A cell phone amplifier, a device designed to improve cell phone service, is scheduled to be installed in the Usdan Student Center by the end of this week, according to Student Union Director of Community Advocacy Andrew Hogan '11. Hogan explained that when "you go into Lower Usdan, no matter what [cell phone] service provider you have, you don't get any service." He said that this initiative was completed in order to fulfill a promise that he made during his campaign.

The amplifier was initially supposed to be installed during February Break. however, it arrived late, Hogan said.

In an e-mail to the Justice, Vice President of Campus Operations Mark Collins wrote, "Brandeis personnel [will install the device] unless additional outside resources are needed."

Collins wrote in an e-mail to the Justice that the reason the amplifier was being installed in Usdan is that Usdan "has been a difficult area for poor reception and dropped calls." He wrote that Usdan is the only building in which the device will be installed.

The total cost for the improved cell phone reception is $3,000. In an e-mail to the Justice, Hogan wrote, "[The Office of] Facilities [Services] is paying for the entire thing, about $3,000, $2,500 in labor and $500 for the part itself."

Hogan explained that this model was selected because "it worked for the most square footage." The amplifier will improve the cell phone reception for an area of 5,000 square feet, he said.

"I think that improving the cell phone service in Lower Usdan is a necessity," Rachel Mitrani '09 said. "It will be great to be able to sit in Lower Usdan and have a cell phone conversation," she said.

"My cell phone reception is very weak in Lower Usdan," Jessalyn Michaels '09 said.

Lara Helene Weddige '12 said, "I think it's a great development and it goes to show how much other students can do to help each other."

As a result of the installation of the amplifier, Hogan said, "All [cell phone service] providers will have better reception [in Lower Usdan].