University of Massachusetts - AmherstComputers Summary

Written by Leah Kahan

There are lots of computers available around campus, especially in the Learning Commons located at the library. The library is filled with desktops where you can find students working or just dropping in to print their papers. Laptops are also available. There will frequently be short lines of students waiting to gain access to a computer, but if you don't feel like waiting, there are other computers all over campus. There are stations in many buildings where you can stop to check e-mail or Facebook between classes. Each academic department also has its own set of labs that tend to be much less crowded than the library. As long as you inform yourself of computer availability, you will have no problem with computer access until finals week. Laptops are not required for classes, but online homework is commonly assigned, so it is highly advisable that you bring your own computer. If you don't, you will most likely regret it while walking to the library in the freezing weather just to do the online homework you've been putting off. The Office of Information Technologies (OIT) is occasionally understaffed (and often recommends new students to join their team). A prominent issue at the beginning of each semester is when all students are trying to get squared away at the same time. UMass has recently updated Internet access around campus, and now it runs smoother than in the past.