BRINGING YOUR OWN COMPUTER TO CAMPUS

You do not have to bring a computer to campus since we do provide access to computers in several locations on campus (the Library, Proctor Hall, the Reynolds Center, the PEAK). While we do provide computer access in many places on campus, it is much more convenient to have your own so that you can regularly check your email, check your grades, look at course schedules, work on assignments, do some library research and, if you have time, pursue recreational interests! We recommend Windows XP or a Mac with OSX or better. Windows Vista is another option and will work with our network and systems. We also recommend a Core 2 Duo processor (or similar processor from AMD) and 2 GB of RAM (Memory) in any computer you purchase.

Laptops are handy and can be used in many locations on campus, but they can also be more fragile and may present a theft risk. Laptops are not necessary for classes since faculty members who require computer access will either meet in a computer lab/classroom or make sure that students can use open lab time. If purchasing a laptop, we highly encourage that you purchase the extended warranties and accidental coverage as a laptop will be more abused and likely encounter more problems than a desktop. A desktop or tower style computer may be a more cost effective choice.

Each residence hall room has two RJ-45 network ports with free access to the Internet through the school's network. The IT Office (Main Building, 217-220 & 222), if needed, can assist you with connection configurations. Modems are not allowed since they are not needed and they tie up the College's phone lines.

Whether you bring a computer or not, it would be wise to purchase one of the usb minidrives for saving data and files. You will have a server account for file storage (and building your own website if you wish), but it is often safer to save your files both on the server and on another medium. Floppy disks can be used may be too limited to hold large files. Many computers on campus have CD burners, but not all do.

Software

While either a Mac or a PC can serve a student well, the software used most extensively on campus is the MicroSoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access). Academic pricing is available to students and we can help you identify software sources. Currently, ScholarBuys.com is offering a very good academic discount. There are also are free alternative software packages that are largely compatible with MSOffice (Star Office and Open Office are two) but those may not match well with the demonstrations or handouts from classes. If you are tech savvy, though, they may provide you with a lower cost alternative.

If you have questions, please send us an email and we'll help you figure out what will work best for you!