The many advantages to having a cell phone

"Cellular telephones are an excellent way to remain in touch and summon help. UAPD encourages faculty, staff and students to look into the various cellular telephone companies for purchasing/renting a cellular telephone for safety purposes."

This is a direct quote from the current Campus Safety and Security Report, published by University of Arizona Police Department.

Cell phones are magnificent inventions that allow help to be summoned from most of the populated areas of the U.S. I feel confident knowing that for about one dollar per day, I have help available just a phone call away, should the need arise.

I participate in many "extreme" activities where the possibility of injury is high. I commute on public transportation to downtown Oakland, Calif. for work during the summers. I drive in Tucson. I am a resident assistant in a small hall, without a duty partner. All of these situations are potentially hazardous, and I would feel helpless if I had to handle an emergency alone. I feel that my cellular phone is an adequate substitute for my not having police, fire, medical or automotive repair training. I think René Alegria was the "clueless" one when I read his article.

I may be 19, but I don't have "silver eye shadow," and "Mom and Dad" don't take care of my PCS bill - I do. Does Alegria send telegraph messages to all of his friends and loved ones? I doubt it. Americans gradually accepted and mandated the use of telephones and e-mail; cellular technology is simply the next step. Our generation does not need "cell phones to feel whole." We chose them to communicate, which is a basic human need. How does the growth in service activation translate into us being "overindulged individuals whose humanity is sliding and sliding"?

I agree that phone ringers in class are annoying, but that is the fault of the students. It is a simple procedure to turn off a phone's ringer as you walk into class. I do it three times a day. I encourage you, Alegria, to try using a PCS phone for a month. Most have money-back guarantees on the equipment, or you can rent one at the many places in Tucson. Then, you will realize what a wonderful communications tool it is.

William Abraham
Accounting and finance sophomore