Dear Friends,
Conversations about economics and the economy can be heard everywhere. There are two slants on the discussion directly related to the School of Mines.
Today is the deadline for scholarship application for first-time students. Our scholarship committee is hard at work reviewing these applications and making awards. It is both a rewarding and frustrating task. Rewarding, in that talented individuals are provided resources to attend the School of Mines. Frustrating, in that each year the number of desiring students increases and we work with a finite scholarship budget.
The cost of higher education is always a concern- to prospective students and parents, and to us. We work hard to keep our costs and services within the range, while maintaining the highest quality undergraduate experience. To be recognized as one of America's 100 Best College Buys® (high quality-modest cost) in higher education for the past ten years, is a point of institutional pride. While our scholarship packages may not be as handsome as some of our competitors, when our tuition and fees are factored in, the School of Mines is an incredible bargain. Where else can you expect to spend less on a four year degree than you can expect to earn in your first year after graduation?
On the supply side of the equation, we recently conducted an economic impact study of the School of Mines. Findings include: the School of Mines contributes about $108.1M to the state's economy. Additionally, alumni generate an additional $82.5M more than the state average employees to the South Dakota economy. One dollar in state funding returns $7.57 to the state's economy - a solid Return on Investment. A copy of the total report can be found at: http://impact.sdsmt.edu/ .
A ‘best buy' and significant contributor to the state's economy-the School of Mines is doing its part to maintain the fiscal responsibility to our students and our state.
As always, I welcome your thoughts and comments. I can be reached at charles.ruch@sdsmt.edu.
Charles Ruch