Getting Started at Haverford
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PDFWelcome to Haverford College. We know you have lots on your mind as you plan to join us on campus. We hope this checklist will help you make sure you and your computer are all set as soon as you arrive on campus.
Get Connected to Us
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Get Your Computer
It’s always good to have a reliable computer that you can count on as a partner in your academic work. If you are buying something new, please 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 Rid of File Sharing Software
Every year students get fined because they were running BitTorrent or some other file-sharing software and were flagged by the RIAA or other copyright holders. Copyright holders patrol the Internet looking for pirates and we don’t want you to be one of them. Sharing music, movies and other media that you didn’t create is illegal. Furthermore, Haverford is a place built on ethics, honor and academic integrity. Violating another person’s intellectual property rights is diametrically opposed to what we stand for. First offense is $75. 2nd offense is $250 and network suspension. Uninstall BitTorrent and any other file sharing software BEFORE you come to campus.
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 students. 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.