All Electronic Media students are required to purchase a Macbook Pro laptop upon entering the program. Originally, I was intimidated by the cost of this laptop. Now, I realize that this very Mac has become the first investment of my professional life. Here are five reasons why I am glad the Electronic Media Division made me purchase a Macbook Pro:
1. Virus Protection
I have had my Macbook Pro for almost two years and have not had any viruses or breaches in security. I run virus and security scans regularly but have never had any scares. I cannot say the same for my PC. I purchased a PC upon entering college and it is virtually dead. I do not know the source of the PC security breach but I do know that I will never be able to use the device ever again. Good thing I now own a Mac!
2. Immediate Customer Service
Apple offers a couple of different ways to solve any and all computer issues. You can chat with an employee on the website or you can head to an Apple Store and get help at the Genius Bar. I have had great experiences with both. However, after years of E-Media classes, I have discovered that there is a good chance that at least one E-Media student sitting in my class room is an certified Apple Genius. Chances are he or she can solve any slight issues before the professor even enters the room.
3. Remote Control
With the solid video quality offered by Macbook Pro, I end up watching television shows and movies on my laptop. Pop in a DVD, start up Front Row, snuggle under the covers and grab the included remote. No need to reach to adjust the volume or skip a chapter. I also use my remote when I am playing music on iTunes. I can make dinner in the kitchen and use the remote to skip through songs in the living room. Pure perfection.
4. Bluetooth
As all students and faculty of E-Media are aware, it is sometimes tough to receive wireless internet in various classrooms. This usually is not an issue during class. However, when participating in a group project, I found this difficulty to inhibit our ability to collaborate as a group. A classmate then showed me how to use our laptops’ Bluetooth capabilities to send and receive files of any size. It is so easy to use this feature and has since allowed me to better collaborate with classmates- no matter the location or classroom.
5. Cool-Factor
Owning a Mac just makes me cool. No doubt about it. I see others checking out how slick my laptop looks as I use iMovie or Garageband. As a Mac user, I automatically am awarded a couple extra cool points. It has done wonders for my social life...
Throughout my years in E-Media, I have loved my laptop. It is three years old but holding up just fine. My Mac has been able to retain its value and will probably be working just fine for years to come. As the industry evolves and incorporates various new technologies, I am confident that my Macbook Pro will be able to keep up.
Written by Patty Kelly, March 2010