Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Check out why everyone is checking in

... with Foursquare and other handy apps


In a world of social media, it can be easy to get lost. Turns out there’s an app for that.

While not new to the smartphone app scene, Foursquare—for whatever reason—isn’t very popular in our neck of the woods. But we think you should give it a shot. There may be more in it for you than you realize.

For those of you who don’t know, Foursquare is a social media app that helps a person figure out what is around them, how to get there, who else among their friends is there and even offers reviews about certain places if other Foursquare users are talking about it. It can be very useful if you are in a town you know nothing about, or if you do get lost and need to figure out points of reference around you.

Foursquare has turned into more than just a locator, however. Businesses are also using Foursquare as a promotional tool to help get word out about what they offer. Some places even offer users a discount if they check in at that place of business. And sometimes they’ll even give you a prize. We’re talking tangible goodies. Google “random acts of kindness foursquare” and see for yourself. Union can’t jump on board with this type of promotion unless students are on board with the app, right?

Foursquare can be linked to Facebook and Twitter, accounts you’re probably already using for checking in. But since Foursquare offers such an expanded information bank regarding businesses and entertainment all over the globe (not to mention a prize or two), why not use it?

As long as you’re shopping, you should also check out these other smartphone apps that could come in handy on campus.

iSource MLA/APA
When you’re writing a paper, you’ve got to make sure everything is cited correctly. This app lets you check to make sure you are doing just that. There are versions available for both MLA and APA styles.

Flash My Brain
Have a big test coming up? Sometimes you will want to study at places where your notes or computer aren’t accessible. In that case, use your phone. This app lets you make flashcards on your phone, so that you can study wherever you are.

iStudiez Pro
This app lets you organize any dates you don’t want to forget. Whether it is an upcoming exam, a due date on an important paper, a rival basketball game or event on campus that you are looking forward to, this app will keep track of it. It will even send you reminders to make sure you don’t miss it.

iTalk Recorder
Have a professor that talks faster than you can take notes? Or maybe you need to remember something important, but have nothing to write it down with. This app lets you record whatever you need to remember. Just press the record button to start and stop, and you’ll be good to go.

Notes Plus
Sometimes you get to class and realize you forgot to stick your notebook in your backpack. Or maybe you just don’t want to carry a notebook or computer to class to take notes. With this app, you can take notes on your phone. It will keep those notes in an easily accessible place and keep them organized so that you can always find what you need.

Facebook
Almost every student has Facebook. Here at Union, we want you to not only feel connected to your friends, but to your school as well. Through Facebook, you can do just that. Make sure to share your photos with us and join in our conversations. With Facebook on your phone, you can do that from anywhere on campus.

Twitter
We know you’re aware of the various apps available for accessing Twitter. No doubt you’re using one (probably right this minute, between paragraphs as you read this). But are you using it to follow Union College? We use it for a variety of reasons, one of them being to announce delays and closures, so wintertime is a great to time to start. Also, we’d like you to follow us so we can follow you. It’s a great way for college decision-makers to learn about what you like and don’t like about Union College.

TuneIn Radio
Need something to do while walking across campus, waiting on class to start, working out or eating lunch? This app lets you tune in to different radio stations. You can find local radio, music, talk and sports channels to listen to. Or you can brows by music genre so you can always find something to listen to that interests you.

Groupon
Every college kid loves a good deal. That’s why you should be sure to check out this app. It sends you local deals on merchandise, and shows you online deals based on your interests. This app could also be helpful when planning a spring break trip, because it will send you deals for travel and vacations.

No comments:

Post a Comment