I was not convinced by this poster. After some thought, I decided that any serious effort to promote carpooling should include a compelling and valuable perk. For instance, at this university people were always complaining about the shortage of parking spaces. If I were to be convinced to join a carpool, I would want a special carpool parking permit that would let my carpool park close to the main campus.

Some months later, I read an editorial in a local newspaper about how few of the university’s students seemed to be pursuing a rigorous education. I submitted a letter, somewhat tongue-in-cheek, criticizing the rather unimpressive recognition given to our top students. I suggested that top-notch students taking demanding courses should be awarded a special “black” parking sticker that would entitle them to access to any parking lot on campus, including faculty/staff parking. I as surprised to see the letter published in the next issue.