Frequently Asked Questions by incoming students (and their parents)

When will I get my Wabash email and computer account?
Do I need a computer at Wabash?
Should I get a desktop or laptop computer?
What computer labs are available?
What help is available?
Is wireless networking available?
How much storage do I get?

 

When will I get my Wabash email and computer account?
We will mail username and passwords to incoming students no later than May 20.  Once you have your account information, you can log into your email account, and access many student online services.

Do I need a computer at Wabash?
Wabash students use computers extensively in their class work.  Whether sharing papers and lab results with faculty and classmates, accessing on-line library and media resources, or continuing class discussions in the evening via email, almost all students use computers and our campus network every day.  Every academic department uses computers in some way.  Because of this, we recommend, but do not require, that students have a computer at Wabash.  Currently, nearly 95% of our students have their own computers at Wabash.

Should I get a desktop or laptop computer?
Laptop computers are increasingly popular at Wabash. Last year, 77% of freshmen had a laptop computer. Laptops offer several advantages over desktop computers: you can take your computer anywhere on campus (and connect to the Internet via our wireless network), you can continue to use your computer when you go home for breaks, and they take up less space. Laptop computer prices have dropped considerably in recent years, making laptop computers an affordable and attractive option.

public labs on campus.  Most labs are open from 8am-midnight; two labs are open 24 hours/day.  Many academic departments also have computers for students to use for work in a particular discipline.  Campus wide, Wabash has more than 380 computers dedicated to student use.  College computers are loaded with a wide range of commercial software applications, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Mathematica, Photoshop, Dreamweaver, Internet Explorer, statistical programs, computer programming languages, and a variety of course-specific applications.  All computers are replaced on a 3-year cycle, ensuring that Wabash students always have access to the latest technology.

What help is available?
IT Services is committed to helping you make the most of available technology.  If you run into problems with your network connection in your room, the WABnet Connection Hotline (x6150) is available from 8am until midnight, seven days/week.  Most computer labs are staffed with student technology assistants who offer help to students in computer labs.  For other technology-related issues, contact the

Help Desk (x6400, helpdesk@wabash.edu).  

If you need to hone your skills with a particular software program, all students have unlimited access to Element K, an on-line learning system that offers self-paced courses for many computer programs and technologies, and IT Services offers several workshops each semester on using technology on campus. We also sponsor twice-monthly noon Tech Talks (with free pizza!) to discuss common technology issues.

Is wireless networking available?
New for fall 2007, all campus buildings offer wireless network access, including College dormitories and fraternities, the library, all academic buildings, the athletics complex, student center, and the armory.