Utilizing Cal Poly Internet So that You Don't Need to Pay for Your Own

At multiple times over the past three years as a Cal Poly student, I have run into the problem of not necessarily having a working computer, printer, or internet depending on the moment. I am currently happily in posession of computer and internet but no printer. So, how do you keep it all going? Where do you turn based on your current situation.

The University Union computers are definitely the most accessible choice. Multiple terminals exist inside the area that are quickly accessible. However, I wouldn't suggest doing much more than checking up on some e-mail. The computers require you to stand. Additionally, they don't provide any sort of audio playback and I'm unsure as to how good the video would be on them. You can't download files onto the computer and it doesn't hook to a printer. Also, you are definitely in a very public area so anything you want to keep personal is out of the question. But, it's a nice place to grab some coffee and check the e-mail or latest news on the way to class.

University Union Website:

http://asi.calpoly.edu/uu/

A definite step-up from the University Union computers. Probably your safest shot if you don't have connections to a department/club or aren't cocky. What's better? Well you can download your files which is an essential if you aren't gifted with a printer at home. However, you are going to have to pay to print. Not only that, you are going to have to money on your PolyCard to print. And you most add at least five dollars to your card to do this. Don't count on running in and printing five minutes before your class especially if you don't have money on the card. They will make you run across campus to put money on it or add an even larger sum off your credit card online. Audio can be played, but you're going to have to have your own headphones. So, if you want to YouTube or check your friend's band's myspace think ahead. Also, there are a large number of terminals and people working on projects so getting distracted is very easy. As a super plus though, they do have Mac Labs which can be great for getting design work using expensive software done.

Here's their site:

http://lib.calpoly.edu/

Here's the meat of getting your internet uses down on campus. Joining a club is a good place to suck off the Cal Poly internet goods. Not only can you be guaranteed just about everything from the other areas on campus, you can usually print for free. Plus, these places are small and if you are in the club you generally know who's there and can relax in doing whatever it is that you need. This can be a major downfall as these labs don't typically offer much in the way of keeping you focused on work. On the other hand, they are almost a personal office. If you're not in the club, be cautious. Some places are better to sneak into then others. Here's the skinny on the Graphic Arts building: stay away from KCPR, Mustang Daily, and GRC if you want to avoid getting picked up and questioned. The Journalism Reading Room and Engineering Senior Project rooms offer free glory. Do reconaissance. Figure out the skinny and then proceed.

So, you have some specific desires. You want to print high quality stuff in awkward sizes or you need to use really expensive software. This is a risky area and you most likely want to be affiliated with somebody to get the job done. The Graphic Arts building is best, but you're still going to have to creep around. Also, the Graphic Arts lab is a bit of a lockdown so even having a friendly GRC student tends to get you know where. But if you snoop and keep your eyes peeled and feet quick, you can usually get everything you need done.

Don't be confrontational. But at the same time remember you are a student and you pay to keep things going. Never fret about making use of what you pay for. All of these things are here for a reason.