<p>D lost her card a while ago, but since she only used it for Amtrak discounts and was able to simply enter the card number while reserving online, it wasn’t a problem. But now Amtrak has changed its policy and is demanding presentation of the cards before issuing discount tickets (can’t use the ticket machines anymore, but have to go to the service desk). She went on the Student Advantage website two weeks ago and requested a replacement card (she included the required payment). It was supposed to be sent to her dorm, but never showed up. She called Student Advantage today at 3:00 pm, and got a recording telling her that they are only open between 9 am and 7 pm, but leave a message. Given their poor grasp of the clock and prior failure to send the replacement card, I have no confidence that they will return the call. Anyone have any ideas (like the super secret direct hot line)? I get the feeling the whole organization is one person working out of his basement. D will be coming home for winter break on the 13th, and needs to have the card in hand by then or she loses the 15% discount.</p>
<p>MommaJ - Sorry your D is having this problem. Annoying, I know. I couldn’t find any “Magic Number” online. Here’s what I’d suggest:</p>
<p>Check the Student Advantage web site for a list of participating retailers that are known to be customer friendly. I’d choose Target, but whatever. Go to customer service desk at Target and ask them for “the secret number.” If the Target Customer Service representative has a sense of humor, s/he might even be willing to call the problem in.</p>
<p>“MommaJ’s daughter presented her Student Advantage Card here, but it looks like it’s been through the washing machine. The cashier referred her to the Service Desk, and I have lot better things to do than squint at mauled cards. Can you send her out another one? Or send it to me so I can give it to her the next time she comes in?”</p>
<p>Persistence pays … but imagination pays better!</p>