New students, we extend sincere congratulations to you on your admittance as a student to Albion College. Parents, we are pleased that your son or daughter has been accepted to our institution. We welcome all of you—new students, parents, and families—to the Albion College community. The quality of the College’s academic program, out-of-class experiences, and faculty and staff promises exciting educational and personal opportunities for all students.

At Albion, you will have the opportunity to participate in one of the finest First-Year Experiences (FYE) in the country. The first component of the FYE is the Student Orientation, Advising, and Registration program (SOAR). During SOAR, you will gain a better understanding of Albion’s academic program as you will meet with members of the faculty and administrative staff, plan your fall course of study, and register for classes. Participation in one SOAR session is required of all new students prior to beginning the fall semester.

In conjunction with SOAR, we offer a specially designed program to familiarize parents and families with the College and its many academic and co-curricular programs. We extend this invitation to parents and family members to attend the SOAR program with your daughter or son. We are aware that not all parents will be able to attend due to other commitments. The SOAR for Parents program is completely optional for all parent and family members.

There are five SOAR sessions offered and have a maximum occupancy of 150 incoming students. New students will be assigned to small groups advised by a faculty member. The professor will work closely with new students while they become oriented to Albion College and its curriculum.

Once again the faculty, staff, and students join me in welcoming you to the Albion community. We look forward to meeting you personally at one of the SOAR sessions this year.

Sincerely,

Sally J. Walker
Vice President for Student Affairs and
Dean of Students