Gadgets are staples for college students, especially in this day and age when the majority of them were all born past the dawn of the age of computers and the internet. They are a generation that has grown up in a digital world so the use of technology comes as second nature to them. Whether it’s a new laptop, the latest smartphone, or a portable sound system, you can be sure that today’s college student either has one or is hoping to get one. Here are 4 devices that could be considered essential for someone in university.
Here are the 4 Indispensable Gadgets
What's Inside
Laptop Computer
Gone are the days when a laptop was an option. For today’s college students, a good one is crucial to academic success. Whether it be academic research and papers, group presentations, or maybe even audio and video productions, one would not be able to go through the coursework requirements without a decent laptop. Processing speed and data storage are two things that should be factored in when choosing a device. No one wants a frozen screen or Microsoft Excel crashing when crunching numbers for a presentation. “No more available space” are 4 words a university student never wants to see as well.
When it comes to a laptop, budget should be taken into account, especially if it’s the parents who are the ones paying for the device. The latest MacBook may have that desired aesthetic, but it also comes with a hefty price tag. Students should be reasonable and practical with their choices. While it is generally true that more expensive models boast more features, students should be able to justify their choices and demonstrate how the computer will benefit them in the long run and will not just be used for gaming or surfing the web.
Smartphone
With technology constantly evolving, college students are generally expected to be online more often aside from being easily reachable. It is not uncommon for groups to be created on messaging apps like Viber, Telegram, WhatsApp or even Facebook Messenger to plan for course deliverables. In some cases, notes, presentations, and homework are shared via these channels, making them vital to being on top of one’s schoolwork.
Education has become very much collaborative with group work proving to be just as important as individual tasks. Communication is key, and it’s no doubt that smartphones make this a possibility. Luckily, there are a plethora of options available at different price points. The most basic models can be found within the Php 5,000 range, while some go up to Php 50,000+ and can be comparable to buying a laptop. While price will definitely be a big factor here, one must also consider storage, camera quality, and tactile responsiveness among other things. Whether you’re an Android or iOS loyalist, you’ll definitely find one that suits your needs.
Wireless Earbuds
Wired earbuds are great, but wireless versions just offer a whole other realm of possibilities. Easily connected via Bluetooth, they can be used in the classroom, on-the-go or while exercising. The main benefit they provide is hassle-free connectivity with no strings attached. Students can easily get to where they need to go without any tangled wires slowing them down.
Things to take into account when selecting a pair would be Bluetooth version, device compatibility, connectivity range, and battery life. No one wants their earbuds to disconnect every 10 seconds after all, or to only be used within one foot of their device. Worse still is to find out in the end that the earbuds they purchased are not supported by their mobile phone or laptop. Battery life of only a couple of hours would not be practical either. It can be such a chore to charge them daily, and certainly, no one wants to put on a pair of earbuds only to realize that they’re dead.
Portable Speakers
Some studies show that music can help people focus. This largely depends on the person, of course. A pair of portable speakers would be convenient for not just setting the mood or tone while studying, but could also be useful for all the group work college students love. It’s not uncommon for music-related tasks to be incorporated in one’s classes, so portable speakers can make group practice smooth regardless of location.
They’ve grown in popularity over the recent years, so you can find a selection of sizes—from speakers that fit in the palm of your hand to bigger, more professional-looking models. They can also come in a range of colors, so you can choose one that suits your personality and budget.
College is without a doubt an exciting time in one’s life. Aside from being a major period of self-discovery and learning, it gives students the chance to connect with peers and mentors allowing them to carve their own path in this world. Though it can be challenging, with these gadgets, students will be ready to take university by storm and face whatever comes their way.
