Prairie View A&M University has now implemented its Panther Bucks off-campus merchant program. This enables students to activate their panther bucks account in Auxiliary Services, and make purchases at various off-campus locations.
Students were taken by surprise when the new off-campus merchant program was announced. Word traveled quickly through multiple social sites, text messages, forward emails and phone calls stating “You can use panther points off campus,” many students thought, but were proven wrong.
The off-campus merchant program gives the university identification card multi-purpose, making it: a library card, meal card and a debit card.
To activate your “Panther Bucks,” and use the off campus debit function, there are two options. Students can have the debit amount assessed to their fees. This option is limited to the amount of funds the student has available on their fee assessment; or students, faculty and staff can make a deposit at the cashier’s office. This option is based solely on the individual’s discretion and no account limits are set.
The Office of Administration and Auxiliary Services states on the school website that although it’s not exactly what students wanted, the program makes for a great start. Senior communications major Katres Turner considers the program to be “a good thing.” She said, “I haven’t actually taken advantage of it yet, but it’s a good start. Atleast they are trying to get us some kind of advances that other schools like University of Houston receive.”
Unlike Panther Points, left over Panther Bucks roll over each semester. Refunds due to customers will be issued at the nearest refund period, and credited to students’ account.
You can now use panther bucks at Brubaker’s Barbeque n Burgers, Waller County Line Barbeque and Denny’s.
“This is a great stride for our university, the program has the potential to grow to another level and expand into something a lot bigger,” states Junior Melvin Goff.