SOAR Program

The six-week in-person summer term provides students with a unique opportunity to jumpstart their academic journey at UCF. During this term, students will enroll in two courses: one selected from the UCF General Education Program (GEP) and the other being SLS 1501, Strategies for Learning Success at UCF. The GEP course will be carefully chosen in collaboration with an Academic Success Coach, ensuring it aligns with each student’s intended major, providing them with a tailored academic experience from the start. The SLS 1501 course is designed to equip students with essential academic strategies, study skills, and personal development tools that will foster a strong foundation for long-term college success. Classes are held in-person Monday through Thursday on UCF’s main campus, offering students a structured and immersive learning environment. With mandatory attendance, students are encouraged to fully engage in the coursework, develop time management skills, and form valuable connections with their peers and instructors. This intensive summer term not only helps students earn academic credits before the fall semester but also provides them with the opportunity to acclimate to the campus and UCF’s academic culture, setting them on a path to thrive in their college experience.

Soar students are provided with t academic support designed to complement their coursework and enhance their overall learning experience. Soar students will attend weekly in-person academic support sessions which will play a pivotal role in helping students develop and reinforce essential learning strategies. These sessions are carefully structured to ensure students remain on track academically, while also providing them with tools to manage their workload effectively. Through a variety of targeted services, Soar creates an environment where students can build confidence in their academic abilities and continuously improve their performance. To meet the diverse needs of students, a range of support options is available, including Supplemental Instruction, Academic Coaching, and Writing Center Consultations. Each resource is designed to address specific learning challenges and provide personalized support. Supplemental Instruction offers peer-assisted study sessions, while Academic Coaching helps students set goals, manage their time, and stay motivated. Writing Center Consultations guide students through the process of improving their writing skills for assignments and projects. Together, these resources empower students to achieve academic excellence, fostering a deeper understanding of their coursework and contributing to their long-term academic success.

At the heart of the Soar program is our peer mentoring component, designed to support students as they navigate their first academic year at UCF. Each Soar student is paired with a dedicated peer mentor who provides personalized guidance and fosters a sense of belonging. Mentors meet with students both individually and in small group settings, offering insight on how to successfully navigate university life, manage academics, and overcome personal challenges. Through these connections, students gain valuable perspectives from peers who have walked in their shoes, helping them feel supported during this critical transition into college. In addition to one-on-one meetings, peer mentors facilitate regular communication with their mentees to ensure they stay connected and engaged throughout the year. Whether through scheduled meetings, group activities, or informal check-ins, mentors play a key role in creating a supportive community. By offering practical advice and encouragement, they empower students to build confidence and thrive both academically and personally. This structured mentorship fosters a sense of accountability and provides the tools necessary for long-term success at UCF.

Friday Fuel Ups are a unique part of the Soar experience, offering students a chance to recharge and connect while exploring the campus. On select Fridays during the summer B term, Soar students engage in in-person, interactive co-curricular activities specifically designed to introduce essential campus resources and services. These sessions go beyond simply providing information—they empower students to navigate university life with confidence and set the stage for long-term academic and personal success. Participants will not only learn about key resources but also have the opportunity to bond with peers, expand their networks, and create a supportive community within the Soar Program. Each Friday Fuel Up is structured to inspire and energize students as they embark on their academic journey. Details on scheduled Friday Fuel Ups will be shared during the Soar presentation at Orientation, ensuring that students are equipped to make the most of these enriching experiences.

The Student Success Conference is an essential and mandatory part of the Soar Success Program, designed specifically for incoming students, including both freshmen and new transfer students.

The UCF Student Success Conference provides an opportunity for students to gain valuable knowledge, network with peers, faculty, and industry professionals, and build connections that can support their growth and success at UCF. The conference fosters a sense of community and belonging by encouraging meaningful dialogue and collaboration among attendees. By attending the 2026 Student Success Conference, Soar students will not only develop a clearer understanding of how to achieve their goals but will also be empowered to take ownership of their academic success and future career paths.