Amanda Whitsitt, She Said

When it comes to purchasing Christmas presents, we’ve all heard the saying: It’s the thought that counts. It really is – the key word in this phrase being “thought.”

Guys, if you’re not sure what your girl wants, turn down the game, stop munching on your chips and listen to her. Listen to what she says, think about it and apply that thought process to your gift purchase.

Or better yet, if you’re still not sure what she wants after listening to her, ask her. If she gives you some lame response such as, “If you really knew me, you wouldn’t have to ask,” then she needs to stop being such a drama queen.

Ladies, this is not fair to say to your guy, and you know it. Surely you’re going to have to ask him what he wants for Christmas as well, so turn that accusatory finger back around and don’t be a hypocrite.

I don’t mean to bash my gender here, but at times, girls can be very indirect, beating around the bush when they just really need to be clear, concise and to the point. So it’s no wonder some guys become exasperated with their girls during the Christmas shopping season. Girls, you have to remember: Guys aren’t mind readers. In their quest for your perfect Christmas present, they need your help.

But if the girl wants to be surprised or a guy wants to surprise his girl, remember to use that “thought” part of the famous saying. If you really want that surprise element, ladies, be prepared to drop a lot of hints. And if you’re going for the surprise, guys, whip out those listening ears.

The thought and the effort are the most important things. Girls don’t need a flashy or expensive present from their significant other to be happy on Christmas morning. It doesn’t have to be a Lexus or a new puppy. Heck, if my boyfriend bought me a paper shredder for Christmas, I would be happy with that because I need one to shred my bills and I have repeatedly expressed this want to him

Granted, a gift that is pricier in nature would be nice, and a girl probably wouldn’t complain about it. For example, in lieu of that paper shredder, I’d also be just as happy with a solitaire diamond engagement ring. But I’m not going to throw a hissy fit if I don’t get either of these things – as long as my boyfriend’s gift reflects his love for me.

Surely many other females feel the same way. If the gift a girl receives shows that there was some thought put into it by her guy, then she will more than likely be happy with whatever he chooses to bestow upon her.

Kevin Smetana, He Said

It seems like everywhere in today’s technology-driven world, there are countdowns. This commercialized holiday called Christmas is no different.

In case you’ve been too wrapped up with finals and projects to think about the joy of gift giving, there are only 19 shopping days left.

If you’re not sure what to get your significant other, hopefully we can help.

Unlike my colleague on the other side of this page, I’m single and have been for quite a while, but I still know what guys like.

Couples who have been together for a while and know each other very well may not have a problem finding the perfect gift.

But for new couples or even those who are casually dating, it may be hard to figure out what to get and how much to spend.

I challenge you to not put too much thought into spending. If you have deep pockets -which most college students don’t – then go ahead and splurge. Otherwise, be creative.

This doesn’t mean make your boyfriend something like you did for your mom when you were in grade school. I think every guy has received such generic gifts as wallets, watches and boxers. They’re all fine gifts, but they’re about as played out as gift cards.

The key to shopping for guys is figuring out what their deepest interests are. Believe it or not ladies, guys appreciate thoughtful gifts just as much as you do.

If your boyfriend is a big sports fan, surprise him with tickets to a hockey or football game. He’ll be impressed that you went out of your way to find the team’s schedule and order the tickets. The same goes for concerts.

Maybe your man likes video games. It’s a lot to ask to spend several hundred dollars on a the latest game consoles, but you can easily find out what kind of games he likes or even get him an accessory for a system he already has.

It’s easy to go to FYE or Blockbuster and pick up a gift card, but it’s thoughtful to actually find a CD or DVD your significant other will enjoy.

Speaking of music, your boyfriend may be in the minority on campus like me and not own an mp3 player yet. If that’s the case, an iPod would be perfect. And while you’re at it, go ahead and download some of his favorite songs onto it before you wrap it up.

I’ve made a few suggestions, but all guys are different. The most important thing is that you give the gift-buying process deep thought, just as you would like him to do for you.