Dear DVM students,

After extensive discussions with the Student Technology Fee Committee and with the Veterinary Administrative Council, I have decided to include notebook type computers as a mandatory item for veterinary students.

Those students who decide to purchase computers and who intend to fund the purchase using financial aid should provide Ms. Lori Boyd in the OSU Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid with a memo and attached receipt before the start of the fall semester (see attached memo template). This cost will then be factored into the calculation of financial need and the additional funds will be made available in the unsubsidized loan part of the financial aid disbursement at the start of the fall semester. Once tuition and fees are paid, the balance in each student’s bursar’s account will be transferred by direct deposit to the student’s bank account between one and two weeks after the start of the semester. This financial aid transaction can only be taken advanatage of once.

The estimated cost of the purchase filed with the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid is $2,100. Specifically, the College is recommending purchase of a notebook-type computer with wireless networking capability and running at least Windows XP. There is no requirement to purchase any specific brand of computer but for purposes of serviceability it is highly recommended that students purchase a computer by a major PC manufacturer from a major retailer.

Students, faculty and staff at OSU are offered special pricing through Dell and Apple. Information about any special pricing programs can be found here. In addition, CVHS computer services is able to provide enhanced support for Dell products, including warranty repair, but purchase of a specific brand of computer is not required.

As you know, many of your instructors employ PowerPoint slides. One of the advantages of notebook computers is that students can make electronic annotations on these slides, without first having to print out paper copies. This convenience could reduce the million or so copies printed every year on student copier/printers. I expect also that the ready availability of individual computers in the classroom will encourage faculty to develop and employ more extensively computer-aided instruction and programs that facilitate immediate feedback from students during lectures. In summary, I am confident that purchase of a computer will prove to be a good investment in your veterinary education.

I have asked faculty to make available electronic copies of handouts. If you do not intend to purchase required handouts, but already indicated that you would do so on your book order form, please notify Sherl Holesko by July 1 ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ).

Please let me know if you have any further questions regarding this recommendation.

Sincerely,

Dr. Ross