Published July 31, 2009
Written by Grace Chen
Every college student is familiar with the challenges of managing finances amidst the pressures of tuition and book costs. Burdened with tests and assignments, many community college students have little time to earn supplementary income while enrolled in courses as a full time student.
Fortunately, that seemingly simple college ID stowed away in one's wallet can actually help students save hundreds of dollars each year! With nearly endless discounts offered specifically for college students, showing your community college ID can help increase the amount of cash in your wallet immediately.
Technology on the Cheap
If you're in the market for a new laptop, cell phone, or other form of technology, it will financially benefit you to shop with companies that cater to students' needs. Many of the companies that offer technological products strive to attract buyers with enticing college discounts.
For example, Apple Computers gives college students, instructors, administrators, and college staff members "Apple Eduction Pricing" on select products. You may be able to save hundreds of dollars on your next computer simply due to your community college student status. In addition, Apple also offers occasional promotions specifically for students. For example, when an eligible student purchases a computer, he or she may be able to receive a free iPod Touch.
Other technology-based companies that offer various student discounts include Dell Computers.
Almost Free Entertainment
Before paying for the rising cost of a movie ticket, always remember to show your student ID. Movie theaters often offer significant savings for students, with some theaters reducing ticket prices by 25 percent or more.
Additionally, students enjoy discounts through local restaurants, especially for those that operate near your campus. Restaurants and entertainment locations near a college campus typically offer 10% student discounts or a special incentive for visiting the establishment on a specific day of the week.
Most public cultural centers in your city will offer student discounts. When you visit a museum, botanical garden, or historical society, ask about student discounts. Performing arts theaters and orchestras usually offer student discounts as well. More often than not, you can enjoy savings that will leave more money in your wallet.
Sports fans should take advantage of student discounts at local sporting events. Most professional sporting teams offer student discounts, although you will need to inquire about applicable dates. You often need to purchase the discounted tickets in advance as well, but the effort is certainly worth the savings.
Health, Beauty, and Fitness for Every Budget
Students can also maintain their health and appearance while cutting down on costs as well. For example, Virginia Highlands Community College (VHCC), located in Covington, has secured many discounts for their students. Specifically, students who want to improve their physiques can take advantage of student discounts by visiting cooperating facilities such as:
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Absolute Jiu Jitsu
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Anytime Fitness
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Curves
Furthermore, students hoping to maintain their trendy hair cuts and colors while enrolled in classes can visit one of many participating salons, each with its own student promotion package.
Rent and Transportation on a Dime
Believe it or not, simply showing your college ID to your landlord can save you hundreds of dollars! For example, as the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce posts, local community college students are able to take advantage of nearly hundreds of discounts; most notably, students can even save on their housing costs. For example, the local Brittingham Square Apartments waives the mandatory $200 community fee with proof of student status. Similarly, Salisbury Housing offers $100 off a college student's first month's rent, while individuals residing at University Park Student Apartments are able to have their application fees waived for free!
Adding to the necessities of rent, you can even save significant dollars when pursuing the lease or purchase of a car. As Virginia Highlands Community College further reveals, the local Aaron Sales & Lease Company offers a completely free month when you sign an auto lease agreement. If you're not in the market for leasing or buying a vehicle, your closest transit system (such as the bus system, subway, train, etc) may offer free or reduced rates for students.
While promotions for various retailers and companies vary depending upon the city, students can often take advantage of savings that add up to hundreds, if not thousands, annually.
Resources:
Apple Computer, available at http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/education_routing
Virginia Highland Community College, available at http://www.vhcc.edu/index.aspx?page=761
Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce, available at http://www.salisburyarea.com/College Student Discount Program List.htm
Wor-WIC Community College, available at http://www.worwic.edu/
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