Graduating? Here’s how to secure your data and files before you leave Mines

Your upcoming graduation date triggers some changes that will affect your ability to access your files and digital resources at Mines after you leave campus.  

Here are some tips to ensure a smooth digital transition into the next chapter of your life. 

• Mines Email: Mines email accounts for those who’ve earned a degree will remain active by default. There's no need to worry about losing access to your Mines email address--it's yours to keep, providing a valuable connection to the Mines community and resources.
• Software Licenses: If you've been using Mines-provided software, it's a good idea to start thinking about what comes next. You’ll want to look into getting your own licenses or checking out other options that work for you. 
  • Important Note about Microsoft Office: Access to files saved in the Microsoft Office suite (OneDrive, OneNote, SharePoint, Teams, etc) will not be available after graduation. This applies to any files you may have saved in the cloud. To ensure you don't lose any important files or information, please make sure to back up all documents and files stored within Microsoft Office before you graduate.
• Software Development Tools: If you've been using development tools provided by Mines, such as compilers or integrated development environments (IDEs), consider obtaining your own licenses or finding open-source alternatives.
• Third Party Accounts: During your time at Mines, you may have used your @mines.edu email address to create accounts with third-party companies. Be sure to update any such accounts with a different email address instead. If any third-party accounts use your Mines email address for account recovery purposes, you risk losing access to them in the future. 
• Canvas: After graduation, you will no longer have access to Canvas. Download any important course materials or previous projects for future reference. 
• Backup Your Data: Download any files stored within your Mines-provided cloud storage services such as Google Drive and OneDrive and transfer them to your personal accounts. The same applies for any files currently stored within on-campus servers. 
• BlasterCard Access: Building and room access via your BlasterCard will no longer be available after you graduate.   
• Library Databases: Save any important research papers, articles, or resources from Mines library databases because these may not be accessible to you after graduation.  
• Academic Software Discounts: Take advantage of any student discounts on software or subscriptions before you graduate. 
• Mines Wireless Network: You will lose access to the Mines WiFi network after graduation. However, you’ll continue to have access to the Mines Guest WiFi network. 
• Virtual Private Network (VPN): You will no longer have access to Mines VPN for off-campus connections to secure resources.