Buying an iPhone in September of last year was definitely the scariest purchase of my life; I'd never spent that kind of money on myself before. I deliberated for a long time whether or not to splurge, felt incredibly guilty for spending $299 after swiping my card, but soon discovered what an incredible investment it was. Having my calendar, email, facebook, news, weather, Wikipedia, Google Maps and even YouTube on my iPhone keeps everything I want to access throughout the day right at my fingertips. If I'm lost on the road, need to look something up right before an exam, or confirm a group meeting time, I don't have to worry at all.
Alas, smartphones do become addictions, and I'm the first to admit that I feel completely lost without my phone on me (I was freaking out at a basketball game once because I left it at home). The term 'Crackberry' is definitely applicable. But is it REALLY such a bad thing? Think of the costs (both financial and physical) people waste on cigarettes. Smokers should quit that awful habit and buy a smartphone as a reward for their success. They'd find a new addiction that's at least useful, and probably even end up saving money.
We've all worked so hard the past year and half in our graduate program. Reward yourself for a great accomplishment with an investment that will help keep you organized and connected as you start your career. Smartphones for all!
