2009 SOAR Counselors
Back Row: Jared Aida, Mario Pereyra, Ryan Hubble, Lakia Holmes,
Mariah Garza, Joshua Guest, Paulina Bongay, Jared Garnica, Melissa Rehon
Front Row: Matthew Bjork, Grace Giuria, Helen Hitimana, Alise Garcia, Amanda Gonzalez
SOAR, or Summer of Academic Refinement, is a college-preparation program offered three times during the summer for qualified high school students of various talents and backgrounds, including geographic, educational, cultural, ethnic, and racial who are considering attending BYU. Peer Counselors will be chosen based upon the following criteria:
- Have completed 4 semesters at BYU by the end of winter semester 2010 OR be a return missionary or transfer student with BYU experience
- Have and maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA
- be a single BYU student
- Pursue achievement of the Aims of a BYU education
- Understand the significance of and observe the Honor Code
- Have prior experience with leadership, service, and/or involvement programs.
SOAR Schedule:
SOAR counselors will be expected to begin work on Monday, May 24, 2010, and to work through Thursday, July 22, 2010. Counselors are required to live in the residence halls Saturday, June 17th through Saturday, July 19th. Vacations or absences during this time will not be permissible due to the work load and expected responsibilities. Counselors MUST be available the following times:
| April 9 | 3:00pm - 6:00pm |
|---|---|
| May 24-June 18 (weekdays) | 3:00pm - 6:00pm |
| May 28-29 | Overnight retreat |
| June 19 | 8:00am - 5:00pm |
| June 21–July 3 | 24 hour/day (Sessions #1 & #2) |
| July 6-9 | 10:00am - 4:00pm |
| July 12-17 | 24 hour/day (Session #3) |
| July 19-22 | 10am - 4:00pm |
Necessary Availability:
Counselors will be compensated approximately $2,750 for the 10-week work period. Housing is provided June 17 to July 19. Meals are also included during this time.
Interested candidates must complete and submit an application with attached resume and letter of recommendation by Friday, February 19, 2010 to Multicultural Student Services (1320 WSC). Interviews will be conducted and candidates selected by March 15, 2010. A mandatory Orientation will be held on Friday, April 9, 2010, from 3:00 to 6:00 pm.
- Organizational, interpersonal, and problem solving skills
- Office skills: campus phone, computer competency, typing, filing, etc.
- Proficient computer skills: Word, Excel, PowerPoint
- Excellent listening, written and verbal communication skills
- Understanding of how the Honor Code affects campus life and character development
- Knowledge of the BYU campus
- Assist in the organization and conducting of SOAR activities
- Attend all SOAR training sessions before SOAR and all scheduled events during SOAR
- Guide SOAR students through the established curriculum
- Design educational experiences that complement the planned curriculum
- Meet and attend to all student participant needs
- Chaperone students during evening activities and in the residence halls
- Exemplify leadership and guidance
- Establish friendships with SOAR students
- Be a good example for BYU
- Help SOAR students deal with homesickness
- Provide a safe and appropriate environment
- Answer questions about BYU
- Discipline for inappropriate behavior
- Accept assignments from the Coordinator and Lead Counselors
- Plan and conduct specific SOAR events