As much as I enjoy rummaging through the endless agenda and planner options that hit stores once back to school season begins, I always find myself being lured back into my favorite organizational tool: my phone. Whether you’re looking to organize your school work, get around campus, or simply feel like your life is somewhat put together, today’s technologies have it all. These five must-have back to school apps make juggling the responsibilities of a busy FIU student a little easier!
1. Blackboard Mobile
photo: https://oit.boisestate.edu/learning/files/2017/07/unnamed.png
We might often cringe just hearing the word “blackboard,” as we can already picture the notifications of past due assignments and not-so-good grades. But downloading Blackboard mobile is a must to stay on top of what’s going on in your classes. Your daily access to keep up with syllabi, due dates and submitting work can be right at your fingertips.
2. FIU Parking Finder
photo: https://lh4.ggpht.com/qUvEP7wuVmrKV2LTjp9GDohWNGrNJnAhmg4DEoRFw5-LXprnuw…
If you feel like trying to find parking at FIU has you on the verge of a mental breakdown, trust me you’re not alone. The time has come to stop creeping on people as they come out of the elevator just so you can take their beloved parking spot and avoid being late. The name pretty much speaks for itself, FIU Parking Finder has colored indicators that warn you what’s full and what’s available, saving both your time and gas.
3. Evernote
photo: https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/atqaMgabx_ZXVi4AJUcDiHTy-G3nwMAGsjoCsf…
Bringing note-taking to the next level, Evernote is vital to staying organized and always prepared. Their variety of strategies ranges from simple texts, to voice and video notes, sketches, checklists and more. So you can say goodbye to handwritten notes and hello to the future of learning.
4. Mint
photo: https://lh3.ggpht.com/Vd9ubTf3GHgogznhGqYLb-hFtx6gqhZ5h5wBzSf-1Wf_GsFHRf…
Between textbooks, school supplies AND the endless amount of restaurant options (a new Sergio’s and Misha’s cupcakes… FIU, why are you doing this to me?!) I could easily spend my entire paycheck in a matter of hours. It may be difficult to manage your money in college, but certainly not impossible with the Mint app. Budget your finances and keep track of your bills to ensure you’re making the most financially wise decisions.
5. Any Calendar App Ever
photo: https://www.middleweb.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/iphone-calendar-fbu…
A yearly calendar for college? Unheard of, I know. However, this is a sort-of unconventional way to keep track of not only your educational needs, but social as well. If you mark down that super fun party on Friday night but also jot down that your important English paper is due that Saturday morning, you’ll be sure to think twice about procrastinating. It’s also relieving to avoid the internal freak out when you realize you left your planner at home when you can easily pull out your phone and go over your weekly schedule.
The best news of all? All of these apps are absolutely free. So now you really have no excuse not to download them and get a head start on the best year yet.
Cover Photo: http://www.ivy.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/study-apps.jpg