First-Year Student Orientation (SOAR)

MARK YOUR CALENDARS AND SAVE THE DATE! 

FRESH START 2026 (MANDATORY) - FRIDAY, AUGUST 28TH 

We are so excited to see you again for the second phase of your Orientation Process: Fresh Start! 

Now that you have registered for courses and completed your SOAR program, you're ready for your official academic welcome to SVSU at Fresh Start.

At Fresh Start, you'll meet your faculty and fellow students in your major, learn more about your programs, and attend a Convocation Ceremony featuring addresses from President Grant! Soon after, we'll celebrate the start of the Academic Year and kick off Welcome Weekend Activities with an Ice Cream Social and Academic Resource Fair in the President's Courtyard. This year will bring brand new experiences and traditions you won't want to miss! 

Stay tuned for more 2026 Fresh Start details!

Your First-Year Advising appointment is the third and final phase of your Orientation Process at SVSU!

First-Year Advising Appointments are individual degree planning appointments to help you create a semester-by-semester plan from now until graduation. You'll meet one-on-one with a trained advisor who will provide helpful information and important reminders to assist you in preparing for your second year's course registration. These appointments will open in mid-late September every year.

Note: This appointment is required for all first-year students, and must be completed before March 1st. 

Undecided on a major? No problem! Our advisors are trained to help you make a plan, even if you don't know what major you want to pursue. They can help you narrow down your choices and give you course suggestions that will help you explore those programs! Visit our Undecided Student Resources for more information and explore our programs of study. 

Accessibility and Accommodations

If you believe you will need services to fully participate in orientation, please contact the Orientation Office by calling (989) 964-4070 or email orientation@svsu.edu.

• Large print
• Interpreting services
• Braille
• Extended time for placement testing
• Assistance filling out forms
• Assistance reading forms

For more information on accessibility services offered to students throughout the academic year, please see the Accessibility Resources and Accommodations page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is orientation necessary?

At SVSU, it is important that students become familiar with the campus, academic support services, and extracurricular opportunities. During orientation, students will schedule classes with academic advising support, be introduced to campus resources, and learn about the different ways to be involved in clubs and student organizations. SOAR also allows lasting friendships to be established as they will meet current and incoming students, staff, and faculty.

Is orientation mandatory?

Yes! SVSU requires all incoming students to attend their Orientation Programs to register for their first year of courses.

• First-year students coming to SVSU during the Fall semester must attend a SOAR program to register for their first year of courses.
• Transfer students, Non-Traditional First Year students, and First-Year students entering their degree program in the Winter semester are required to complete Express Orientation.

When will I receive information about SOAR?

After you have applied and been accepted to SVSU, you should receive an Admissions Packet. Included will be information on the SOAR program, as well as instructions on how to reserve your SOAR date. To make a reservation, following the steps outlined on the Next Steps page.

Will I get the SOAR orientation day I want?

Orientation days are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. Once the registration is received, a confirmation screen is displayed instantly, and confirmation materials with the assigned SOAR date will be mailed to the student.

Is there an orientation session for my parents?

Yes! We offer a concurrent Parent and Family Conference at SOAR. Your parents, family, and other support members will be able to get their own Orientation while you attend yours. 

Will I see my parents during SOAR?

Parents and guests will not be permitted to accompany their student(s) through the day’s activities. Lunches are scheduled separately due to capacity limitations. 

How many students attend each SOAR?

There are up to 120 students at each SOAR event.

What accommodations are made for those with special needs?

If you will need services to fully participate in orientation such as large print, interpreting services, braille, assistance filling out or reading forms, please email orientation@svsu.edu. SVSU is committed to providing equal access to all university services, programs, and activities. See information on policies, procedures, resources, and forms available to current students.

Who can I contact for further information?

If you have any questions, please email orientation@svsu.edu.