First Year Essentials: Cell Phone

First year essentials needed by every college student.

Cell Phone

Are you ready to go to college? Do you have a new wardrobe? Did you put that cool bottle opener on your keychain? Have you downloaded two weeks worth of music illegally so you can throw the most happening dorm party? Although you think you've covered every detail, sometimes certain things are just out of your control.

Think about cell phone coverage. If you're moving from an urban area to a more rural college town in another part of the country, your cell phone may not get coverage there. Having no cell phone coverage is a big problem for a college student. How will you call the liquor store when your keg runs dry, or call the pizza joint while trying to sober up? Without cell phone coverage, you're stuck.

This scenario probably worries you. You should quell your fears by calling your cell phone provider to see what kind of coverage they have at your school before you move. If it isn't that good, go online and check out some other networks to see who has the best coverage. You may have to pay a bit more to switch plans, but you'll be thankful you were proactive when that new ice cold keg is delivered just in time to keep the party hopping.

And by the way, don't try to skimp on the services. If you want to fit in, you're going to have to get unlimited text messaging. If you don't, you'll be the only one looking awkward while everyone else is texting their buddies, pretending to be a social butterflies.