<p>RIT School of Design recommended not buying a computer at first but to wait. There are so many computers available that they don't feel you need one. If you do decide to get one, they recommend getting an Apple for GD and New Media, but I believe a personal computer for Ind. Design and Int. Design. They recommend ordering through the RIT bookstore because students get a huge discount (same thing applies to software). We asked some students and they said the same thing. They don't have their own computers because they find they're always available and RIT updates their software constantly. I know the art house (specialty housing) had it's own computer/printer in the lounge and it was available to anyone living there.</p>
<p>Also if you are looking for more great deals, students should check out <a href="http://www.gradware.com%5B/url%5D">www.gradware.com</a> (mostly just software) and <a href="http://www.academicsuperstore.com%5B/url%5D">www.academicsuperstore.com</a> (more hardware than Gradware). They provide excellent deals on student software. </p>
<p>I found out, for instance, that the only difference between Flash MX Pro 2004 and its student version is that the student version says "Educational" on the startup screen. Oh, and you save $550 off retail.</p>
<ul>
<li>Ian</li>
</ul>