With Thanksgiving in the rearview mirror, it is time to turn our attention to the favorite holiday of the year: Christmas. Christmas is a time to come together with family. For those who are religious, it is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus. But, let’s be honest, Christmas is also a time for presents. College kids are notorious for being broke, so this is the perfect time to stock up on all the needs and wants of the year.

       

Since the years of getting toys for Christmas is over, college kids turn to more practical wish lists. Of course, at the top of the list for most is money. Money for rent, food and clothes. Money for going out, gas, and school supplies. Money is truly the ultimate gift, but there are other things college kids are asking for.

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Sometimes a common gift to ask for can be something technological such as a computer, Bluetooth speaker, new phone or even wireless headphones. Almost every year the big companies such as Apple, Samsung and even Sony come out with new gadgets that are simply “must haves” to certain people. These are the types of gifts that are not cheap, so if you are the one asking for it, be prepared for a 50/50 chance whether you get it or not.

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Cold weather brings about the desire to be warm and cozy. On Black Friday, stores like Old Navy were luring people in with the promise of $1 pairs of fuzzy socks. Fuzzy socks and pajama pants are a staple for the long break between semesters. With Cyber Monday being yesterday, there were many other stores online offering deals similar to Old Navy’s. These kind of deals are bound to suck you in and beg your parents to get you a certain item just because a “free” item comes with it.

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Gifts do not always have to be something physical. Some students have more abstract things on their lists. Maddie Hepler, a junior at Behrend, said, “Two of my must haves would be time off of school and spending time with family. I love gifts but family is the best thing I could ask for at any time of the year.” With the stress of school and work weighing down on students, a break spent with family could be the best gift of the year.

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Another student said on Twitter that her wish from Santa this year was to pass her classes and graduate on time. It is safe to say that most college students have probably put that on their wish list.

 

The Christmas season is great for many reasons. Food and family are two of the best remedies for a long semester, and a month-long break doesn’t hurt. Hopefully Santa fulfills every student's wish list.