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Cell Phones, Internet, and Communication
Having reliable internet access, cell phone plans, ways to communicate with loved ones, and channels to stay informed about the world around you are important considerations for your time in the US. Explore the resources on this page to learn about cell phones, internet, communication, and media in Rochester.
Keeping in touch with loved ones
There are many ways to keep in touch with family and friends, whether they’re across town or across the globe.
A popular and affordable way to contact people is through apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger or FaceTime on Apple devices. You can use these to make calls over Wi-Fi or with your internet data plan. These apps are free to use—but the person you’re calling will also need to be using the same app and have an internet connection. Learn more about University internet access.
If you need to call someone who does not have internet access, services like Vonage, Google Voice, or Microsoft Teams Voice let you use your computer to call a phone.
If you’re planning to make regular calls or use cellular data without an internet connection, consider getting a mobile or cell phone plan. If you plan to call internationally, ask about additional charges or consider using a prepaid calling card. While it is possible to continue using your home service provider, you may be charged extra fees for placing calls while outside your home country.
Phone plan service options
Phone plans are offered by cell phone companies like AT&T, Verizon Wireless, and T-Mobile. These plans typically require a minimum one-year contract and a social security number. However, there are more and more companies offering plans without a long-term contract or even pay-as-you-go plans.
There are many different local mobile phone providers to choose from, so it’s important to compare plans and prices to find the one that’s best for you. These companies typically bill you each month for their services. Here are a few of the most popular providers in our area:
If you’re only visiting for a short time, you might want to consider a pay-as-you-go plan. These plans don’t require a contract or social security number, so you’re not stuck with a long-term commitment. This is a useful option for short-term visitors.
Most major providers (as well as many retail and convenience stores) sell pay-as-you-go mobile phones and minutes. Providers include:
Verizon has a location nearby in College Town, which is accessible by the Blue Line or College Town Express university shuttles.
AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon stores have store locations in or near the Marketplace Mall in Henrietta, which is accessible by the Green Line.
- How much monthly data will you have? How much do you regularly use?
- What are the rates and procedures for making international phone calls? (These vary by service provider, phone model, or service plan. Alternatively, international phone cards with a toll-free access number can usually be used on any cell phone, regardless of your provider. Such calls still use your minutes, but you won’t be charged at international rates.)
- What is the service coverage available across the United States?
- Will your phone function internationally? If so, what extra charges do you have to pay to use your phone abroad? Many popular phones in the US do not work outside of North America. Most cell phones work in Canada, but there are additional fees for using your phone outside of the country, unless you purchase an international plan.
- How long is the contract for service? What penalties are charged if you decide to cancel before the contract period is over?
- Are there discounts available to University of Rochester students or employees?
Prepaid phone cards are a great option for making international calls. You can buy them at most convenience stores, grocery stores, and online. Rates are usually charged by the minute and vary based on the destination of the call. Learn more about buying and using phone cards at Consumer.gov.
Internet access in Rochester
The University of Rochester provides free internet access to all students and employees on campus. You can use this internet access to stay connected with your loved ones, as well as for schoolwork and research.
University IT assists all students and employees at the University of Rochester with their computer and technical needs while on our campuses. Services include:
- Obtaining your Net ID. Activate your Net ID as soon as possible, even before you arrive, if you can. Your Net ID gives you access to the internet network and other information systems in Rochester.
- Setting up and using your University email account
- Accessing wireless internet on campus
- Setting up campus telephone services
Other mass media in Rochester: TV and newspapers
You can watch local network television stations for free over the air. However, you’ll need a digital converter box to receive the signals on your television. You can buy a digital converter box at a retail store or through a cable or internet company.
You can also buy TV services through a cable or satellite company. These companies offer extended and specialty channels in addition to the standard channels available over the airwaves. Companies have various package deals and often offer special rates for new customers.
Before you sign a contract, make sure you understand:
- the terms of the agreement,
- what you expect to receive, and
- whether your monthly fees will change over time.
Cable television in our area is available through Time Warner. Satellite television companies in the area include DIRECTV and Dish Network.
The local newspaper is the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle. Many news media outlets post information online, but printed newspapers—including national and foreign publications—can be delivered locally for a subscription fee.
City Newspaper is a free weekly alternative newspaper available online and at many local restaurants, stores, and public events.
There are University-specific news outlets too, like the News Center and the Campus Times.