Stories this week at Wake Forest

Laptop Computers to be Handed Out

The fall semester marks the first time Wake Forest will distribute notebook computers to two classes — freshmen and juniors. The freshmen will pick up their new IBM ThinkPads (model 380XD) on Monday morning, Aug. 24, in Reynolds Gymnasium. The distribution runs from 8 a.m. to noon. Throughout the afternoon, juniors will visit the gym to trade in the computers they received as freshmen for the new ThinkPads. Wake Forest students use their computers for two years before getting updated models. The used computers are being sold to the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools.

Mastering Computer Basics

After picking up their computers, freshmen will go to classrooms in Carswell and Calloway halls to learn the basics about their new laptops. Computer orientation is scheduled for 12:30 to 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 24, and 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 25. All freshmen are expected to attend a two-hour session designed to give information on sending e-mail, using the Internet for research, printing and much more. (For details about computer distribution or to arrange coverage of a training session, call the News Service.)

Student Dining Follows National Trend

Mirroring national trends, Wake Forest University students want healthy options and convenience when dining on campus, says Mike Bellefeuil, director of dining services at Wake Forest. The university kept that in mind as it opened a new food court and convenience store on the campus’ northern end this summer and renovated the university’s existing Sundry Shop. “As we were talking with student organizations about these renovations, that was the single biggest thing that came out of them — they’re looking for foods low in fat,” Bellefeuil said. “We serve very few hamburgers on campus.” Like most people, he said, students also want convenience. “One of the things we know is that students won’t walk more than five minutes to a food outlet.” A new food court in the new Information Systems Building adds Chick-Fil-A to other existing brands on campus such as Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and Kentucky Fried Chicken. Even with the growth of brand names on campuses, though, Bellefeuil said, “People are still looking for comfort foods — the meat, starch and a vegetable-type meal.”

International Students Get Their Own Ambassador

International students from such places as Spain, China and Lithuania who are entering Wake Forest this fall will have their own “ambassador” to help them adjust to college life in the United States. The 23 student ambassadors are current undergraduates, many of whom have traveled abroad. The ambassadors offer valuable insights and tips — anything from how the library system works to finding local grocery stores. Many of those paired have already written to each other during the summer. Some have already met, but for others a special reception on Friday, Aug. 21, will be their first meeting. The reception will be from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in Reynolda Hall’s Autumn Room.

Demon Deacon Spirit

New students can learn Wake Forest’s alma mater, “Dear Old Wake Forest” and the university fight song and meet the athletic coaches on Saturday, Aug. 22, from 7:30-8:30 p.m. Part of orientation, the “pep rally” event will be held in Kentner Stadium. Rain location: Reynolds Gymnasium.