The Admissions Office Records documents the history, outreach, and promotional activities of the Admissions Office at South Dakota State University (SDSU). Spanning from the late 19th century to the early 21st century, the materials reflect the evolution of student recruitment, enrollment processes, and institutional branding efforts over time.
Included are a variety of informational materials such as admissions applications, recruitment brochures, promotional posters, student orientation guides, and event announcements. Early documents, such as Announcements for South Dakota Agricultural College (1894-1895) and Classification (1890-1902), highlight the institution’s early enrollment procedures and academic offerings. Later materials, such as New Student Orientation (2003, 2005) and Early Registration Information (2005), provide insight into the modernization of the admissions process.
The collection also contains recruitment publications aimed at prospective students, including SDSC View Book (1935), You Can Attend SDSC (undated), and You Can Go Anywhere from Here! (2002, 2005). Additional materials include fact sheets, posters, and newsletters like Admissions Office News (1991-1992), Junior Day (1999-2000), and Scholarships at SDSU Posters (undated), reflecting efforts to attract and inform students.
Noteworthy within the collection are materials targeting specific student demographics, such as SDSU-Native American Programs (1991) and Your Next Step – Guide for College-Educated Women (1960s circa), demonstrating the university's focus on outreach to various student groups over time. Additionally, promotional campaigns such as TGIF at SDSU (1989-1990, 1997-2000) and Jackrabbit Reception (2006) illustrate SDSU’s engagement strategies to welcome incoming students.
Overall, this collection provides valuable insight into SDSU's admissions practices, student recruitment strategies, and institutional identity development from the late 19th century through the 21st century.
South Dakota State University. Office of Admissions