Reboot and Rally: Every college student should have an e-reader

Hello world, I’m on the Internet now.

On that note, this week I’m talking about one way to experience old-fashioned paper and ink writing in a new, exciting way. The gadget I’m talking about today is not new. However, it is underutilized by students at this college. This device is the e-reader — specifically Amazon’s Kindle and Barnes & Noble’s Nook. Although nearly every 20-something drools over the iPad, a Kindle or Nook should be at the top of every student’s tech wish list. The entry-level Kindle and Nook are similar in performance and design, but this review will focus on the Kindle because my brother was nice enough to buy me one this year.

The most eye-popping feature about the Kindle is its unique e-ink screen. When you read books on your Kindle, it feels like you are reading an actual book. The screen doesn’t have a backlight, so reading a Kindle won’t strain your eyes like reading on a laptop or an iPad will. You can also read the Kindle outside in bright sunlight because screen glare is never an issue. The only downside is that like a book, you can’t read Kindle books in the dark (unless you decide to use an old fashioned flash light).

Downloading books to the Kindle is a breeze. The base models ($114, $139) use a wifi connection to access the Kindle store. While connected, you can browse, sample and purchase any of the books available online. Most books are discounted and some, such as great American classic Huckleberry Fin, are free. You can also get discounted digital subscriptions to America’s top newspapers.

The 3G model ($189) uses Amazon’s Whispernet Internet network to deliver fresh content to Kindle users in areas with cell coverage. This network functions worldwide, so 3G Kindle users can download the latest James Patterson thriller while relaxing on the Mediterranean island of their choice. The Kindle also has a fairly functional web browser, which makes e-mail and sports scores available.

From an economic standpoint, the Kindle has the potential to save students hundreds of dollars every year. Six out of nine required books for English 41, are available online through the Kindle store, for example. Combined, they cost a whopping $170.47. Students with Kindles would pay about $55 dollars less than the rest of their less fortunate classmates. That’s about a week’s worth of EBAs. The entry level Kindle only costs $114 dollars, and weighs less than any given print text. Although not every required textbook is on the Kindle, the savings on available books will easily cover the cost of the device in under a year.

From an academic standpoint, the Kindle is the perfect learning partner for any student. In addition to your textbooks, the Kindle can display PDF files. Every gov major on campus knows how tedious it is to GreenPrint a 25-page document for each class. With the Kindle, you can just copy the files over with a USB cord and view class reading in one easy-to-navigate package.

Buying a Kindle for college is a no-brainer. It’ll save you money and trees, and you’ll feel a little better every day when you backpack is six pounds lighter.