Smart cards, preferred shopper cards, membership cards, frequent buyer cards. . . all businesses are anxious to get their card in the consumer's wallet. Consumers are so confused they may even pay for cards that do nothing.
For example, a mail-order company sent out letters and brochures describing a $25 Campus Card. The letter said, "The Campus Card is the student identification card issued to all registered college students. It is required for many services and purchasing privileges at whichever college or university your student chooses to attend." But, the card has no connection to the colleges and universities listed in its marketing materials, nor is it "required" by the schools.
The company, The National College Registration Board, closed down three months after the letters were mailed to 1.8 million high school seniors and college students. Now, more than 5,800 students in 35 states are being refunded the $25 fee. The company also had a Web site, which listed hundreds of schools, but it was shut down in late April, due to complaints from college representatives.
I guess we would have to say that this was the beginning of a good education.
