Skype's the Limit

Technology is a beautiful thing, especially when it results in being able to see the faces of loved ones whenever convenient, despite any distance. In the past several years, many video messaging programs have gained popularity, Skype being the most popular. These programs allows users to make voice calls over the Internet, and, if the individual has a webcam, to "videochat", or converse with someone through video.If anyone wants to know more about this handy device, all you must do is go to www.skype.com and download it for free. Yes, it is true, that no-strings-attached-glorious-not-something-seen-every-year kind of free that gives you that warm, tingly feeling deep in your stomach.

Just download the program and when that installation bar hits one hundred percent it is time to say, as Skype says so eloquently on their website, "Hi World!" Once you're signed in, the person you want to contact has signed in, it's as simple as hitting the call button.

Although Skype can have other uses, I like it best for keeping in touch with family or significant others back at home. Senior Ben Rutt says, "[Skype] is for a deeper level of communication; you don't just call up your buddy and say 'Hey man! I need to see your face!'"

Speaking from experience, I cannot help but give Skype credit for being able to keep a sense of closeness with my girlfriend who is three long hours away. When the chance to see her doing homework, eating lunch, or getting ready to go out and other everyday things becomes possible, it ushers in a sense of security for me. The phone is great for many occasions, but knowing for certain that there is someone on the other side tucked away safely at home eases my mind.

First year Craig Kile left his family and friends in Florida for Messiah College. For him, Skype is the only way he sees his friends more than a few breaks a year. Skype also is a way for his friends that are "curious about Pennsylvania" to discover what more about his life up North.

Using Skype does require some level of patience and understanding, however. Hess resident Mike Haas noted that sometimes the call will randomly end or the video and audio quality will be strained when he talks to his girlfriend at night. When using this program, I recommend picking a time that less students will be online to improve call quality.

During their interviews, all three students agreed that there was not much use for Skype before college. Everyone was nearby that they needed to talk to, so it was easier just to drive over to their house rather than call them online. Skype is perfect for college and in the foreseeable future since it is not likely everyone will move back near their families after graduation.

Skype is free and easy to use - it is not surprising there are over 500 million user accounts today. Even if one does not normally use it, there is no harm in trying it and giving mom or dad a call. Sci-fi movies have been drooling over the idea of "videoconferencing" for decades, so go take advantage of a dream come true!