Difference between revisions of "Incoming Student Technology FAQ"

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This is going to be a rough start. Let Wiki do its thing.
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{{Purchasing_a_computer}}
  
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==Purchasing a Computer==
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==Software==
βˆ’
===Should I get a laptop or a desktop computer?===
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===Things to do BEFORE you get to ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅!===
βˆ’
===What kind of computer should I get? Apple or Windows?===
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# If you are a Windows user, make sure your "Windows Updates" are current (visit [http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com Windows Update]).
βˆ’
* You should buy the type of computer with which you are most comfortable with. ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ owns and supports both platforms.
+
# If you are a Macintosh user, run [[Software Update]], and apply all critical updates.
βˆ’
===Are there any type of computer purchasing programs at ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅?===
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# Ensure that your machine is protected from viruses by using an Anti-Virus client with up-to-date definitions.
βˆ’
* You are able to purchase an Apple computer at an educational discount on-line.
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# Verify that you have all of the necessary software documentation, serial numbers, and installation media. Please bring these to campus with you.
 +
# During any transition, it's wise to make backups of any critical data. We recommend a cloud-based backup.
 +
 
 +
===Get Microsoft Office Free===
 +
 
 +
At ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅, all faculty, staff, and employees use the [[Microsoft Office Suite]] for [[Microsoft Windows|Windows]] or [[Macintosh]].  
  
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While ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ does not have a "reccomended model" for students, we put extensive effort into finding the correct computer to purchase for faculty and staff laptops, and we negotiated an excelent price.  
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ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ currently has Microsoft Office 365 available for free for all current active students.  Please visit our [https://gustavus.teamdynamix.com/TDClient/69/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=385 Office 365 page] for more information.
  
βˆ’
We are able to offer the same significantly discounted price to ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ students and employees.
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===What about Anti-Virus software?===
 +
====Should I come with an anti-virus product?====
 +
It is recommended that you use an anti-virus product before you come to campus. If you do not use the built-in Windows anti-virus product and use a different anti-virus software, please be sure your subscription is up-to-date.
  
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The laptops we are purchasing this year for faculty and staff are Lenovo Thinkpads (formerly IBM PC devision):
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====Does ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ provide anti-virus software?====
βˆ’
LENOVO THINKPAD T60 1951 - CORE DUO T2400 1.83 GHZ - 14.1
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Windows 10 and Windows 11 have anti-virus included, ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ does not provide anti-virus software.
βˆ’
RAM: 512MB
 
βˆ’
Drives: 60 GB - Serial ATA-150 - 5400 rpm, CD-RW / DVD-ROM combo
 
βˆ’
Networking: Gigabit Ethernet, Wireless ABG
 
βˆ’
Battery Life (spec):  6hr
 
βˆ’
Dimensions (WxDxH): 12.2 in x 10 in x 1.2 in
 
βˆ’
Operating System: Microsoft Windows XP Professional
 
βˆ’
Manufacturer Warranty: 3 years warranty
 
  
βˆ’
Cost: $1350 or $1500 with accidental damage coverage
+
====What can I do to protect my computer from spyware?====
 +
The best way to avoid getting spyware and adware is by not installing "high-risk" applications like peer to peer media downloading software, and other suspect "freeware," and "shareware" programs.
  
βˆ’
===What are the minimum requirements for a computer at ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅?===
+
Use caution when installing software.  Make sure your operating system, software and browser plug-ins are all up to date.  Use a long and unique password. ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ requires a passphrase of at least 15 characters.
βˆ’
===What kind of computers do most people get?===
 
βˆ’
2005 New Student Survey Stats<BR>
 
βˆ’
No Computer         26 5.31%<BR>
 
βˆ’
Windows  Laptop 322 65.71%<BR>
 
βˆ’
Windows  Desktop 85 17.35%<BR>
 
βˆ’
Macintosh Laptop 45 9.18%<BR>
 
βˆ’
Macintosh Desktop 12 2.45%<BR>
 
βˆ’
490 Total Surveyed<BR>
 
  
βˆ’
===What do I need to connect to the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ network?===
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==Connecting to the Internet==
 +
===Which connection method is recommended?===
 +
When connecting to the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ network from your residence hall room, we recommend using the "wireless" connection.
  
βˆ’
==Software==
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===How many wired ports are in each room in the Residence Halls?===
βˆ’
===Do we need Microsoft Office on our computers?===
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This depends on the room that you are assigned. However, in most cases, for first-year students, it will be one per room.
  
βˆ’
At ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅, all faculty, staff, and employees use the [[Microsoft Office Suite]] on both platforms, Windows and Apple.  
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===Can I bring a [[router|wireless router]] to campus?===
 +
No. Using personal wireless routers will interfere with this network, therefore, we do not allow personal wireless routers.
  
βˆ’
ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ has this software installed on every lab computer, so it is not necessary that you buy it. However, most students choose to have this on their personal computers.
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===Where else is the wireless network?===
 +
For an up-to-date listing of where the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ wireless network is located, please visit [[ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ Wireless Network]]. All buildings and many popular outdoor spaces have wireless available. [https://gts.blog.gustavus.edu/2020/09/10/outdoor-wifi-upgrades-expand-campus-coverage/ https://gts.blog.gustavus.edu/2020/09/10/outdoor-wifi-upgrades-expand-campus-coverage/]
  
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There are some problems associated with not having this software and/or using different word processing software, such as an incompatibility with their professor's computer. The most common problem is when a student emails their professor a document that is not in the Word format and the professor cannot read the attachment.
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===How do I connect to the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ network?===
 +
#Turn on your computer.
 +
#Connect to the '''ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅''' wifi
  
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===Is there a student edition available?===
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====How many [[networked devices]] can I connect to the network?====
βˆ’
Yes, there is a student edition available at many retail stores. In most cases you will need proof of student status to purchase this edition of the software.
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You can connect as many as you would like.
  
βˆ’
===Is a firewall necessary?===
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====How do I connect my [[video game console]] such as the Xbox or Playstation 5 to the Internet so I can use the online features?====
βˆ’
===Should we come with an antivirus product?===
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Connect to the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ wifi network or plug into the wired network. No registration needed.
βˆ’
===Does ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ provide one for us?===
 
βˆ’
===What do most people have for software?===
 
  
 +
====Are there any devices that don't work well on the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ network?====
 +
Due to the design of the [[Chromecast]]and the Amazon's [[Fire TV Stick]], these devices are not compatible with our network.
  
βˆ’
==Network==
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====Are there any streaming devices that you recommend?====
βˆ’
===Wireless===
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Devices such as a [[Smart TVs|Smart TV]], Blu-ray players, and the [[Apple TV]] work well on our network to stream Netflix, Hulu, etc. However, '''Screen-casting from a cell phone/tablet to the device currently isn't supported.'''
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===Is there wireless in the Residence Halls?===
 
βˆ’
===Where else is the wireless network?===
 
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For an up-to-date listing of where the [[GACwireless]] network is located, please visit http://wireless.gustavus.edu.
 
  
 
==Support==
 
==Support==
βˆ’
===Is there anybody to help me connect to the internet when I come to campus?===
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===Can the Helpline visit my room and help me connect to the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ network?===
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The [[Technology Helpline]] '''does not''' visit students' rooms. Please stop by Olin Hall for support.
 +
 
 +
==Printing==
 +
===Do I have access to campus owned printers?===
 +
Yes, there are printers in the academic buildings that are available for you to print to from your personal computer in your room. Here are [https://gustavus.teamdynamix.com/TDClient/69/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=929 instructions on configuring your personal computer] to print to the printer in the nearby building.
 +
 
 +
===Do I need a personal printer?===
 +
We do not recommend bringing a personal printer to campus.
 +
 
 +
===Are there any fees for printing at ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅?===
 +
 
 +
<table class="fancy">
 +
 
 +
    <tr>
 +
      <th>Print Option</th>
 +
      <th>Cost per Page Printed</th>
 +
    </tr>
 +
    <tr>
 +
      <td> Single-Page B/W </td>
 +
      <td>    $0.07 </td>
 +
    </tr>
 +
    <tr>
 +
      <td> Two-Sided B/W </td>
 +
      <td>    $0.12 </td>
 +
    </tr>
 +
    <tr>
 +
      <td> Single-Page Color </td>
 +
      <td>    $0.25 </td>
 +
    </tr>
 +
    <tr>
 +
      <td> Two-Sided Color </td>
 +
      <td>    $0.50 </td>
 +
    </tr>
 +
</table>
  
 
==Other==
 
==Other==
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===Is theft of laptops a concern? What is ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ doing about this?===
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===When do I find out my username and password for my ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ e-mail account?===
βˆ’
===Do we need personal printers?===
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βˆ’
===Do we have access to campus owned printers?===
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[[ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ username|ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ usernames]] and [[Password|passwords]] are created after you submit your deposit. If you do not receive this information, or have questions or problems, please contact the [[Technology Helpline]].
βˆ’
===Do we get ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ email?===
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 +
===Can I configure my ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ e-mail on my iPhone or Android?===
 +
Yes, definitely. Please use the Gmail mobile app, using your ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ credentials, from the App Store or the Google Play store.
 +
 
 
===Is there an online storage space for me to save my files?===
 
===Is there an online storage space for me to save my files?===
 +
Yes, ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ Google Drive cloud storage is available for all students. You can access your ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ Google Drive at https://drive.google.com. This website utilizes your ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ e-mail username and password. A great place to save papers and files.
 +
 +
===Are the classrooms technology-enhanced?===
 +
Yes, most classrooms have projection capabilities.
 +
 +
===What personal information can I view online - my grades, class schedules, degree progress, transcripts, or other information?===
 +
As a student, you will be able to check all of this by logging into [https://my.gustavus.edu MyΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅] with your ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ username and password.
 +
 +
===Is there a way to find contact information for faculty, staff, and other students?===
 +
 +
Yes, we have an online directory found at /search/. Faculty and staff information does not require a log-in. Student information is only available to those who have a [[ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ username]] and [[Password|password]].
 +
 +
===What public access for computing is available to students, parents, and guests of the college? Are there any Internet cafes?===
 +
 +
There are computers for public use in the [[Library]]. Guests of the College may connect to the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ wireless network. No registration needed.
 +
 
===Where are the computer labs?===
 
===Where are the computer labs?===
βˆ’
===Can I bring a wireless router to campus?===
+
 
 +
We have [[computer labs]] in most [[academic buildings]].

Latest revision as of 09:30, 21 August 2024

Contents

Purchasing a computer

Do I need to bring a computer to campus?

ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ does not require students to bring their own computers to campus, however, many choose to bring one. If you are unsure about purchasing a computer, we suggest that you spend some time on campus before making a decision.

Should I get a laptop or a desktop computer?

There are many advantages to bringing a laptop to campus:

  • They are easier to transport, allowing you to take notes in class, or do homework from virtually anywhere. When problems arise, it's much easier to bring a laptop to the Technology Helpline for quick help or virus removal than a bulky desktop machine.
  • With the convenience of the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ Wireless Network, you'll be able to access the Internet anywhere on campus.

On the other hand, laptops have a few disadvantages to desktops:

  • Laptops are often more expensive than a comparable desktop.
  • Their smaller size and portability often make them more prone to theft and damage.
  • Laptops are more difficult to upgrade, therefore making it necessary to replace it sooner.

We suggest that your choice reflect your own lifestyle, habits, and personal preferences.

What kind of computer should I get? Macintosh, Chromebook, or Windows?

Your platform choice should be determined by your relative comfort level and previous experience with each operating system. ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ owns and supports all platforms, so the decision is completely yours to make. If you are interested in a Google Chromebook, please see our Chromebook web page. Some textbooks come with software that is not web-based, where Chromebooks are not supported by the publisher. Please be aware that lower-end Chromebooks may not be satisfactory when using processor heavy apps such as Zoom.

Are there any computer purchasing programs at ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅?

ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ does not sell computers to students, faculty or staff but does maintain a relationship with , , and allowing community members to purchase computers and supplies at an educational discount direct from the vendor. Please use the following links to ensure you receive educational pricing.

  • Please visit the or call 1-800-My-APPLE.
  • Please visit the .
  • Please visit the or call 1-800-987-3555.

Note: Almost all vendors have educational discounts for students, faculty and staff. All you have to do is ask.

FREE SOFTWARE Microsoft Office 365 is currently available for FREE to download for current ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ students and employees.

Also, community members are able to buy certain software and some hardware at educational discounts from stores and directly from their website such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Dreamweaver, InDesign, etc). Remember to always ask for an academic discount. You might be asked to supply an ID or email address.

Do I need to bring a wireless router to campus?

No. Too many wireless access points in a small area can generate a substantial amount of interference, degrading everybody's wireless experience. For best performance, we recommend that students use the college's wireless. It is available in all residence halls.

Can I bring a streaming device to campus?

Yes, definitely! Please see our recommended streaming devices list - /gts/Streaming_Device. Devices such as a Smart TV, Smart Blu-ray players, Apple TVs, and the Nexus Player work well on our network to stream Netflix, Hulu, etc. However, Screen-casting from a cell phone/tablet to the device currently isn't supported. We recommend that when using these devices, you use an ethernet (RJ45) cable (provided free by Technology Services). If you haven't purchased a Blu-ray player or TV yet, look for a wired ethernet (RJ45) port on the back when purchasing.

What are the minimum requirements for the computer I bring to ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅?

Before connecting to the campus network, all computers must have current virus protection and up-to-date , along with the following list of minimum requirements:

Requirement Windows Macintosh
Operating System Windows 11 macOS 12 (Monterey)
Networking 5GHz Dual Band Wireless AC (aka A/B/G/N/AC or A/G/N/AC), Built-in 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45 connector) access available in most campus spaces.
Anti-Virus Software Microsoft Security Essentials or Windows Defender (free, built into Windows 8/10)
Current Security Patches Run Software Update

What are the recommended specifications for my computer at ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅?

Recommendation Windows Macintosh
Operating System Windows 11 (any variety) macOS 13 (Ventura) or newer
RAM 16 GB or higher 16 GB or higher
Connectivity 5GHz Dual Band Wireless AC (aka A/B/G/N/AC or A/G/N/AC), Built-in 10/100/1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45 connector)
Processor Current Gen Intel i5 M series processor
Hard Drive 256GB SSD or larger 256GB SSD or larger
Warranty 3 year warranty AppleCare Protection Plan


Generally the "business class" models are more durable and come with longer warranties.

Connecting to the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ Wireless Network

There is no longer a registration process required to access the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ wireless networks.

How do I have the best wireless network experience at ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅?

When buying a computer, double check that it comes with a 5GHz wireless card built-in. While Macintosh laptops come with them standard, most PC laptops do not come with 5GHz wireless cards in the preconfigured models in stores. Find out if you can order the laptop with a 5GHz wireless card, or purchase your computer straight from the manufacturer. Purchasing a 5GHz laptop

Software

Things to do BEFORE you get to ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅!

  1. If you are a Windows user, make sure your "Windows Updates" are current (visit ).
  2. If you are a Macintosh user, run Software Update, and apply all critical updates.
  3. Ensure that your machine is protected from viruses by using an Anti-Virus client with up-to-date definitions.
  4. Verify that you have all of the necessary software documentation, serial numbers, and installation media. Please bring these to campus with you.
  5. During any transition, it's wise to make backups of any critical data. We recommend a cloud-based backup.

Get Microsoft Office Free

At ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅, all faculty, staff, and employees use the Microsoft Office Suite for Windows or Macintosh.

ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ currently has Microsoft Office 365 available for free for all current active students. Please visit our for more information.

What about Anti-Virus software?

Should I come with an anti-virus product?

It is recommended that you use an anti-virus product before you come to campus. If you do not use the built-in Windows anti-virus product and use a different anti-virus software, please be sure your subscription is up-to-date.

Does ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ provide anti-virus software?

Windows 10 and Windows 11 have anti-virus included, ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ does not provide anti-virus software.

What can I do to protect my computer from spyware?

The best way to avoid getting spyware and adware is by not installing "high-risk" applications like peer to peer media downloading software, and other suspect "freeware," and "shareware" programs.

Use caution when installing software. Make sure your operating system, software and browser plug-ins are all up to date. Use a long and unique password. ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ requires a passphrase of at least 15 characters.

Connecting to the Internet

Which connection method is recommended?

When connecting to the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ network from your residence hall room, we recommend using the "wireless" connection.

How many wired ports are in each room in the Residence Halls?

This depends on the room that you are assigned. However, in most cases, for first-year students, it will be one per room.

Can I bring a wireless router to campus?

No. Using personal wireless routers will interfere with this network, therefore, we do not allow personal wireless routers.

Where else is the wireless network?

For an up-to-date listing of where the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ wireless network is located, please visit ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ Wireless Network. All buildings and many popular outdoor spaces have wireless available.

How do I connect to the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ network?

  1. Turn on your computer.
  2. Connect to the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ wifi

How many networked devices can I connect to the network?

You can connect as many as you would like.

How do I connect my video game console such as the Xbox or Playstation 5 to the Internet so I can use the online features?

Connect to the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ wifi network or plug into the wired network. No registration needed.

Are there any devices that don't work well on the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ network?

Due to the design of the Chromecastand the Amazon's Fire TV Stick, these devices are not compatible with our network.

Are there any streaming devices that you recommend?

Devices such as a Smart TV, Blu-ray players, and the Apple TV work well on our network to stream Netflix, Hulu, etc. However, Screen-casting from a cell phone/tablet to the device currently isn't supported.

Support

Can the Helpline visit my room and help me connect to the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ network?

The Technology Helpline does not visit students' rooms. Please stop by Olin Hall for support.

Printing

Do I have access to campus owned printers?

Yes, there are printers in the academic buildings that are available for you to print to from your personal computer in your room. Here are to print to the printer in the nearby building.

Do I need a personal printer?

We do not recommend bringing a personal printer to campus.

Are there any fees for printing at ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅?

Print Option Cost per Page Printed
Single-Page B/W $0.07
Two-Sided B/W $0.12
Single-Page Color $0.25
Two-Sided Color $0.50

Other

When do I find out my username and password for my ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ e-mail account?

ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ usernames and passwords are created after you submit your deposit. If you do not receive this information, or have questions or problems, please contact the Technology Helpline.

Can I configure my ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ e-mail on my iPhone or Android?

Yes, definitely. Please use the Gmail mobile app, using your ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ credentials, from the App Store or the Google Play store.

Is there an online storage space for me to save my files?

Yes, ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ Google Drive cloud storage is available for all students. You can access your ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ Google Drive at . This website utilizes your ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ e-mail username and password. A great place to save papers and files.

Are the classrooms technology-enhanced?

Yes, most classrooms have projection capabilities.

What personal information can I view online - my grades, class schedules, degree progress, transcripts, or other information?

As a student, you will be able to check all of this by logging into with your ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ username and password.

Is there a way to find contact information for faculty, staff, and other students?

Yes, we have an online directory found at /search/. Faculty and staff information does not require a log-in. Student information is only available to those who have a ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ username and password.

What public access for computing is available to students, parents, and guests of the college? Are there any Internet cafes?

There are computers for public use in the Library. Guests of the College may connect to the ΒιΆΉΚΣΖ΅ wireless network. No registration needed.

Where are the computer labs?

We have computer labs in most academic buildings.

Retrieved from "/gts/w/index.php?title=Incoming_Student_Technology_FAQ&oldid=39359"