‘Tis the season to be strapped for cash.

As the holiday season rolls around, chances are many college students are struggling to figure out how they are going to scrounge up enough cash to pay for holiday gifts. It is typically not expected for a college student to have excessive funds to spend on things other than books, food and rent. Gifts are more than likely found at the bottom of the expenditure list.

“Being in college has definitely left me strapped for cash,” said freshman accountancy major Justin Goestenkors.

What better to do with minimal funds than bargain hunt?

Numerous stores in DeKalb offer holiday deals that could possibly allow one to walk out with money in their pocket even after buying gifts for their loved ones.

“I go to Target because everything there is pretty inexpensive but still of good quality,” said freshman marketing major Julie Than. “There is always the dollar section there too.”

Trying to find the perfect gift at a set price can pose as a challenge. A popular way to make things easier on the gift buyer are gift cards, which are available at just about every store for desired amounts.

“Gift cards are the way to go. Starbucks, Wal-Mart, anywhere,” said senior statistics major DeJuan Henderson. “Whenever I can’t make up my mind I go to Target for the females and for the fellas I go to Best Buy,” Henderson said. “Who is going to turn down a free $25?”

There are more than just the major stores to shop at.

“Thrift stores are really nice. You can find some unique clothes,” said freshman sociology major Jae Park. If all else fails, “hugs are always free,” Park said.