Anyone walking around campus has seen the abundance of red shirts, not the ones that say “Beat Iowa,” but those issued by the Student Alumni Association.

Members of the Student Alumni Association said the organization not only offers great discounts to members, but great opportunities as well. The ISU chapter of SAA started during the 1996-1997 school year and its goal is to connect students to each other.

“Through programs, leadership positions and discounts offered to students, SAA hopes to make students feel more connected to the Iowa State community,” said Julie Larson, alumni officer.

In 2001, SAA had about 4,200 members, she said. Larson estimated a 60 percent renewal rate of SAA members from last year. Membership is around 4,000, and the goal of SAA is to have 5,000 members by December of this year.

Student members are offered discounts on food, clothing and services in the Ames area. Larson said information can be found on the SAA Web site at www.isusaa.org.

Along with discounts, SAA members are given the red T-shirt, an ISU calendar and three issues of Vision magazine for a membership fee of $15.

Jacqui Becker, vice president of SAA membership, said sophomores, juniors and seniors are given the opportunity to access an online directory of ISU alumni, which she said gives them numerous networking chances. Alumni can sign up to be mentors for students and answer questions through e-mail.

Students can also contact alumni about work experience and internship opportunities. Students can search the alumni directory by major, emphasis, graduation year of the alumni and the area in which they live and work, Becker said.

By being able to search for specifics, students can contact people relevant to their interests. Renewing seniors and alumni also receive an ISU license plate cover.

Alumni Association members also receive benefits, which include football pre-game parties and access to the online directory.

“I plan on accessing the online directory after graduation to contact people in my area,” Becker said. After being an SAA member, alumni receive a discount membership fee for being in the Alumni Association.

SAA members have several events planned for this semester. Sept. 27 is T-shirt day. Members spotted wearing their shirts on campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. can receive a prize. There is also a barbecue from 11 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., south of the Campanile, Becker said.

Everyone is invited to attend the barbecue, and by signing up to be an SAA member, they will be entered into a contest for a $100 gift certificate from Target.

SAA members will also be able to pick up a free Homecoming button during Homecoming week in the Student Alumni Leadership Council office.

On Nov. 13, the SAA will be putting on its annual chili cook-off. Larson said anyone can put a team together to compete and everyone is welcome to taste test. SAA members will be given free admission to the event.

When asked why people should join SAA, Brad Banwarth, senior in mechanical engineering, said he plans renew his membership because “It’s worth it for the discounts and freebies.”