OUR VIEW: Why fight WiFi?
Technology is a good thing.
Technology on campus that makes the life of a student easier is a great thing.
For the past two years, students have had access to wireless Internet in a select few locations on campus. Over the months, the number of locations has grown, but as convenient as wireless is, it is not always in the best locations.
It’s time for the university to step up its commitment to wireless fidelity.
The Taggart Student Center is an excellent example. Wireless Internet is available, but only in the Skyroom. The Skyroom is a logical place for wireless services because of business meetings that take place there, but it is certainly not a hotspot for students.
Wireless access in places like The Hub, Carousel Square, Juniper Lounge and the Patio would be a boon to students.
Les Essig and the 2004-05 ASUSU Executive Council should make wireless Internet access one of their top priorities for the coming school year. Executive vice presidential candidate Spencer Lloyd had it as part of his campaign, and it is definitely something that should be addressed.
If Essig truly wants to return the TSC to a student-oriented building, he needs to get more students in it. Wireless access and laptop computer rentals, like the libraries currently have, would help get students in the building.
Imagine the ability to load your favorite Web sites or do research in the Sunburst Lounge while enjoying the view from the windows.
USU has the technology, now it just needs to put it all in the right places.