Academics: Information Technology
Q & A
Q: Should I bring a laptop to school?
A: If you are an incoming 9th grader or 10th grader, then you will receive a Tablet PC (a laptop with a screen you can write on) when you first arrive through the school’s laptop program.
If you are an incoming 11th, 12th, or post-graduate, and a boarder, you probably will want to bring a computer to school. Most students bring laptops, but a few use desktop computers in their rooms.
Q: If I’m bringing my own computer, what kind of computer should I buy or drag to school and what are the requirements?
A: Both Macintoshes and Windows PCs (e.g. Dell, Gateway, HP) are fine. The school has both and supports both. You should make sure your PC is running XP or Vista and that your Mac is running Jaguar, Tiger, or Leopard.
Q: What software do I need?
A: The only thing you need that doesn’t always come with the system is Microsoft Office or OpenOffice (the open source equivalent). Microsoft Office is loaded on all Emma Willard computers, including student Tablet PCs.
Q: If I bring my own computer, will Technology Services help me if my computer grows ill or breaks down? Can I count on TS for help in using my computer?
A: Support comes from a variety of sources, formal and informal. It begins with the students themselves, many of whom are pretty savvy when it comes to figuring out how to get something done or how to troubleshoot problems. Next, TS provides a Help Desk. Students can drop by, call, or send e-mail, and we'll do our best to help. Often, if a problem is too difficult to diagnose remotely or is very serious, we'll ask the student to drop off the computer at the Help Desk. We'll do our best to put it back in order in a day or two.
Q: Are public computers and printers are available?
A: Public computers are available in the Library and in Slocum Hall. Public printers are available in those locations, too.
Q: Where does wireless work?
A: Wireless is now available in the vast majority of campus locations, although we’re having trouble making it work well up in the dorms. Boarders can plug in though (using their own network cable), so they aren’t dependent on wireless.
