About Gift U
Hello! I'm Sherri, a suburban DC mom who enjoys graphic design, crafts, swimming, reading, and putting together the perfect gift! I have a junior daughter and freshman son, both at Big Ten schools. In addition to running Gift U, I do marketing for a fabulous literary nonprofit.
Gift U is an idea I had when my daughter started college. I'd seen a lot of care package companies offering boxes full of vending machine-type snacks, which didn't appeal to me. A treat or two is great, but I wanted to send a useful item for their dorm, a game to help break the ice socially, something whimsical to make them smile. And of course, gift cards are always a winner so I will happily include one if you so choose!
I love what I do and hope to grow...word of mouth is key in a small business, so THANK YOU for letting your friends know about Gift U!
-Sherri
Thoughts on creating a great college care package 🎁
I've been in business for about 18 months. To date, Gift U has offered care packages for dorm move-in, sorority and fraternity rush, birthdays, Halloween, Valentine's Day, winter and spring exams, summer internships, and just-for-fun boxes just to say I'm thinking of you.
My top priority is selecting only highly-rated, quality items...I don't want someone sending my kiddo a box full of junk and I won't send one to yours!
As my kids were growing up, we played a lot of board and card games, and I still think having a pocket-sized activity on hand can be invaluable. I try to find the best age-appropriate games that might just help your student connect with others and make new friends. Let's face it: college can be a hard transition, and most kids need a little help finding their "people." A night in with pizza and a fun game can be just the thing.
Good quality body care products, helpful items for studying or living in a dorm are also top of mind when I create a new college care package. I'd love to hear what YOUR student would enjoy, so please reach out if you have any special requests!
Helpful college-related links
Blue Pencil Essays: Awesome college essay help from two super smart ladies
College Bound: Soup-to-nuts college consulting services
College Confidential: This forum-style site was a great way to get intel on when decisions were coming out
Elucido: Excellent writing/editing and college app help
Grown & Flown: Loads of useful articles for this phase of life
Naviance: Resource used by high schoolers going through the application process
Private Prep: Great SAT/ACT tutoring
Jeff Selingo: Valuable admissions-related reading for parents