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I had a case recently and I'd like to ask for applied wisdom. 

A 'third-year student' approaches me for analysis and coaching for a complex Computational Fluid Dynamics model he was working on. 

My support Gig makes very clear that I can only analyse, advise and guide. 

I worked through the model, parametric slices until we solved the dilemma - he rebuilds his CFD model. 

'Student' very happy - glowing recommendation. 

I feel I've done something good for humankind. 

Oh, by the way, since he is a 'struggling student' with a limited project budget, I offered a special Gig at affordable price. 

'Student' assumed to have gone on holiday. 

S approaches me for a more complex analysis. 

Since he is a 'struggling student' on a budget, I give him another special offer, but slightly higher this time - inflation, you know. 

Focus this time on what can only be called an 'extremely difficult case' for even battle-hardened CFD specialists. 

We work at it - I pull out a menagerie of reading links from my extensive library, and advise him to read. 

During discussions, I see the time, one evening - and wonder that he is up at 3-4am 

I begin to feel that his head is not keeping up with where we are going - this is tough stuff. 

At some point, he seems to begin doubting whether he is doing the right thing and goes totally silent. 

I deliver a solid review of the project and advise accordingly - more than sufficient for the amount charged - over-delivered by a factor of 10 - struggling student, you know. 

Out of the goodness of my heart - being kind to the client - I provide further links on/off over two days - I love helping the technically hungry. 

Despite ongoing - be nice to client - follow-up - I never heard from the 'struggling student' again. 

Was this a 'struggling student' or an 'on-seller'/middleman?

Student or on-seller - How do you spot the difference?

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