Indiana State students are now able to find out discounts offered to students by local businesses quickly and easily.

Hillary Davidson, vice-president of Student Government Association, said through the program that began this week, students can access a Web site to see what businesses offer discounts or printable coupons and then go to those businesses and present their student identification card at time of purchase for discounts.

Currently, 19 area businesses are involved with the program, she said.

Lisa Dean, senior program manager for Student Savings Club, said the program, which began 15 years ago, is now implemented in 200 schools. The program began as a discount card, but due to student feedback, it changed to an online program.

Dean said students seem to prefer wireless communication such as the Internet and e-mail. She said since the program is online, it can be updated as often as needed. This allows merchants to change their offers when necessary and allows new merchants to join the program. New merchants can join the program through the Web site or by contacting either SGA or Dean, she said. To be a part of the program, merchants have to pay a small fee, Dean said. The fee varies according to the population of the school and market. Merchant participation is based on a full calendar year, she said.

The program is completely free for students, however, Dean said. Since she is an alumna of ISU, Dean said she is familiar with the businesses in Terre Haute and is happy with the response so far.

"I think the mixture of businesses, especially for the first year, is really good," she said.

Davidson said some of the businesses participating are Bally Hoo Pizza King, Dog House Pub, Imperial Lanes, Sun Factory Tanning, Futon Shop, Bogie's Fun Center, Rave Hair Studio, Jade Garden and Don's Service Express.

Davidson said SGA came up with a list of places popular among students and then sent that list to Dean who contacted the businesses.

Dean said even though students simply need to access the site to view area discounts, it is also important for students to register on the site. By registering, students will receive information about changes in the program in their area. Also, students who register are put into a monthly drawing. The current prize is an iPod Nano, she said.

Dean said since the site is updated often, students should check it regularly.

"This is a program that is free for students that I don't want anyone to miss out on," she said.