New Student Guide
Updated: 10/11/2007
Citation Guidelines
The Chicago Manual of Style is a handbook for formatting citations for scholarly papers. If you write a master's thesis, a doctoral dissertation in music, or if you write a scholarly paper for a graduate music class, this is probably going to be the formatting style required. There is a Quick Guide available online for free that shows the most common types of citations.
Printing Materials
All graduate students are automatically given a $225/semester print quota when they set up their BU email account. This allows you to use the IT Computer Labs (which are separate from the CFA Computer Lab) to print materials. There are IT Computer Labs located in Mugar Library (on the first floor, right when you walk in) and in the basement of 111 Cummington St. The 111 Cummington St. lab is typically open 24 hours a day Monday-Thursday, until 9 PM Fridays and Saturdays and does not close on Sunday.
You can use your print quota for anything that you want - class handouts, readings, assignments, recital fliers, etc. If you use up your print quota in a given semester, you can have it upgraded for free by filling out an online form.
Accessing Online Resources from Off-Campus
Most online library resources (including JSTOR, the Naxos Music Library and others) are now available online through the BU Libraries website. You will need your BU username and password, but will no longer need to install any special software to access these resources.
Tutoring and Assistance with Writing Papers
The Educational Resource Center provides a variety of free services to BU students. The ERC Writing Center can provide assistance with proofreading and editing, particularly to non-native English speakers. You can make Writing Center appointments up to two weeks in advance by stopping by the Writing Center office.