Creating a positive first impression of information technology support at the start of school

To capture students' attention, the Office of Information Technology (OIT) at Indiana State University (ISU), created a Start of School Event. This event has been conducted the last three years at ISU. A Start of School Committee comprised of members of the various units in the OIT started the planning process. This committee designed and coordinated the activities of the event. One of the centerpieces of the event was a Technology Information Tent. At the tent, OIT distributed Microsoft Campus Agreement (MSCA) software, safe computing CDs, Student Technology Guides, provided technical help, gave away prizes, answered general questions about the campus, and offered the opportunity for students to be photographed with the school mascot. In addition, the University's radio station WISU broadcasted live from the tent. This array of activities created a carnival atmosphere for the students. For five days starting the Sunday before classes started, a steady stream of students took advantage of easy access computer support. Over 50 OIT staff members assisted with the tent over the five days. Over 2,400 students signed contracts and received the MSCA CDs. Another 2,500 asked for assistance and received answers to such technical questions as how to get connected to the Indiana State network or remove viruses from their personal computers, and many brought their laptops by for hands-on support. The paper focuses on the activities, products, and survey results of the event as well as the project plan for the event.