This article was first published in Cosmopolitan on Sep 6, 2024

What’s a gift that a college student will think is ~cool~ but at the same time is also useful and beneficial in this new adult chapter in their life? Yeah, it feels like a question that doesn’t have an answer, doesn’t it? Unless you're up to date with TikTok's latest viral items and microtrends, we'll be the first to admit that finding the best gift for the young adult in your life is no small feat. And not to be the bearer of bad news, but regular ole pens, notebooks, and binders just won't cut it anymore.

Instead, we suggest you consider gifts for college students that’ll help ease that transition into adulthood, like stylish work clothes or the latest tech gadget (cough, AirPod Maxes, cough). And if you're really in a pickle, just think back to your own college days—what made you happy and less stressed? Chic decor that made your room feel like home or a fuzzy robe for those walks to the dreaded communal showers?

We scoured the internet and consulted some real students (!!) to put together this list of 57 useful gifts, from adorable dorm finds to Amazon favorites they'll love even after graduation. Trust us, this will save you from bouncing between gifts for tweens (too young, lol) and options that feel way too mature. So, just keep scrolling to shop our list of the best gifts that'll truly impress any college student (and maybe even snag one or two for yourself—we won't tell).

Etoile Large GLWTRTTR Portable Mirror

A vanity mirror with great lighting is a necessity for their GRWM routines. This foldable style will fit comfortably on their desk without taking too much space. They can even fold it up and store it when they're not using it so it's not eating up their limited real estate.

 

READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE.