When you hear that someone has received a college admission and is going out of the state to take that first step into the real world, you would like to give them a special piece of remembrance. But think for a moment and realize that a practical gift is what will be appreciated most at a time like this since there are so many things to be bought and so many different aspects to be considered and that too in an emotional and apprehensive frame of mind that something is likely to be missed out.

In the new world of busy schedules and classes a watch comes in handy. Academic planners are also very handy since they can be used to keep track of all kinds of appointments, whether it is a first date with a girlfriend or an extra class with the professor. A dry erase board on which one can leave messages for roommates can come in handy also.

You can also add the extra personal bit by making baskets of small things that they may require. This basket could include calling cards, a pre paid cell phone, stamps, envelopes and a swanky looking pen. Communication will be much needed once the college kid is away from home especially when in need for more money.

A laundry kit could be another such assembly of small items. A detergent, fabric softener, stain removal stick and a box full of quarters can be bundled into one thoughtful gift.

Though getting sick is not something you want your friend to be, it may happen at some time when he is in college. Put together a bunch of medicines for common ailments. These could include over the counter medicines like Tylenol, cough drops, cold capsules, maybe some thin clear soup and a blanket.

With little time to eat food and ensure good health, college kids often resort to only eating out all the time, especially if the canteen food is nothing to write home about. A gift set containing dishes, pans, can openers, plastic containers will ensure that at times they conjure up a treat on their own. A couple of cans of tuna, corn and baked beans can be thrown in as well. Talking of eating, gift vouchers for McDonalds, Starbucks, Wal-Mart and other such retail outlets will be a blessing in disguise. Be sure to check that the food chain has an outlet in the city where the college is.

A gift voucher of the college book store will also be appreciated especially when one finds out that college books can prove to be extremely expensive.

A tool kit of small little things may not be immediately appreciated but there will definitely come a time when one needs a spare light bulb, an extension cord or batteries. At times like these you will sure to be thanked.

If you plan to give a gift which is slightly more expensive like a PDS, microwave, small refrigerator or a computer you could consider pooling in money with a few others and giving a gift that will be remembered forever.