Mat the Hat's Random Rambling: Where are the Student Discounts?

One of the biggest obstacles for college students these days is the ever growing cost of tuition and living expenses.

Many students across America have been able to help cut their costs by taking advantage of the wide variety of discounts and benefits available to help make student life easier. From local businesses to major chains to worldwide companies, there are tons of great deals and discounts to help students keep their wallet just a little heavier. It just takes a little looking.

Unfortunately, LBCC students may have to look a little harder than others. Discounts at major franchises around the city of Albany are few and far between. There are many local businesses that offer discounts, but they may require a bit more effort to discover. Mainly, businesses that offer services such as haircuts, oil changes or tailoring are good places to start.

According to Bruce Clemetsen, Vice President of Student Services at LBCC, there was a movement about ten years ago to establish a program for student discounts, but it was ultimately unsuccessful.

"There was virtually no interest in the business community to offer discounts and the large chain stores did not have the authority to create discounts. General sentiments were that students already have services they go to in the community because they live here and discounts would not be large enough to get students to change."

Fortunately, there are still options available for LBCC students looking to save a buck or two.

Local businesses can still be a valuable resource when trying to save money. All students need to do is keep an eye out for signs posted either outside, at front counters, or in menus.

Restaurant chains such as Burger King and Arby's have good student discount programs, offering 10% off orders. Not all stores participate in these programs so it is important for students looking to take advantage of these great offers is to simply ask after them. The worst they can do is say no.

Even though there are overall programs for both Supercuts and Burger King to offer student discounts, both of the establishments in Albany have stated that they do no honor those policies.

One of the best options that many students overlook are the amazing deals offered through online companies such as Apple or Amazon. Apple often has great back to school discounts. Amazon also has many great perks, like six free months of two day delivery for students and great deals on new, used, and rental textbooks.

Also keep in mind that the local bus routes also offer free rides for anyone with a student ID and a current term sticker.

There are plenty of deals out there for people looking to save a bit of cash, all you have to do is find them.