5 Myths about Being a SOUL
If you’re looking for the ultimate summer job, SOUL might be the right fit for you. SOUL stands for Student Orientation Undergraduate Leader and our job is to help new students gain a sense of belonging and comfort when it comes to life at Miami. When we were both applying for the SOUL position last spring, we had so many preconceived ideas of what the SOUL application process would be like and why we simply weren’t meant for the position. So we decided to write this article to share 5 myths we heard and lay out the facts.
#1 I am way too quiet to be SOUL (Maura)
I remember seeing the posters for the SOUL position around campus and thought it would be a really cool way to spend my summer, but immediately dismissed the possibility when I thought of my SOUL- cool, confident, put-together, outgoing… everything I wanted to be but I just knew I wasn’t there yet. I decided in that moment the SOUL position wasn’t for me. I am an introvert by nature; I could never do what she did. However, I later decided to apply with some encouragement from friends, and I got it! I was selected to be a SOUL. Let this go to show that there is no “mold” of who a SOUL is or should be. On your application, focus on authenticity and let your unique experiences shine through. This will set you apart.
#2 I’ll never get a break (Denisse).
This was a big worry of mine when applying to be a SOUL. I heard that they worked all day from 8:00am-11:00pm. This was definitely a myth I am glad to debunk. You spend most of your summer facilitating small groups, and on these days you have a long afternoon break. I would use this time to catch up with teammates, grab food, shower, take a nap, etc. The time is yours.
#3 I don’t know anyone, and it will be awkward. (Maura)
Although the first part of this myth may be true, I promise it will not be awkward. You are working with 24 people who want to create community and belonging on campus, and they will do this with you too. There will always be someone around to support you, laugh with you, and help make your day a little bit brighter. Plus, the Orientation and Transition Programs staff will facilitate opportunities to learn about our personal and leadership styles.
#4 I want to be a [insert career] and this has nothing to do with my career. (Maura)
It may be true that the SOUL position did not give me specific technical experience in the field I want to go into, but it did give me skills that will benefit me in my future classes and my career. As a SOUL, you will have a mentor who works on the Orientation and Transition Programs staff, and together you will set goals to work on during your time in the position. I decided I wanted to become more confident, clear, and concise in my communication. My mentor and I would grab coffee or dinner and just chat about how my progress was coming and how she could support me. Strengthening these skills will benefit me as I continue my academic career and all my future endeavors.
#5 All I’ll do is work and I won’t get to enjoy my summer. (Denisse)
Unlike other summer internships, SOUL has a unique timeline. Once the spring semester ends you will jump right into training, followed by orientation. Then you will have all of July and most of August to be home with your friends and family and just enjoy your summer. This was an aspect of the job I really enjoyed. I was able to get the experience of a summer job, but also had time to visit my first-year roommate in Columbus and see Khalid in concert. It allowed me to make the most of my summer while gaining professional experience.
Learn More and Apply!
SOUL was an experience that truly allowed each of us to grow and get more involved with campus life. If you think SOUL may be right for you, or even if you aren’t sure, I encourage you to apply today at miamiOH.edu/SOUL!
Hannah Frier | Marketing