We have all been there: staring at our phones, waiting for the digital time to pass by so that we can log onto registrar and jump into those last open spots in our desired classes. But then the time for registration rolls around and we are all stuck during one semester or another, signing up for some random elective with an unheard of professor. So we browse over to RateMyProfessor.com and let the opinions of other students play some magic on our decision making.
Now, there is another online application which lets Boston University students rate and comment, this time on anything and everything related to BU. Then, these ratings and comments are visible to the rest of the world. Imagine being able to share and compare opinions on any topic of interest, such as thoughts on the Deans, student advisors, various clubs, political organizations, Greek life, the freshmen class, the horrible weather, or the dining halls.
I interviewed Kimberley Zar, a Junior majoring in psychology and advertising in the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Communication, to learn more about this new app. Last summer, she became an intern for the website as well as a campus representative. A good friend of hers had interned there and encouraged her involvement, interviewing her for the position.
She says, “Tengrade is out to improve upon the broken system for online reviews, by enabling users to give or receive ratings on anything in the world and then see opinions from their friends and people like them… as opposed to the fakes, nuts, and strangers which overwhelm other review sites.”
Tengrade is growing fast, recently named the hottest technology startup in LA. Upon sign up, one can then sync the app easily with Facebook and/or Twitter, expanding the areas in which they post or find posted opinions. Also, if one signs up with ten or more people from his or her fraternity, sorority, or other group on campus, he or she can receive money for their organization.
Currently, there is an “interest tornado,” or swirling information graphic with ratings on Boston University at: www.tengrade.com/tornado/BostonU. For some other schools in the area, these interest tornadoes have been created about footballs teams and the Greek systems. Perhaps it’s time that we spread the word and join this unique movement!