my school did the same thing, majority of the students did have smart phones already, in my experience they try to get you to buy an app called Skyscape, which is actually a handy resource, it's basically a large collection of medical resources in the palm of your hand. I'd personally go with an iTouch to avoid monthly bills, and maybe try to hold off until the first few days of school? see how much it's really used and if you feel you actually need it, then move ahead and purchase. *i only use mine for drug reference now*