Fall 2021

South Dakota Mines is returning to normal operations for the Fall 2021 semester. This includes in-person classes, a full athletics schedule, student activities, and the traditional homecoming celebration. We know you’re looking forward to this. We are too! 

Welcome Week  

Coming to college for the first time, or even as a returning student, can feel a little uncomfortable as you shake off summer and get back into a routine. That’s why taking part in Welcome Week activities will get you plugged in and ready for success. Things like meeting students in your residence hall, finding your classrooms, talking to your professors, the President’s Picnic, exploring Rapid City and so much more. We’re still finalizing the details but check the schedule often for updates. 

Rocker Connections Weekend 

Organized by the Office of Student Engagement, Rocker Connections is open to all new, incoming students. Rocker Connections is an opportunity for new students to meet one another, experience the Rapid City region, and form connections with returning students, faculty and staff. Planning is currently underway. Check our website for a list of trips and how to register. 

Activities & Events 

Don’t miss the Student Organization Fair in the Quad during Welcome Week. We seriously have over 100 student clubs and organizations you can join. But don’t join them all! We recommend maybe 2-3 your first year. Feel them out, decide if it’s for you, move on if it’s not, or start a new club if you can’t find what you’re looking for. 

Football, Soccer, and Volleyball kick off the fall season of athletic events. We’ll be back to a full schedule with seating capacity for all. Students get in free. Show your ID for free popcorn at the concession stand! All campus events are free to students – including the music concerts, drama productions, Diwali, and many more. 

Living on Campus 

We can’t wait to help you move in! New student move-in date is August 19. The Fall semester starts August 23 so this gives you plenty of time to settle in before the first day of class. 

If you haven’t completed your housing application yet, do it now to secure your space on campus. Housing assignments are mailed in mid-June. Not sure what to bring – we’ve got you covered! 

Our residence halls offer not only a place to lay your head at night. Resident Advisors and Residential Peer Mentors make sure you’re getting connected, having fun, and tapping into academic support resources. 

What’s to eat? Dining services offers plenty of options in the Hardrocker Café, Miner’s Shack and Einstein Bros. Bagels so there’s always something good to eat. 

Student Support 

Hey, we know what it’s like to be on your own for the first time, feeling overwhelmed with homework, or just not feeling it. You’re not alone in these challenges, all Mines students go through stuff. We have many, many resources to help you succeed.

Every first-year student is paired with a peer mentor who will show you the ropes, introduce you to people, and connect you to all the resources campus offers. 

A quick rundown of support offices: 

• Student Success Center 
• Office of Student Engagement 
• Center for Inclusion 
• Ivanhoe International Center 
• Counseling Center 
• Student Health 
• Veterans Resource Center 
• More can be found in Campus Life 
  

Preparing for Fall Career Fair 

You’ve heard about the sweet internships and co-ops students participate in and want to know how you get in on this, right? The Career & Professional Development Center offers a wide variety of workshops to help you prepare – from what to wear, to how to build a resume, to nailing the interview. Our Fall Career Fair is September 14 and we are expecting around 150 employers from across the U.S., many represented by our own alumni. So, this is not only a job fair, but a great networking opportunity. This is for ALL students, even first year!