Christmas is coming and consumers all over the nation have been cutting back their spending in light of the failing economy. Students at City College are no different, especially because most of us are having trouble feeding our faces as it is, let alone saving cash to buy stuff for other people.

I am one of those students who happen to have a brain distorted with anxiety over what the hell I am going to do for my family members during this holiday season. I am completely broke; and when I say broke, I mean I literally don’t have enough money for a damn cup of coffee at the local am/pm. So what are students with this kind of financial problem supposed to do for their family members during Christmas? I will tell you what to do: Be creative!

Family members usually don’t care about materialistic presents from each other. Christmas and holidays are about giving and caring, and spending time with one another. Even though my gift-giving ideas below might not be Prada or Gucci, if you use them, it will be clear you spent time to do some- thing creative to show you care.

1. Write something: For a family member, close friend or significant other. People like to hear what you think about them, especially when it’s something nice and
thoughtful.

2. Make coupons: I have been doing this for years and it always helps out family members who have kids or have really busy lifestyles. Get a piece of paper and write, “Good for one house cleaning” or “Good for one weekend of babysitting.” My sister who has twins has really benefited from this.

3. Dollar store!: The dollar store is always good for stocking stuffers.

4. Thrift stores: If you have a couple of bucks to spend, thrift stores are the place to go. They usually have a lot of vintage stuff and are awesome if you want to buy some really cool jewelry.

5. Food!: Everyone loves it, and you can buy a pack of cookie dough at the store for a couple of bucks and make someone you love a batch of delicious cookies.

6. Flowers and plants: If you have a yard with some cool flowers, round them up and make a bouquet for someone. If you don’t, there are local stores where you can buy some.

7. Music: If you know how to play an instrument, write a song for someone. If not,
learn to use those vocal chords!

Just remember, City College students, even if you are broke, family is family. They will love you no matter what. It’s not the gift that counts, it’s the thought. Your family
will think more of you for trying.