Students Choose Phones, Facebook, AIM as Preferred Modes of Interaction
By Fatema Maswood ’11
News Reporter
With new tech gadgets coming out faster than ever, the impact technology has on Choaties’ lives is clearly visible. The seemingly endless stream of high-tech devices and social networking services make long-distance interaction, both on and off campus, easier than ever.
Web sites like Facebook.com and instant messaging programs like AIM and MSN have completely changed the nature of communication, making it possible to stay in touch with friends and loved ones at any time. Skype, a free, online service that allows users to make phone-like calls through the internet and to hold conversations easily via video conferencing, is also gaining in popularity. The straightforward video conferencing lets users see and hear friends and family as they speak with them, which can often help appease feelings of homesickness for boarders. Email, though vital on a daily basis on campus, is rarely used in the same way as these networking sites and messaging programs. Even so, some students cannot survive without their CHIP email accounts. “When CHIP is down, my soul sinks into a dark abyss,” said one third former who asked to remain anonymous.
Despite the popularity of the internet, cell phones still retain their position as the favorite communication device for some. “I take my cell phone with me everywhere,” said Ali Cooper ’09. Making calls is fairly inexpensive within a designated amount of free minutes per month, and free roaming in certain areas allow for communication on campus and with family and friends who live elsewhere. For those who like to have everything on hand at the same time, popular devices such as the iPhone combine the functions of a computer, AIM, and a cell phone. “An iPhone is like having a computer in the palm of your hand—you don’t need anything else,” Trishala Khanderia ’11 said. In spite of the obvious popularity of cell phones, no matter what type, the amount of actual phone calls made seems to be decreasing slightly. When all internet options for communication are available right at one’s fingertips, some students may prefer texting or instant messaging on their phones.
Despite the proliferation of new technologies, some still like to do things the ‘old-fashioned’ way. Sarah Smith ’11 uses her email account, Facebook, and AIM regularly to speak with friends, but she often corresponds with her family through letters. “Letters are more personal, and it’s more fun to receive one. A new email in your inbox just isn’t the same.” Although letters may be more personal, the general philosophy that defines human interaction seems to allow for less personal interactions that are comparatively simple.
Though the options for staying informed may seem endless, it’s important not to depend to heavily on any one. Kirk Banks ’10 summarized his communication mantra: “The internet is essential to communication—but don’t drop your phone in the toilet.”
