Getting Started at Haverford
PDF Welcome to Haverford College. As you make your transition to campus life there are plenty of things you have to think about. Although it’s important, computing on campus doesn’t need to be something that’s too complicated. Use the checklist below to make sure you and your computer are all set so you can start accessing electronic resources as soon as you arrive on campus.
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Get Your Computer
Sometimes students bring computers that have already been serving them well, while others shop around for a new computer at the start of college. If you’re bringing a computer you’ve already had for a while, skip to the next section, Get Your Software, and make sure you have everything you need installed on the computer before you arrive.
Buying something new? Check out our buying guide to help you make sure you are getting a computer that will last you through your time at Haverford, with a little room to spare. The buying guide also has information on special Haverford Student discounts from Dell and Apple.
Get Your Software
What you’ll need for your academic work varies based on the courses you’re taking, but there are a few things that every student should have before they arrive.
- Updated Operating System. Been a while since you’ve updated your Windows or MacOS? Every student’s computer is scanned as soon as it connects to our network and you won’t be able to use the Internet here until your system is up to date. Save yourself the time and inconvenience and take care of this before you arrive on campus. Turn on Automatic Updates for Windows or Software Update for Mac and follow the instructions for your specific operating system.
- Virus Protection Software. Haverford provides free antivirus software for every member of the community. We’re in the process of updating our antivirus offering for the 2011-12 academic year. Please check this space on August 8 for the latest version of the antivirus software, download it and install it. Again, like an up-to-date operating system, you’ll need to make sure you have your antivirus installed before you try to connect to the network.
- Microsoft Office. We recommend the Office Professional package available online from JourneyEd. Office includes Microsoft Word for creating documents, Excel for spreadsheets and PowerPoint for presentations and is available for Mac or PC at significant discounts when purchased through JourneyEd.
Get to Know the Rules
Check out the IITS Policy and Planning site for up-to-date information on the guidelines that surround computing at Haverford. Be sure to check out the Acceptable Use Copyright Supplement and Student Support Policy.
Get your Technology Orientation
Moodle is the online space where your faculty will frequently post assignments, readings and even quizzes or exams.
Before arriving on campus, be sure to log on to Moodle and complete the entire orientation, including the quiz at the end. Remember, you’re required to complete this by the end of Non-Academic Registration. Finish by August 22, and you’ll be entered into a raffle.
Got Questions?
The ProDesk is always here to help. Reach out by email (ProDesk@haverford.edu) or call 610.896.1480.