Surfing the internet and sending emails is a way of life for most Americans, and West Virginia University students are no different. This year when students check in to their dorm rooms they will receive not only a room key but also a CD to help them get connected to the campus ResNet system.

The CD will also include software, such as the latest version of a web browser, said Michael Cooper, coordinator of the WVU Technology Support Center (TSC).

He said most students living in WVU s residence halls will bring their own computers.

“Last year 83 percent of students in the residence halls had a computer,”Cooper said.”The computers become like yesteryears paper and pen. You dont write a letter to mom and dad; you send them an email.”

The TSC staff, assisted by WVU employees from various departments, plans to help between 1,800-2,000 students”get connected”in just four days, from the time students start checking into dorms on Thursday, Aug. 16, until classes start on Monday, Aug. 20.

Once on-line, students can access their WVU student accounts, register for classes, update their addresses with Admissions&Records and learn about student organizations and services.

The TSC also operates a consulting area in the lower level of the downtown WVU Bookstore where staff members assist students and parents with their software and hardware purchase decisions.”We dont sell anything,”Cooper explained.”We just help them decide what to purchase and answer their questions.”

Repair and upgrade services are offered by TSC technicians on weekdays 8:15 a.m.4:45 p.m. in the Whitewater Room of the Mountainlair and at their new location in the Evansdale Residential Complex, in the space formerly occupied by the fitness center. Students can call 29FIXPC for more information or to schedule a special appointment outside normal TSC office hours.