Sometimes that last Top Ramen noodle package should remain just that -- the last one.
With your University of Memphis student ID you can get pizza, Chinese food and some on-campus organizations provide dinners free or at substantial discounts. By merely flashing your student ID, you can have IMAX, movie, ballet, theater and art gallery tickets free or at a fraction of their usual cost.
"Sometimes we get a whole theater class coming and getting Playhouse on the Square or Circuit Playhouse tickets," said Laruth Lofties, program-scheduling specialist for The University of Memphis.
Whatever your reason for getting tickets, you should get them early because "we do, for the most part give (the passes) all out," she said.
"Sometimes we give out tickets to movie premieres," said Magan Rose, sophomore art major and student secretary for the information desk. Students should be on the lookout for movie posters in the University Center and then go to the information desk to receive movie passes.
Most students don't know their student ID is a gateway to these or other discounts. If they do, some don't bother to pull it out their ID when shopping.
"I started my business for students because I am an alumnus of The University. We have an obligation to the students first and foremost," said Sharri Schmids owner of Sharri's Discount Arts at 3517 Southern Ave.
Some students opt to make stops at religious student organizations a part of there weekly routine. Almost all religious organizations near campus give free dinners or lunches after their religious worship. Not only is it a good place to eat free, but also a place where students can meet other students.
Throughout the semester, religious organizations host activities where they provide food and snacks. It is worth a student's time to check organization's calendars to see when and where they hold their activities.
"If students what to come for the service at 7:30 or just come for the dinner at 8:30 students can," said Troy Ann Poulopoulos of the Wesley Foundation United Methodist at 3625 Midland Ave. "We know that there are some students who are just looking for a free dinner and that is OK with us,"
The Student Activity Council hosts campus-wide events throughout the year. Notably, SAC events dominate the first few days of any semester - especially for new students who are adjusting to The U of M.
Although drink prices at the university have gone up in recent years, there is a way around it. On the first floor of the University Center, soft drink machines sell soft drinks for 40 cents. Although they don't sell the most popular flavors, the machine sells soft drinks being introduced into the marketplace.
