First off we should discuss the types of TV shows that you may want to watch.
There are, I would say, 5 major genres of television show; comedy, drama, reality, game show and news.
Comedy
Comedy is a favorite form of television among most college students. It is my personal favorite and most of the people I know enjoy it as well. The reason is simply that when you are in school and going through all of the daily grind it is nice to have an escape. Another benefit is that because more people tend to like comedies, it is something that you can do with all of your friends. For example, this year the TV show GLEE on Fox was pretty much on once a week for a majority of the year. Every week 8 of my friends and I would gather in someone's room and watch it on their TV.
Drama
Dramas are more about who is doing what to whom. They tend to be a little annoying for my personal taste. My main reason for this is that I would rather laugh than have to try to deal with a person who is cheating on their girlfriend with her best friend. That having been said, it is nice to completely indulge yourself once in a while and immerse yourself into the lives of the dramatic characters on a show. Especially since it makes your problems seem like nothing.
Reality
Reality shows are supposed to be "real life." The major reality shows tend to be things like American Idol and Dancing with the Stars. However, in more recent years the Amazing Race and Jon and Kate plus 8 (now Kate plus 8) have made their way into our television sets. These shows are basically for the times when we want to completely envelop ourselves in a character. The reason that these have become so popular is because they are real people, and real situations and real life. This makes it that much easier for us to feel what they are feeling and feel as though we are connected to them when they fail or succeed.
Game Show
Game Shows have been and always will be popular. Shows like Deal or No Deal, Jeopardy and The Price is Right are incredibly popular. The reason for this, I believe, is that we do not ever know what is going to happen. Most shows have at least a little predictability. Depending on the show there is more than likely a happy or sad ending. However, with Game shows there is no predictability. These are fun to watch with people around campus because it is fun to succeed or fail with the people on the shows. Also it is fun to see if you can compete with them.
News
The reason I put this last is that, even though it is more popular among adults, I do not particularly enjoy the news. The reason is that I feel that the truly important things that are happening in the world, I will find out about during class or while talking to someone. The news tends to have too much bad news for me. However, it also is helpful when keeping a person in touch with the world around them and helps for people to know the goings on in life.
In order to enjoy the college Television experience you will want a few things
What you will want
Laptop
Speakers
Headphones (or Earbuds)
TV (or friend with a TV)
Laptop
The reason that this is the first thing on the list is simple. Of my friends there were only three people who had a TV. I personally did not, nor did any of my roommates. Therefore, the majority of my television watching was on my laptop. Websites like Hulu and Blinkx Remote, were hugely helpful in my TV watching experience. Television on a laptop is not quite the same as a television set, however it is a close second in my opinion.
Speakers
I highly recommend some speakers for your laptop. The reason for this is that when you are listening to it with multiple people, they tend to make noise. The problem with this is that most laptops do not have very loud speakers. Speakers is that they do not have to be pricey. There is also a choice between portable and non-portable speakers. I have both portable and not and I did not spend that much money. I got a pair of USB Speakers and a pair of desktop speakers. The USB Speaker that I have is amazing. It plugs right into the USB port on the side of my laptop and I can take it with me anywhere. On the other hand, the desktop speakers I have plug directly into the headphone jack and have incredible sound quality. The only reason that I do not use these ones as much is that they are not portable. I would recommend a set of speakers, whether they be portable or not, for your everyday laptop use as well. Whether you are listening to music, a movie, a television show, or even relistening to a recorded lecture; speakers are a great accessory for your laptop.
Headphones (or Earbuds)
Headphones or Earbuds are essential for a personalized television experience. I personally enjoy the earbuds, or in-ear headphones, because they tend to have at least a little bit of noise cancelling in them. I got mine for like $20 and they are very good noise cancelling Earbuds. For those people who do not enjoy earbuds, around ear headphones are also a great thing to have. The around ear headphones help to make the noise a little bit louder, because it engages the entire ear instead of going right into the ear.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Friday, July 2, 2010
College Student's Guide to First dates (on a budget)
First off I should say that this is for GUYS. Sorry girls, but being that I am a guy I only have a guys view.
Check out all of the other College Student Guides including; What to have in your car, Music, peoplewatching, cross country road trip and many more.
What you will Want
Car
iPod
FM Transmitter
Speakers
Food
Imagination
Back-Up Ideas
Car
Though it is, obviously, not necessary to have a car, it is always good. If you are on a college campus that is near a big town, or a college town, you will not need a car. But for those of us who go to school in the middle of nowhere, a car makes things a lot easier.
iPod
Having an iPod can make a first date a lot less awkward. For example, if you are driving in the car listening to music, there is not an uncomfortable silence. Also an added benefit is that it can be a great conversation starter. Another great thing about music, in this case coming from your iPod, is that it can set the mood for an evening. If you play music that is soothing, you are both more likely to feel comfortable and relaxed. On the other side, if you play music that is meant to "pump you up" then you are both more likely to want to go out and do something.
FM Transmitter
As great as it is to have an iPod, it is hard to hear it in the car without something to allow it to be heard through the car speakers. This is also a great thing if you are going on a long drive, or driving to a place with a great view, but you want to stay in the car. The FM Transmitter allows you to listen to your iPod and not have to worry about it being too quiet or too loud. Also, it is nice to have music in your car on a normal day. If you do not already have an FM transmitter, or some other iPod adapter for the car, I would highly recommend. I bought one tha was $20-$30 and it works great.
SpeakersThis is where you have to get creative. If you are going to dinner and a movie you will not need speakers. You will also not be winning any creativity awards. Guys, there is something I have learned after many first dates that I want to share with you here today. Girls like it when you are creative. Girls do not want to be bored on the first date, and the more creative the date is, the more likely you are to be able to get a second date. Speakers open up a whole world of possibilities. Well it doesn't necessarily open the world, but it allows the world to be void of awkward silences. I keep a set of solar speakers in my car at all times. They are perfect because I never need to charge the speakers and they have great sound quality. Also, they charge my iPod in the process. They were about $30 and they have been working for me for quite a while now. Since the point of this article is to keep your dates on a budget think about it this way. These speakers can be used for a bunch of things, and they come in handy when you are on a date. I did not even buy them for the purpose of going on dates, but I use them on dates almost as often as I use them for other things.
Food
This is a fairly essential part of most dates. Most guys take the girl out to dinner, probably a movie afterward, and guys tend to be expected to pay the bill. The problem with this is that a lot of college guys DO NOT have the money to take a girl to a nice dinner. A GREAT way to seperate yourself from the pack is to try to find a food rave. Food raves can be your entire date, depending on the girl. It can be anywhere from $15-$30 dollars per person. Most of them are about $15 from my experience. A food rave is basically, as crazy as it may sound, paying to learn how to cook food. However, the great part is that you are both learning together. It can be a really fun date, and the food comes with it. Plus, you can talk and be with the person in a situation where you are not completely alone. This can definitely be a positive on first dates. Another option is making them a picnic, or picking up sandwiches from somewhere. I have done this plenty of times. The reason to do this is that it saves money, and you can use the beach or park or anything that is completely free, which is nice. No matter what, I recommend food enters the equation for your first date.
Imagination
If you plan on keeping your date on a tight budget, but also plan on getting a second date, you HAVE to be creative. Use your imagination. A million and a half guys do the dinner and a movie date. Seperate yourself from the pack. For example, find a drive in movie theater, instead of a regular movie theater. It gives you the chance to have an amazing night and still keep the dinner and a movie idea. The one that I go to is about $35 - $40 by the time I pay for both people and food. However, if you are willing to stray completely from the pack, more power to you. Some of the best dates are practically free. As I said before learning a new thing, like cooking, can be incredibly fun, and not too costly. Another great thing is movie night at your house (or hers). If you, as the guy, can prove that you can cook, it is definitely a major plus, according to most girls I know. Plus, you are in a more comfortable place. Homes tend to reflect a homey feeling and they tend to be the most comfortable places, both physically and emotionally. You can also go completely off book. A couple people I know rave about some very different kinds of dates. For example, a Thrift Shop date. A Thrift Shop date is very simple, fairly cheap, and incredibly fun. First, decide on a price, it can be anything you want, and a place that is highly populated with people. Next go to a local thrift store, or any other place to find incredibly cheap, funky clothing. Then you each get time to find the other person clothes to wear. After you have decided on the clothes, exchange and put on the clothes. Once you are dressed in your new outfits, head to your populated destination. It is fun to see the looks and hear the comments. Especially since you know the truth. There are plenty of date ideas out there, check the internet, rack your brain, do whatever you can to be able to be creative.
Back-up Ideas
Always have a back-up plan, just in case your first one does not work. For example, if you are planning a picnic at the beach, also plan for something possibly inside or somewhere where the weather is not an issue. This way, if on the day of your date, something goes wrong with your first date option, you have a backup plan. Another thing you may want to do is check out the places you are going, before you go on the actual date. It always looks good if you have a little previous knowledge of a place.
Check out all of the other College Student Guides including; What to have in your car, Music, peoplewatching, cross country road trip and many more.
What you will Want
Car
iPod
FM Transmitter
Speakers
Food
Imagination
Back-Up Ideas
Car
Though it is, obviously, not necessary to have a car, it is always good. If you are on a college campus that is near a big town, or a college town, you will not need a car. But for those of us who go to school in the middle of nowhere, a car makes things a lot easier.
iPod
Having an iPod can make a first date a lot less awkward. For example, if you are driving in the car listening to music, there is not an uncomfortable silence. Also an added benefit is that it can be a great conversation starter. Another great thing about music, in this case coming from your iPod, is that it can set the mood for an evening. If you play music that is soothing, you are both more likely to feel comfortable and relaxed. On the other side, if you play music that is meant to "pump you up" then you are both more likely to want to go out and do something.
FM Transmitter
As great as it is to have an iPod, it is hard to hear it in the car without something to allow it to be heard through the car speakers. This is also a great thing if you are going on a long drive, or driving to a place with a great view, but you want to stay in the car. The FM Transmitter allows you to listen to your iPod and not have to worry about it being too quiet or too loud. Also, it is nice to have music in your car on a normal day. If you do not already have an FM transmitter, or some other iPod adapter for the car, I would highly recommend. I bought one tha was $20-$30 and it works great.
SpeakersThis is where you have to get creative. If you are going to dinner and a movie you will not need speakers. You will also not be winning any creativity awards. Guys, there is something I have learned after many first dates that I want to share with you here today. Girls like it when you are creative. Girls do not want to be bored on the first date, and the more creative the date is, the more likely you are to be able to get a second date. Speakers open up a whole world of possibilities. Well it doesn't necessarily open the world, but it allows the world to be void of awkward silences. I keep a set of solar speakers in my car at all times. They are perfect because I never need to charge the speakers and they have great sound quality. Also, they charge my iPod in the process. They were about $30 and they have been working for me for quite a while now. Since the point of this article is to keep your dates on a budget think about it this way. These speakers can be used for a bunch of things, and they come in handy when you are on a date. I did not even buy them for the purpose of going on dates, but I use them on dates almost as often as I use them for other things.
Food
This is a fairly essential part of most dates. Most guys take the girl out to dinner, probably a movie afterward, and guys tend to be expected to pay the bill. The problem with this is that a lot of college guys DO NOT have the money to take a girl to a nice dinner. A GREAT way to seperate yourself from the pack is to try to find a food rave. Food raves can be your entire date, depending on the girl. It can be anywhere from $15-$30 dollars per person. Most of them are about $15 from my experience. A food rave is basically, as crazy as it may sound, paying to learn how to cook food. However, the great part is that you are both learning together. It can be a really fun date, and the food comes with it. Plus, you can talk and be with the person in a situation where you are not completely alone. This can definitely be a positive on first dates. Another option is making them a picnic, or picking up sandwiches from somewhere. I have done this plenty of times. The reason to do this is that it saves money, and you can use the beach or park or anything that is completely free, which is nice. No matter what, I recommend food enters the equation for your first date.
Imagination
If you plan on keeping your date on a tight budget, but also plan on getting a second date, you HAVE to be creative. Use your imagination. A million and a half guys do the dinner and a movie date. Seperate yourself from the pack. For example, find a drive in movie theater, instead of a regular movie theater. It gives you the chance to have an amazing night and still keep the dinner and a movie idea. The one that I go to is about $35 - $40 by the time I pay for both people and food. However, if you are willing to stray completely from the pack, more power to you. Some of the best dates are practically free. As I said before learning a new thing, like cooking, can be incredibly fun, and not too costly. Another great thing is movie night at your house (or hers). If you, as the guy, can prove that you can cook, it is definitely a major plus, according to most girls I know. Plus, you are in a more comfortable place. Homes tend to reflect a homey feeling and they tend to be the most comfortable places, both physically and emotionally. You can also go completely off book. A couple people I know rave about some very different kinds of dates. For example, a Thrift Shop date. A Thrift Shop date is very simple, fairly cheap, and incredibly fun. First, decide on a price, it can be anything you want, and a place that is highly populated with people. Next go to a local thrift store, or any other place to find incredibly cheap, funky clothing. Then you each get time to find the other person clothes to wear. After you have decided on the clothes, exchange and put on the clothes. Once you are dressed in your new outfits, head to your populated destination. It is fun to see the looks and hear the comments. Especially since you know the truth. There are plenty of date ideas out there, check the internet, rack your brain, do whatever you can to be able to be creative.
Back-up Ideas
Always have a back-up plan, just in case your first one does not work. For example, if you are planning a picnic at the beach, also plan for something possibly inside or somewhere where the weather is not an issue. This way, if on the day of your date, something goes wrong with your first date option, you have a backup plan. Another thing you may want to do is check out the places you are going, before you go on the actual date. It always looks good if you have a little previous knowledge of a place.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
College Student's Guide to Music
Check out our other College Students guides including what to keep in your car, first day, finals and everything else.
What you will need
Internet
iTunes
Speakers
iPod or MP3
Internet
First things first, I am not saying that you should illegally download music. I am personally using the internet to find new music, not to steal it. I would HIGHLY recommend both Pandora and Grooveshark. If you are okay with listening to music that you will most likely like but not necessarily know, Pandora is great. You enter a song, genre, or artist and Pandora will generate similar songs to the one that you chose. This is the Perfect way to learn about new music. It also has a bookmarking tab. This way you can save songs that you liked. GrooveShark, alternatively, is for specific songs. It is kind of like having everyone peron's iTunes in the world. You can search for artists you like and songs that are not even released on iTunes are on there. This is a great thing if you like your certain artists. There is also a Radio feature on GrooveShark. It is not quite as impressive as the Pandora Radio but Grooveshark is still great. You can save your playlists and listen to them at any time.
iTunes
This is essential to legally listen to music. Even though I am not representing a large population, I still buy CD's. I know that everyone now uses iTunes, because you can buy one song off of an album, but sometimes a full CD is better. I do buy a lot of singles on iTunes. iTunes is also great now with the Genius recommendations. Genius looks at what songs you have bought, and gives you other songs that are similar to those songs. Another awesome feature of Genius is that it makes playlists based off of a song. You can have a song selected and Genius will make you an entire playlist of songs like that one. The reason that I tell you all of this is that I have found that music, is the key to having a happy life in college. This may sound funny, but music can truly make any situation better. If you are angry and you listen to calming music, it calms you down. There are even places that have music therapy. But I feel why spend the extra money when you could just as easily find your own music.
SPEAKERS
Speakers are among the most essential parts of music...obviously. However, the type of speaker is quite a personal preference. I personally have a few options. I have laptop speakers that plug into my laptop and I have seperate iPod speakers. The laptop speakers are permanently on my desk, plugged in so that all I have to do is plug in the headphone jack and begin my musical listening experience. The iPod speakers I have, on the other hand, are Solar Powered and portable. This way I am able to listen to and charge my iPod no matter where I go. I would say that every college student needs some form of speaker. The reason is simply that, even if you only use it twice, you will definitely want to be able to listen to music. My roommate usually took care of the music, but when he left for the weekend it was eerily quiet in the dorm. I had to play my music off of my little laptop speakers, and it was just not enough.
iPod or MP3 player
I would say that every college student also needs something, anything, that allows him to listen to music outside of on his or her computer. The reason is that, no matter how small your campus, walking across it alone is no fun. Music tends to make it a little easier. I would also recommend an extra set of headphones. I personally like the in ear ones because I can put in one ear so that I can still hear what is happening around me.
What you will need
Internet
iTunes
Speakers
iPod or MP3
Internet
First things first, I am not saying that you should illegally download music. I am personally using the internet to find new music, not to steal it. I would HIGHLY recommend both Pandora and Grooveshark. If you are okay with listening to music that you will most likely like but not necessarily know, Pandora is great. You enter a song, genre, or artist and Pandora will generate similar songs to the one that you chose. This is the Perfect way to learn about new music. It also has a bookmarking tab. This way you can save songs that you liked. GrooveShark, alternatively, is for specific songs. It is kind of like having everyone peron's iTunes in the world. You can search for artists you like and songs that are not even released on iTunes are on there. This is a great thing if you like your certain artists. There is also a Radio feature on GrooveShark. It is not quite as impressive as the Pandora Radio but Grooveshark is still great. You can save your playlists and listen to them at any time.
iTunes
This is essential to legally listen to music. Even though I am not representing a large population, I still buy CD's. I know that everyone now uses iTunes, because you can buy one song off of an album, but sometimes a full CD is better. I do buy a lot of singles on iTunes. iTunes is also great now with the Genius recommendations. Genius looks at what songs you have bought, and gives you other songs that are similar to those songs. Another awesome feature of Genius is that it makes playlists based off of a song. You can have a song selected and Genius will make you an entire playlist of songs like that one. The reason that I tell you all of this is that I have found that music, is the key to having a happy life in college. This may sound funny, but music can truly make any situation better. If you are angry and you listen to calming music, it calms you down. There are even places that have music therapy. But I feel why spend the extra money when you could just as easily find your own music.
SPEAKERS
Speakers are among the most essential parts of music...obviously. However, the type of speaker is quite a personal preference. I personally have a few options. I have laptop speakers that plug into my laptop and I have seperate iPod speakers. The laptop speakers are permanently on my desk, plugged in so that all I have to do is plug in the headphone jack and begin my musical listening experience. The iPod speakers I have, on the other hand, are Solar Powered and portable. This way I am able to listen to and charge my iPod no matter where I go. I would say that every college student needs some form of speaker. The reason is simply that, even if you only use it twice, you will definitely want to be able to listen to music. My roommate usually took care of the music, but when he left for the weekend it was eerily quiet in the dorm. I had to play my music off of my little laptop speakers, and it was just not enough.
iPod or MP3 player
I would say that every college student also needs something, anything, that allows him to listen to music outside of on his or her computer. The reason is that, no matter how small your campus, walking across it alone is no fun. Music tends to make it a little easier. I would also recommend an extra set of headphones. I personally like the in ear ones because I can put in one ear so that I can still hear what is happening around me.
Monday, June 28, 2010
College Student's Guide to People Watching
College Student's Guide to PeopleWatching
By:Jackson Kaplan
In all of the College Student Articles I will tell you what you want to have, why and I will give some extra tips. I am trying to supply the college students of today with a little bit of help for their first "college experience".
Check out some of the other ones; College Student's Guide to the Macbook Pro, College Student's guide to Ipad, College Student's Guide to Move In Day, College Student's Guide to a Successful First Month, College Student's Guide to having a fun Dorm Room, College Student's guide to "camping", College Student's guide to memory keeping, and College Student's Checklist for a Cross Country Road Trip
First:
I should tell you. PeopleWatching is one of my favorite things to do. It is not often that we get a chance to just relax. Everytime I got the chance I would go out to the quad at my school. I would just sit there, listen to music, maybe bring a friend and take some pictures. You never realize quite how amazing people are until you just sit and watch them. I apologize if anyone finds this weird or creepy, but I promise it is just harmless fun.
What you will want
iPod (or iPhone)
Wireless Speakers
Camera
Blanket
Snacks
iPod
I highly recommend an iPod, or some music playing device. The reason is simply that it makes it a more enjoyable experience. I would recommend a relaxing playlist. Something with Jack Johnson or Jason Mraz or anyone else like them. It is quite a great way to relax, especially after finals or another big test.
Wireless Speakers
I recommend these for two simple reasons. First off, you will want to have music when you are doing this. It is very nice and relaxing when you have some soothing music to accompany the sounds of the outdoors. The next reason, you seem a lot less creepy if you have music. If you are just sitting watching people, it seems a little off. However, if you are listening to music, people do not think twice about it. The wireless speakers I had were amazing. They were solar, so I not only didn't need a plug but I also didn't need to worry about my iPod dying.
Camera
This is not a necessity for people watching, but it can make it a little more fun. A lot of times, especially on a college campus, you will see people you know. They can make for some funny pictures if they walk by, or even stop to chat. Another benefit of having a camera is that you never know what crazy thing, or beautiful thing, is going to walk by that you will want to document.
Blanket
Another optional piece to the puzzle, however, quite a valuable one. When you are laying down in the grass, you never know what might be there. But, if you are laying on a blanket, or towel, you are not only more comfortable, but more at ease. Another benefit is that you can put things, like food or drinks, down and not be worried about germs and such.
Snacks
These are something you definitely do not need. However, I like to bring them up because, depending on how long you are outside, you will definitely get hungry. I recommend light things. I say this because if you bring lots of food it has a tendency to attract more people, and more bugs. It also tends to become more about the food than the relaxation.
P.S. Have an idea for a new Guide? Have Questions for me? Email me at jacksondkaplan@gmail.com
By:Jackson Kaplan
In all of the College Student Articles I will tell you what you want to have, why and I will give some extra tips. I am trying to supply the college students of today with a little bit of help for their first "college experience".
Check out some of the other ones; College Student's Guide to the Macbook Pro, College Student's guide to Ipad, College Student's Guide to Move In Day, College Student's Guide to a Successful First Month, College Student's Guide to having a fun Dorm Room, College Student's guide to "camping", College Student's guide to memory keeping, and College Student's Checklist for a Cross Country Road Trip
First:
I should tell you. PeopleWatching is one of my favorite things to do. It is not often that we get a chance to just relax. Everytime I got the chance I would go out to the quad at my school. I would just sit there, listen to music, maybe bring a friend and take some pictures. You never realize quite how amazing people are until you just sit and watch them. I apologize if anyone finds this weird or creepy, but I promise it is just harmless fun.
What you will want
iPod (or iPhone)
Wireless Speakers
Camera
Blanket
Snacks
iPod
I highly recommend an iPod, or some music playing device. The reason is simply that it makes it a more enjoyable experience. I would recommend a relaxing playlist. Something with Jack Johnson or Jason Mraz or anyone else like them. It is quite a great way to relax, especially after finals or another big test.
Wireless Speakers
I recommend these for two simple reasons. First off, you will want to have music when you are doing this. It is very nice and relaxing when you have some soothing music to accompany the sounds of the outdoors. The next reason, you seem a lot less creepy if you have music. If you are just sitting watching people, it seems a little off. However, if you are listening to music, people do not think twice about it. The wireless speakers I had were amazing. They were solar, so I not only didn't need a plug but I also didn't need to worry about my iPod dying.
Camera
This is not a necessity for people watching, but it can make it a little more fun. A lot of times, especially on a college campus, you will see people you know. They can make for some funny pictures if they walk by, or even stop to chat. Another benefit of having a camera is that you never know what crazy thing, or beautiful thing, is going to walk by that you will want to document.
Blanket
Another optional piece to the puzzle, however, quite a valuable one. When you are laying down in the grass, you never know what might be there. But, if you are laying on a blanket, or towel, you are not only more comfortable, but more at ease. Another benefit is that you can put things, like food or drinks, down and not be worried about germs and such.
Snacks
These are something you definitely do not need. However, I like to bring them up because, depending on how long you are outside, you will definitely get hungry. I recommend light things. I say this because if you bring lots of food it has a tendency to attract more people, and more bugs. It also tends to become more about the food than the relaxation.
P.S. Have an idea for a new Guide? Have Questions for me? Email me at jacksondkaplan@gmail.com
Friday, June 25, 2010
College Student's Guide: What to Have in Your Car
College Student Guide: What to have in your car
By: Jackson Kaplan
What you will want
Though you will not need all of these things…I would recommend them
FM transmitter
Chargers
GPS
Speakers
Towel,
Sunglasses
Entertainment
Liquids
Jumper Cables
Matches and Candles
Camera
Blanket
Flashlight
Batteries
FM Transmitter
This may seem like something that is not necessary, just a luxury perhaps. While this may be true for some of you, I found that I used my iPod more in my car than I did anywhere else. Of all of my friends I tend to be the one that drives everywhere. I have found that it is nice to have an FM transmitter for your iPod because then if your friends want to listen to theirs, they can, but if they are not there you can still listen to music all the time.
Chargers
The reason this is plural is that you never know what you may need to charge. I personally recommend highly the Trans4m. I got it for about $15 and it is amazing. All of my friends know that they can keep a USB plug in my car for any of their phones or iPods or anything. The Trans4m charges two USB devices. The best part about it though is that it can charge two things using the car charger, AA batteries, AC DC plug, or a 9v battery. Therefore if you are stranded and cannot get your car to start, but you also have a dying phone, then you are able to charge your phone. Also, people do not need to fight over who gets the plug. This is something that has helped me be the most popular car to drive.
GPS
This is something that I never thought I was going to need. However, when you are going to a school in a place that you do not know all that well, you will need a way to find your way around. As much fun as the occasional "adventure" is, the real problem of getting lost is something that plagues many college students. I would recommend keeping a cheaper one in your car just in case. I am not saying that you need to spend hundreds of dollars, but find one that suits your car, along with your wallet.
Speakers
Speakers may seem like a stupid thing to have in your car. I am sure you are thinking to yourself, why would i buy speakers to keep in my car when my car has speakers? Here is why. If you are driving back from somewhere, work for example, and you decide to go to the beach or park or something, you will probably want to listen to music. I would recommend the solar powered speaker that I got. It is perfect for me because it runs off of sun energy and charges my iPod. This is the main reason that I say to keep speakers in your iPod. It is also helpful when you are hanging out with your friends somewhere and you have speakers, especially if you are stranded somewhere.
Towels
I say towels, plural, because I keep at least three in my car. There is one that I keep permanently under the front of the driver's seat. The reason for this is that when it rains, my shoes get wet. I do not like to drive with wet shoes, so I have a towel there in case i need to try my shoes off. I also keep a tea towel in my middle compartment. This is so that if I have to check my oil, or wash something, or do anything else I have a towel to clean my hands off with. The third towel that is permanently in my car is in my trunk. This is because I am somewhat of a beach bum, spending most of my time off at the beach relaxing. This third towel is a massive beach towel. It is big enough for me to lay on and keep my books on so that I can study or read while I am at the beach. I would recommend highly having at least two towels.
Sunglasses
I, personally, have at least one pair of sunglasses in my car at all times. I do this so that on those days when I bring my sunglasses inside and forget that, I am not trying to drive half blinded by the sun. Another reason is that, guys, if a girl is in your car and can't see, you look really cool having a spare set of sunglasses that she can wear. Also it helps for any other person who is blinded by the light. You do not need two pairs of million dollar sunglasses at all. I got my three pairs for a total of $22.00. Just gotta shop around.
Liquids
I would recommend having at least a water bottle or two in your car at all times. This way, in an emergency, you can have something to keep from getting dehydrated. At least if you are able to drink something you will not have another problem toppled onto your situation. I would also reccomend keeping some snacks in the car, but I would not say that they are a necessity.
Jumper Cables
This one is something that everyone, no matter what, should have in their car. If you have jumper cables, you can at least attempt to be prepared. I have used my jumper cables at least ten times in just my first year of college. The reason for this is that no one thinks to bring them. If you only decide to listen to one thing I say during this article. KEEP JUMPER CABLES IN YOUR CAR.
Camera
I would say that behind jumper cables, a camera is the most important thing to have in your car. Yes, part of this may be because I am a photographer, however, you never know when you will need a camera. If you get in an accident then you will want to have a camera to take pictures of the accident site, for insurance and such. Those of you that only plan on using your car camera for these purposes are fine. However, last week I was driving home for lunch and I was incredibly happy that I keep an extra camera in my car. There, on the side of the road, was a group of construction workers taking their lunch. It was probably one of my favorite pictures of "America" that I have taken. It was just a group of guys hanging out eating their lunches. I guess that what I am saying is, you never know when the moment is going to strike when you feel like you wish, or are happy to have, a camera with you.
Blanket
The blanket is something that I believe is incredibly important. Let's say that for some reason (flat tire, crash, stall, dead battery) you are stranded on the side of the road waiting for help to come. Well if this happens during the winter you will be very glad that you kept a blanket in your car. On the other side of the spectrum, let's imagine you and your friends decide to go to the beach or to the park or to a baseball/football/lacrosse or any other kind of sporting event; wouldn't it be nice to have something to sit on?
Flashlight
I personally have a flashlight in the front and back of my car. On in the actual cabin of the car, and one in my trunk (just in case). I have two fairly small, but super powerful LED flashlights. I recommend keeping these in the car for many reasons. However, the main one is that you never know when your battery is going to die, and if and when it does having a flashlight is a definite plus. Another reasons is if you are going somewhere with your friends it is always good to have a portable flashlight. I use it when we go exploring the various parts of the city. Better safe than sorry right?
Batteries
Batteries charge everything in our worlds. Whether we realize it or not. In the trunk of my car I have a little box marked extras. In it there is a spare camera battery, AA/AAA batteries, cell phone battery, and cell phone battery charger that runs off of AA batteries. This is a good idea for anyone who drives a lot. Especially if you plan on taking road trips, because you do not know when you are going to be stopping next, so if you have an extra battery of every kind, you can't go wrong.
P.S. Have an idea for a new Guide? Have Questions for me? Email me at jacksondkaplan@gmail.com
By: Jackson Kaplan
What you will want
Though you will not need all of these things…I would recommend them
FM transmitter
Chargers
GPS
Speakers
Towel,
Sunglasses
Entertainment
Liquids
Jumper Cables
Matches and Candles
Camera
Blanket
Flashlight
Batteries
FM Transmitter
This may seem like something that is not necessary, just a luxury perhaps. While this may be true for some of you, I found that I used my iPod more in my car than I did anywhere else. Of all of my friends I tend to be the one that drives everywhere. I have found that it is nice to have an FM transmitter for your iPod because then if your friends want to listen to theirs, they can, but if they are not there you can still listen to music all the time.
Chargers
The reason this is plural is that you never know what you may need to charge. I personally recommend highly the Trans4m. I got it for about $15 and it is amazing. All of my friends know that they can keep a USB plug in my car for any of their phones or iPods or anything. The Trans4m charges two USB devices. The best part about it though is that it can charge two things using the car charger, AA batteries, AC DC plug, or a 9v battery. Therefore if you are stranded and cannot get your car to start, but you also have a dying phone, then you are able to charge your phone. Also, people do not need to fight over who gets the plug. This is something that has helped me be the most popular car to drive.
GPS
This is something that I never thought I was going to need. However, when you are going to a school in a place that you do not know all that well, you will need a way to find your way around. As much fun as the occasional "adventure" is, the real problem of getting lost is something that plagues many college students. I would recommend keeping a cheaper one in your car just in case. I am not saying that you need to spend hundreds of dollars, but find one that suits your car, along with your wallet.
Speakers
Speakers may seem like a stupid thing to have in your car. I am sure you are thinking to yourself, why would i buy speakers to keep in my car when my car has speakers? Here is why. If you are driving back from somewhere, work for example, and you decide to go to the beach or park or something, you will probably want to listen to music. I would recommend the solar powered speaker that I got. It is perfect for me because it runs off of sun energy and charges my iPod. This is the main reason that I say to keep speakers in your iPod. It is also helpful when you are hanging out with your friends somewhere and you have speakers, especially if you are stranded somewhere.
Towels
I say towels, plural, because I keep at least three in my car. There is one that I keep permanently under the front of the driver's seat. The reason for this is that when it rains, my shoes get wet. I do not like to drive with wet shoes, so I have a towel there in case i need to try my shoes off. I also keep a tea towel in my middle compartment. This is so that if I have to check my oil, or wash something, or do anything else I have a towel to clean my hands off with. The third towel that is permanently in my car is in my trunk. This is because I am somewhat of a beach bum, spending most of my time off at the beach relaxing. This third towel is a massive beach towel. It is big enough for me to lay on and keep my books on so that I can study or read while I am at the beach. I would recommend highly having at least two towels.
Sunglasses
I, personally, have at least one pair of sunglasses in my car at all times. I do this so that on those days when I bring my sunglasses inside and forget that, I am not trying to drive half blinded by the sun. Another reason is that, guys, if a girl is in your car and can't see, you look really cool having a spare set of sunglasses that she can wear. Also it helps for any other person who is blinded by the light. You do not need two pairs of million dollar sunglasses at all. I got my three pairs for a total of $22.00. Just gotta shop around.
Liquids
I would recommend having at least a water bottle or two in your car at all times. This way, in an emergency, you can have something to keep from getting dehydrated. At least if you are able to drink something you will not have another problem toppled onto your situation. I would also reccomend keeping some snacks in the car, but I would not say that they are a necessity.
Jumper Cables
This one is something that everyone, no matter what, should have in their car. If you have jumper cables, you can at least attempt to be prepared. I have used my jumper cables at least ten times in just my first year of college. The reason for this is that no one thinks to bring them. If you only decide to listen to one thing I say during this article. KEEP JUMPER CABLES IN YOUR CAR.
Camera
I would say that behind jumper cables, a camera is the most important thing to have in your car. Yes, part of this may be because I am a photographer, however, you never know when you will need a camera. If you get in an accident then you will want to have a camera to take pictures of the accident site, for insurance and such. Those of you that only plan on using your car camera for these purposes are fine. However, last week I was driving home for lunch and I was incredibly happy that I keep an extra camera in my car. There, on the side of the road, was a group of construction workers taking their lunch. It was probably one of my favorite pictures of "America" that I have taken. It was just a group of guys hanging out eating their lunches. I guess that what I am saying is, you never know when the moment is going to strike when you feel like you wish, or are happy to have, a camera with you.
Blanket
The blanket is something that I believe is incredibly important. Let's say that for some reason (flat tire, crash, stall, dead battery) you are stranded on the side of the road waiting for help to come. Well if this happens during the winter you will be very glad that you kept a blanket in your car. On the other side of the spectrum, let's imagine you and your friends decide to go to the beach or to the park or to a baseball/football/lacrosse or any other kind of sporting event; wouldn't it be nice to have something to sit on?
Flashlight
I personally have a flashlight in the front and back of my car. On in the actual cabin of the car, and one in my trunk (just in case). I have two fairly small, but super powerful LED flashlights. I recommend keeping these in the car for many reasons. However, the main one is that you never know when your battery is going to die, and if and when it does having a flashlight is a definite plus. Another reasons is if you are going somewhere with your friends it is always good to have a portable flashlight. I use it when we go exploring the various parts of the city. Better safe than sorry right?
Batteries
Batteries charge everything in our worlds. Whether we realize it or not. In the trunk of my car I have a little box marked extras. In it there is a spare camera battery, AA/AAA batteries, cell phone battery, and cell phone battery charger that runs off of AA batteries. This is a good idea for anyone who drives a lot. Especially if you plan on taking road trips, because you do not know when you are going to be stopping next, so if you have an extra battery of every kind, you can't go wrong.
P.S. Have an idea for a new Guide? Have Questions for me? Email me at jacksondkaplan@gmail.com
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
College Student's Guide to a Cross Country Road Trip
College Student's Checklist for a Cross Country Road Trip
In all of the College Student Articles I will tell you what you want to have, why and I will give some extra tips. I am trying to supply the college students of today with a little bit of help for their first "college experience".
Check out some of the other ones; College Student's Guide to the Macbook Pro, College Student's guide to Ipad, College Student's Guide to Move In Day, College Student's Guide to a Successful First Month, College Student's Guide to having a fun Dorm Room, College Student's guide to "camping" and College Student's guide to memory keeping,
What you will want
Camera and Camera accessories
Batteries for everything
Chargers of all kinds and for everything
Music
GPS
Optional
Radar detector
Laptop and charger
This list does not include things that I feel are obvious. These things include a car, a driver's license, cell phone, gas money, food and of course someone to keep you company.
Camera
You will definitely want a camera. The reason that I put this first is that when taking a cross country road trip you do not want to miss a single moment. There are going to be some really boring places that you pass, however, there are also some amazing sites to be seen. Some of the students will have the already have cameras. Most probably have the little point and shoot cameras, with the occasional SLR cameras. This is not necessarily something that is completely necessary. However, in my opinion it is something that you will really want to have. Remember, if you are bringing a camera there are things you will want to have. These things include extra batteries, memory cards, and a case. On top of these things you can get creative, for example, having a tripod and wireless remote makes being in your pictures much easier. No more having to find and then ask a complete stranger to handle your camera and take a picture. You now have the option to completely do it on your own. This lovely luxury is one that mostly is represented for SLR users.
Batteries
Everything has extra batteries that you can buy. Anything from cell phones, cameras to even laptops has extra batteries that can be purchased for a reasonable price. Though it is more difficult to charge the laptop and cell phone batteries, unless they are in the device, it is still possible. However, extra batteries are immensely important, especially those that you will be using a lot.
Chargers
There are millions of different types of chargers for every battery or battery powered device on the market. First and foremost, since it is a road trip, you should try to get as many car chargers as possible. There are also car chargers that can convert the energy into an AC/DC outlet. This means that if you already have a wall charger for something you do not have to buy another plug for the same thing, you can just plug this in. Another thing that I would recommend is a 4 form USB charger. Cameras, iPods, cell phones and many other things have a USB capable charger. If you buy the four form chargers you can plug them into the car, a wall outlet, or you can charge with AA batteries or even a 9 volt. These are perfect for a road trip because you can literally charge these things anywhere.
Music
I cannot recommend enough bringing every form of music possible. For those of you that have iPods, get an FM transmitter or something along those lines to help you make it through the long drives. However, for those of you lucky enough to have an iPhone, I would highly recommend a two in one FM transmitter. They are making them now so that you can listen to your music, and then if you get a call the sound of the call goes through your car speakers. This is incredibly helpful, because you can be hands free, which is a legal necessity in some states now. Now, for those of you that plan to stay in hotels or hostels or anywhere where you will not be in the car I would recommend highly a portable speaker. These are very useful, especially when it comes to alarms. Most people do not think about it, but if you set your iPod alarm and you have it connected to a speaker, it is almost guaranteed to wake you up. If you have the extra money there are now solar powered speakers that charge your iPod while you listen to it. These are helpful for when you are sitting in the sun, relaxing from a long day of driving.
GPS
Being a person who has a great sense of direction, I never had a GPS. However, after my first road trip with my sister, who thankfully does have one, I realized how important they are. If you are going across the country you will be changing freeways and staying on freeways, which can get very confusing. If you have a GPS, you are always safer. You can accidentally take the wrong exit, and it will reroute you back to where you should be. This is especially for those college students who do not know how to read a map (and yes I know that there are some of you out there). Along with being a helpful tool, these GPS are also easy to carry. I would recommend, being that you do not know where you are staying, a carrying case for the GPS. Better safe than sorry right?
Optional Things
Radar detectors, if you have the money, are a great addition to the road trip experience. When on long roads it is very easy to get going faster than we realize. If you have a radar detector we can be told when law enforcement is near, which is helpful to alert the driver that they should check their speed. This is not to say that I condone speeding or that I myself speed, but I feel that it is a helpful tool.
Another optional tool would be a laptop. This is helpful if you do not have email access on your phone, or if you would like to actually have a real computer to check every once in a while. This also allows you to listen to movies and other things like that while in the car. They even have USB speakers now, to blast the movies as loud as is necessary while the car is moving. This is a great thing for the passengers in the car, falling asleep to a movie is quite enjoyable on a long car ride.
P.S. Have an idea for a new Guide? Have Questions for me? Email me at jacksondkaplan@gmail.com
In all of the College Student Articles I will tell you what you want to have, why and I will give some extra tips. I am trying to supply the college students of today with a little bit of help for their first "college experience".
Check out some of the other ones; College Student's Guide to the Macbook Pro, College Student's guide to Ipad, College Student's Guide to Move In Day, College Student's Guide to a Successful First Month, College Student's Guide to having a fun Dorm Room, College Student's guide to "camping" and College Student's guide to memory keeping,
What you will want
Camera and Camera accessories
Batteries for everything
Chargers of all kinds and for everything
Music
GPS
Optional
Radar detector
Laptop and charger
This list does not include things that I feel are obvious. These things include a car, a driver's license, cell phone, gas money, food and of course someone to keep you company.
Camera
You will definitely want a camera. The reason that I put this first is that when taking a cross country road trip you do not want to miss a single moment. There are going to be some really boring places that you pass, however, there are also some amazing sites to be seen. Some of the students will have the already have cameras. Most probably have the little point and shoot cameras, with the occasional SLR cameras. This is not necessarily something that is completely necessary. However, in my opinion it is something that you will really want to have. Remember, if you are bringing a camera there are things you will want to have. These things include extra batteries, memory cards, and a case. On top of these things you can get creative, for example, having a tripod and wireless remote makes being in your pictures much easier. No more having to find and then ask a complete stranger to handle your camera and take a picture. You now have the option to completely do it on your own. This lovely luxury is one that mostly is represented for SLR users.
Batteries
Everything has extra batteries that you can buy. Anything from cell phones, cameras to even laptops has extra batteries that can be purchased for a reasonable price. Though it is more difficult to charge the laptop and cell phone batteries, unless they are in the device, it is still possible. However, extra batteries are immensely important, especially those that you will be using a lot.
Chargers
There are millions of different types of chargers for every battery or battery powered device on the market. First and foremost, since it is a road trip, you should try to get as many car chargers as possible. There are also car chargers that can convert the energy into an AC/DC outlet. This means that if you already have a wall charger for something you do not have to buy another plug for the same thing, you can just plug this in. Another thing that I would recommend is a 4 form USB charger. Cameras, iPods, cell phones and many other things have a USB capable charger. If you buy the four form chargers you can plug them into the car, a wall outlet, or you can charge with AA batteries or even a 9 volt. These are perfect for a road trip because you can literally charge these things anywhere.
Music
I cannot recommend enough bringing every form of music possible. For those of you that have iPods, get an FM transmitter or something along those lines to help you make it through the long drives. However, for those of you lucky enough to have an iPhone, I would highly recommend a two in one FM transmitter. They are making them now so that you can listen to your music, and then if you get a call the sound of the call goes through your car speakers. This is incredibly helpful, because you can be hands free, which is a legal necessity in some states now. Now, for those of you that plan to stay in hotels or hostels or anywhere where you will not be in the car I would recommend highly a portable speaker. These are very useful, especially when it comes to alarms. Most people do not think about it, but if you set your iPod alarm and you have it connected to a speaker, it is almost guaranteed to wake you up. If you have the extra money there are now solar powered speakers that charge your iPod while you listen to it. These are helpful for when you are sitting in the sun, relaxing from a long day of driving.
GPS
Being a person who has a great sense of direction, I never had a GPS. However, after my first road trip with my sister, who thankfully does have one, I realized how important they are. If you are going across the country you will be changing freeways and staying on freeways, which can get very confusing. If you have a GPS, you are always safer. You can accidentally take the wrong exit, and it will reroute you back to where you should be. This is especially for those college students who do not know how to read a map (and yes I know that there are some of you out there). Along with being a helpful tool, these GPS are also easy to carry. I would recommend, being that you do not know where you are staying, a carrying case for the GPS. Better safe than sorry right?
Optional Things
Radar detectors, if you have the money, are a great addition to the road trip experience. When on long roads it is very easy to get going faster than we realize. If you have a radar detector we can be told when law enforcement is near, which is helpful to alert the driver that they should check their speed. This is not to say that I condone speeding or that I myself speed, but I feel that it is a helpful tool.
Another optional tool would be a laptop. This is helpful if you do not have email access on your phone, or if you would like to actually have a real computer to check every once in a while. This also allows you to listen to movies and other things like that while in the car. They even have USB speakers now, to blast the movies as loud as is necessary while the car is moving. This is a great thing for the passengers in the car, falling asleep to a movie is quite enjoyable on a long car ride.
P.S. Have an idea for a new Guide? Have Questions for me? Email me at jacksondkaplan@gmail.com
Monday, June 21, 2010
College Student's Guide to Memory Keeping
College Students guide to memory keeping
AKA how to keep your camera safe and working in college
In all of the College Student Articles I will tell you what you want to have, why and I will give some extra tips. I am trying to supply the college students of today with a little bit of help for their first “college experience”.
Check out some of the other ones; College Student’s Guide to the Macbook Pro, College Student’s guide to Ipad, College Student’s Guide to Move In Day, College Student’s Guide to a Successful First Month, College Student’s Guide to having a fun Dorm Room and College Student’s guide to “camping”
The camera itself
First off make sure that you get a camera that fits your lifestyle. You don’t need a major SLR that costs thousands of dollars if all you want to do is shoot pictures with your friends. Once you pick your camera make sure that you test it before you really commit to anything.
Extra Supplies
If you are the kind of person that wants to take thousands of pictures there are a few things you will really want. First and foremost, buy a bag or carrying case to protect your camera.
If you keep your camera in your pocket or a purse it can easily get scratched and no one wants that. You do not need to spend too much on a carrying case . Anything over $50 for a point and shoot is too much. For SLRs anything under $100 is good. Once you have your camera bag you are going to want to buy some batteries.
There are plenty of sites that have a good price for extra camera batteries. My rule has always been that I had at least one battery for every battery that I use. Meaning if the camera uses one I have at least one extra battery. This way I always have an extra fully charged battery. So if I realize that my current battery is dead I can put it in the charger and grab my extra. The last thing you will want is multiple memory cards. This is especially important if you have an SLR. The reason is that if you go a week or two without uploading your pictures, there is nothing worse than having a full memory card and wanting to take more pictures.
Total cost:
I would say that, after the purchase of the camera itself, the total should not be too much. If you have a point and shoot your accessories should be no more than $100 dollars. That is with the extra battery, your memory card, and your bag.
This is all stuff that you do not necessarily need, but it is definitely better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
Similarly, if you have an SLR you should not be spending much more than $150, after the purchase of the camera.
P.S. Have an idea for a new Guide? Have Questions for me? Email me at jacksondkaplan@gmail.com
AKA how to keep your camera safe and working in college
In all of the College Student Articles I will tell you what you want to have, why and I will give some extra tips. I am trying to supply the college students of today with a little bit of help for their first “college experience”.
Check out some of the other ones; College Student’s Guide to the Macbook Pro, College Student’s guide to Ipad, College Student’s Guide to Move In Day, College Student’s Guide to a Successful First Month, College Student’s Guide to having a fun Dorm Room and College Student’s guide to “camping”
The camera itself
First off make sure that you get a camera that fits your lifestyle. You don’t need a major SLR that costs thousands of dollars if all you want to do is shoot pictures with your friends. Once you pick your camera make sure that you test it before you really commit to anything.
Extra Supplies
If you are the kind of person that wants to take thousands of pictures there are a few things you will really want. First and foremost, buy a bag or carrying case to protect your camera.
If you keep your camera in your pocket or a purse it can easily get scratched and no one wants that. You do not need to spend too much on a carrying case . Anything over $50 for a point and shoot is too much. For SLRs anything under $100 is good. Once you have your camera bag you are going to want to buy some batteries.
There are plenty of sites that have a good price for extra camera batteries. My rule has always been that I had at least one battery for every battery that I use. Meaning if the camera uses one I have at least one extra battery. This way I always have an extra fully charged battery. So if I realize that my current battery is dead I can put it in the charger and grab my extra. The last thing you will want is multiple memory cards. This is especially important if you have an SLR. The reason is that if you go a week or two without uploading your pictures, there is nothing worse than having a full memory card and wanting to take more pictures.
Total cost:
I would say that, after the purchase of the camera itself, the total should not be too much. If you have a point and shoot your accessories should be no more than $100 dollars. That is with the extra battery, your memory card, and your bag.
This is all stuff that you do not necessarily need, but it is definitely better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
Similarly, if you have an SLR you should not be spending much more than $150, after the purchase of the camera.
P.S. Have an idea for a new Guide? Have Questions for me? Email me at jacksondkaplan@gmail.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
