What is a good "going away to college" present?

With the economy in the shape it's in today, I think some sort of gift card would be best. While we would all like to be remembered for our creative gift giving, common sense in spending is needed more than ever.

Gift cards are always nice! When I went off to college, my family knew I would be living in the dorms and having to use the laundromat. So, what somebody did for me was give me lots of quarters in a decorative jar, along with some detergent and a personalized laundry bag. It came in very handy to not have to scrounge for quarters every time I needed to wash a load of clothes!

Target, Walmart, Linens and Things, Bed Bath & Beyond gift cards.

That way they can get what they want, (room stuff, clothes or even food)

I got my boyfriend towels, washclothes, detergent, soap, shampoo, a razor, deoderent, dryer sheets, but since she's just a friend I don't think you should get that for her lol.

Oh Picture frames or a picture board. Since she's going away to college she'll want lots of pictures to take with her.

Get her a gift card to her favorite store or take her out for Ice Cream or her favorite restaurant. It was my mom's birthday yesterday, I just took her out for ice cream and had her pick out something at the mall because she already has so many nick nacks I didn't want to get her one more thing to dust off. She picked out some nail polish, who knew?? I never would have guessed that's what she wanted. BTW- If she doesn't appreciate the thought of whatever you get for her be glad she's moving far away and you can distance yourself from that kind of attitude.

How about a basket with snack items and a small gift card? You could put microwave popcorn, candy, and other treats. Add a gift card for Blockbuster Video or even a convenience/grocery store near campus. I think that she would really appreciate it!

When I went to college, my Loving Family and friends packed me a care package. In it were things that came in handy and were stuff that I wouldn't have thought about until I needed them. A roll of quarters for laundry and vending machines, a small set of tools, thumb tacks, Laundry soap and basket, light bulbs, batteries, ear plugs(used the heck outta them!),disposable camera, and a small photo album of pics of family and friends.

I know this idea is not very creative, but I gave my godson two gift cards: one for Target and one for Starbucks. He said they both came in incredibly handy. At Target he got stuff he needed for his dorm, plus school supplies. And Starbucks was good for grabbing drinks when studying.

Good Going Away Present

something that she could use everyday would be good, something she needs for college. what is she studying would give you a clue or maybe some money to help her settle in. i would appreciate something that i would use everyday like good pens anything like that

Make her a little book with all her friend's and relatives' addresses, phone numbers and birthdays. She may need them all at some time in the future.