Black Hills State University

Black Hills State University

Spearfish, SD, USA
Public
4 Year

Meghan's Review

Review of Black Hills State University

from Rapid City, SD

Describe your college in three sentences.

The teachers care about your education and your learning. But I wonder how helpful it will be when I leave college. Still, I think the program and involvement available are worth the tuition.

Do you have any tips for prospective students?

Get to know people in each of the offices on campus. They are usually nice and give you a different perspective on campus life. If you have a problem, bring it up - they may be able to fix it or help you get a better idea of why that rule exists. Always ask if you have a question. Most teachers and staff are happy to answer.

Do you find there’s enough academic rigor at your school?

Some classes are very easy. Some classes are very hard. While I really love this college and the classes, some classes should be harder than they are, because they have no prerequisites. Overall, though, most classes are very good, especially if you spend the time on them.

Describe the dorm life at your college.

Depends on the dorm. Some dorms have a very close knit community, while others are full of students who don't know each other at all at the end of the year. Some dorms are really nice, while others were definitely built in the fifties and sixties.

Describe the food and dining at your college.

A'viands runs the cafeteria, as well as coffee and snack kiosks in the library and student union. The staff are friendly and helpful and will create meals for individuals with special dietary needs if you ask for them. They are also very helpful with any unusual requests. The only downside is that sometimes the meals on weekends aren't particularly healthy or tasty.

What’s there to do for fun at your college?

BHSU has a many different activities offered on campus as well as off campus. This area is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, due to the variety of conditions that make it possible to play outside all year round. There are clubs that offer activities almost weekly, and special events at least once a month. A great place for pretty much everyone - there's always something to do.

Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?

I would say that the campus community makes this college one well worth the money.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The arch - the arch is left from a dorm that burned down in the '20s, and is right next to an apple orchard. A great place to study any time, it is especially popular in the fall.

Which types of students will excel at your college?

Students who love the outdoors and those who want more hands-on learning.

Are you involved in any clubs or activities?

There are many clubs on campus, for everything from skydiving to campus ministries. The college prides itself on encouraging students to create their own club if they don't find one they would like to join. Many clubs offer activities for students outside of the club, and the bulletin boards are often full of flyers for upcoming events, all of which are good.

Are you involved in any clubs or activities?

There are two sororities, both based on academics.

How would you describe campus safety? Do you feel safe on campus?

While the dorms are rather spread out from the rest of campus, this area is very safe. If at any time you feel uncomfortable walking across campus, students are invited to call campus security for an escort.