Unless you have been living under a rock or have just traded in your ancient flip phone for an iPhone or Android, then you have probably heard of this new and completely free mobile application: Pocket Points. This app, which began its formation at Chico State in Northern California, started as a solution to the ever growing issue of college students constantly using or being distracted by their smartphones while in the classroom. If you are like me at all, then you have struggled to pay attention to your quiet, boring, and arguably sane professor and have instead turned to the comfort of Instagram or Twitter to calm the mind. Now, I'm not saying that is a great way to spend your time at college; since we students are there to learn, but I do understand how hard it can be to pay attention when the sound of your professor's voice almost, or literally, puts you to sleep. However, have no fear, because this app is worth it. As someone who has only recently downloaded Pocket Points this past school semester, I have instantly fallen in love. For anyone who needs that extra kick of motivation to pay attention, or needs help setting their phone down while in class, I highly recommend you download and utilize this app.
Pocket Points allows students to earn points which they can cash in for free food, clothing discounts, and other sweet deals at a variety of local businesses, both in person and online. As someone who has a chronic sweet tooth, I have on more than one occasion cashed in 10 Pocket Points for a free Dunkin' Donuts donut at my local shop. Now the deals and discounts may vary by location, but if you give it a chance I can almost guarantee that you'll find a deal that is worthwhile for you. Pocket Points is also a relatively easy application to use, but there are a couple of important things to keep in mind to make sure that your user experience is perfect.
1. Don't forget to click 'Start' after you set your time goal.
This may seem like an easy thing to remember, but I know far too many people who have set their time, locked their phone, stayed off the entire class thinking they were earning points, but were disappointed to realize they never clicked 'Start'. For those new to the app, to make sure you are earning points after you have locked your phone the app will send you a notification that reads, "You are currently earning points. #PocketPoints;" if you didn't get this notification, chances are you aren't earning points.
2. If your class gets out early and you open your phone, but you haven't yet reached your set timed goal, you will not earn your points.
Yes, this can be really annoying for people who's professor decided to surprise them and may seem really inconvenient for those whose classes simply just ended a little early. I remember the first time this happened to me and I was devastated for wasting my points; however, as long as you are on wifi, on campus, and your phone is locked you will earn points. So what I recommend is that if you think your class will end early, set the time less to ensure you gain some points rather than the entire period. Another option is to start your timer earlier while waiting before the class officially starts so it ends before you are out. A third option that has worked for me, is if there are only a few minutes left keep it locked and walk to your next class. As long as your on campus and your phone is locked the app will work. I know that these are not perfect plans to combat this, but for right now that is how the app works and this is the best advice I have for you.
3. Pocket Points is expanding.
For those who want these awesome discounts over the summer, but are no longer on campus, do not fear! Pocket Points wants you off your phone still. Currently, there is an option where you can get points over the summer by locking your phone and keeping it off wifi. However, Pocket Points is not done yet. They are currently planning to include a 'Family and Friends Challenge' where you all stay off your phone together, an active rewards challenge to earn points while hitting the gym or other physical activities while off your phone, and one while driving safe. Thought these last three are still coming soon, it just goes to show that this app is not going anywhere and that it is truly a great investment for yourself.
Pocket Points is the perfect app for college students because the app wants you to succeed. The reason this app was developed was to decrease the time students are on their phone in class; therefore, the purpose of this app is not only to encourage you to stay off your phone, but also help you to earn points. Unlike other apps that say they will pay you money or give you discounts for doing sketchy surveys and later turn out to be scams, this app was designed specifically to keep you off your phone. Not only does it provide the perfect incentive for college students, free food, but it was specifically created to help you do better and I think that is a wonderful thing. Pocket Points isn't out for your money or time; it is out there to help you make the most of both.
Photo by 
Photo by 
Photo by 
Photo by 
people sitting on chair in front of computer
all stars lol GIF by Lifetime
two women talking while looking at laptop computerPhoto by 
shallow focus photography of two boys doing wacky facesPhoto by 
happy birthday balloons with happy birthday textPhoto by 
itty-bitty living space." | The Genie shows Aladdin how… | Flickr
shallow focus photography of dog and catPhoto by 
yellow Volkswagen van on roadPhoto by 
orange i have a crush on you neon light signagePhoto by 
5 Tattoos Artist That Will Make You Want A Tattoo
woman biting pencil while sitting on chair in front of computer during daytimePhoto by 
a scrabbled wooden block spelling the word prizePhoto by 
StableDiffusion
StableDiffusion
StableDiffusion
women sitting on rock near body of waterPhoto by 
