As we head into mid-winter, wallets are still empty from Christmas shopping, and boredom is at an all-time high. But who knew our handy Elizabethtown College student IDs could solve all our problems? Theatres, stores and restaurants in the area offer a variety of discounts for simply showing your student ID.
Many students hardly think to use their ID anywhere besides the Marketplace, Jay’s Nest and Blue Bean. Senior Heather Slifko agreed, and added, “If anywhere could offer any kind of discount, I’m sure college students would really appreciate it.”
For those who want to travel outside of Etown and take in a play, both the Hershey and Fulton Theatres offer discounts to college students. The Hershey Theatre offers tickets between $15 and $20 if you show your ID. This discount can be used on most of their Broadway shows, including “Come Fly Away,” which will be showing Feb. 16 through 19. It can also be used for the 2005 Tony Award-winning musical “Spamalot,” which can only be seen Mar. 9 and 10. The Fulton Theatre offers a special program called Student Rush, which allows all middle, high school and college students to purchase tickets for $10. However, tickets can only be purchased an hour before curtain. Both the Hershey and Fulton theatres only allow one ticket to be purchased per ID. For a list of shows and show times check out, www.fultontheatre.org, www.hersheytheatre.com, and www.ticketmaster.com.
Few Etown students know that the College already offers their own discount program. In 2001, Etown’s Student Senate created the Passport Program. They hoped it would help create stronger ties between Etown students and the community through discounts and offers. You only have to show your ID to receive the discount or offer. A full list of businesses that participate can be found at www.etownsenate.com/passport-program, as well as specific offers and locations.
After you catch a show you can stop by one of the eateries in the area to grab a bite to eat. Folklore Coffee & Co. offers not only a wide selection of coffee, espresso and tea but also a full menu of sandwiches, wraps, soups, salads and newly-featured paninis. Folklore was renovated this year, yet the atmosphere is just as great as ever. Folklore is a prime hangout spot for Etown students and is happy to offer their 10 percent student discount. “I’ve gone to Folklore. It was nice that they offered the discount, and they even had a sign that said it,” stated first-year Kellie Lotkowski. Folklore is less than a 15-minute walk from campus, and the perfect place to warm up from the cold weather.
Parents up for a visit? Be the one to take them out for a bite. My Place, Pizzatown and T.J. Rockwell’s all offer 10 percent off for students. Even Black Gryphon offers a 15 percent discount on student food purchases. But we can’t forget about everyone’s favorite weekend hangout: the Etown Diner also offers a 10 percent discount, so make sure you bring your ID for those late night runs.
Not in the mood to go out? Make something yourself, but make sure you stop at Darrenkamp’s to get 5 percent off your groceries. Darrenkamp’s is a family business with four locations in the area, including one in Elizabethtown and another in Mt. Joy.
However, your student ID can be used for more than just dinner and a show. Hair Deezigns & Tanning Unlimited offers 15 percent off hair services and 10 percent off tanning packages ($35 or more). Holiday Hair offers a 10 percent discount, while Salon 40 gives a discount of 15 percent. Both salons are conveniently located in Etown. Natural Creations Salon on West High Street offers a great 20 percent discount for students who present their ID. This is the first salon in the area to offer organic color and perms. Their services are free of ammonia, which is not only bad for your hair but also for the environment. Your student ID can earn you a discount on all their color, cutting, perming and waxing services. Owner Laura Dare explains on her website, “With all the information I found when I was researching products, I felt that it was my responsibility to share this great new and all natural system with all of my clients.”
Everyone knows the stereotype of college students having no money, but we all know that it’s pretty much true. Thanks to the Passport and Student Rush programs, it is easy to go out for a night on the town and not worry about the financial stress. Make sure you take advantage of these opportunities by carrying your ID—it never hurts to ask other local businesses if they offer any other special deals.
