Frequently Asked Questions

Congratulations on your admission to Alabama A&M University.  We know that you are looking forward to your first semester with great anticipation, and yet, with many questions.  BULLDOGS S.O.A.R., the University's Student Orientation And Registration (SOAR) program will provide useful information, fun activities and personalized assistance as you begin your transition to Alabama A&M University college life.

The 2011 BULLDOGS S.O.A.R. summer sessions will be your optimal opportunity to take the COMPASS placement Exam, get registered for he Fall 2011 semester, and receive your composite schedule (includes courses, times, locations and tuition and fees).

In anticipation of questions you may have, we have attempted to address some of those most frequently asked:

Is attendance or pre-registration required for BULLDOGS  S.O.A.R.?
Yes, SOAR is required and designed especially for all undergraduate first-year students, transfer students (fewer than 30 semester credit hours), and re-admitted students (where applicable). Participation in SOAR guarantees students receive priority registration for the fall semester.  In order to ensure proper facilitation of the program, students need to reserve their spots ahead of time by completing the SOAR registration form found on our website (Soar Application).

What are the dates of the BULLDOG S.O.A.R. sessions?
There are four sessions for students entering the University in the fall of 2011.
    Thursday and Friday, June 16-17
    Thursday and Friday, July 7-8
    Thursday and Friday, July 14-15
    Thursday and Friday, July 21-22

Note:    Every effort is made to accommodate students for their first choice SOAR session; however, the earlier orientations fill quickly.  Since space is limited, students are encouraged to reserve early.  SOAR dates fill on a first-come, first-served basis.  The SOAR session dates you select should not be considered confirmed until you have paid the $100.00 enrollment fee to the Office of Business and Finance, and have received a confirmation.  Be reminded that SOAR requires an overnight hotel stay and hotel reservations for you and any guest(s) should be made accordingly.  Remember, the earlier the SOAR session, the more options you will have in choosing your courses and the times they are offered.  If you discover you have selected a SOAR date that conflicts with other events, you can only select another SOAR date that has seats available.  Remember, SOAR dates are handled on a first-come, first-served basis.    

Is there a cost for BULLDOGS S.O.A.R.?
No!  Most of the costs for a SOAR session are covered through the university's $100.00 enrollment fee paid to the Office of Business and Finance; the on-campus housing fee is not.  This fee, $15.00, must be remitted via cashier's check or money order to the STUDENT ORIENTATION, BOX 93, NORMAL, AL 35762.  The quickest way to confirm your SOAR date is to pay your enrollment fee and submit it to the Office of Business and Finance, and completed the SOAR on-line registration form.  You may mail your enrollment fee to:  Alabama A&M University, Office of Business and Finance, P. O. Box 1388, Normal, AL  35762. 

Note:  The enrollment fee is not covered by scholarships or financial aid. 

What should I expect at the SOAR session?
SOAR is meant to make the transition from high school to college a little bit easier.  SOAR helps prepare incoming students to be successful their first year in a college.  Not only will you have the opportunity to make new friends, but you will also learn about academic requirements and resources in addition to various campus activities before the fall semester even begins.  Use this opportunity to become familiar with the environment you will be living in during the next few years.

Will I be advised during the BULLDOGS S.O.A.R. session?
You will not have a one-on-one meeting with your advisor; you will be guided through the registration process by an academic advisor.  All new students are encouraged to seek out their Academic Advisor one classes begin in the fall. When you receive your fall schedule you will also be given a business card with your assigned advisor's contact information.  It is important that you meet regularly with your academic advisor so you can secure information about course requirements and be able to register early for the following semester's courses.  If you have additional questions, you can contact the Academic Advising Center at 256.372.5649.

How should I dress for the BULLDOGS S.O.A.R. session?
During SOAR you will be seeing all that Alabama A&M University has to offer; be prepared to walk to different places around our beautiful campus.  Wear shoes that are comfortable to walk in and appropriate clothing for being outside at times.  Suggested attire for the day might be sneakers, shorts or loose-fitting pants, and a short-sleeved shirt.  The average high temperature for June - August in Huntsville, AL is 90º F, and the average low is 68º F.

What do I need to bring with me?
Students attending BULLDOGS S.O.A.R. will need to prepare for an overnight, on-campus stay. Students are advised to bring bed linens or a sleeping bag. Housing is only available for SOAR participants. Be certain that you pack adequate clothing, medications, toiletries, and other necessities needed for a trip away from home.

Where will I check in for Orientation?
All students may check in at the Ernest Knight Center starting at 8:15 a.m. on day 1 of your selected session of BULLDOGS S.O.A.R.  Check-in is from 8:15 - 9:00 a.m. You will be greeted by a representative who will confirm your arrival, assist you with your SOAR schedule, and provide additional instructions.

Is there anything else I need to do to prepare for SOAR?
One of the main advantages for attending SOAR is to schedule your classes early.  To facilitate this you can prepare by reading the Student Registration Manual which is available on-line at the AAMU homepage.  Go to www.aamu.edu, click on Current student.  Under BANNER Registration, click on BANNER Student User Guide.  Read the manual.  Feel free to print it and bring it with you to SOAR.

Register online for SOAR    Welcome to SOAR!   Hotel Accommodations    SOAR Schedule    Checklist