By Hilary Connelly
It''s that time of year again - Christmas gift giving. Money''s tight, time is limited, and yet there are many presents to be given to family and friends. Students use their creativity instead of their wallets to give great gifts on small budgets.
'I hate going to the mall and shopping for Christmas gifts,' said Jon Kearl, 22, a junior from Provo majoring in accounting. 'I shop for bargains at Deseret Industries or Big Lots. It''s more fun to give humorous gifts anyways.'
Students like Kearl take time during the holidays to shop for fun gifts to give family members and come up with creative ways to share the holiday joy.
'We usually draw names within our family and give gifts to only one brother or sister. That way it saves you money, but you still get a great gift,' Kearl said.
Students also said giving Christmas gifts is a once-a-year event that should be a drawn-out and thought-provoking process. Searching the local malls and online stores with much debate is preferred.
'I always go big on my parent''s gifts,' said Nick Johnson, 22, a junior from Provo majoring in political science. 'It''s definitely a hands-on process. I search around until I find the perfect gift. Initially I do look for bargains, but if something catches my eye, then I buy it.'
As the season wears on and Christmas shopping because more of a hassle than a joyous task, students say they start to get creative when it comes to gift-giving.
'It''s always great to make something for your friends,' said Mia Larson, 20, a sophomore from Scottsdale, Ariz., majoring in marketing said. 'Getting homemade gifts mean so much more.'
Larson suggested making picture collages or doing something creative. 'With my friends we give gifts to each other, but set a price limit first.'
Other students recommended baking cookies, making cards or cooking dinner for those on their Christmas list.
'I usually buy gifts for my closest friends and then write thoughtful cards for other friends,' said Abbey Whitman, 23, a junior from Dallas majoring in recreation therapy. 'But making fudge or cookies is a great way to save money and still give gifts people will love.'
With the hectic times of finals and rushing to find the perfect gift, it is important to remember the meaning of presents said some students.
'It''s good to do something small and let your friends and family know you are thinking about them,' said Reagan Rehder, 25, a senior from Seattle majoring in international relations. 'It''s not about how much you spend, but the though behind it.'
Making gifts that add your own personal touch and personality is also a fun way to show your friends you care.
'I like to make all my own gifts like finger painting, pottery or clay objects,' said Dave Lund, 23, a junior from Calif., majoring in business. 'It saves me money and is a fun way to get together with friends, listen to Christmas music and share the Christmas spirit.'