First-year students who are concerned about the transition from high school to university, can brush up on their academic skills with SOAR, Summer Orientation for Academic Readiness, beginning July 7.

“Last year, the eight-week program focused on skills necessary for success in academics, leadership and careers,” says Jennifer Meister, academic skills program co-ordinator in the Student Success Centre, but aside from one week about health and wellness, “the focus this summer is all academics.”

Through a blog, videos and live chats, students will focus on a particular academic skill each week. Topics include time management, learning in lectures, reading strategies, writing, and studying for exams. To learn more, visit soar.mcmaster.ca. and check out these videos: Welcome to SOAR and Advice for first-year students.