When you shop for software for a new PC, you may want to consider a package with more than one application, such as word processing, an encyclopedia and other features. In many cases, your school will require specific software platforms for different courses, majors and years. For example, a science major requires a different software platform than a liberal arts student, so choose accordingly.

Many computer manufacturers such as Dell offer you a range of software choices, designed for everything from writing a history paper to creating a physics project with dynamic graphics. These desktop applications include Microsoft® Office 2000 and Microsoft Office XP®1 (coming in Spring 2001). Microsoft Office is a great choice, since it includes Microsoft Word, as well as Microsoft Excel and Microsoft PowerPoint®. Office XP (that's short for "experience") embraces Web services that span a broad range of devices, and includes all of the applications available in Office 2000.

In addition, there are numerous college-level software bundles available that include great tutoring and reference material, so it is a good idea to check with us on what's available to you. Be sure to ask a North Dakota State University Varsity Mart sales associate about pricing on your software selection when you stop by.

 Printer:  Since much coursework still requires printed assignments, a printer is a must. A laser printer can both save you time and show off your work better than an ink jet. Laser printers can typically print more pages per minute, and the print outs generally look better.

 Scanner:  Scanners let you transform images from print to electronic format and are especially helpful to students when incorporating graphics into presentations, web page design and much more. Scanners are also surprisingly affordable.

 Ergonomic Keyboard and Optical Mouse:  Consider upgrading your standard keyboard to an ergonomic keyboard and your mouse to an optical mouse that operates without a track ball. Once you try them, you will never go back!

We hope we've surrounded you with helpful information to enhance your PC. If you're ready to buy, stop in and meet a sales associate at the North Dakota State University Varsity Mart. And if you think your friends could benefit from a few upgrades, forward this email to them, and let us do the convincing.