Uber giving away free ‘study break’ packages to R.I. college students

PROVIDENCE – The app-based taxi service Uber is giving away free “study break” packages Tuesday to students of Rhode Island colleges and universities.
The promotion, beginning at 11 a.m. and ending at 4 p.m., is being offered to students of the University of Rhode Island, Johnson and Wales University, Rhode Island School of Design, Brown University, Providence College, Bryant University and Roger Williams University. Students can request “on-demand study break” packages by opening the Uber app and requesting “STUDY” to their location.
“Each study break care package will come in a Vineyard Vines tote bag, stuffed with Kind bards and Popchips for you to snack on, a pair of sunglass or accessory from Brewsees, and some great freebies from local Providence Spots: Whiskey Republic and Vanity,” according to the company’s announcement.
The promotion comes after a company mishap in Sydney, Australia. Uber came under heavy scrutiny Monday after it quadrupled its prices during a hostage crisis in the Australian capital. A gunman took customers of a chocolate shop hostage and Uber immediately raised its prices for those trying to flee the city’s central business district.
The company defended itself saying the act of “price sourcing” is used to encourage more drivers to provide service to the area, but Uber was criticized for “price-gouging” and taking advantage of the situation. It eventually offered free rides and refunds to those who used its service during that time.
Tuesday’s Rhode Island promo will be made available to students on and off campus. Off-campus students can open the app, enter the code “UBERSTUDY” before requesting “STUDY” to their location. Participants will be entered into a chance to win $50 of Uber credit by sharing through social media using the hashtag #StudyBreakRI, according to Uber.
“Demand will be very high. Check back often if your first request is unsuccessful,” according to Uber.

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