Just because you’re in college now doesn’t mean you can’t finagle your parents into getting you a new phone. It’s the ultimate in back-to-school shopping — right up there with a new tablet or laptop.
Unfortunately, some parents just don’t get it and assume your old phone works perfectly fine. You know better, your classmates know better, but there are times you need to lay it out there clearly in order to start the new term off right.
When it comes to explaining to your parents why a new phone is in order, you need to do your research. This is a term paper that really matters, since it will give you social status (not to mention convenience) for the next nine months.
Below are the best conversation starters to prove your point and ensure you’re not the only one in class still hauling around an outdated generation.
1. “I’m taking (insert number) online classes”
When classes are online, you obviously need access to lecture notes, forums, and quizzes 24/7. Your parents might not realize that just because you’re at a brick-and-mortar school, online classes are still an option.
Plus, do they really want you carrying that costly tablet around at all times just because you might need to upload a paper?
2. “Group projects are a huge part of the final grade”
This is, unfortunately, true too much of the time. Colleges are prepping students not just to memorize equations and critique Shakespeare, but how to succeed in the real world … and that means learning to collaborate.
Group projects mean being in constant contact with your cohorts, which requires the technology to make that easy.
3. “Check out this safety app”
There are tons of apps to help keep you safe on campus, and that’s often a big concern for parents, whether you’re a freshman or a senior. If your phone is too old, however, the latest and greatest apps may not be compatible with it.
Show your parents how the apps work, and if you’re in a pinch, you can always toss out some statistics about on-campus threats.
4. “I want to be able to stay in touch with you”
Pulling at a parent’s heartstrings always works, which is why you should reserved it for a last resort. But if your touchscreen is cracked and texting is difficult, or your phone constantly drops calls, how can you be expected to check in?
A new school year demands the technology to keep up. Are you prepared?
