When you know someone who has made the jump from high school to college, you know someone who needs the support of those close to them. College is the time in a young adult's life when they are beginning to spread their wings. As such, this may also be a time when they become reluctant to ask for help when they need it. By investigating the small things you can show your support of your college friend or family member, you gain the ability to help them in ways they didn't even know they were in need.

Many people today like gifts that are functional. Times are financially stretched for a lot of people and spending money is something that is being done after a lot of consideration. If an item is deemed unnecessary, it may stay on the store shelf. College students are actually quite appreciative of gifts of any size that keeps them from spending their own money. They are building up student loans and working minimally if at all; so every cent counts. However, that doesn't mean their needs go away.

Lanyards are great gifts for students because they are a functional item that is necessary. Students wear ID badges most of the time, and often they are in the position of having to show their badge. There is nothing more inefficient and frustrating than having to rifle through pockets or a purse to find an ID badge. Hence, lanyards are worn in order to keep ID badges handy. Most lanyards are nylon ropes that feature some bright color. The reason is that lanyards are huge marketing tools for companies large and small.

To keep your college student looking and feeling great, you can help them throw out an ugly lanyard and replace it with a designer lanyard that suits their style. A designer lanyard is not a gift only for female students. Although many lanyards are made with beads and bling, there is also a designer lanyard for any college guy who wants to show off his own style. Just because they are called designer lanyards does not mean they are expensive or feminine. Designer lanyards can be found in a wide array of styles to suit fashion conscious guys and girls; and they make very affordable gifts!

Food is always a necessity, and the college student may have such a hectic schedule that it becomes difficult to eat well as often as they should. If your college student lives away from home but still in the same town; you could drop off trays of home-made casseroles every now and then. Although there is also the option of purchasing gift cards; the truth is there is nothing like a home-cooked meal.

Finding low cost gifts that you can give to a college student works out well for you as well as the student. When you know some of the needs they have (food, gas, cash...) you can make an effort to help out even before it is asked for. Small out reaches of support go a long way in sending the message of love.