Anyone can take the easy way out and buy a gift card. If your price range is within $10, the best way to go is simple. You can find tons of Christmas themed gifts at any store. Put together a little bag of holiday scents, from hand sani- tizers to mini lotions and candles. Buy a cute stuffed reindeer or some candies and treats; no one can go wrong with candies and treats!Since it is around finals time, you can gift a funky mug with some hot cocoa or k-cups in it for your late night study buddy. Also, phone accessories like cases, stands and stickers are always welcomed.Price limit of $20: Prices are al- ways elevated during the holiday season, but you can still find some great steals for amazing presents.
Tiny indoor plants are becoming more popular, and they are per- fect for residence halls. Succulents or easy to maintain plants are the best way to go, and you can always decorate a pot to put the plants in. If you want to give something a little quirkier, you can find little grow-your-own coffee plants on Amazon. Etsy is a unique place to find jewelry or accessories for girls and posters or wallets for guys.
Other options include fun calen- dars for the new year and simple games to play while at school, such as Bananagrams or Catchphrase.
If your friend loves movies, get him or her a double feature mov- ie pack and some popcorn for a night-in. If your friend is a book- lover, find a book that he or she can have fun reading over the win- ter break as a break from academic journals and excerpts. Journals and list-organizers are perfect for any disorganized college student, while mini crock pots are perfect for the newbie cook in your friend group. For your health-crazed friends, buy a gift card to Whole Foods. If you are willing to go all out, maybe buy them workout at- tire or a Soulcycle class.
For theater-lovers, offer to take them to a show in the city. You can get student rush tickets which are relatively cheap. For the hipster, go thrift shopping to find a unique and exciting gift.
If you are involved in a big gift exchange and your Secret Santa happens to be someone you are not very familiar with, mugs, socks, scarves and other winter themed gifts that are not gender-specific are appropriate. School supplies and Fordham apparel are always a popular gift choice as well. Manhattan always has much to offer as well. All of the holiday markets around the city host a range of gifts for every type of person.
If all else fails, D.I.Y. and home- baked treats are a way to show your love. Your Secret Santa will know that you put a lot of effort into your gift and appreciate the thought. Gift exchanges are difficult, but with some thought and creativity, you can create fun presents for everyone at a reasonable price.
Amanda Giglio is the Assistant Culture Editor for The Fordham Ram.
