BOOS & BOUQUETS

• Boo, RBTT

In early August, I decided to get an international credit card. I called a few banks and settled on RBTT since it seemed to have the lowest annual fee. I was informed I did not need to have an account with the bank to qualify and its sign-up process was hassle-free. I completed the application form on its website and called customer service to find out what's next, having not received any contact after a few days.

I was told that I would be contacted by a representative from the branch. I waited. After a week I called customer service again and I was told that filling out the form online "doesn't really work" so I should get the required documents and go in to the branch of my choice. I also confirmed that I did not need to have an account with the bank to receive a credit card.

I got the required documents and even paid for a credit report as I have an outstanding loan with another financial institution.

When I got to the Liguanea branch I was informed that the policies have 'recently changed'. All prospective credit cardholders must have an account with the bank and must have the account for a period of time to qualify. Also, if I was to open an account I would need to put up collateral to qualify for the card. Its annual fee has also recently been increased. I was informed by the officer at Liguanea branch that I should contact the branch in the future for my queries.

None of these 'new conditions' are on the RBTT's website or known by the customer service representatives at the call centre. Needless to say, I did not open the account and I definitely will not be doing any future business with RBTT.

N. Wright

• Boo, UTech!

There are persons operating streetside stalls with better organisation and efficiency than this so-called university. Here is a list of some things to expect if you apply to one of their programmes:

1. Your application getting lost
   
2. Unhelpful and clueless members of staff
   
3. Eternally busy or unanswered phones/left on hold for hours
   
4. Administrative staff completely unaware of who the faculty members are
   
5. Inadequate parking
   
6. More security personnel than administrative staff
   
7. Finding out your tuition fees after classes have started ... I could go on and on.

Good luck to all the current and prospective students - may the force be with you.

C. Lloyd