During my first day of classes I decided to go out and compare prices on the major bookstores of Ames.

First, I went to the University Book Store where employees received me with a big smile and a greeting. I checked the prices of the books that I needed and as I left the store the efficiency of the employees continued functioning like a fine engine.

Then, I decided to visit the Campus Book Store to compare prices. I entered the store carrying only my personal agenda when a young employee stopped me without a smile and asked me to leave my agenda for security purposes. Security purposes? Do people leave their important documents at the counter of every store? I do not think so! I tried to make the adolescent employee understand that I just wanted to check on prices and that I was not carrying a backpack to leave at the counter.

That did not matter; I was treated like I was a suspect, like I was someone who came to the store to steal. I decided to respect his decision of not letting me in because of my simple agenda and a proud Hispanic origin that perhaps worried him. Quite offended by what happened, I went back to purchase my books at the University Book Store where the employees made me feel comfortable.

After this experience I realized that respect is an important principle for a customer like me. The management at the Campus Book Store needs to understand that treating people like suspects is not the best marketing strategy.

Aurelio Curbelo

Graduate

Undecided