As far as I can remember, journalism has always been an art that involves a lot of research and background study. Being a huge fan of the field, I was disappointed and rather annoyed by one of the letters published in this column ( “New University-sponsored discount system is a rip-off for students,” Aug. 17) by a journalism major. The author in reference blasted and tore apart the brand new Academic Computers for Terps (ACT) computer purchasing program instituted by the Office of Information Technology. While her frustration at the program’s unappealing deals is understood, she was completely mistaken in the context of a few statements against the program.
The program does not in any way inhibit or stand in the way of the usual student discounts that apply at both the participating vendors (Dell and Apple). The ACT program is a choice that the customer makes and if not, the usual discount offered is always available. This is evident on the Apple website that presents a link to take the student to the normal student discount website before the ACT Apple Store website is logged into. One of my friends just bought one with the student discount, without the ACT support. Dell presents the same option, also.
As much as I would hate to discuss specifics concerning the prices, I would not hesitate to stand up and claim the ACT rates are still at a discount taking into fact the four years of extended hassle-free on-campus warranty support and repair. Come on, where else do you get a replacement laptop when your computer is kept in shop overnight?
Who hasn’t done their research now?
Is it really a rip-off? As with any other consumer offer or promotion, at the end of the day it’s down to the consumer’s choice, and no one really forces anyone else into getting ripped off. Opinions vary, and so do actions. I guess humans will always do what they do best – complain, moan and groan about everything offered, regardless of whether it’s heading for the better or the worse.
Srivatsa Viswanathan
Sophomore
Computer science
