Ashlee Polarek | PR Manager
With a wild variety of apps at our fingertips, how do we sort the good from the gimmicky? These
six apps show just how many ways we can use our smartphones for good and how effective they
can make us young people. The best part is that all of these apps are FREE!
1. EasyBib:
About: The wellknown online site that makes citation easy just got easier. The EasyBib app lets
you scan books’ barcodes to create citations in seconds. Hold your phone up to a barcode and
cite away. You can select the citation format (APA, Chicago, MLA and more) and email the
completed citation to yourself, or log into your Easybib account to grab the info.
Why it’s great: No more typing endlessly or searching for the right version of the book—the
app takes care of that for you.
2. Todoist:
About: Todoist is an app that helps create organized todo lists right on your phone. With
different labels, colors and filters, you can create lists that pertain to every aspect of your life,
including meetings, housework, bills and assignments. You even have the option to collaborate
with others on projects, assign tasks to others and comment in the collaboration section. You can
access the app on your mobile device or computer to stay uptodate and motivated.
Why it’s great: No more remembering at 2 a.m. that you have a fourpage paper due tomorrow
morning in class.
3. Your Bank’s App:
About: Most banks have a mobile banking app that allows you to check your balance, transfer
money, track spending or even cash checks via your phone’s camera. Some banks even offer
alert systems so you can track how much you’ve spent over an allotted amount and know when
it’s time to pay a bill.
Why it’s great: Prove that you’re an adult who can take care of your own banking with a
modern twist.
4. Waze:
About: Waze aims to make commutes hasslefree by connecting drivers to real time traffic
updates. The app shows quicker routes to your destination, alerts you of accidents and hazards
and warns you of police sightings. In addition, Waze encourages drivers to update the map with
things they’ve spotted along their way to help other travellers.
Why it’s great: Show up to work and events on time (even in Los Angeles), and prove that
technology makes navigation so much more efficient.
5. GrubHub:
About: GrubHub is the modern equivalent to the Yellow Pages, allowing you to combine your
current location with a keyword and develop a results page of places that serve just what you’re
craving. You can view ratings, order food and track orders directly off the app.
Why it’s great: Easily order food with a click of a button for you and all your friends.
6. News Apps:
About: Stations like NPR, FOX, CNN and BBC offer apps to keep you uptodate with the
world around you. Track trends in world news, sports, technology, entertainment and more with
a few taps of your finger.
Why it’s great: Skip the cable news commercials and keep yourself informed with easy access
to the latest headlines 24/7.