Smartphone Apps Worth Sharing

Gone are the days of T9Word and metallic colored flip phones. When basic text messages were something to be excited about and nightly phone calls with your BFF lasted for hours (that is of course, if you finished all your homework). Today our smart phones can do more than we know. They can help us study, help us procrastinate and help us stay connected with friends all over the world. Here are a few apps we think every collegiate shouldn’t be living without…

For the financially conscious: Venmo

This relatively new and seemingly revolutionary app can change the way you and your friends interact – financially. Have that one friend who’s always short on cash? Tired of bothering your waitress to split the bill 5 ways, with 4 different cards and a twenty-dollar bill? Are you always waiting to pay the cable bill until all your roommates have written you a check? Venmo is the solution to thoseissues and more. The app allows you to pay your friends right on the spot. Exchange any amount of money, to any one, with just a few simple, mobile steps. Learn more about the Venmo “Payment Anthem” at https://venmo.com/

For the classic Procrastinator: Pinterest 

Of course, we know that no colligate can stay 100% focused, 100% of the time. Let’s face it; the reading assignments and group projects get old fast. While we may have much less free time now than we did over the summer, there’s always time for a pin or two. If you’re not yet hooked, it wont be long until you’ve acquired several “boards” and hundreds of pins. Find recipes for your next roommate dinner, unique websites featuring the hottest trends in fashion and accessories, the perfect dessert for that special celebration, inspirational quotes, fun hairstyle how-to’s, DIY dorm decorations…should I go on??

CAUTION: a “quick scroll” through Pinterest may lead to a grumbling stomach, an aching wallet and/or a few hours of DIY-inspired arts and crafts. Please Pin Responsibly

For the Frappacino fanatic: Starbucks Mobile

Considering the various items that seem to go missing in our bottomless school bags, who has time to rummage forever, looking for cash or plastic? The Starbucks Mobile app allows you to keep those essentials in one place (usually the one place we never have trouble locating) – your cell phone. Earn rewards with each mobile purchase and work your way to “gold star” status, which opens a world of discounts and VIP Starbucks access. Activate your gift cards on the app and say goodbye to the everlasting question “can you tell me how much money is left on here?” Keep track of your favorite drinks and exactly how you like them… “Venti, Non-Fat, No Foam, No water, 6 pump, extra hot, chai tea latte” coming right up!

Starbucks not your favorite cup of coffee?? Dunkin is mobile, too!

For the diligent note taker: Evernote

My personal favorite, Evernote, is organization like you’ve never seen before. Use this digital collection of notebooks for every course, company and club you’re involved with. The app automatically synchs all your electronic devices so you have total access wherever you are, on campus or off. Have a great idea you don’t want to lose? A task you need to complete? Jot it down on your mobile device and refer back to it on your laptop later. Looking for a specific topic or key word? Evernote allows you to search effortlessly within all notes or specific notebooks. “Remember everything, communicate effectively and get things done” with Evernote. 

Check out the Blackboard Mobile Learn app for fast, easy access to you courses, schedules and assignments. Definitely worth the $1.99!

For the Long Distance Relationships: Viber

Viber allows you to communicate with your friends and family while abroad. Its simple messaging system will ensure that you never miss a beat while your best gal pals are on the other side of the world. Text, call, and send pictures and videos for free using Viber. It’s even better than iMessage!

For the Foodie: Yelp!

Haven’t explored Philadelphia as much as you hoped? Don’t know where to go or what to do in the big city? Yelp will help you navigate the area like a pro. With Yelp you can search for places to eat, drink, relax and shop within your area. The results will include customer reviews, store hours, menus and more. Try something new this weekend. Download Yelp, and see where it takes you.

For the sleep deprived: Sleep Cycle Alarm Clock

Although I can’t say I’ve ever tested this one myself, my roommates swear by it. I’ll let you be the final judge… This (incredibly smart) Smartphone app analyzes your sleep patterns and wakes you up at the perfect moment during your lightest sleep phase. Gentle soundscapes, like “ocean breeze” and “Amazon nights” take you out of your dorm room and into perfect sleeping conditions. Wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the new day.

For the intricate Instagrammer: Rhonna Designs

This new and noteworthy app allows you to empower your right brain and really get the creative juices flowing. Turn any ordinary image into a pretty photo edit with personality and sparkle. Tired of the same 20 Instagram filters? RD is the app for you. Create uplifting and inspirational images using quotes and sayings, similar to those seen on Pinterest. This app will provide all the tools you need to transform ordinary into extraordinary.

For the decorating diva: PrintStudio

Another personal favorite, Print Studio, makes ordering Instagram images, as easy as possible, straight from your phone. Select images, order prints and make a payment, with just a few swipes. Print Studio offers four print sizes, all designed for mobile photography that will add personality and style to any dorm or bedroom. My 24, 5×5 images are printed on thick, matted card stock and were delivered to my doorstep within five days. This is one app I know for sure that you’ll be satisfied with! For more, follow Print Studio on Twitter and Instagram at @SocialPS

Helpful Tip: Display your prints on a “photo-line,” as seen here, using string and clothespins!

For the music junkie: Shazam

How many times do you find yourself racking your brain for the title of a song you overheard in Urban Outfitters or Lululemon? Whistling the same tune all day long, not knowing what it’s called or who sings it? With Shazam you can answer those questions with a click of a button. Shazam listens to the song playing, identifies it and stores it in your phone for later download. It can even link you directly to the iTunes Store for immediate downloads. 

For the health & fitness queen: Moves

This app is perfect for women who are on the go. Moves tracks how much exercise you complete all in a days work. Even if you can’t seem to find time to hit the gym, the app lets you know that every step, from class, to work, to meetings, is keeping you healthy and fit. Take note of paths you walked or cycled, calories you’ve burned, and goals you’ve achieved just by placing your phone in your pocket or bag. Who knew working out could be so simple?

Did we forget your favorite app? Tweet us your thoughts at @HerCampusSJU!