While it is no secret that coming to college is stressful on the mind and body, what most students do not realize before moving away from home is how stressful the transition is going to be on their bank accounts.

Being a college town, Murray businesses acknowledge that without students they would not have nearly as much revenue as they would without having the campus so close by.

Also, knowing that students have a tight budget, some local businesses say the flash of a student ID can get students a percentage off services or products that they want or need.

Local boutique owner Penny Bogard said her store, Penique’s, offers students 10 percent off their purchases just by showing their student ID at checkout.

“I don’t really know why not to do it,” she said. “I know how hard it is trying to make it in college, so I understand.”

Ribbon Chix is another clothing store in Murray that offers students a discount on their merchandise. They offer 15 percent off.

Another business in Murray that offers students a discount is Cheri Theatre on Chestnut Street.

Cheri Theatre offers $2 off all regular- priced tickets Monday through Thursday to students who present their ID at the counter.

Baldy’s Grill is another local business that appreciates the students by offering them a discount.

The staff at Baldy’s provides a 10 percent discount to all students who are able to present their IDs, excluding their daily specials. They also offer $1 off on pick-up pizza orders.

Culver’s and Back Yard Burgers are fast food restaurants that offer students a 10 percent discount on their meals when students show their ID when checking out.

Students who have automotive troubles can take their cars to Cunningham Auto Repair to receive their discount.

Cunningham Auto Repair not only offers students a discount on its services, but they also offer students a free ride back to campus via its shuttle service while the maintenance is taking place, according to its website.

Although the majority of businesses in Murray do offer discounts to Murray State students, a lot of students are not aware of the discount opportunities.

“I had no idea Cheri Theatre offered a discount,” said Chelsi Werner, junior from Golconda, Ill., “I wish they would promote it more or ask if I want to do it when I buy my tickets. I would for sure take advantage of it more often.”

Although students may not feel like they are saving much money, taking advantage of student discounts does add up eventually. In the bank account of a starving college student, every nickel and dime counts.

Story by Breanna Sill, Assistant Features Editor