MCOM 320 -- WEEK 1
This week, I learned that my Mac is not my friend. Last semester in my IS 110 class, I found out that the Marriott School prefers laptops other than Macs. It made sense. The market of computers in the business world is dominated by HPs and Lenovos and other Windows laptops. But, out of loyalty to my Mac, I tried to make things work. This Monday, I found out things were only going to get harder the longer I tried to hold on to my Mac.
First off, all of my Microsoft Office applications crashed. I couldn’t access any of my documents, spreadsheets, or presentations. Since it’s only the first week of school, the effect wasn’t devastating. I didn’t have enough coursework yet to make me panic. It does make applying for a job difficult when you can’t access your resume, though. After a day or two of working on it, I got everything reinstalled and sorted out, but I learned the importance of keeping backups of important documents. If my situation had been worse and my computer had suddenly given me the blue screen of death, I would have lost everything. However, I was given a second chance, and now all my important documents are backed up, safe, and accessible. I’m going to make it a habit to continually back up all important documents, and look into purchasing some form of external storage.
Secondly, I need to run Windows for my IS 201 class. If I try to continue using my Mac, this requires a virtual machine that will run Windows programs within the OS X. After researching online and tapping into my network of computer science friends, I know how to proceed. Once again, I saw the power of networking this week. In September of last year, I met Taylor Funk, a computer science major. After describing my Mac issues with him, he sent me an email with links and detailed instructions on how to install a virtual machine. Even though it was months ago that he sent the email, it happens to be exactly what I need right now. I need to make sure and send him a hearty thanks for his help.
ACTION PLAN:
- Make it a habit to back things up
- Research/buy an external hard drive
- Follow Taylor’s instructions on how to install a virtual machine
- Send Taylor a thank you
Ally, nothing is worse than the blue screen of death. I was blue screened three times last semester. I have a Toshiba HP. I love my computer to death. When I saw the blue screen of death I thought my computer came to an end and all was lost. However, my dad always taught me growing up, make sure you always have a backup. I have always tried to keep a back up because I love and respect my dad. Well, when the blue screen happened, I was grateful I listened to the advice my father had given me. I will always honor him and cherish what he has taught me, and will continue to teach me. Parents are the greatest asset we have in this life. They know us, and they are always willing to help us.
ReplyDeleteI am so glad everything about your computer was resolved. I hope the computer continues to work well for you.
I totally agree that it is so important to back up all of your files. I am a Informations Systems Major and I own a Mac Book Pro. It can be hard to switch between mac and windows but our school provides all the software necessary to do so. I prefer parallels to run Windows 8 but it looks like you have everything under control now. I usually back up my Mac through time machine every couple of weeks and it backs up everything, even your settings. I hope you enjoy IS 201 I loved that class.
ReplyDeleteBest of Luck!