Older generations constantly criticize the youth for their dependence on technology. Although it is true that new technology, and especially the cell phone, is seen as an extension of some people's arms, the influence is not only negative. Encyclopedias and books have been swapped for Google and kindles. Its almost as if were transitioning into a paperless society, but is this not eco-friendly? With e-mails instead of letters, online submissions to professors, and the reduction of print text, we are reducing the paper that is consumed. Subsequently, the cutting down of trees is decreased. This cycle is obviously great for the production of this little thing called oxygen.

One of my favorite Einstein quotes goes as follows: "Nothing happens until something moves." We will remain stagnant in place if we don't change from our past. The new custom of dependence on technology is paving the way for advancement. It has led to groundbreaking innovations and medical discoveries.

However, when it comes to situations like this, I think that it is almost more important to consider what effect the change has on interpersonal levels. Apart from all of the advancements that technology can bring, it makes the world smaller. The new technology can connect parts of the world that were previously isolated from another.

The United States is known for its diversity, especially on a college campus such as UF. Immigrants compose the country. Technological advancements facilitate an immigrant's transition, allowing them to quickly search up any information. Furthermore, and infinitely more importantly, it provides a contact method for their home country. This technology can be used for simple, everyday communication between their loved ones who were left behind or as a transportation to their old selves. The possibilities range from international messages to full out video calls.

Political refugees can emigrate with the tranquility of knowing that they will be able to contact their loved ones. The reunion of groups of families is made possible. This influences the move to be felt as something more positive, as the families don't live with resentment and the agony of bring eternally separated from the people who they were raised with or those who mean the world to them.

I, personally, thank Skype calls and Whatsapp messages. They allow me to keep in contact with my childhood best friend. They've shown me my baby cousin's first steps. My family moved from Argentina due to economic struggles when I was just a little girl. More and more every day, Argentinians are leaving the country in hopes of finding a politically stable place where one can feel safe in their homes and community. A little more than a hundred years ago, those who fled their country would most likely lose all of their connections to the people there. I would not know that my old friend now moved to a different province to go to University, or that my cousin lost his first tooth last week.

Next time that you're with your grandma and she asks you to put your phone down for a while, do her the favor. Appreciate the time with her and realize how lucky you are. I do understand her request. However, as an immigrant, I have a different realization towards this technology. Keep in mind that it is the sole method that I have to communicate with my grandma.