Use this Student Tech Checklist as your go-to guide for essential tech at UA
- October 4th, 2024
- in Uncategorized
Are you starting your academic journey at The University of Alabama? To help you navigate your tech needs, UA OIT has compiled a comprehensive Student Tech Checklist. This guide is designed to ensure you have all the essential technology tools in place before you step into the classroom. Here’s a list of what you need and why it’s essential for your success at UA.
1. Download the Duo Mobile App.
Why You Need It: The Duo Mobile App is essential for securing your university accounts. By switching to the Duo app for multi-factor authentication (MFA), you can protect your information with an added layer of security, moving away from less secure methods like text messages.
2. Familiarize yourself with OIT’s free software
Why You Need It: OIT offers over 70 free software packages for UA students, such as Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft Office 365. Taking advantage of the free software will allow you to perform better in and out of the classroom.
3. Set Up Your ACT Card Mobile ID.
Why You Need It: The ACT Card Mobile ID allows you to use your smartphone, Apple Watch or iPhone to access buildings, attend events, and make payments across UA’s campus. It’s a convenient way to keep your student ID always accessible.
4. Connect to our Wi-Fi
Why You Need It: Eduroam and UA-Xfinity are the primary Wi-Fi networks at UA, giving you seamless internet access across campus. Connecting to eduroam & UA-Xfinity ensures you have reliable and secure internet wherever you are on campus, which is crucial for academic work and staying connected.
5. Add the IT Service Desk to your Contacts
Why You Need It: No need to panic when something goes wrong. When you have the IT Service Desk in your contacts list, you won’t have to search the web for our phone number or email. The Service Desk offers some technical maintenance and services free of charge! You can reach them at (205) 348-5555, at itsd@ua.edu, or in person at 125 Gordon Palmer Hall.
6. Log In to Blackboard Learn
Why You Need It: Blackboard is the hub for all your online coursework. Logging in and familiarizing yourself with this platform ensures you can access all your classes, assignments and course materials, keeping you organized and on top of your studies.
By following this checklist, you’ll be fully equipped to tackle your studies at The University of Alabama confidently.