Cell Phone Etiquette

Cell phone use is so accepted now that it is almost impossible to walk anywhere or do anything without hearing someone's ring tone, as well as their cell phone conversation. In the grocery store, in the cafeteria, and in most public spaces, people have a cell phone at the ready.

Do you text, do myspace or Facebook, or twitter?  These are all new tools developed in the last few years, and the list of technology that you can use for personal entertainment and to keep up with friends is ever-expanding.  Many of these applications are now sent via cell phones. 

As part of the college experience, you will probably use or own a cell phone, but just like anything else, there are some manners to follow when using your cell phone.  Following is a partial list of things to do so you don't end up making enemies of your friends, your roommate -- or most importantly -- your professors! 

1. Silence your phone when in a gathering, such as chapel, or class. Nothing is more distracting than hearing a ring tone in a quiet room.  Your professors will begin to think you don't care, and you don't want to upset your professors!
2. Don't talk on your phone during class. Most students have the sense not to do this-- but only most. How would you feel if someone called your professor during class and she took the call while she was trying to teach you?
3. If possible, check your vibe settings on your phone.  Some phones have such a strong vibe setting that even silenced, they are distracting.
4. Do not text your friends or browse the web while in class.  Nothing says "I don't care" more than sending texts or shopping online during class, which in turn may earn you the opportunity to take and pay for your most boring classes all over again.
5. Don't irritate your roommate with your conversations, especially if it is study time in your room.  Cell phones are mobile!
6. Silence your phone at night.  Your roommate will appreciate not being disturbed by the "Theme from Mario Brothers" at 3 a.m.
7. When talking on a cell phone, speak in a regular voice.  Yelling into your cell phone makes it hard for anyone else to be in the room during your conversations.
8. Do not call anyone after reasonable hours unless you are in trouble.  Just because you can does not mean you should.  Setting up a healthy boundary here is a step toward maturity.  What is an acceptable time to stop calling and texting friends?  You will need to determine this and stick to it.  This shows that you respect your friends and family.  It also keeps you out of trouble when you accidentally misdial and speak to an irate Fred instead of sweet Carrie at 2 a.m.!
9. Put the phone down and talk to your fellow students. Class ends, and most of the students reach for their cell phones as they walk out the door. Take some time to chat with other students and the professor. Give one other person by your side your complete attention, rather than only giving them a faint nod now and then as you text and walk to your next destination.  Enjoy the comraderie of those around you who just took the same test or are on the way to lunch, too.
10. Take a break from your cell phone when in the library or other designated quiet place. That speaks for itself.

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