Some students use University computing sites their first year, waiting until their second year on campus to buy a computer. Some students bring an older computer to start, upgrading to a new computer during their second or third year at the University. Some students buy inexpensive computers their first year, planning to upgrade their entire systems during their career at the University. Before you purchase a system, we'd urge you to examine how you'd use that computer. Your work habits, possible fields of study, and interests should shape your decision.
Macintoshes can be easier to set up, to learn, and to use.
Decide whether a portable computer or a desktop computer is more appropriate for your work habits. Desktop computers are generally less expensive but require that you do your work in one location. Laptop computers allow students to compute on the go, connecting to the campus network from a growing number of network jacks in the Morris Library, classrooms, study areas, computing sites, and other locations. If your courses, activities, and research involve a lot of travel or fieldwork, you may also find a portable computer to be a good investment. Decide on a budgeting strategy, but plan for the long term.