JSRCC offers three ways for first-time students to receive academic advising
and register for classes:

1. New first-time college students for the Fall semester are invited to participate in SOAR (Student Orientation, Advising & Registration), an orientation program, or a Group Advising session.

2. Students entering for the Fall semester who miss out on SOAR or Group Advising sessions may complete Online SOAR.

3. Students entering for the Spring and Summer semesters may participate in a Group Advising session.  They are also encouraged to attend an on-campus orientation session or complete online orientation.

SOAR and Group Advising sessions are designed to assist students with the following:

• Learning about student success resources at the College
• Having placement test score results interpreted for accurate placement in courses
• Answering any questions related to academic programs or course requirements
• Establishing a sound class schedule for the upcoming term
• Becoming familiar with Blackboard and the JSRCC Student Information System
• Learning the location of campus resources (for SOAR participants only)
• Gaining a better understanding of JSRCC, college policies, and attendance

Why come to a SOAR or Group Advising Session?

Our research has shown that students who participate in SOAR or Group Advising before their first semester have higher first semester grade point averages, stay in college longer, and have an easier transition into college.

“Attending SOAR was a great idea. I feel a lot more comfortable about attending this fall.”
— First-Year Student
“I appreciate the informative SOAR session. This has really helped my son and I gain valuable insight to the college.” — Parent of a First-Year Student