Carolina Card

<p>Wondering how much to put on Carolina Card for freshman S this fall. Current/past students and parents -- about how much per semester is necessary and/or reasonable?</p>

<p>I didn’t put a set amount on the card each semester. I got my daughter’s VIP numbers, then as my daughter depleted it, I could replenish it by way of VIP. I never put more than $75-100 on it. That way, they can’t overspend it. I checked it weekly to be sure the account stayed around $75-100. I found if my daughter was spending it too quickly on dumb stuff, it was a great way to discuss financial responsibility. It’s worked well for us.</p>

<p>is there a real advantage to using the Carolina card over say an ATM debit card?</p>

<p>tmr - the only places you can use the Carolina Card are on campus. Might help limit spending.</p>

<p>I didn’t get my card when I went to orientation. Will I need to pick up up on moving day in order to get in, or is it not going to be that easy?</p>

<p>you won’t need the Carolina Card to get in.they may ask for some form of ID to pick up room key so carry something (drivers license). there will be a place in Russell House to go get the Carolina Card picture done and to allow your parents or you to “load it” with funds. Good luck!!</p>

<p>Thanks. About how long is the wait for the Carolina card? Would it be like waiting for the DMV to make a driver’s license?</p>

<p>dont think its quite that bad LOL</p>

<p>Not as bad as the DMV. 10 minutes tops I would say?</p>

<p>Alright. Thanks a lot both of you. I’m moving in tomorrow, so I’ll get it within a few days.</p>

<p>I recommend getting it tomorrow, as you won’t be able to eat on your meal plan until you get it…</p>

<p>Yeah. I actually got it almost as soon as I finished unpacking. Luckily that was easy for me to do, as my roommate transferred. They’ll probably stick someone in with me eventually, but as for getting settled in, it makes things easier.</p>

<p>It took only a few minutes. Though my parents decided to drive away, and then got stuck behind a train. So in the end, it took close to 15 minutes.</p>