Melanie Tromp

University students can be notoriously tough to buy for as they get older - and this no doubt is a source of stress for many well-meaning, eager-to-please parents. So what are the top things on your child’s wish list that might surprise you and what are the presents that seem to be on just about everyone’s radar?

We’ve polled a few University of Victoria students and have come up with the top ten answers:

• a great piece of artwork or poster to make a residence room feel more personal and comfortable
• money to help off-set the costs for both academic and social endeavours in the second semester
• room accessories (think bookshelves, drying racks, desktop lamps, etc.)
• a massage or spa day to help him or her unwind after a busy exam period - a beautiful academic planner or journal to either keep the second semester organized or keep a record of her or his first year
• a cookbook of family recipes for students with access to kitchens (with space to add new favourites)
• an empty photo album with a note that says you promise to send a couple of pictures from home each month to help stay connected (and ask that he or she does the same)
• an iPod and accessories - practical gifts (including books) related to the student’s area of study - a Wii and/or a Wii Fit to help your student stay active during the shorter and darker days until spring

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