Student Transitions

Office of New Student and Transition Services

¸ mines.edu/new-student-transition-services

The Office of New Student and Transition Services (NeST) supports new and continuing Colorado School of Mines students with their transitions to campus and beyond. Through specialized programs, our students become acquainted with campus, traditions, expectations, and processes while getting a head start on their community building.

Orientation

NeST oversees all programs related to orienting new students to campus. These events include Launch, Oredigger Camp, Transfer Orientation, Spring Orientation and Fall Kick Off. Each of our programs serve both first-year and transfer students and are meant to answer questions, provide resources and welcome our new students into the Mines community.

Csm101

CSM101 is a seminar course required of all first-year students. CSM101 prepares them for a successful transition to academic life at Mines and provides social and cultural competencies for a diverse world. Lessons range from study skills and faculty connections to communication and personal wellness. This course promotes student awareness of university resources, best practices, and policies. CSM101 is co-taught by members of faculty and administration and a pair of upper-class student Peer Mentors.

Csm201

CSM201 is a free-elective course meant to assist Transfer Students in their transition to Mines. Acknowledging that transfer students already have some college experience, CSM201 content is specific to this more seasoned population. Emphasis is placed on fostering connectedness to Mines, discussing strategies for integrating into the Mines community, and learning the techniques and institutional resources that will allow transfer students to achieve their goals at Mines.

Peer Mentors

NeST employs over 125 upper-class Peer Mentors to assist with all portions of our transition programming. These student leaders complete more than 30 hours of training prior to working with our incoming population so they are more than equipped to lead, guide, teach, mentor and serve. Our Peer Mentors are warm, passionate, and professional sources of advice and information for new students as well as their families.