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Comparable Schools'
Computers Grades:
College Prowler Take
A computer isn’t necessary at NU, but it sure is handy. Although there are no 24-hour computer labs per sè, once you learn the ins and outs of the University, it’s fairly easy to find an open computer at any time of the day or night. Labs in the journalism school are fully equipped for desktop publishing, and the schools of music and communication offer state-of-the-art editing for CD and video production. Wireless connectivity is rather limited, so don’t feel obligated to get a laptop. But on a practical basis at Northwestern, the socially challenged often find it easier to communicate over Instant Messenger from a dorm room than by picking up the phone and dialing out. Fast Ethernet connections enamor even the most computer-clueless student, and even if you’ve never been hip to the Web before, you’ll be savvy in no time. Still, be prudent, or you’ll be banished from the network if you’re caught downloading too much too fast. Disregard the school’s recommendations for computers unless you are in a highly specialized field or you’re willing to splurge. A bare-bones computer that can be hooked up to the Internet is an absolute must, and don’t be surprised if your roommate has thousands of dollars invested in his setup. Computers are a matter of leisure and allow students the luxury of doing their dirty work in the comfort of pajamas. It’s a competitive school, and often the only time to let your hair down is at the dorm or your apartment. Find a computer that fits your needs and rely on the labs only in the case of emergency—and don’t forget to download AIM. Students Speak Out
Love your school more than free food? Hate your school more than term papers?
Somewhere in between? Show the world what YOU think of YOUR school:
av2729 says:  |
I was worried that using a laptop...
I was worried that using a laptop here would be frustrating, but it's not now that they updated the network. The new WiFi extends nearly everywhere, including the residence hall rooms. However, the WiFi stability is still shaky, so getting kicked off is common. There's still no way to print wirelessly, you still need an Ethernet cable to watch TV, and a lot of normal online functions (like file sharing) are blocked. Overall, though, the wireless is a huge improvement to the campus, and is probably the reason that nearly everyone I know has a laptop this year.
Computers: September 23, 2008
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Anonymous says: |
I was without a computer my first...
I was without a computer my first week on campus—get a computer and Ethernet access. It’s really hard to live without it. The computer labs are highly accessible, according to my experience, and the connection is fast. I have not had a problem accessing a computer when I need to or having to go out of my way to access one. |
Anonymous says: |
Bringing your own computer is not...
Bringing your own computer is not only an option—it’s a neccesity. The connection is reliable and fast, but you can’t download music unless you’re really sneaky (they monitor you). |
Anonymous says: |
I’ve never really been in the...
I’ve never really been in the computer lab more than twice. I recommend having your own computer and a laptop instead of a PC. It’s nice to be able to take your laptop with you to the library and get out of the dorm room or to take it home with you over breaks. It is also really nice in case the power goes out, since it will use its battery. If you are in the middle of writing an important paper, you can continue to do so while everyone else is freaking out. |
Anonymous says: |
The computer network is fast, and...
The computer network is fast, and the student homepage has links to everything you need: course management, technical help, calendars, and transportation, and so on. Sometimes, the computer labs are crowded toward the end of finals week, but usually, there are several open computers throughout the rest of the school year. Definitely bring your own computer. It not only saves you the hassle of typing your papers in a lab, but also lets you keep up-to-date with news and last minute e-mails. |
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