Students will likely get exposure to both platforms frequently during their careers at Michigan. We encourage students to work with the platform with which they are more comfortable. It depends on which computer platform you will be using and whether you will be using ethernet. If you buy or bring a Macintosh with you and are using ethernet in your residence hall room, you can print from your room. Unfortunately, the software for Windows that allows you to do so is not functional at this time.
Information technology changes very quickly.
Computing power doubles about every 12 months while prices continue to drop. It is impractical to try to guess future needs and purchase current technology to cover those needs. Instead, purchase a computer that covers today's requirements. Later, if things have changed significantly, it will likely be a better investment to buy a new computer than to try to upgrade an older one. If you buy a computer in the summer, you will avoid the fall rush and the inevitable long lines.