Mobile Apptitude

When going through your back-to-campus checklist, here’s one more to add: sign up for your college’s text-message emergency alert program.

Many schools across the U.S. have adopted systems over the past two-and-a-half years. The need for campus-based emergency alerts was brought to the national spotlight with the tragic shootings at Virginia Tech in the spring of 2007. Since that time, a large number of schools have added alerts for emergencies and general campus communication. But the sign-up rate at many schools is still under 50%.

The systems are fairly similar and easy to use. Simply provide your mobile phone number to the university either online, at registration, or by opting in directly from your phone. The systems vary so your best bet is to check your school’s Web site for details.

The alerts vary from simple traffic announcements and bad weather advisories to armed robberies on campus. In addition to emergency information, some schools also offer class schedules and on-campus event announcements. Text-message charges will apply unless you have an unlimited text plan, but the volume of messages is low.

Here’s an example from the University of Texas:

UT’s program provides a fun optional service in addition to emergency alerts. The alerts are hosted by Mobile Campus, a company that provides optional text-based coupons for local businesses, such as “Buy One Dominos Pizza, Get One Free.” What’s not to love about free pizza? There are a number of schools offering this combination of alerts and free offers from Mobile Campus, including: Clemson, Florida State, Joliet Junior College, Kent State, New Mexico State, Texas State University, Texas Tech, University of Arizona, University of Central Florida and the University of Louisiana.

If you’re a college student, sign up now! Or forward this post on to the college students you know to  encourage them to investigate programs at their school.