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Paleontology at the South Dakota School of Mines.

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Fledgling Paleontologist Seeking School

(4 posts)
  • Started 1 year ago by JerrodPreston
  • Latest reply from Jason Carr

  1. JerrodPreston
    Member

    So, I've always wanted to be a Paleontologist ever since I was about 2 years old. I'd beg my parents to take me to museums so I could see the dinosaurs and I'd stay there for hours marveling at the bones. Well now's my Junior year in High School and I'm looking for a good college and I'm really liking The South Dakota School of mines. It's got all the programs I want, an opportunity for great field work and not-so impossible admissions requirements. I'd like a bit more information from the students of the school and any recommendations.

    Some info about me: I'd want to specialize in Vertebrate Paleontology (mostly Dinosaurs and Mammals). I'm 16 and a Michigan resident. Information on the costs of room and board, tuition and any tips on getting in would be greatly appreciated.

    Posted 1 year ago #

  2. Jason Carr
    Key Master

    The costs aren't too bad. you can find information here: http://www.gotomines.com/costs/. Financial aid is available if you qualify it's very important to fill out your FAFSA as early as possible to get as much aid as you're eligible for. As a freshman you'll be required to live on campus for your first 2 years—so figure that into your costs.

    School of Mines is a great school for paleo in that there are opportunities for undergraduates to do field, prep and curation work with the Museum of Geology and it's vast collections—many other institutions don't allow you to even touch fossils until you are a graduate student. Also the small campus (2000 students) means that you will be able to get to know the graduate students and professors and learn quite a bit even outside of class.

    The small campus can also be a drawback, you'll be one of a handful of science majors in a strongly engineering-centric school, with practically no non-science/engineering majors. This may or may not be important to you, but don't overlook the value of a rich and diverse college experience.

    It's always good to see passionate young students take an interest in paleontology; whatever school you choose I hope that your passion continues and carries you forward.

    Posted 1 year ago #

  3. JerrodPreston
    Member

    Alright, thank you. I'm seriously considering visiting the campus this summer and seeing what it's like out there. I'm really excited because I think I finally found the school for what I need.

    Posted 1 year ago #

  4. Jason Carr
    Key Master

    Thank you,
    there is a Visit Mines event on July 25 so you might want to try to come then. But whenever you do visit, be sure to stop by the Museum of Geology and talk to the people there. You can get to know some current SDSM&T paleontology students and ask them any questions you might have in person.

    Posted 1 year ago #

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