College Students And Veterans Enjoying Freebies In 2017

In 2017, various institutions and businesses across the United States offered free items and services to students and veterans. These freebies ranged from food and beverages to health-related products and event access. The following sections provide a detailed overview of the available freebies, including the types of products, eligibility criteria, and sources of the information.

Overview of Freebies for College Students

College students often benefit from a range of freebies, especially during specific events or academic periods. In 2017, several universities and organizations provided free products and services to their students. These included free software, discounts on essential items, and participation in campus events. The primary goal of these freebies is to support students financially and encourage engagement in campus activities.

One notable example is the availability of Microsoft Office for free to college students. Microsoft Office is a suite of productivity tools that includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other programs. These tools are essential for students in various academic disciplines, as they support writing, data analysis, and presentation creation. At institutions such as the University of Arizona, students could access Microsoft Office free of charge by using their valid school email addresses. Additionally, Microsoft offered free online training courses in computer coding basics, which provided students with valuable skills.

Amazon also provided student discounts to those who signed up with their university email addresses. This discount covered various Amazon Prime features, which could be beneficial for students who needed to purchase books, supplies, or other essentials for their academic pursuits. The availability of such discounts helps students manage their expenses more effectively.

Freebies for Veterans

Veterans also received a range of freebies in 2017, particularly during events such as Veteran's Day. Businesses and organizations recognized the service of veterans by offering free products and services. These freebies not only honored veterans but also provided them with tangible benefits.

For instance, Dunkin' Donuts offered free donuts to veterans on Veteran's Day. This gesture allowed veterans to enjoy a small token of appreciation for their service. Similarly, Krispy Kreme provided a free donut and a small coffee to veterans and active-duty personnel on Veteran's Day. These offers were available at participating locations, and no military ID was required to claim the free items.

Denny's also honored veterans by offering a free Build Your Own Grand Slam breakfast on Veteran's Day. This meal provided a hearty and satisfying breakfast option for veterans. Applebee's participated in the celebration by offering a free meal from a selection of seven special entrees to veterans. These meals were part of the restaurant's campaign to show appreciation for the service of veterans.

Mammoth Mountain, a ski resort, offered free lift tickets to military personnel on Veteran's Day. This offer allowed veterans to enjoy a day of skiing without the usual cost, providing a recreational opportunity that was both enjoyable and accessible.

Campus Events and Freebies

Campus events are a significant source of freebies for college students. These events often include festivals, fairs, and other gatherings that provide students with various products and services for free or at a reduced cost. The Black Squirrel Festival at Kent State University is an example of such an event. This annual festival offered students a chance to participate in a variety of activities, including exploring student organizations, engaging with university departments, and enjoying food and other freebies.

At the Black Squirrel Festival, students could receive a free T-shirt, sunglasses, and fidget spinners. The event also featured the Kent State food truck, Fork in the Road, which provided festival favorites for students with valid dining plans. These freebies not only added value to the festival experience but also encouraged student participation and engagement with the university community.

Another example of campus events providing freebies is the College Football Playoff Fan Central. This event, held at the Miami Beach Convention Center, offered a free family-friendly experience with games, clinics, pep rallies, and exhibits celebrating college football. The event was open to the public without any ticket required, making it accessible to a wide audience.

Health and Safety Freebies

In 2017, health and safety freebies also became more prevalent, particularly on college campuses. These items were aimed at promoting student health and safety, especially in light of the growing concerns about opioid overdoses. For example, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the State University of New York's Delhi campus provided free naloxone injection kits and fentanyl test strips to students. These items were essential in preventing opioid overdoses and educating students on how to use them.

Naloxone is a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose, and fentanyl test strips allow students to check if a pill has been laced with fentanyl. These freebies were distributed at campus events and health centers, providing students with vital tools to protect themselves and others. The availability of these products was part of a broader effort to address the opioid crisis and promote student safety.

Freebies for Active Duty Personnel

Active-duty military personnel also benefited from various freebies in 2017. These offers were often part of larger campaigns to honor and support the military community. For instance, during specific periods, active-duty personnel could bring guests for free to certain events, such as those held during Veteran's Day. This gesture allowed military families to participate in events and enjoy the benefits of being part of the military community.

Conclusion

The freebies available to college students and veterans in 2017 were diverse and beneficial. These offers included free software, discounts on essential items, and participation in campus events. The freebies were not only a form of appreciation but also a practical support for students and veterans, helping them manage their expenses and access necessary resources. By providing these freebies, institutions and businesses contributed to the well-being and success of college students and veterans.

Sources

1. The latest college campus freebies? Naloxone and fentanyl test strips
2. Best freebies for Veterans Day in Los Angeles
3. Treat yourself to college freebies
4. 36th Annual Black Squirrel Festival Features Music, Food and Freebies
5. Playoff Fan Central