The bucking BroncoCard spices up BSU life

Stop. Do you have your student ID card on you? If not, then you’re missing out on a critical BSU survival tool. The student ID (named the “BroncoCard”) shouldn’t just collect dust in a wallet, since can act as a ticket to a variety of hotspots.

“There are a lot of different uses that the card has,” said Tony Keife, manager of the Campus ID (which is located in the SUB across from the Games Center). “Specifically the library. That is probably the most utilized part of the card.” Keife also said that most other facilities on campus, including student housing and computer labs, require the BroncoCard in order for students to access them. Other activities, such as purchasing football and basketball tickets, require the flash of a student ID. Students can also use “Bronco Bucks,” a debit plan specifically for the BroncoCard to buy food on campus or supplies from the bookstore.

But don’t think the BroncoCard’s powers are limited to the BSU campus. It can be used for sweet benefits all around Boise. “There are some local merchants who give discounts for the student ID,” said Keife. “Edwards Cinema, and some various restaurants around town basically.” Additionally, the BroncoCard comes in handy at the Brick Oven Bistro, Boise Contemporary Theater, Papa Joe’s on Capitol Blvd., and Papa John’s Pizza. Keife added that Bogus Basin Ski Resort gives out discounted passes with a BroncoCard.

The Boise Art Museum also embraces the student ID by offering free admission to students with a valid BroncoCard during the school year.

“It’s a unique educational experience for students,” said Melanie Fales, Interim Executive Director and Curator of Education for the Boise Art Museum, “It’s unusual that a university would have a museum of the Boise Art Museum’s caliber so nearby. It’s a really good way for students to extend their education to the museum.”

Fales included that students can get free access to special events and exhibitions. For instance, she said there will be a reception specifically for BSU faculty and students at the museum on October 3 from 5-8 pm. Furthermore, the BroncoCard will allow students to participate in Art Talk on Thursday evenings, again without cost. Art Talk gives students an opportunity to communicate with artists and curators.

Another convenient advantage of the BroncoCard is that most students only need to receive one during their entire stay at BSU. “Currently, the student ID cards expire every six years,” Keife said. “We set it up so technically if the average student is here for five years, it gives them that five years plus a little extra time.”

Pictures are taken at the Campus ID office, or at orientation. The cards are produced and processed by student employees.

Many current BSU students are already enjoying the BroncoCard’s perks. “I use it all the time,” said Lacey Megorden, a returning sophomore. “The benefits rock.” New students can enjoy these same perks by getting their IDs as soon as possible. So run the Campus ID, flash those pearly white teeth for the camera, and voila! The BroncoCard is yours.

For additional information on the BroncoCard, check out: www.boisestate.edu/broncocard, or visit the Campus ID office.

Francy Marcotte
Culture Writer

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