Inverse Math

     Today I was shocked at my inability to intuitively predict mathematical outcomes. I have been at Brigham Young University-Idaho now for quite some time. I have been able to notice different patterns in the cost of text books as compared to the price they will buy them back for at the end of each semester. Usually the graph would look something like this (I know... it is so sad that I am too lazy to make my own graph- behold the power of google) Anyway- the point is that there is usually a strong correlation between book price and buy-back price (i.e., they only hose you 45% or something along those lines).
     Today I waited for 2 hours (equivalent to $15.30 working conneticut minimum wage) in a very long line to have them buy my books back. After the wait, I supplied them with 3 text books that I no longer needed. These text books cost $50, $64, and $98. I therefore was expecting to receive about $100. I was offered $8, $5, and $5 dollars respectively.
     Maybe it's just me, but I kind of wonder if these people realize that we are all in college, and supposedly all have taken at least Math 110. People, like myself, who are graduating in a math related feild have generally had Calculus. How then do they expect us to be facinated with the single digit book buy-back prices? Do they think we're still 2 years old and think that 5 pennies is more than 2 nickels? I dunno.
     All I know is that one day people like them will be working for people like me... and somehow that makes me feel better... until I remember how hungry I am... Maybe I'll go work at McD's in Conneticut... hmmmm...