Frequently Asked Questions

General/Pre-arrival questions

Is there an online and in person component to Rocker Ready Orientation? - there is both an online and in-person component to the Rocker Ready Orientation. Beginning July 1, you will be able to access the online portion via your New Student Checklist. You will need to complete the online portion prior to coming to campus.

When is the in-person Rocker Ready Weekend? - the in-person portion of the Rocker Ready Orientation will be August 19-21.

Who are the First Year Mentors? -First Year Mentors assist and serve as a role model for new students and their families in their transition to South Dakota Mines. Students selected for this position help facilitate a successful first year experience by believing in and supporting the mentee through guidance, advice, resources, and sharing of his/her own experience while fully encouraging the mentee to participate in Rocker Ready Weekend, Welcome Week Activities and Campus Events. In addition to meeting their mentors during Rocker Ready, you should hear from them over the summer, as they’ll reach out and introduce themselves to you.

Will there be time to explore campus? -New students will have the opportunity to explore campus during the on-campus Rocker Ready program.

Where can I find a map of campus? -You can find an interactive campus map here.

What should I bring to my residence hall room? -The Residence Life staff has compiled a list of items that you should/can bring with you as well as what is provided in your residence hall room. Visit this website for more information.

Is there a bank/ATM on campus? -We currently have two ATMS on campus. One is located on the main level of the Surbeck Center outside of the Rocker Shop, and the other is in the Classroom Building.

How do I register for Rocker Ready? -you do not need to register to be able to access the online portion of Rocker Ready via your New Student Checklist. The online portion will be available beginning July 1. All incoming students are automatically registered for the in-person Rocker Ready Weekend. Once they complete their course registration on their new student checklist, they will receive an email where they will be able to select which Rocker Ready sessions they would like to attend. A master schedule will be created and sent to you prior to prior to Rocker Ready.

How much does Rocker Ready Weekend Cost? -There is no cost to attend Rocker Ready Weekend. Students’ meals will be covered by their meal plans. (Those students without meal plans will be covered by the Rocker Ready program.)

Do I have to attend the in-person Rocker Ready program and complete the online orientation? -Yes. The online and in-person Rocker Ready Weekend is mandatory for all new students and is your first opportunity to learn more about South Dakota Mines, and prepare yourself to be academically successful at South Dakota Mines. Exceptions may be made in Emergency situations. Students must call the office of Student Engagement at 605-394-2336 to discuss alternate arrangements.

Where can I find information about purchasing textbooks?
-You can find an array of information on purchasing text books here

Is there a Family Orientation program? TBD

Is there a Family Weekend during the Fall Semester? -South Dakota Mines Family Weekend is scheduled for October 14 and 15, 2022. More information can be found here.

Arrival, Check-In, Move-In questions

When can I move in? -students can check in at their assigned residence hall between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm on Thursday, August 18. For more information on move in please visit this site.

When and where do I check in for Rocker Ready Orientation? -new students can check in for the Rocker Ready weekend on Thursday, August 18 during their pre-scheduled Laptop Pickup. The check in table will be located on the main level of the Devereaux Library. Students will receive important orientation materials including their nametag, orientation group information, copy of their Rocker Ready schedule, a campus map, and more!

Are meals provided? -Student Meals are covered by your meal plan. For students not on meal plans, your meals will be covered by the Rocker Ready program.

Where can I learn about meal plans and dining? -Information about dining and meal plans is included as part of the online portion of Rocker Ready. In addition, you can visit this website for more information.

When and where can I pick up my student laptop? -new students will pick up their student laptops on Thursday, August 18. You can choose a pickup time on your New Student Checklist

Where is the bookstore and what are its hours?
-Our campus bookstore is called the Rocker Shop, and it is located on the main level of the Surbeck Center. More information about the bookstore, including hours and payments accepted, can be found 
here
Rocker Ready Weekend Bookstore Hours:
August 18, 2022 (7:30 am-4:30 pm)

August 19, 2022 (7:30 am-4:30 pm)
August 20, 2021 (9:00 am-4:00 pm)
August 21, 2021 (10:00 am-2:00 pm)


What do I do if I need to request disability accommodations? -South Dakota Mines is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, and education for students with disabilities. To request accommodations please fill out the Student Request for Accommodations form found here.  If you or a family member require an accommodation to attend or fully participate in Rocker Ready, please contact Amanda Lopez at least two weeks in advance at 605-394-2533. For further information regarding accommodations, please visit our Disability Services page.

Do you have other questions that aren't listed here? Feel free to contact us at 605-394-2336.