SMART stands for Southern's Millenial Age Recycled Technology. SMART is a collaborative initiative offered by the Office of Information Technology (OIT), the Southern Connecticut State University Foundation (SCSUF) and the Student Government Association (SGA) . The initiative provides used and functional desktop computer systems available to eligible students, at no charge to the student. By launching SMART, SCSU recognizes that accessibility to computer technology is an essential requirement in preparing students for academic success in the new millennium, and that some students do not have the financial means to purchase their own computers. The SMART initiative is also another example of Southern's commitment to a green environment by reusing and recycling technology equipment.

About the Computer

Each year, the University, through the Office of Information Technology (OIT) will allocate up to one hundred (100) surplus computers to this initiative. The computers are three or four years old and have been used in campus computer labs. The computers come with Windows XP or Mac OS X, the factory-installed operating system. Two software applications - Microsoft Office and McAfee Anti-Virus - may be downloaded, free, as all students are permitted one free copy of each of these applications. These applications can be downloaded directly from SCSU Share.

OIT will assure that each computer distributed through this program is in solid working condition prior to distribution. OIT does not provide any technical support to individually owned computers, including those distributed/given to students via this initiative.

At the time of application, students may express a preference for the desired type of computer; preferences will be honored to the extent that the inventory of available computers permits. For 2011, there are 20 MAC computers available starting late September. Please check back for the availability of Windows PCs.

Eligibility

All full-time matriculated undergraduate students are eligible to apply. Students who meet the following criteria will receive priority consideration:

• Students who can demonstrate extraordinary financial hardship and/or financial need as determined by the "Estimated Financial Contribution" on the FAFSA.



• Students who are participants in the Summer Educational Opportunity Program (SEOP) or Connecticut College Access and Success Program (ConnCAS).



• Students who can demonstrate extraordinary financial hardship.

All information provided in the application will be considered confidential; the Selection Committee will review each application "blind", meaning that the name of the applicant and other related confidential information will not be available to the Selection Committee.

Application Process

To apply:

• Download the application form.


• Mail the completed form with required signature to:
  
  SMART Initiative
  Student Government Association/Office of Student Life
  Southern Connecticut State University
  501 Crescent Street
  New Haven, CT 06515
  


• You may also fax the completed form to (203) 392-8963.
• Mailed or faxed forms must be received by no later than 4:30 p.m., September 23, 2011.

The Student Government Association will announce the decisions starting September 26, 2011. Computers will be ready for pick up starting September 26, 2011.

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: 4:30pm, September 23, 2011


• Award Announcement: Starting September 26, 2011
• Computer Pick-up: Starting September 26, 2011

Questions

Email questions to smartinitiative@southernct.edu