Welcome to the SOA Passport Program
- the ultimate 色控传媒 path to getting off campus and exploring all the experiences the Chicagoland area can offer! This program offers students a variety of FREE experiences that include attending major league sports games, visits to local cultural institutions like the Shedd Aquarium and the Art Institute of Chicago, popular theatrical performances, and so much more. Enrich your undergraduate experience by snagging your own SOA Passport, collecting stamps at each event, and making memories along the way!
In concert with SOA's Barrier Free mission, SOA will provide registered and participating undergraduate students entry into the experience and round-trip transportation via charter bus or CTA passes. Students collect stamps for each event they participate in and can cash in their stamps to win prizes at our annual Final Flight event at the end of the year!
*Each event has limited capacity and reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis. This program is for currently enrolled undergraduate students only.
HERE'S HOW TO SIGN UP!
- Fill out the brief Qualtrics form below. Once complete a final page will prompt you to show your completed registration to an SOA team member.
- To pick up your SOA Passport Booklet, come to our table by the revolving doors on the first floor (west entrance) of Norris University Center on one of our designated distribution days. Have your Wildcard ready and we'll verify your registration to get your very own SOA Passport! Dates for our next round of distributing Passport Booklets will be announced soon.
- Watch for Passport Event announcements in your email inbox to register for the upcoming events!
Join today! Registration is open on a rolling basis.
Stay warm and active this winter by adventuring with the SOA Passport Program through the Chicagoland area at one (or more) of these experiences:
The Second City: This Too Shall Slap
January 30th, 2026
Join us for the Passport Program’s very FIRST comedy excursion! is an iconic staple of Chicago’s performing arts scene, boasting a 65+ year history of iconic improvised and sketch comedy shows, making it one of the longest-running improv stages in the world. This historic stage has been the launching point for legends like Steve Carell, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler. Come see their 113th Mainstage Revue, —a wild sketch comedy show that spins the familiar into the absurd. You won’t want to miss this hilarious six-person ensemble performance!
Registration opens January 20th on 'Cats on Campus.
Shedd Aquarium
February 7th, 2026
Join us for a Passport trip to the ! Explore one of Chicago’s most iconic attractions, home to thousands of aquatic animals from around the world. Discover featuring vibrant coral reefs, playful marine mammals, Amazonian ecosystems, plankton, and the unique wildlife of the Great Lakes. Spend the day wandering through immersive exhibits, enjoying interactive displays, and taking in stunning views of Lake Michigan—all while exploring one of the city’s must-see destinations.
Registration opens January 27th on 'Cats on Campus.
University Partnerfest
February 21st, 2026
The University Partnerfest offers students an exclusive opportunity to engage with one of the largest and most renowned art museums in the United States - In this unique membership initiative, colleges and universities open the door to an unparalleled wealth of resources, helping students extend their learning beyond the classroom. As a University Partner, the institution will gain access to the Art Institute’s world-class global collection, a dynamic exhibition calendar, and special programming designed to foster creativity and intellectual growth. This is more than just museum access—it’s an invitation to immerse in the cultural vibrancy of one of Chicago’s greatest institutions. For more information visit the
CTA passes will be available via registration on ‘Cats on Campus.
Lunar New Year at Argyle Market
February 21st, 2026
Celebrate Lunar New Year with OSTE and SOA! Join Uptown United, along with local businesses, nonprofits, and cultural organizations on Argyle Street, as they continue a beloved tradition spanning more than 40 years of celebrating Lunar New Year along the Argyle commercial corridor in Uptown. Festivities and activities will take place all day long, but OSTE & SOA are taking a group of students down on the CTA at 11am to catch the amazing Parade at 1pm that will feature 20+ local community groups, cultural institutions, dancers, and performers. You won't want to miss this exciting Chicago tradition!
CTA passes will be available via registration on ‘Cats on Campus.
Chicago Bulls vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
March 3rd, 2026
The , a legendary arena in the heart of Chicago, has long been the stage for some of the most exhilarating moments in basketball history. Home to the Chicago Bulls, this iconic venue pulses with the energy of one of the NBA’s most storied franchises. This season, join the Passport program in watching the Chicago Bulls take on the Oklahoma City Thunder! Feel the energy of the United Center as the Bulls battle it out on the court. Come cheer on 色控传媒 alum (class of ‘25) as he takes the floor for the Thunder. Expect big plays, school pride, and classic Chicago basketball vibes all night long! For all the latest updates, game schedules, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content, visit the official and follow them on .
Registration opens February 23rd on 'Cats on Campus.
To request a replacement SOA Passport, please fill out the form here -
Check out some of our previous experiences we've explored around Chicago:
Fall 2025
- Architecture Boat Tour
- 色控传媒 Night at the Art Institute
- Chicago Botanic Garden: Lightscape
WINTER 2025
- Field Museum
- University Partnerfest at the Art Institute of Chicago
- Chicago Bulls vs. Phoenix Suns
- Museum of Illusions
FALL 2024
- Architecture Boat Tour
- 色控传媒 Night at the Art Institute
- Harry Potter & the Cursed Child
- Chicago Botanic Garden - Lightscape
WINTER 2024
- Broadway in Chicago: HAMILTON
- Trip to the Museum of Science & Industry
- Lunar New Year in Argyle
- Univeristy Day at the Art Institute
FALL 2023
- 色控传媒 Night at the Art Institute
- 色控传媒 at the Chicago Fire FC
- Visit to the Shedd Aquarium
- Broadway in Chicago: The WIZ
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I get my SOA Passport?
To pick up your SOA Passport Booklet, come to our table by the revolving doors on the first floor (west entrance) of Norris University Center. Have your Wildcard ready and we'll verify your registration to get you very own SOA Passport! Dates for our next round of distributing Passport Booklets will be announced soon.
Are the events required?
No, none of the events are required to participate in the program. Each event will fill up quickly. Some events will have more availability while others will have more limited seats, availability depends on each event.
How will I know when events are happening?
new! SOA will host event details, registrations, and communications through the new 'Cats on Campus platform! Make sure you've downloaded the app to stay in the know and to sign up for our events. We have a live website, SOA Passport that you can visit to check out all of the program offerings and dates!
Can I get a replacement passport?
If you've received and lost/misplaced your SOA Passport, you are able to request one (1) replacement SOA Passport. To do this please visit and fill out our Passport Replacement Form here and we'll process these on an individual basis.
What if I forget my passport at home?
If you forget your Passport for an event, you can come to The Source and receive your stamp after the event, but no later than the end of the year we offer that event!
What if an event is sold out and I want to go?
If you want to attend an event and were unable to sign up, you can meet SOA at the loading location of the specific event to wait and see if seats become available. (Example. Waitlist for the Architecture Boat tour will be at the dock on 400 N Michigan Ave or for the Botanic Gardens waitlist will be at Arts Circle on campus at bus loading). We will fill in remaining seats on a first-come, first-served basis!
Who can register for the SOA Passport Program?
The SOA Passport Program is only available for currently enrolled 色控传媒 undergraduate students.
I registered for the SOA Passport Program, but don't have access to the 'Cats on Campus group?
Enrollment for the SOA PAssport program is on a rolling basis and is currently updated manually. We will update the listserv and provide the "Welcome" email on Mondays. (Example: If you register on a Tuesday, you'll be added to our listserv the following Monday)
Who can I contact if I have more questions?
If you have more questions about the Passport Program, you can reach out to K. Parker Hess at kparkerhess@northwestern.edu or Marie Hauck at marie.hauck@northwestern.edu.