<p>I already have a darn good computer that I made myself and I am hoping to bring with me. When i talk to people it sounds like everyone is getting a laptop. What are they gonna use it for? Notetaking? I hate typing on laptops, let alone doing all my essays on one.</p>
<p>Use the search function for notebooks or laptops or computers. There are huge number of threads on this topic...</p>
<p>I did the same thing you did.....and a laptop isn't as prevalent as it seems IMO...it's not as though people pull them out everywhere and use them regulary outside..I'm glad I didn't get a laptop....and to top it all off... the library lets you borrow laptops at my school which further reduces any need.</p>
<p>I've survived 3 years in college already without one, but I'm getting one over the summer because I'm changing my major to computer science.</p>
<p>If you can build a computer yourself then you will definately benefit from having a desktop. You know how to upgrade it and can do so cheaply throughout your college career.</p>
<p>That said, if you want a laptop, get a used one that can be used for basic computer while you keep your desktop as your main machine (and keep it running nice and fast)</p>
<p>my school is going to require laptops for the entering class of 2006, and they have a deal with Dell for a certain model. You can still bring a different laptop though if you want.</p>
<p>I take my laptop to the lounge or the study lounge in my dorm to use sometimes, but I haven't taken it to class or the library. Some people take notes on them in class, but most don't. In some classes though for instance, you can download the powerpoints the teacher is using and take notes right onto powerpoint.</p>
<p>You will get use to the laptop keyboard fairly quickly.</p>
<p>It seems to depend on the school you attend. Here in silicon valley, it seems odd to see a student without access to a computer, whether it's his own laptop, a library or school laptop on loan or access to free or fee-based desktops in the library. One hs here even tried giving a Apple laptop to every student, just like giving out textbooks. But too many of them came up broken or lost.</p>
<p>I don't really like the newer, really thin, really lite-weight laptops that are missing a floppy drive and/or parallel (LPT) port. Just for compatibility purposes, when docking at Kinko's or elsewhere, I like to have access to all possible components.</p>
<p>I built my own computer as well and don't really suffer at all. I'm a comp sci major, but I would say that major pushes for a desktop, more power and space. </p>
<p>I would say you'll be fine. About 90% of the students here at Bowdoin have laptops, but no one I know who has a desktop is suffering. You'll just need to be able to work in your room. If you want to write a paper, you'll be stuck in your room most likely. I've got two 19" LCDs and a good pair of headphones. When I need to work, I can drown out ambient noise and see what I'm doing and get it done.</p>
<p>Also, the upgrading, as you know, is easy. One hint: tell people that your computer is from 'dell or something, I dunno my parents bought it' otherwise everyone withing 4 miles will come to you at all hours of the night to help them fix their broken computer. </p>
<p>:-p</p>
<p>You won't need a laptop, but it may be helpful because it is portable. If you feel like you don't need one, then you don't have to get one. It's completely up to you, and your interests.</p>
<p>Good advice oliver, but its ok to let the hot girls know that you can fix their **** (as long as its not done in a nerdy way).</p>