Richard Martell is a 21 year old from the UK who recently made headlines earlier this year with his website TheFitFinder. We recently managed to grab a quick interview with him to discuss the site, the reaction to it all and the future for the site.

1. First up Rich, can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I’m a 3rd year computer scientist at UCL and probably best well known for creating FitFinder.

2. What is ‘The Fit Finder’?

FitFinder is a location based micro blogging site officially, but it is essentially a website that allows you to post when you see someone attractive in the area that you are in and also let others know about it.

3. How did you come up with the idea for it?

I started FitFinder in my final year at university. It came about when I was revising in the library. My friends and I always text each other around before finding somewhere to sit so we could find where the hot girls were working in the library. One night I was a bit bored of revision so decided to build this website that my friends could post on, thats what FitFinder was meant to be. When it was launched at 9am on a Friday morning I told one person about it. I came back later that day to find 18 out of 20 of the people on computers on the floor I was working in the library were on FitFinder. I checked the statistics later that day and saw over 2000 people had been on the site. Other universities got in touch in the coming weeks that wanted FitFinder and I did my best to get them up.

4. You received a lot of attention from various media outlets around the world – What was your reaction to the huge response to the site?

The media response took me by surprise to be honest. I thought that it might appear in some student magazines but when the Guardian called and said they wanted to do an interview for their website I knew this was getting quite serious. I found myself having to step out of the library whilst ‘revising’ to chat on the phone to journalists, advertisers and potential investors. It then spiralled and peaked when The Times featured it 3 days running and then being invited to talk about it on Sky News one evening.

5. Your university (UCL) threatened to prevent you from graduating because of the site – How did this all come about and what happened in the end?

The dean at UCL called me into her office to discuss the site a week or so after it started. They wanted assurances about the content and I explained the methods I had been using to keep some sort of regulation on the site. They asked me to take the site down and I refused to do so as it was not hosted on UCL servers and they had no jurisdiction over it. When the press started reporting it however, the university started to feel more pressured into doing something as I was linked to UCL and they believed I was bringing the university into disrepute. They then slapped the largest fine they can on a student (£300) and threatened disciplinary action (which could have lead to expulsion). I decided to take the site down as I only had a few more weeks until my exams were done and I didn’t want them to take my degree away at the last hurdle.

6. What’s next for ‘The Fit Finder’? Future goals for the site?

As I have said I am wanting to bring FitFinder back for the new academic year and develop the site properly once I have graduated. We hope to make the new site more accessible and also introduce some new features which all look very cool in the initial stages. I can’t go into too much detail but all will be revealed soon when we launch!

7. What tips would you give to other student entrepreneurs?

I would recommend any budding entrepreneurs out their to find a good mentor. I was fortunate to meet some great people as a result of FitFinder including the creator of Bebo, a Dragon from ‘Dragons Den’ and a Secret Millionaire. The advice you can get from these sort of people is excellent. I would also say that once you have a good idea you should work hard to turn it into a reality. There were several weeks of 3 hours sleep a night when FitFinder kicked off and being an entrepreneur is about having the drive to get something off the ground with pure enthusiasm and often without a large budget.

Thanks to Richard for the interview. Be sure to check out TheFitFinder when it relaunches.

By David Replogle for The Real College Guide, in partnership with StudentOnCampus.com

Living on a shoestring budget? Whether your parents float you funds or you’re pulling a part-time paying gig, here’s how to stre——-tch every precious penny.

Broke — it’s a common catch in student jargon. “OMG, I broke my phone at that rager last night” or “I just broke up with my girlfriend ’cause she was cheating on me with my best bud.” But when used as an adjective, the word describes the financial status of most college kids.

Unless Dad is handing over his preferred platinum card or you strike it rich selling those musty ol’ Pokemon cards, you’ll have to get by on meager means. Here are some painless ways to get major bang for your buck … even if it’s your last buck.

Put the “Eat” in Creativity

Whether you’re craving a change from the monotonous glop of the dining hall, celebrating a friend’s birthday at a nearby bistro or taking a study break to go for a late-night munch, your wallet will take a hit. Cutting back on these extravagances means getting clever.

1. Buy in bulk When stashing snacks in your room, think long term. Talk to your roommates about pitching in for some grub, then head to the nearest warehouse retail chain to stock up on industrial-sized cheaper-in-the-long-run crates of Ramen packets and other non-perishables. Many discount clubs offer collegiate membership rates, and some give free introductory one-time shopping passes for non-members to bypass the annual fee altogether.

2. Use the student discount Grocery stores, restaurants and even places on campus usually have discounts for students. Even if you don’t see it advertised, it doesn’t hurt to ask. Have your student ID at all times. It could save 15 percent on that panini or score you a free dessert!

3. Sniff out free food Complimentary chow is almost as popular on campus as the latest gossip on CollegeACB. “Club meetings and churches are always looking to give out food to potential new members,” says Robby Panos, a University of Virginia junior. Philanthropic bashes and school-sponsored speaker events are also prime time for gratis grubs. Grab a slice of pizza and take in a lecture.

4. Have a drink on me Students pour beaucoup bucks down the drain when indulging in conveniences like Starbucks and bottled water. Invest in a coffeemaker so you can brew your own, and get yourself a travel mug. Pick up a refillable water bottle too if your college’s tap is tolerable. Bonus: It’s better for the environment.

That’s Entertainment

Life doesn’t have to be a snore just because your pockets are empty. Money buys neither happiness nor a stellar social life. You can get out and about without tossing around a ton of green.

5. Be art smart Your campus is probably rife with free productions, concerts and workshops. Problem is, nobody really hears about them … and when people do, the enthusiasm is usually lower than the grade on your last calculus test. Time to do some research (track down calendars of events), gather up your dorm mates and head to the next pay-what-you-can play or free movie screening. Even if it’s bad, you’ll get a few laughs — or at least the opportunity to heckle!

6. Speak Greek Not joining a frat or sorority will save you a lot of cash right out the gate. But what happens when you want to get into the best party of the year and don’t have the connections? Exchange names of brothers and sisters you know with friends and ask them to do the same — on most college campuses, name dropping is the ticket to free admission. Once you’re inside, you’ll get beverages … and if you’re lucky, maybe even a few phone numbers.

7. Out on the town Be in the know too when it comes to events in neighboring areas. Community organizations often host free outdoor festivals with live music. Local restaurants have early-bird specials. Theater workshops and art galleries frequently offer free or reduced admission. (Again, don’t forget to ask about student rates.) Read newspapers and pay attention to fliers. It could pay off.

8. Any singles? If you have a significant other who saps all your savings, it may be time to have a chat about cutting back on unnecessary costs or to ask your partner to pull his or her own weight. If this person is not important to you, you may even consider living the single life for now. Romantic dinners and little gifts add up. Is it worth it? Your call.

Shop Till You Plop

Enter upscale department stores and exclusive boutiques at your own risk, but you don’t have to totally give up the urge to splurge. Just tone it down a few notches.

9. Clothes the deal Punch up your wardrobe without breaking the bank: shop clearance racks. (The best ones are where an additional markdown is given to already slashed prices.) Look for one-of-a-kind finds in thrift and consignment stores. Pick up inexpensive accessories at discount stores and chain boutiques.

10. Gotta dollar? Discover the beauty of the dollar store. It’s great for party supplies, stationery, candles, soaps, toiletries and tons more. Whether you’re buying useless trinkets or practical necessities, think about it: You can walk in there with a 10-spot and leave with lots of loot. Heck, you can scrape together a dollar plus tax in pocket change and treat yourself to something.

11. Be a coupon king or queen Keep a lookout for coupons on one-day shopping events at major department stores. Also sign up for email notifications of store specials and be sure to check online for Internet coupons before making a big purchase. (Restaurants and fast food chains run a lot of coupon specials too, so keep your eyes on the prize.)

12. Beauty booty Ladies, fine department stores dole out free samples at the cosmetics counters. Want to road test a lip color or facial moisturizer or new perfume? March on over there with an air of confidence and ask the consultant to show you some options. She’ll likely give you mini-sized products to try at home.

13. What a card! If you’re a die-hard shopaholic experiencing severe withdrawal, hold off before reaching into your cash stash by keeping in mind that the holidays are right around the bend. “It might be painful to wait all semester,” says Appalachian State senior Diane Vachon, “but soon enough you’ll have a dozen gift cards with your name on them.”

Common Cents

Ask not what you can do for your school but what your school can do for you. Universities give back to their student patrons in plenty of ways, so take advantage.

14. Be book smart The library isn’t just for studying, using the Net and people-watching. It actually contains books — a revelation, I know. If you’re taking subjects like lit, history or philosophy, the library could relieve a big financial burden. Instead of turning to the expensive school bookstore (or even Amazon) for a book, do a quick search on the libe’s browser to see if it’s available. Then drop-kick the kid who’s about to check it out.

15. Get off your lazy butt If you have access to the campus gym and you’re paying for a pricey fitness membership, stop. Other free-of-charge physical activities: walking, jogging, hiking, in-line skating, riding your bike, a pickup basketball game, lifting weights in your room, dropping to the floor to do sit-ups and push-ups … shall we go on?

16. Let’s make a deal You’re a smart cookie, so figure out how to split costs with your roommate. Double up on your laundry to save quarters. Share a printer, swap playlists and take the same cab home from a party. And if you’re both heading out of town, consider carpooling. Even if you and your roomie aren’t the best of buds, a road trip is always less taxing when there’s company … and music.

17. Hop on that job “The No. 1 thing I can say is find a job on campus,” offers up Wabash College junior Mack O’Shaughnessy. “It’s the best way to get some extra cash in your pocket.” On-campus stores and restaurants are often hiring. Just don’t tell the folks: You still need someone’s sympathy, especially when it comes in the form of a crisp Benjamin.

1. ‘Surround Sound Star Ceiling’ College Dorm!

This guy transformed his ordinary dorm into one with 11.2 Surround Sound speakers, 5 Screen Surround Video, accent lighting, a fiber optic star ceiling that twilnkles and changes color and capped it all off with some black lights! Crazy!

2. Strobe Light Dorm!

This dude decked his room out with a multitude of different lights plus a Bob Marley poster to give that psychadelic feel. Headache anyone?

3. Las Vegas Themed Dorm Room!

Nathan from Arkansas Tech obviously felt that Vegas was too far for him to go to every weekend. So what did he do? He turned his dorm room into a mini Vegas! Check it out!

4. College Dorm Light Show!

So this isn’t a dorm room exactly but is still pretty cool nonetheless. These students turned their dorm block into an epic light show!

5. Dorm Room With A View

Sometimes you can count yourself lucky to get a window with your dorm room. This guy managed to score himself these beauties. Not bad eh?

6. Suave Bachelor Pad Dorm Room

You would not think this is a dorm room but it really is. Not a bad place to bring back a member of the opposite sex eh? Better get some of those lights in…

7. Tranquil Dorm

Amazing what some plants and a bit of light can do right?

8. Quirky Dorm Room – Color Code Your Life

Throw life into your dorm with matching colors and prints.

9. Compartmentalise Your Dorm

The contrast between light and dark in this room really adds depth to the overall feel of this room. Sounds like I’m an art critic or something…Nonetheless, a really cool dorm.

10. Turn Your Dorm Into A Home

Curtains, plants, lights. These items are key to having a cool dorm just like these photos show. Having a sofa is also awesome.

11. Another Dorm – Clean and Simple

Yep, another dorm with lights and plants. These should be the first 2 things on your dorm room list by now…

12. How To Make The Most Out Of A Small Dorm

Everything you basically need in a dorm (except for the desk – hey, not everyone needs to study!). I see he has all the necessities in his fridge as well….

13. Crazy Psychadelic Dorm Room

Title says it all.

14. Warehouse Style Dorm

The team over at GradeGuru are back with another list of tools to help you during college. This time they present a list of 10 great iPhone apps! So get the app store open and get downloading!

1. gFlash + Flashcards and Tests:

Create your own flashcards and share them with classmates as you study.

2. Study Tracker: (soon to be launched)

Created by GradeGuru, Study Tracker helps you track your effort at school to help you achieve your grade goals. You can monitor your performance in each of your classes to see where you need to invest more of your time.

3. Alarm Clock Pro:

No need for that annoying alarm clock sound, with this app you can create an alarm clock with customizable themes and the app lets you set an ITunes playlist to wake up to.

4. iTranslator:

You can use this tool to connect to Google Translator, Babel Fish or Free Translation to help with your language courses.

5. NYTimes:

get news from the New York Times online for free while your on the go to make sure your up to date before heading to class.

6. Graphing Calculator:

Not only does this app have all of the functionality of a graphing calculator, a screenshot of the work can be taken and emailed to anyone.

7. Convertbot:

This app converts currency, length, mass, time and much more. It supports over 440 units of conversion to help with any assignments.

8. Periodic:

This app offers a complete reference to the Periodic Table of Elements, it also offers useful information such as an element’s atomic weight, electron configuration, melting point, boiling point, atomic radius, ionic radius, and discovery year.

9. Skype:

Download this app to make free Skype-to-Skype calls from any WiFi zone. See who is online, and send and receive instant messages on the go.

10. MyGPA Calculator:

Calculate your GPA per semester and cumulatively.

Now for most of you college students, watching TV is the last thing on your minds what with all the tests, papers, dating, parties etc. But there does come that time when you need your Entourage or Glee fix. Below is a little list of go-to sites which we quickly put together. Enjoy!

1. Sidereel.com

2. Hulu.com

3. Veoh.com

4. TV.com

5. TVDuck.com

6. Blinkx

7. Alluc

8. SurfTheChannel

9. Watch-Series.com

10. Watch The Simpsons Online

By Lauren Joffe for The Real College Guide, in partnership with StudentOnCampus.com

Hasta la vista, Mom and Dad. Hello, independence … but wait!  Not so fast. Before you hit the road and leave your parentals  behind, make sure you’re fully prepared for your new life of  unwavering autonomy by spending your summer days wisely.  Here, 10 things to do before you bolt. Ready, set …

1. Check up on your computer

New computers rarely come with programs like Microsoft Office,  which you’ll definitely need, so be sure to purchase before you’re stuck handwriting your first assignment. And if you’re using an older comp, make sure it’s ready to take the heat: Since you will be on it all the time, install any updates or think about an upgrade. Also, find out if your school offers wireless Internet access (and if your computer is compatible) or whether you’ll need an Ethernet cable. Note: Some schools prohibit users without spyware or virus protection from connecting to the network. So, seriously, get the deets!

2. Make nice with your new dorm mate

As if you need us to tell you, check out her Facebook or MySpace page so you can get a feel for what you’re in for. Then buckle down and dial her digits for a quick chat to break the ice. Ask if there’s anything you should be aware of (like her fatal allergy to dusk or fear of the dark) and let her know of any immediate concerns you might have (like the fact that you can’t live without cable, and you’re relying on her to bring the big screen).

3. Do it up at a discount department store

Knock out the staples on your to-buy list before the selection is sold out: sheets, towels, toiletries and storage containers. But also pick up the following often-forgotten items you do not want to leave home without:

One-cup coffeemaker - Brew your own instead of wasting a whole meal swipe for a cup o’ joe from the dining hall or blowing wads of money at Starbucks.
Mattress pad – Make your dorm cot as comfy as the cushy oasis you’re used to at home while protecting yourself from whatever lived on your bed before you.
Rubber flip-flops – Save yourself from the foot infections, clumps of hair and other mysterious masses that live in your communal shower.
Power strip – Surge-protect your PC while hooking up your iPod station and hair dryer all at once.

4. Secure your class schedule

Enrollment deadlines are not meant to be ignored. In fact, the earlier you sit down to set your schedule, the better your course selection will be — so definitely don’t wait until the last minute. Also, pay attention to class restrictions, since some courses may require department approval ahead of time.

5. Plan your budget

Living costs at college range from campus to campus — the amount of money you’ll need largely depends on the location of your campus (cities can be more expensive) and the choices you make (like ordering in instead of suffering one more dining hall meal). Extra expenses will include social costs (movies, concerts, game tickets, cover for some parties), toiletries, food and drink beyond your meal plan, and transportation. Ask an upperclassman or student advisor how much cash she spends on average each week. Then pool your summer savings to determine whether you can cover your own expenses. If you need help, ask your parents or start looking for a part-time job on campus — before you get there.

6. Visit your school’s Web site

Your university may offer registration guides, campus news and summertime get-to-know-each-other sessions that you definitely do not want to miss out on — especially if you’re in the habit of throwing college junk mail in the trash (which is where important info may very well be). Plus, seeing your campus colors on the screen will psych you up — or at the very least, calm your nerves and get you into the spirit.

7. Get packing

Whether you’re shipping all your stuff UPS or loading up the car and driving cross-country, don’t leave packing to the last minute, when you’ll want to laze around and hang out with friends you won’t be seeing for a while. Designate an area of your house or bedroom to stow things you buy especially for college or things you don’t use daily but know you’ll need to take. Do not overpack! The amount of space you will have in your new room is likely much smaller than your current living quarters. Only bring what’s necessary, as your parents can always mail any left-behind belongings.

8. Put together a tool kit

Once you’re at school on your own, you’ll be shocked how often you’ll need a pair of scissors or a screwdriver — even if you’ve never used one. If you need to hang a poster or fix a loose screw, a simple, handy kit will be of great use when you least expect it. Bring a little box with a screwdriver (both Phillips and flathead), hammer, pliers, nails and screws. An inexpensive small cordless drill/screw gun is a good investment too. Pack scissors as well as adhesives, like sticky tack and tape, with your desk stuff.

9. Get protection

There’s no harm in being prepared for safe sex even if you have no particular plan or person in mind with whom to have it.

10. Hang with your high school pals

You know you’re going to miss your hometown friends, especially during the first few weeks you are apart. Yeah, you’ll make a whole slew of new friends. But make some memories first by hanging with the crew this summer.

Student On Campus (SoC) SELECT aims to bring you the freshest new music from artists from around the world. Got an artist you want to see featured? Let us know!

First off we have Sam Adams, a college student from  Trinity College, Connecticut who gained some fame with his viral hit called ‘I Hate College (Remix)’.

Sam Adams proved you don’t need a major label behind you to find success when his debut EP entitled ‘Boston’s Boy’ rocketed to the top of the iTunes Hip Hop charts. He followed up his ‘I Hate College (Remix)’ with ‘Driving Me Crazy’ which again is proving to be a smash hit!

Up next is his new single featuring G Curtis called ‘Still I Rise’.

What’s the verdict on Sam Adams then? Let us know in the comments.

‘GradeGuru’s Top Ten Digital Tools for back to school. The team over at GradeGuru came up with a list of tools to help you get on the right track this upcoming semester.’

1. Skype- traditionally a software application that allows users to make free voice calls to one another, professors and students are beginning to use its BETA group video-chat service to engage in classroom discussions and host virtual office hours
2. Google Docs- Google applications such as Google Documents, Calendar and GMail have become a standard suite of tools for college students to collaborate – really hits the spot for group work
   
3. Twitter – no longer just a social network, students and academics alike are starting to leverage this network to crowd-source questions, gather research and increase classroom engagement levels
4. GradeGuru Citation Manager- a bookmarklet & FireFox Add-On that helps students collect and manage citations in APA, MLA and Harvard style straight from their browser – a real time saver for essays, papers and assignments
5. BookRenter- #1 textbook rental site
6. Studyrails – online study tool that helps with time management by allowing students to schedule their study time and block out access to sites that might distract them
7. Study Tracker – the iPad app by GradeGuru that helps student track their performance – students can record their study time and grades per class to monitor their effort and outcomes
8. Mindmeister- online mind mapping and collaboration tool that helps with group projects and presentations
9. Quizlet-  students can browse and use millions of flashcards created by other students and teachers, or create their own
10. DYD -a web-based 3-D dorm room design tool that allows college students to customize their dorm room interiors and purchase their favorite room selections online

Ryan Higa is an internet sensation. For those of you who do not know who he is, Ryan is a comedian from Hawaii who is well known for his comedy videos on YouTube. As of August 20th 2009, Ryan’s YouTube channel NigaHiga is the most subscribed channel of all time.

First of all Ryan, welcome to Student On Campus – It’s great to have you here!

Thanks for having me!

Let’s get straight into it…Since starting NigaHiga in 2006 , you have gone on to capture audiences from around the world with your YouTube videos and now you occupy the top spot for the most subscribed channel.Can you summarize for us what the last three years have been like?

I never imagined this would happen…the fans and the attention is just unbelievable! We started making videos because we were bored and we enjoyed making people laugh. It’s been great traveling and meeting the fans and other youtubers.

“When I do a video, I’m always trying to make it better or funnier”

Let’s go back to the beginning – What made you want to start NigaHiga?

We used an old VHS camcorder…you had to have a cassette to put the tape in to play and then take it to our friends’ homes to play in their VCRs…having the videos on the internet, our friends could see it whenever.

At what point did you realise that NigaHiga was on its way to becoming the web phenomenon that it is now?

When we started posting the “How to Be” videos, we couldn’t believe the number of views. But even at that, I never imagined we’d have all the subscribers.

If you could pick 1 video of yours that stands out the most, which one would it be and why?

I’m always asked that question, but it’s so hard to answer. When I do a video, I’m always trying to make it better or funnier.

You currently attend university in Las Vegas – How do you find juggling classes and making YouTube videos?

I go to school part-time so that I’m able to continue making my videos.

“If you enjoy it, go for it”

Your YouTube popularity led to “Ryan and Sean’s Not So Excellent Adventure” which grabbed the iTunes No. 1 spot for independent films. How did that opportunity come about?

The producers saw our videos and contacted me by email, so at first we didn’t take it too seriously. Then they talked with our parents and we all decided it was a great opportunity to experience making a “real” movie.

Is Hollywood calling?

No, not yet…but hopefully…

What advice can you give to students who want to follow in your footsteps?

If you enjoy it, go for it….you never know who’s watching and what opportunities will follow.

What’s next for Ryan Higa?

I want to eventually get a BA in Film but for now, I enjoy making my videos and people laugh.

The whole Student On Campus team would like to thank Ryan for taking the time out to do this interview. Good luck for the future!

Go check out his channel on YouTube now!

College is expensive. Paying the tuition fees, housing costs and simple stuff like food and drinks can really burn a hole through your wallet.
Luckily, they’re are ways of reducing these costs – One of these ways is by using GradeFund where you can get rewarded for getting good grades.

Students invite their friends and family to sponsor their drive for good grades. Sponsors choose grade levels and sponsorship amounts for each grade (as low as $5). Each semester students upload their transcript. We verify grades, collect money from sponsors, and send it to schools or students depending on sponsor preferences. For individuals or companies that want to create an educational cause, they select the classes and grade levels at the universities they want to sponsor. We send the money to the eligible students who achieve the target performance levels.