University of Denver - Kynewisbok Yearbook (Denver, CO)

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SOAR A Mid-Summeris Experience Freshman students pulled themselves away from pool sides and summer jobs to let their fears and uncertainties melt into a relaxed, friendly atmosphere at SOAR tSum- mer Orientation and Registrationi. The main objective of the SOAR pro- gram was to get students acquainted with the campus, both academically and socially. SOAR participant Heather Earl pointed out the advan- tage of a summer program, iilf I had to come the first day of classes in- stead of before for the first time, it would have been a lot harder for me. To be introduced to the academic atmosphere of DU, students met with their academic advisors who answered any questions pertaining to their majors. A chance to discuss ma- jors was also offered at a luncheon where everyone from the same ma- jor was seated at the same table. The Chancellor offered his advice and welcomed students to play backgam- mon in his office if they needed someone to talk to. Meetings were held for those involved with the Honors Program or interested in registering for a foreign language. Finally, the staff administered piace- ment tests. much to the dismay of those who had lost their academic in- clinations over the summer. Heidi Sjordal agreed that taking tests isnit an enjoyable experience, but it does insure that she will be in the right class level. The highlights of SOAR were those activities that provided students with a glimpse of the college social life that awaited them. One such activity, itKaleidoscopef, of- fered students a chance to get involv- ed by visiting tables set up by dif- ferent student organizations. A slide show and questionwanswer period showed students what Greek life was all about. Finally, SOAR afforded students a chance to meet new friends through movies, a Hawaiian dance, and coffee house, an activity which included a song session and skits. During free time friendships deepened, as well as understandings of DU life. For example, at midnight the men's fifth floor discovered that stairwells echoed and calculated the speed of a beer poured but of a win- dow. On a Pizza Hut outing, Evan Fleishman from Kentucky was enlightened on such Colorado topics as ttNativet, bumperstickers, the Shangrila Motel and ttcruising west Colfax. Michael Gallegos

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a'- Graduate Cheryl Fallander stands in front of the imposing hand which greeted parents of graduates. Family and friends crowded the Arena Saturday. June 5 to see the 1982 graduates. all 1700 of them. receive their diplomas. Chancellor Ross Pritchard spoke briefly to the graduates and each one walked for ward to receive his or her diploma. Denver University is one of the few colleges in the nation that still awards its graduates diplomas individually at the commencement exercises. A reception followed on the GCB lawn, with refreshments and a small bandt This lacy hat was little protection from the sun

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photo courtesy of the Cllrlon Michael Gallegos The fun ended Friday after the in- famous registration. Although students hated to leave DU for the summer, they could look forward to the friends, freedom, and education that awaited them at fall. Dr. Debbie Rooks, director of the program, commented, ttl think that basically it was a real good program, we had a good turnout of 385 students and 175 parents total at both June and July SOARs and we had 100 percent registration? One student on the evaluation comments said, ttExcellent introduc- tion to DU, fantastic experience, I pi- ty anyone who didntt attend.