more information.
The SOAR (Sophomore Outdoor Adventure Reorientation) program is an experiential based 3-credit course designed for students who have just finished their freshman years. Leaving for Utah the day after finals, this course will allow students to de-stress and reflect on their freshman year. Course activities and discussions will help students learn about themselves (including personal strengths and values), increase optimism, and develop leadership and healthy living skills. Students will also learn how to anticipate and prepare for challenges specific to the sophomore year. Forming lasting friendships with other students and faculty is an important byproduct of the two-week adventure trip.
The 15-day summer adventure involves a camping and canoeing trip to the Rocky Mountains and the Desert Southwest. Students will then reunite in the fall semester for four classroom meetings, focusing on trip reflections, strategies for making a successful adjustment to the sophomore year, exploring careers of interest, and making connections with WVU faculty and staff that will aid students throughout their remaining college years.
Mission
The SOAR program was developed to ease the transition from freshman to sophomore years, teach leadership and healthy living skills, facilitate self-growth, stimulate environmental awareness, foster social connections, and promote holistic student wellness and success.
Goals
- Ease transition to the sophomore year
- Create a safe and exciting environment that students find challenging and fun
- Provide opportunities for leadership and teamwork
- Enhance interpersonal skills such as trust, communication, conflict resolution, and cooperation
- Facilitate increased self-awareness, confidence, optimism, happiness, resilience, goal-directedness, and congruence with personal values
- Develop wilderness skills
- Improve student retention
For More Information:
Ian Kellems – SOAR Lead Instructor
Carruth Center 304-293-4431 ian.kellems@mail.wvu.edu
To see photo’s from previous years click here
