Holidays like Christmas, Hanukkah, and Father's Day may come at the very end of the semester, or right after you finish your classes. Either way, you're most likely exhausted, short on cash, and without a lot of creative resources for coming up with smart gift ideas.
College Student Gifts for Dads
- Make it personal. Offer to treat your dad to coffee, lunch, or any other meal out where you can sit and catch up. You can talk about your dad's own college experience, what your first (or second or third) year has been like, or even what you're thinking of doing after you graduate.
- Go traditional. Pick up a"[Your university name here] Dad" t-shirt or sweatshirt from your campus bookstore. What better way to let him brag about how proud he is of you?
- Go fun. Pick up something in your campus bookstore that fits your dad's interests. Does he like golfing? Look for golf balls with your college's insignia on them. Is he the business type? Sport for a tie with your college's logo as the pattern. Does he travel a lot? Look for luggage tags or a business card holder.
- Write (or print) the words "Thank you!" on a large piece of paper or posterboard. Grab a friend, head to the entrance to your campus, and have your sidekick take a picture of you holding the sign. You can then print out the photo and use it for the cover of a nice card or put it in a frame.
- Buy an interesting book. It can be a history of your college, by an author you dad loves, or about his favorite topic. Regardless of the topic, a book is sure to signal how much you're using that noggin' of yours while away at school.
No matter what the gift, make sure to include a personalized card and call if appropriate.
