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The University has been slapped with a subpoena from the Recording Industry Association of America for the names of nine individuals at U-M who have allegedly used the University's computer network to illegally download and distribute copyrighted music files via the Internet. Eight are students; one is a U-M staff member whose computer was infected with a virus. The University is investigating whether the virus caused music to be stored on the computer. University officials are still reviewing the subpoena but may be forced to reveal the names of the individuals by the May 20 deadline.

Another hacker might be eyeing the University's computer network--a U-M information technology technician found in U-M's system traces of a software program that is used to detect which computers are vulnerable to hacking. However, no hacking attempts have been made thus far. Last year, the University beefed up its security measures after a graduate student allegedly tapped into the system to access emails and private storage accounts of U-M faculty and students.

Maybe that old couch that sat on your porch in college is now your primary apartment seating. Or maybe your place is just bare because you haven't been able to find some furniture that fits your budget. In any case, you don't have to drop a lot of dollars to furnish your place nicely. Here are some tips from the Wall Street Journal on how to do your digs on a budget:

• Try bartering. Friends, colleagues or neighbors might have something that they want to get rid of--offer up free moving labor and a free lunch for the unused piece of furniture. Spread the word and let people know you're looking for hand-me-downs.
• Have a parent or friend throw you a housewarming party--guests can bring something to stock your pantry, like canned goods, or to decorate your place, like candles or pictures frames.
• Check out garage sales, flea markets and estate auctions. You can find unbelievable deals.
• Make it yourself! A little creativity can go a long way in creating pieces like end tables, nightstands, etc.

College loan programs are in the spotlight this election year, and your vote can influence how much money students can borrow and how much interest you might have to pay back. A recent Wall Street Journal article notes that Democratic presidential candidate Sen. John Kerry has mentioned reducing the role banks play in the student-loan program in order to use savings to fund more public-service jobs. The White House and House Republicans are discussing the idea of making recent graduates pay more in interest in order to ensure enough money for current students to get loans.

Forget Friendster--check out the newest benefit from the Alumni Association: InCircle. This powerful new networking tool that works like Friendster will launch this month. InCircle lets Michigan alumni connect online with friends and friends-of-friends based on shared interests, common acquaintances, professions, location, etc. You'll be able to network with not just personal connections but with all the Michigan alumni your friends know, too. Your network will increase exponentially. InCircle will be available only to Alumni Association members later this month. Visit our Web site to learn more.