TSU student guides helped admitted students find their way around campus during SOAR. In front from left are Hanna Bloss, Jessica Vanderklok and Laura Hoeppner. Center, from left: Jodi Johnston, Jenna Richardson, Megan Callahan, Becca Miller, Megan Harris and Allison Coe. Back, from left: Ashley Byrd, Pete Carteaux and Nick Creager.

A record number of admitted students, accompanied by parents and guests, visited the Tri-State University campus June 23, 24, 26 and 27 for summer orientation and registration (SOAR), administered by the TSU Office of Student Life.

Over 965 people gathered in the new University Center to complete or help complete the registration process for the first semester after TSU’s name change to Trine University on Aug. 1. At one location, students could register for courses, purchase books, enjoy café dining, pick up student IDs, establish student e-mail accounts, and visit information booths on athletics, organizations, and resources available to them at Trine in the fall. Classes begin Aug. 26.

Admitted students also located rooms and roommates, met counselors, deans and professors, and toured the campus with TSU students to get their bearings before classes begin. President Earl Brooks II welcomed students daily, and they heard presentations from representatives of the four schools of study at the main Angola campus and panels by student service offices.

Surveys taken by visiting families recorded an overwhelmingly positive experience from SOAR, said Director of Student Life Sarah Brown. Parents found university staff and faculty professional and helpful, and expressed a sense of security in the safety and education of their students at Trine, according to the surveys.