<p>I'm going to be a chemistry major and I don't have a laptop (but I'm planning on getting one eventually--hopefully by 2007). I am, however, planning on bringing my desktop. Will I be at a great disadvantage because of it? For what types of assignments, etc. will a laptop be more helpful than a desktop? I can only think of little things (like taking the laptop outside to write word documents, spreadsheets, etc.) that would be of any difference. Is it as necessary to have a laptop for a chem major as it would be for a computer science major?</p>
<p>In anathor post Fool said:</p>
<p>"As most of you know, there is wireless available EVERYWHERE on campus. This is great if you have a laptop... I found myself doing papers outside on the cut and taking my laptop to class to either talk on AIM ( FPRIVATE "TYPE=PICT;ALT=" ) or type some notes if needed. </p>
<p>Very few have desktops. Even if you don't plan on carrying a laptop with you, using it as your primary computer in the dorm is very useful. It's nice to be able to put away your computer to clear up desk space for work. </p>
<p>On top of all this, group-work at CMU is big. Being able to bring your laptop to a group meeting is very useful. If there are any other questions, let me know"</p>
<p>KrazyKow followed up with this:</p>
<p>"I agree with fool about the laptops. It also makes it easier to go to programming class office hours, because the CAs/TAs can see what's going on with your code without having to deal with transferring the files. I like being able to check my email during classes, because it seems everyone on campus is constantly sending out emails."</p>
<p>As far ass assignments I truley doubt that you will ever "need" a laptop for a class but there is probably numerous instances where it would be extremly helpful.</p>
<p>But if you can't get a laptop for whatever reason, you'll be fine. Just make sure to find out where the clusters are on campus so you can stop in between classes and check emails and whatnot. I'm a CS major, so I have a bit of a different perspective. You can always print out code to take to office hours and whatnot.</p>
<p>Not as necessary, but still highly recommended.</p>