It’s safe to say that spending your money on scratch tickets may not be the best idea, and as the lottery craze sweeps across campus for 18-year-olds this fall, many have found themselves losing money. However, two Ford Hall residents and roommates may have found the trick to beating the system of scratch tickets.

Connor Canterbury ’18 and Brendan Hansen ’18 refer to themselves as “scratchy veterans,” but what makes them different than any other typical 18-year-old trying out his or her luck with a scratch ticket?

“We rarely use our own money,” said both Connor and Brendan, “We like to go around and pick up some recyclables, bring them down to Big E’s and turn them in for some cash,” they both added.

This tactic has allowed them to fund their scratch ticket obsession without actually losing any of their own money. In fact, they have gained money, as the roommate duo has had multiple winners on $2.00 scratch tickets, including a personal best of $25.00.

The duo is also known for collecting loose change to increase their funds. So don’t be afraid if two seniors from Ford Hall come up to you and ask if you have any pennies, nickels, or dimes to spare.

But possibly most of all, Connor and Brendan are known for their influence on others to invest in scratch tickets.

Brooke Smith ’19 stated, “Brenden Hansen influenced me while I was at Dunkin Donuts.” She since has bought many more tickets and fortunately for her, there have been a lot of winners. Brooke said that she has had a lot of fun testing her luck with scratch tickets.

Other Williston students unfortunately have not had the same positive results.

Senior Kyle Caddo has spent around $25.00 a week on scratch tickets since arriving at school. However, Kyle openly admits that even though he feels like he “breaks even” on most tickets, he knows he has lost money overall.

Similarly, Billy Smith ’18 has spent around $10.00 a week on scratch tickets. “I have yet to win this whole year,” he told The Willistonian.

In Kyle and Billy’s case, they have not had a successful experience with the tickets so far. Yet, they both said they absolutely will continue to buy scratch tickets.

“I’m trying to make it big, that’s basically it,” Kyle said.