Communication
Internet
There are not many internet cafes in this area. However, on campus there are many wireless hotspots, and you can use computers in the libraries for email and internet research. The Office of Information Technology is in charge of email and internet at UMCP. Off campus, many coffee shops have wireless internet, and most public libraries allow their patrons to use their computers for internet access. If you’re interested in having the internet in your home, check local phone companies for deals. Two companies that offer high-speed internet are Verizon and Comcast. There are also options for making free phone calls via the internet, including Skype, a program that allows you to talk to anyone in the world also using the program for free.Phones
There are many options for phone service in the College Park area. Many people have cell (mobile) phones, but many people still have home phone service. Start by going to www.abtoll.com to compare prices for local, long-distance, international, calling card and cell phone rates. Internet phone companies are becoming a popular option as well. Local calls:
Most local phone companies in the United States offer unlimited local calls for a one price. From College Park, calls to the Washington metro area are considered local (Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and the metro Maryland area). You need to dial the area code and the number, but a 1 is not necessary. Example: 301-555-0145. Local area codes are 301, 202, 703, 240. Some 301 or 703 numbers may be long-distance. If this is the case, you will hear a recorded message which says, “You must first dial a ‘1’ before this number.”
Verizon: www.verizon.com
AT&T: www.consumer.att.com
Long-distance calls:
For long-distance calls, you will usually have to pay extra. Costs can vary, but if you dial a long-distance number without a plan or a 10-10 number, the rate will be very high. There are many long-distance companies. You must first dial a 1 to make a long-distance call. Example: 1-410-555-1579.
Verizon: www.verizon.com
AT&T: www.consumer.att.com
Sprint: www.sprint.com
Working Assets: www.workingassets.com
10-10 numbers: Often you can get a very low rate for long-distance and international calls by dialing 10-10 XXX before the number. Check out www.10-10phonerates.com for comparisons.
Cell phones: Cell phones are very popular in the United States. Be sure to shop around for the company that fits your needs. Many cell phone companies charge for incoming calls, and if you go over the minutes you’re allowed for a month, your bill can be very, very expensive. To have a cheaper rate, you will be required to sign a contract, which can be from one year to two years (more common now). There are also pay-as-you-go cell phone options, which means you don’t have a contract.
Verizon Wireless: www.verizonwireless.com
Sprint PCS: www.sprint.com/personal/wireless
Cingular: www.cingular.com
T-Mobile: www.tmobile.com
CellularOne: www.cellularone.com