Christmas is definitely many people’s favorite time of year. It is a season of giving, being with family, and cheer. Over the years, my Christmas list has changed from lots of toys to smaller practical things. In the spirit of the holidays, I decided to make a list of what many college students want for Christmas this year.

1. Sleep

As the semester drags on, we slowly decline in the amount of sleep we are able to achieve each night. From papers to tests, we are constantly studying, and I for one am definitely looking forward to sleeping in my own bed, and catching up on what I have been longing for all semester.

2. Home-cooked meals

I’ll admit, I appreciate the fact that my college has a dining hall, but sometimes the food is not always up to par. One thing a lot of us look forward to about the holidays is enjoying food cooked by our family. We could go out to eat, but nothing beats a meal at home with the family. Please remember that when we come home.

3. Clothes (but mostly socks)

Clothes are a necessity that is not always easy for a college student to afford. With buying textbooks, ramen, and paying bills, we tend to forget about these types of things. I know when we were little we wanted anything but, but please clothes, especially socks, would be very nice this Christmas.

4. Money

If you are really stumped on what to get your college student this Christmas, money is the right way to go. Whether it be a gift card to their favorite store, or straight up cash, they will greatly appreciate the effort. No one can say no to money, and it’s an easy solution for the person that is hard to shop for.

5. Quality time with family

This is kind of a gimme at this time of year. Christmas, for many, is a time to be with family. College kids who go far away for school do not get the luxury of seeing their family often. Even if we go closer to home, it’s nice to be able to see family every once and awhile.

6. Games

Now, this may sound more like a child’s wish, but I think that it is a very practical idea. When we have snow days, not all colleges have activities for us to do. We could catch up on homework, but once that is done what’re we supposed to do? It is a fun way to spend a cold winter day, and it is something you can feel assured will be used. Games like "Cards Against Humanity" are good ideas for college students.

7. Headphones

If your college student is like me, we constantly find a way to lose or break our headphones. I find myself constantly replacing pairs, so if someone were to get me those I would be extremely happy. Even if they are cheap ear buds, I would love them just the same.

There are many things that people wish for during the holidays. I know that I definitely have more on my list than this, but these are some of the most practical and thoughtful gifts I would love to receive this holiday season. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!