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The key to shopping for a college freshman is getting inside the mind of a first time college student. First off, most college freshmen are away from home and living on their own. Therefore, think about what it takes to live in your own place; it requires furniture, appliances, and a lot of money. So, here are a few gift ideas for that first time college student.

Gift Cards: Usually the number one thing that college students need is money. College students, especially freshmen, need to buy food, clothes, and everyday necessities. Most people do not feel that money is personal enough, so why not give a gift card? These are always nice, and usually suit everyone. A gift card to Ikea, or another furniture retailer is a good idea, because that student probably only has the bare minimum of items for his/her place, and may need more. Food gift cards are always nice to have, either nice restaurants or fast food joints. However, a Visa gift card is very generic and works for purchasing food, gas, clothes, etc; and, it is more personal and more than giving someone cash.

Alarm Clocks: Most college students, myself included, find it very difficult to wake up in the mornings to go to class. They have just graduated high school, and are basically through with school. So, an alarm clock that actually does the job of waking someone up is a terrific idea for that "not so morning person." You can buy alarm clocks that climb up the wall, so the person has to wake up in order to turn it off. There is also a flying alarm clock, shaped like a helicopter, that flies around the room, letting out this annoying high pitched siren sound. However, my favorite is the Sonic Boom alarm clock, which can be found on Amazon.com for $25. In case the very loud alarm sound isn't enough to wake up your stubborn college student, the vibrating bed shaker feature will definitely do the trick. I got this for my boyfriend who can sleep until about five in the afternoon, but has morning classes, and since then, he has never missed a class!

For the people who do not have much money to spend this Christmas, popular movies, such as the Bourne Ultimatum or Ocean's Thirteen, which are popular among boys and girls, are always nice gifts. A college student needs to take a break from studying and school sometimes, and just relax and pop in a movie.

Another great idea for a student who is new to college is a "college survival" gift basket. You can put in necessities, such as flashlights, dish washing detergent, AA batteries, a student planner, food, drinks, etc. A dry erase board that the student can write all of his/her things to do is popular among almost all my friends while we're at college.

The ideas are endless. Think back to when you were in college or when you just moved into a new place; what did you need? Most college students use Christmas as the time to get the things they need, rather than want, because it's difficult to afford everything when you're on your own.

Learn more about this author, Chelsea Haley.
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