SOAR Week FAQs

1. What is SOAR?

Student Orientation, Advising, and Registration (SOAR) supports Dillard’s mission of cultivating leaders who live ethically, think and communicate precisely, and act courageously to make the world a better place.
SOAR is designed to introduce new and returning (first time, transfer, and readmits) students to the academic and co-curricular services and programs vital to their successful transition into the Dillard community. Over the SOAR experience, students will be introduced to key services and opportunities available to them as well as meet influential members of the Dillard community that can assist in confirming their college choice and help students to begin forging a connection to the university.

2. How long does SOAR last?

SOAR will take place from August 9th through the 13th. There are many events taking place throughout the week that will be both fun and informative so expect to budget your time accordingly to take full advantage of all that SOAR week has to offer.

3. Am I required to attend everyday?

Yes. Participation is mandatory.

4. What if I cannot attend an orientation session?

All new and returning (first time, transfer, and readmits) students are required to attend. If there is an emergency that delays your arrival, you will need to inform University College.

5. What time do orientation sessions start?

Breakfast will begin at 8am every morning. Sessions will typically begin at 9am every morning.

6. How do I sign up for SOAR?

As an incoming student, you are automatically signed up for SOAR week.

7. I am a transfer student, do I need to attend SOAR week?

SOAR is required for all students new to Dillard so that means transfer students as well. We will host a few different events strictly for our transfer students to connect with each other and learn about all that Dillard University has to offer transfer students.

8. I am a commuter student, am I able to stay on campus during SOAR week?

You will not be able to move on campus during SOAR week. But we do want to highlight that we will have sessions specifically designed for commuter students! We want to meet you and find out how we can support you!

9. I am a parent; do I need to stay for the entirety of SOAR week?

No. Parents and family members are welcome to assist with move in on Wednesday August 9th. Our official programming for parents and new students will begin at 9am on Thursday August 10th. The parent portion of orientation will conclude on Thursday August 10th by 5:30pm.

10. When do I get my schedule?

Once you have paid your deposit, University College will send you an email with the registration wish list. When you complete the registration wish list, your schedule will be created and you will receive an email from your advisor with instructions on how to view your schedule.

11. I took AP/IB/CLEP/Dual Enrollment courses in high school. Why aren’t they reflected on my transcript?

You must send your official scores/ college transcript to the Admissions Office at admissions@dillard.edu (even if they are reflected on your high school transcript).

Bonus! Don’t forget to bring some business casual attire with you especially if you are registered for University Convocation. You must be dressed in business casual attire to attend this course. Please note, strapless dresses, spaghetti strap dresses/shirts, crop tops, any type of see through shirts or dresses, shorts, leggings, jeans, mini skirts, t-shirts, hoodies, sneakers, gladiator sandals, or slides/slippers do not meet the business casual requirement so please plan accordingly.