formerly University of Missouri-Rolla
Frequently Asked Questions

What does it cost to attend the Academy?
 Room and board expenses will total $2,184 per participant. Everyone will be living in Missouri S&T's Residential College building, a new suite-style residence hall. Research expenses for projects will be covered by the university. Some schools have elected to assist with room and board expenses. Please visit with your school's College Counseling Center about these opportunities.

Are there any hidden costs or fees?
 No. The only extra costs would be if you decided to take a [summer course]. Students will need spending money for trips, the occasional trip to Wal-Mart and laundry. Room and board expenses include a $5 per day declining cash balance account (similar to a debit card) at the Havener Student Center for afternoon snacks. We suggest each student bring a phone card or cell phone to call home.

What should I bring?
 You'll want to bring personal items, laundry soap, etc. Be sure to pack a variety of clothes, as many research projects will require you to get your hands a little dirty and you'll want to look nice for trips and special events. You may bring a personal computer if you'd like, but it's certainly not necessary as you will have access to all campus computing facilities.

Is there a curfew?
Yes. All participants are required to be in the Residential College by 10:00 p.m. and in their respective rooms by 12:00 a.m.

May I bring a car?
Yes, but driving privileges are strictly limited. Participants are required to be on campus property - or within reasonable walking distance of campus property (downtown or nearby restaurant) - at all times unless they have notified SRA staff that they will be away from campus. While you may bring a car, participants are not allowed more than 10 miles from Rolla's city limits - more than enough distance to visit state parks and local sights. Passengers in your vehicle are limited to other SRA participants, and fellow participants are only allowed to ride in your car with their parent's permission. Participants going home for the weekend must check-out with SRA staff and present a signed or faxed notification from their parents (including participants over age 18) before leaving. If you choose to bring a car, you are responsible for purchasing your own parking pass (approximately $30 for a summer pass).

May I leave on the weekends?
 Yes, but only with prior parental permission and by checking-out with SRA staff. If your family is in town for the weekend or you'd like to attend a worship service or community event, we'll help you arrange transportation. You may not be gone frequently or without permission. Professional behavior is expected at all times. If you are ill or need to arrange an absence, you are expected to communicate these needs with your faculty mentor.

Will I have to work all day?
 You may dedicate as much time to your project as you'd like. Most students will average 4 hours per day on their project while some may choose to spend 5-6 hours. You'll want to communicate early on with your faculty advisor about expectations. When you're not working on your project, feel free to spend the afternoon at the pool, help friends on their projects, read a book or explore downtown. We'll have planned [activities] about once or twice a week, but much of your free time will be unstructured.

If I haven't taken physics or calculus yet, will I fall behind?
 Faculty mentors are more than willing to help you understand complex theories. You won't be graded or even compared to your peers, the Academy is about exploring the worlds of science and technology. However, you may need to visit the library and read up on a topic once-in-a-while. Don't be afraid to simply ask for help.

Is everyone going to take a summer course?
No. The decision to take a summer course is completely up to you. Some students may choose to take a chemistry or mathematics course, some might enjoy a history or psychology class. Most will probably enjoy the break from homework and take no class at all!

How will I get to Rolla?
 We'll provide transportation to and from the St. Louis International Airport for students that need it. Once you are on campus, we'll provide any transportation that you may need.