Mocs ID earns discounted prices at local businesses
Jessie Wright
Issue date: 4/15/10 Section: Features
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From oil changes to free drinks, the list of student perks around Chattanooga is surprisingly long and extensive. Students like Iris Mahan, a junior from Houston, Texas, are sometimes surprised by what being a student can get.
"Last month, I went to get my oil changed at the Valvoline on Hixson Pike," Mahan said. "They noticed my UTC decal in the mirror and tagged on a 10 percent discount to their service."
Mahan said in addition to their already fast and efficient service, the discount was all the more pleasant just because she was not expecting it.
Tyler Mascia, a freshman from Knoxville, felt the same way when he discovered a student discount while eating dinner one night.
"I was midway through a meal at Sticky Fingers when I saw the UTC sticker on the window, and I flipped out," he said. "It's my favorite restaurant."
Mascia said the discount is definitely good news and makes him want to eat at Sticky Fingers even more.
"I think more institutions should give student discounts," he said. "It encourages patronage."
Mahan also said student discounts seem to generate more business.
"College students are notoriously low on cash," Mahan said. "So, it's a really great incentive to support a business that gives a discount. If you wouldn't ordinarily spend the money, you might do so if you get the student discount."
Caitlin Rice, a freshman from Hendersonville, Tenn., uses the CARTA transportation system because, with a student ID, it is free.
"I don't have a car," Rice said. "So, it's how I get around, not only on campus, but off, too."
Rice said that CARTA helps her get around lots of places. She said she rides CARTA to places such as Walgreens for a prescription and Hamilton Place for shopping.
"It's really accessible," she said. "And it's really just a way to get around without having to inconvenience other people. It's great for students who don't need to spend money on gas expenses."
Local businesses offer student discounts in both the most expected and unexpected ways, including free drinks at the Yellow Deli, discounted rates at the Marriot and more.
Ask about discounts at your favorite establishment, and you may get a very pleasant surprise.
Other participating businesses include: Blue Skies, Cold Stone Creamery, Chattanooga Symphony and Orchestra, Smoothie King, Subway (Market), TGI Fridays, Quiznos (Frazier and Market), The Majestic, First Bank, Blue Water Grille, Chattanooga Billiard Club and Hunter Museum.
