Nazareth University adds new S.O.A.R. program to prepare first-year students earlier for their college experience
Nazareth University’s S.O.A.R. (Student Orientation for Achievement and Readiness) program is a new experience for Nazareth’s first-year students and transfers, to prepare them earlier for what’s ahead in college. Each new student selects one of six S.O.A.R. sessions in July that blend community-building, academic guidance, and campus exploration into a one-day, high-energy orientation. One session is specifically for transfer students, and one on Zoom accommodates students unable to attend in person.
Historically, Nazareth has held all orientation in late August, when new students moved into residence halls.
S.O.A.R. is in addition to Fall Orientation for all new undergraduate students, Aug. 27-30. Most new residential students move in Aug. 27. The new approach of adding an orientation day earlier in the summer reflects Nazareth’s commitment to not only preparing college-ready students but also to being a student-ready institution that actively supports their confidence, sense of belonging, and success from the very beginning.
“The shift in our orientation model, including the addition of one-day S.O.A.R. sessions in July, was a deeply student-centered decision,” said Joseph Hitchcock, associate director, First Year Experience. “We know that the transition to college can bring both excitement and anxiety, so our goal is to meet students where they are and support them earlier in their journey. By offering these sessions, we’re creating opportunities for students to come to campus sooner, receive guidance on key tasks, explore campus resources, and begin building meaningful connections with peers, faculty, and staff.”
S.O.A.R. Session Dates
8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
- Thursday, July 9
- Tuesday, July 14
- Wednesday, July 15
- Thursday, July 16 (transfer students)
- Monday, July 20
- Wednesday, July 29 (virtual)
Contact
Julie Long | Chief PR Officer | jlong2@naz.edu | (585) 389-2456 | (585) 781-8186 (cell)
Nazareth University is an inclusive community of inspired learners, educators, and changemakers who for 100 years have been driven by a bold commitment to action, empathy, equity, and leading innovation for the common good. Impact experiences are at the heart of a Nazareth education, preparing each student to discover within themselves the potential to cultivate positive change in their life's work, in any career field, and in a world that is constantly evolving and infinitely interconnected.
Our broad academic offerings present a range of study options typical of larger universities, yet achieved in our supportive campus culture. Nearly 2,100 undergrad and 600 graduate students enroll in degree and certificate programs and engage in collaborative, transformative learning experiences, preparing for the professions and society of today and tomorrow. In a learning community that purposefully integrates liberal arts and professional programs, Nazareth University graduates are able to launch a lifetime of impactful leadership in communities and workplaces near and far.
