How important is it to have a Blackberry in law school? Forum

[pineapples]

Background: I'm starting NYU in the fall. I currently have a Blackberry and love having it (for the convenience of the web browser, for constant accessibility to email and for bbm). Having said that, I'm trying to cut expenses wherever possible, but I don't want to save $20/month if it means being at a disadvantage b/c I'm not always accessible by email, etc.

FWIW, I'll be living off-campus (about a 40 minute commute).

My SO argues that I'll always be by a computer, so there's no need for a Blackberry. Is that true?

Thoughts? Thanks!

p.s. Iphone is not an option. I have Verizon.

[eandy]

I mean, realistically, the only times you would not have access to a computer are the times that you wouldn't be able to do anything about what the email says anyway(driving, grocery store, etc.)
Save the money.

[animalcrkrs]

I think the BB has been vital for a couple of reasons: 1, it is really useful if an email goes out for a limited spot event (say, like, Justice Ginsburg speaking on campus here at NU last year) or people selling furniture/books etc. on the listserv because you can respond right away.
2, I use google maps a ton in Chicago for getting around on public transit and making sure cabbies aren't going out of thier way to drive me in circles
3, I use google sync so my calendar and contacts are all seamless which is pretty clutch I am already finding when dealing with 2L recruitment stuff, deadlines etc.

[Pearalegal]

I don't think you'd be at a disadvantage, but I think it would be 20 well spent dollars a month to keep the phone. Its not like everything you enjoy it for now is going to suddenly disappear.

[kalvano]

Blackberry, not at all.

iPhone, very important.

[hiromoto45]

Blackberry, not at all.

iPhone, very important.

If it works...

[D Brooks]

I wanted to be IBiphone comments, but alas...

Blackberry, not at all.

iPhone, very important.

[mallard]

I just have an old shitty cell phone. I don't see the "importance" for your 1L year.

[Pearalegal]

Blackberry, not at all.

iPhone, very important.

If it works...

[merichard87]

Perhaps I'm not as frugal as some other posters but I don't think $20/month should be a big debate in your head. Unless you are barely eating because you have to pay for your BB I think this discussion is better left for a time when you have to choose between that 20 bucks and food/water/shelter or something of that nature.

[Shaggier1]

Once you are accustomed to a smart-phone, taking a step back is torturous. Find another way to save $20 a month.

[vanwinkle]

NYU should have wi-fi all over its law school; if it does, get an iPod touch and set it up to use the NYU wi-fi. You'll have all the E-mail and web functionality of an iPhone whenever you're at school, at home, or near a Starbucks. There's the initial cost of the device, but no monthly fees.

[leron]

Once you are accustomed to a smart-phone, taking a step back is torturous. Find another way to save $20 a month.

this is all that needs to be said