PSA: Reward Programs in Harvard Square

For some people, it’s reached that point in the semester where you’re sick of d-hall food, but it’s also too close to Thanksgiving Break to ask your parents to send you a care package filled with junk food that you trick yourself into believing can replace meals. If you’re looking for any semblance of a justification for spending money on food in the Square, here are some rewards programs at stores that may make you feel better with every purchase.

Starbucks
If you register a Starbucks gift card online and store money in it to make purchases, you can begin to earn what are called “stars.” Accruing stars leads to rewards such as in-store refills on coffee and tea or (my personal favorite) the free drink or food reward. You get a free drink on your birthday just for registering your card, and if you reach 30 stars within 12 months, you receive a special golden Starbucks card with your name on it (so you can feel like the ultimate VIP customer).

Qdoba
Qdoba’s rewards program runs on “points,” where various items on the menu have different point values. You get a free entree every 1,000 points (which is about every 10 entrees), and you get to choose between a free soda or chips and salsa just for registering your Qdoba rewards card online (hint: soda is always readily available for free in the d-halls).

Panera
Panera’s rewards program is a bit different because there is no accumulation of points—instead, you’re “surprised” with rewards. Based on your purchases, Panera keeps track of what you like and personalizes your coupons or rewards accordingly. You get a free bakery item when you register your card online for the first time, which is the perfect accompaniment for a study session at Panera (or if you’re like me, pretending you’re engaged in deep thought about your paper while you’re actually people-watching on Mass. Ave.).

Pinkberry
The rewards program at Pinkberry is simple—you get a free small-sized yogurt with toppings after every 10th purchase and also on your birthday. Yes, froyo exists beyond the d-halls’ Chocoluck, and there are toppings other than Colossal Crunch.