As mid-terms approach many students dread the thought of having to write papers.  The Academic Computing Center, also known as the Mega Lab, may help lesson the stress.

The Mega Lab, located in the George Ozuna building, has more than

75 computers. It is a place where students who don’t own a computer  can go to click on the Internet, check e-mail or work on papers.

Software  programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point and many more can be used. No matter what type of work you need to do, you will most likely find a program that fits your needs.

“I think the lab is great,” said Leah Lopez, a 17-year-old Business major here at Palo Alto. “I can go there anytime to type papers and also to check my email.”
John Montalbo, a student who works at the lab, said, “It’s relaxing. You learn a lot from hands-on experience."

During finals students have to sign a waiting list just to use computers. It’s times like that when help is needed most.There aren’t enough student helpers to go around.
 Interim Director of Information and Communications Technology, Sandra Anderson, worked on a proposal through the Fund for Improvement of Post Secondary Education (FIPSE) last semester, which would have offered additional faculty support in the lab. The grant competition had been put on hold. But she is seeking other means to improve student services in the lab.

“I think overall we do a good job at Palo Alto and can be very proud of the facilities that we have,” said Anderson. “However, I also believe we have room for improvement.”