College students, maybe more than most people, understand the value of free time. It’s time to study for an exam, time to catch up in a missed class or maybe finish an extra credit assignment. Yet some still find a way to stay up-to-date with their favorite reality shows and cartoons on television.

There is a third category for the students who want to watch cable TV but settle for the gossip between classes. According to Walmart.com, many sets of popular television shows are available at its “always low prices.”

The boxed set of the series “House” is on the shelves, which includes seasons one through four. “South Park: The Complete Eleventh Season (Uncensored)” is out as well.

For those who aren’t sure of what they should be watching to keep up with the gossip, TV.com provided a list of the Top 100 Highest Rated Television Shows letting viewers know how their favorite program matched up.

The top ten series include “Supernatural” at number 10; “24” came in at number nine; 8. “Friends,” though it is only re-runs; 7. “Lost;” 6. “The Simpsons;” 5. “Seinfeld,” also playing re-runs; 4. the comedy “Scrubs;” 3. “Prison Break;” 2. “House;” and “Heroes” made the number one spot.

The recent 2008 Olympic Games on NBC made the record for the second most watched event in U.S. television history, according to Chron.com.

Tuning into The Weather Channel is always handy, for updates on what name will be given to the next storm that may or may not head to the Nicholls area. CNN is another resource, providing coverage of the presidential debates, conventions and the upcoming nominations for the Democratic and Republican candidates.

Aside from not having the time to watch, another issue that comes to mind in a discussion about television is the analog-to-digital switch, set for Feb. 19 of next year.

The government’s main message to the public is “don’t panic,” according to CNETNews.com. The purpose of the switch is to allow more crystal-clear broadcasting.

The only affected television sets are the ones using a built-in tuner, antenna, etc. Satellite users will not be affected, nor will most people who bought a new set as of March 2007. Many of the newer sets include a digital tuner when purchased.