Students have the option to grab an energy drink from three different vendors on campus; The Student bookstore, the cafeteria, or the vending machines. For some reason the prices vary so much, you can almost buy a soda with the difference.

Starting at the highest, the cafeteria has Rockstars priced at $3.79. This may seem high to some and it is. The prices are set by Lancer Catering. When students get lunch, they normally don’t go searching for a cheaper energy drink and end up grabbing a drink that cost just as much as their meal sometimes. This is a basic supply and demand / cornering the market tactic.

All around campus there are vending machines. The machines are operated by Vista Vending NW. These are perfect for students who want to grab a drink right before class. The price for an energy drink is $3.25. There is a convenience with the ability to buy with a debit or credit card. These vending machines do have a small rebate for cash prices which is 10 cents. Inquiries to the company were not returned.

Another perk for buying from these machines is written on all the machines around campus. “All proceeds received by Pierce College go to support student scholarships.” a sticker on the vending machine states. That does not seem like that bad of a deal, yet that is still not the cheapest price on campus.

The Student bookstore, which is operated by Barnes and Noble, offers energy drinks at $2.59. There also is a wide variety of snacks you can pick up at 50% off. The store appears to be the most cost effective place to get any type of snack or drink

It seems a little unfair that the prices vary this in such a small area. From the Student Store to the first vending machine next the Pioneer office, the difference is 66 cents (not counting tax). The price difference increases to $1.20 between the Cafeteria and the Student Store.

Most students drive to school. Other options is to stop at a gas station that usually runs deals for the energy drinks; 2 for $3. Grocery stores, like Fred Myers, do run specials where you can pick the drinks up for around a dollar or 10 for $10.

Per the Rockstar website, rockstarenergyshop.com, a person can buy a case of 24 16 oz energy drinks for $40. This prices seems to be the best but does not take shipping in count. Currently the shipping price to Tacoma, Wa is $15.99. This sets the price per energy drink at roughly $2.33.

As you can see, there are cheaper options out there. There is no way to tell how much farther can the prices climb at the school.