Here is a very important link to save.

http://mediawiki.middlebury.edu/wiki/LIS/Using_File_Servers_%28Macintosh%29

This brings you to the instructions on using Middfiles to back up files- your mid-term papers, finals, and theses that you do not want to lose in case of laptop failure.  Follow the instructions to connect to the file server. When you have the Middfiles folder up and can see the title as Middfiles, drag the icon over near (but not into) the trash in your dock.  You can connect to Middfiles and save data with a click now.  Follow the instructions on the page on the link above to save data you want saved.