University of New England: Amanda Hall

Tis the season to be jolly! Remember folks its better to give than to receive. Which is the topic I'm about to write about. Like most college students we are always on a tight budget. Most can't afford sometimes to give out those expensive gifts to all our friends we live with in college. However, there are a few gifts that may not seem sentimental, but they'll become handy later on.

>$ Ear plugs:
Imagine holding a glittering package, tossing the big bow aside, and shredding the paper to bits. All to reveal a box of ear plugs?!? Don't worry they'll thank you latter. I had the “privilege” of being woken at 6am by the sound of a demolition derby happening outside my window! I jumped out of bed quicker than you could say DNA polymerase! I thought I would look out and see a crash in the parking lot behind my room (which is where my car was), but no, it was a plow truck making the entire ruckus. I wish I had worn my ear plugs then.

>$ Hot Cocoa:
Imagine the gleam in your friend's eyes as they hold a big ol' box of Swiss Miss. It's the perfect gift for the winter time. With the colder temperature outside it is nice to warm up inside your room with a mug of hot chocolate. So tell your friend to stop taking the generic hot chocolate from the cafeteria and enjoy the finer quality drink.

>$$ Post-its
“Oh my God! You even found my favorite color!” That's the sound of gratitude you'll hear when you hand over a stack of post-its tied with a bow. I know post-its aren't some grandiose gift, but everyone appreciates them later when they need to write quick notes. Also post-its come in all sorts of styles and colors that you'll be sure to find one that suits the receiver perfectly.

>$$ A 12-pack of water:
Imagine what you'll say as you give this gift, “Well I like water, and, I uh thought you would too.” Marvelous! Your friends will keep hydrated and if you're lucky enough to get their empties than you'll make 60 cents. It's a win-win situation for all.

>$$$ Swiffer Sweeper
Some might have to stretch their budget a bit, and there may be some assembly required, but this gift is perfect for the friend you know who wants a clean room. Trust me they are much cooler than a broom and dust pan.

>$$$ Calendar
Do you know that person who misses deadlines, always ask what day it is, or likes to countdown till vacation? Well this is the gift to give. Make sure you buy the year 2007, I know a few people who have bought a calendar only to enjoy it for 2 months. Add a personal touch too, mark in red important holidays, vacations, and birthdays (like your own for example).

I hope my little list was helpful to you for the person you just don't know what to give. And if anything here doesn't tickle your interest than go out a buy them a big bag of candy, because who doesn't like candy?