By Taryn Kelly
This year, let’s hope that Santa and his elves in the North Pole have the technological abilities to make the many gadgets that are popular among the Northeastern student population.
What’s on everyone’s must-have list? Digital cameras and the new iPods rank among the most desired gifts, along with the usual requests for clothes, DVDs and, of course, money.
Digital cameras have been around for a few years, but are growing every year in their efficiency and variety. Ranging from about $100 to more than $3,000, digital cameras are available in a variety of types and brands, with two to six mega pixels available.
With their on-screen displays and practicality, not to mention the fact that users can upload the pictures on the computer and post them on the Internet in no time flat, digital cameras are very popular among college students.
Stephanie Blaufarb, a freshman international business major, put a digital camera on the top of her list. She wants the camera so she can take pictures of her friends at parties.
“It’s just such a fun thing to do,” Blaufarb said.
The iPod is the latest craze created by Apple. It is a device which fits easily into any pocket and can hold up to 10,000 songs. Its sleek design is complemented by its touch sensitive scroll wheel and buttons, illuminated screen and various extras, such as games, a to-do list and a calendar. Mac and Windows compatible, according to www.apple.com, a 10 GB iPod, which stores 2,500 songs is $299; a 20 GB iPod stores 5,000 songs, and is $399; and a 40 GB iPod can store up to 10,000 songs and costs $499. Some students are making an iPod their top priority.
“I saw it advertised at one of the T stops and I really wanted an MP3 player for riding on the T and walking around. I’ve seen a lot of people with iPods rocking out and I was jealous,” said Virginia Ivey, a freshman communications major. “But I doubt I will get one.”
New technology seems to be on the top of students’ Christmas lists this year. Of course, the practical gifts are always necessary and appreciated as well.
Just remember to be on your best behavior for the next couple of weeks because Santa is still watching and, if students are naughty, they may wake up to find their stockings filled with coal.
