To: Bruce Carnes, Father
From: Becky Carnes, Daughter
Subject: Need for a computer
Date: 2/27/2003
Computer Necessity
Owning a computer is a necessity for me as a college student and you as my father can make it happen. There are a variety of reasons why I need a computer. Therefore I am requesting a few moments of your time to read my proposal.
A computer will greatly aid me in my college studies. I will not have to borrow a friend’s computer, cutting into their work time and causing me to feel rushed. I will also not need to go all the way out to the computer lab, alone, late at night. This could be dangerous for me to be walking around campus by myself during the evening hours. I am sure that you want me to feel safe. The majority of my classes are internet-based and every class I have ever taken at Ohio University has required the use of a computer at various times throughout the quarter.
This purchase would also be of great advantage to you. I would be able to talk to my family and friends online through chat rooms and email. This would significantly decrease my phone bill which you are currently paying for. In the long run, this purchase would help you save money and aid you in communicating with me more often. This would also be a good investment for our household. Five of us live at home during the summer. Currently we own only one computer. With the addition of a second computer, you would be able to do your work without interruption from any of the other family members wanting to use the computer.
I am a very responsible woman. I take pride in my trustworthiness. I always take wonderful care of anything I own. You decided to purchase a car for me because you knew I was trustworthy and reliable enough to maintain it. This computer purchase will not be any different.
Research indicates that over 85% of college students own a personal computer (according to a study done by USA TODAY in 2002). All of my roommates own a personal computer. This vital piece of technology is not for recreation but, for educational survival. I am surrounded by people with current technology and I fear that I will fall behind simply because I lack the funds.
You are probably wondering how much this will cost. In addition to my internet research, I have talked to sales people and computer owners. An up-to-date desktop runs around $750 -- a mere $60 a quarter throughout my four years at college.
As my father I expect that you will take all of this information into consideration and make a well-informed decision. I trust your judgment. A computer is a necessity for any college student taking their coursework seriously. My grades prove my seriousness towards college. I hope that after reading my proposal you better understand my point of view. Thank you for your time and I hope to hear from you soon regarding your decision. I welcome any questions.