Apps No Massasoit Student Should Go Without.

Apps no Massasoit Student Should Go Without.

By Windsor Lindor

Statistics show us that there is an exceedingly growing chance that you own, or will own a smart phone. Or at the very least, you will annoy your friends by constantly asking them to let you check Facebook on theirs. However, owning that smart phone can deal a giant blow to a student's budget. A smart phone is an expensive piece of technology, and when it is chained to a two-year contract, it becomes a very expensive commitment. Why would anyone spend fifty dollars a month extra for the privilege of using a fancy new iPhone5 or sleek Galaxy S 3? Well, to put it simply, it is the APPS. The right app can turn your smartphone into a digital assistant that keeps you on task, or it can transform your mobile device into a more than capable entertainment hub. The right app will unlock your smartphone's full potential. Instead of paying 100 dollars a month on a glorified telephone, you are now paying for unlimited (depending on your plan, and Wi-Fi availability) access to a never-ending fountain of digital enjoyment.

Ok! You convinced me I need to get some apps. Where do I start?

For any overachieving smart phone-wielding student the ability to stay on task and keep up with your busy school life is essential. These apps will help unleash the straight A student within.

Google Gmail: Apple iOS (iPhone, iPad), Google Android devices

If you don't have a Google account stop reading this and go get one. I'll wait. Done? Good.

With support for multiple accounts, super quick email search function, and label editing, Google's Gmail takes the crown when it comes to keeping up with an inbox filled with important emails. Massasoit students will appreciate the ease in which their Student accounts integrate with this masterfully designed app. The android version comes pre-installed in most Android device, and no matter what you may be doing on your phone; Gmail is never more than a few taps away. Unfortunately, the IPhone/ IPad app does not enjoy the same level of device app synthesis as its android cousin. However, Gmail not only trounces apples default email offering  when it comes to handling Gmail accounts, Gmail's slick and modern look makes Apple's design look ancient in comparison.

Gmail is built into most android devices. You can find the IPhone/ iPad version in the App Store.

Cost: Android: Free (preloaded in most cases). iPhone/ iPad: Free in the App Store                                                                                                                                    

Canvas by Instructure: Apple iOS (iPhone, iPad), Android

Canvas is an invaluable tool for students at Massasoit. Need to peek at some Anatomy and Physiology power point slides while cramming for that practical? The Canvas app has you covered. Waiting for that grade on your sociology paper? The Canvas app allows you to obsessively check for it every ten minutes right on your phone. Of course very few things in life are ever perfect. You may need to deal with the very rare freeze-up, and your professors have to be using canvas for this app to be helpful. However, this app is a great, almost indispensable supplement to canvas on your desktop. This app is a must download for anyone with a class on canvas.

Price: Free

Google Drive or Drop Box: Apple iOS (iPhone, iPad), Google Android

The days of forgetting your papers home are over thanks to the all mighty cloud, and Google Drive and Dropbox tie as the best ways to bring the cloud to your smartphone. In order to get the best out of these apps you will want to download their desktop companion programs to any computer that you own, but once you're over that small hurdle you will have access to any important documents on your phone and any computer with internet access. Perfect for those days you have to rush out of the house without that paper.

Price: Google Drive Free (5 GB plan).  Drop box: Free (2 GB plan)

Khan Academy: Apple iOS (iPhone, iPad), KhAndroid Google Android

The arc is a great resource but you cannot take it home with you. That's where these two apps come in.

Khan academy is revolutionizing the world of education one hypnotically educational video at a time. From Algebra to biology, if you're studying it Khan Academy has a video covering it. For the low price of nothing, turn your smartphone into an always-available tutor by downloading the khan academy app for IOS or the KhAndroid app for android.  

Price: Khan Academy: free KhAndroid: free

Week Cal: Apple iOS. Touch calendar:  Android

Time management and getting to class on time is essential to a fruitful academic life.

With these awesome calendar apps, you can glance at your entire month's schedule at once, and set tasks through simple gestures. Both apps are extremely easy to use and come with a variety of features, such as Google calendar syncing. Both come with a price but pack as much goodies as calendar apps that are twice the price.

Price: Week Cal $2 Touch calendar free/ $3

Leave a comment below if you feel I missed your favorite app.