Issue 6: Meet Your Oberlin Support Network
Issue #6
Meet Your Oberlin Support Network (Heads up: It's Big!)
Every Oberlin student enjoys access to a personalized support network that includes advisors and peer mentors who are dedicated to your success in the classroom—and everywhere else.
Here’s a quick look at the support that awaits you. Keep an eye on your email: You’ll continue to learn about these resources throughout the summer and after you arrive on campus.
Peer Advising Leaders: Peer Advising Leaders, or PALs for short, are returning students trained to support you as you navigate your transition to Oberlin. If you’re a conservatory student, you’re assigned a ConPAL. If you’re double degree? You get a PAL and a ConPAL!
Each PAL supports a group of new students beginning around the third week of August—before you even get to campus—and throughout your first semester. They’re why we’re proud to say that every new Obie has a PAL!
Summer Advisor: All new students in the college are assigned a Summer Advisor who will meet with you virtually to help plan your first semester. You’ll get to formally select courses beginning in early August and finalize your fall schedule when you get to campus.
You’ll learn more about your Summer Advisor in an email from the Academic Advising Resource Center, or AARC.
Academic Advisor: All new Obies—college and conservatory—are assigned academic advisors, who are faculty or staff members who will become one of your most important resources while navigating your academic journey. For conservatory students, your advisor is often, though not always, your studio teacher.
You’ll meet with your academic advisor during New Student Orientation in August to discuss your course schedule, review your goals for the first semester, and plan for other opportunities. You will continue to meet throughout your first semester to discuss academic pathways and strategies for success. Your advisor can also help connect you with campus resources, student organizations, and faculty members whose courses you may be interested in taking.
Resident Assistant (RA): Your residential community is a vital part of your first-year experience, and your Resident Assistant is committed to helping you feel supported and welcome.
RAs are fellow students who serve as leaders and community-builders in their residential communities. Throughout the year, your RA will help you navigate important processes like creating roommate agreements and hosting events to help you get to know your fellow residents. They’re also a great resource for any questions you may have!
You’ll hear from your RA via email shortly before your arrival on campus.
Success Coaches: Based in the Center for Student Success, Success Coaches help Obies reach their full potential through self-understanding, creating connections, and building life skills. Make an appointment with a Success Coach at any time during your Oberlin experience—including now!
This summer, the Center for Student Success will host virtual sessions intended to support students in their transition from high school to college. RSVP for the sessions:
TO DO THIS WEEK: The more you know about yourself, the easier it will be to create connections, build confidence, and set goals. Keep an eye on your Oberlin email this week for a link to a quick assessment to learn about your natural talents!