The launch of a new application on Facebook will help students share rides to school, work, home or the airport.
Marcus Cohn, the co-founder of Carpool on Facebook application said it was an application to "link people up who are going in the same direction."
Once the application is downloaded, students can type in a city or ZIP code to find travelers heading in the same direction.
This application seems to have its concerns. According to freshmen Emily Cole, journalism, and Lauren Smith, nursing, the application seemed questionable.
"It seems kind of risky," Cole said, but both agreed that the application would be a good way to meet people.
After looking up the rides being offered, Cohn said the viewer can look at their Facebook profile to see who they are, what school they go to and see if they have any friends in common. This feature is supposed to alleviate the fears of people carpooling, Cohn said.
"I can see how it would be beneficial, but I would be scared of people who take advantage of it," Lesley Clark, a senior advertising major said.
Cohn said for students to use their best judgment when it comes to ride sharing. Check to make sure friends are mutual, they go to the same school or if their feedback is in good ratings.
"Charge your cell phone before the trip. Inform a friend or family member of your ride plans. If there are delays or changes to your trip, let someone know," Cohn said. "Trust your instincts."
Another goal of the application is to reduce carbon emission, Cohn said. By sharing a ride, students are doing their part in carbon reduction.
The application is using Thanksgiving break as a launch period for students to find rides home, Cohn said.
Cohn said that the application is getting great feedback and already over 10,000 rides have been posted on Carpool in less than four months.
The Carpool application uses Google Maps technology to locate rides going in the same direction.
Cohn said he was excited to have more people join and is currently looking for representatives and interns for UCO.
"We feel that the application can really provide a useful service to students there," Cohn said.
If you are interested in representing UCO or want more information about the application, go to www.zimride.com.
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