Technology Information
You may be wondering what type of computer to purchase, where there are computer labs on campus, or how to use the many technology resources on campus. More information on Technology can be found on the Technology for Students Gateway. However, we have highlighted some important information below.
Email Information
It is the College’s policy to use Simmons email addresses on all correspondence with students, so please plan on regularly checking your Simmons email during the summer. We do not want you to miss important information!
- You should have received your email address, username and initial password in your mailed deposit packet materials. If you have not received this packet, please look for it in the mail as it will be coming soon! If you have received this packet, but cannot find your email address, you should call the Simmons College Help Desk at 617-521-2222. You will be asked to provide your Simmons ID number to verify your identity. Your ID number should be on your admissions materials; please contact the Undergraduate Orientation at 617-521-2429 if you are unsure of your ID number.
- Instructions on how to forward your Simmons email to your personal account (e.g. Gmail, yahoo, etc.) can be found on the Technology for Students website.
- The first time you use your Simmons email, you should change your Simmons password. However, make sure it is password that you will remember, as you will need it for competency or placement exams during the Summer Preview Days or Fall Orientation.
Safe Computing
Your computer contains a lot of important information: school papers, personal documents, stored passwords to online banking, and much more! It is important to protect this information, and also protect the Simmons network from malicious viruses or worms. In order to connect to the Simmons network, you must disinfect and protect your computer using the free tools available through Simmons Technology. Please complete the steps outlined on the “Disinfect and Protect” website, prior to arriving on campus in August.
What to Buy
Are you planning to purchase a personal computer before coming to Simmons? We recommend you buy a desktop or laptop meeting the Simmons minimum specifications. You can find current Simmons specifications on the purchasing web site, along with links to the discounts available through the online Simmons Dell and Apple stores. For special pricing available to Simmons students, visit our online Dell, Apple, and e-academy stores. You will need your Simmons username and password in order to learn about the special pricing for Simmons students.
As a student, you will need to be able to open and work on files created using Microsoft Office software. Technology suggests you purchase the Microsoft Office suite (Excel, PowerPoint, and Word) through the Simmons e-academy online store, where you will find a terrific discount on Office and other Microsoft products, as well as statistical software. The Technology Purchasing page also has information on discounted Adobe software. Download free Simmons antivirus software. You must have antivirus software installed on your computer in order to use the Simmons network.
Already Have a Computer?
Please make sure your computer meets the Simmons minimum specifications so that Technology can provide you with basic troubleshooting and technical support during academic year 2008-2009.
Not Planning on Purchasing a Computer?
Many students choose not to purchase a computer and instead, use one of the many Simmons computers available throughout the College. There are computers with software you need to complete your coursework in the Library Information Commons, and on the residence campus, in Arnold, Mesick, North, Smith, and Simmons Halls. You can check out wireless laptops for use anywhere in the Library. Five Technology Labs are outfitted with computers for every student, and several graduate schools and undergraduate departments operate their own departmental computer labs for special work related to their disciplines.
If you plan to use one of the computers available throughout the college, please make sure that you either have a USB “Flash Drive” or your online file server space to save your work!
