Best Comp Sci Gifts for College Students and Universities

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Boy Wearing Blue T Shirt Using Black Laptop Computer in a Dim Lighted Scenario
Credit: pexels.com, Boy Wearing Blue T Shirt Using Black Laptop Computer in a Dim Lighted Scenario

As a college student or university student studying computer science, you're likely no stranger to long hours spent coding, debugging, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible with technology. A thoughtful gift can make a huge difference in your academic journey.

For a CS major, a good coding keyboard is essential. According to our article, the Razer BlackWidow Lite is a top pick, offering customizable backlighting and macro keys.

Staying organized is crucial when juggling multiple projects and assignments. A well-designed planner or calendar can help you keep track of deadlines and appointments. We recommend the Passion Planner, which is specifically designed for students.

A good set of noise-cancelling headphones can be a lifesaver during late-night coding sessions or when trying to focus in a noisy environment. The Bose QuietComfort 35 II is a popular choice among CS students.

Computer Science Gifts for Students

For students, computer science gifts can be a great way to encourage their interest and skills in programming. Consider gifting them a laptop stand to put their work at eye level, like the one from Example 4, which can help them stay comfortable and focused while coding.

Credit: youtube.com, Gifts For Programmers (And Computer Science Majors)

Some other great gift ideas for students include coding classes, such as the ones offered by Create & Learn (Example 2), or a Raspberry Pi starter kit (Example 18), which can provide them with hands-on experience and a solid foundation in computer science.

If you're looking for something a bit more fun, you could consider gifting them a book on coding, such as "Coding for Kids: Python" (Example 10) or "My First Coding Book" (Example 12), which can introduce them to the basics of programming in a fun and engaging way.

For more insights, see: Ap Comp Sci Principles Book

Quartet Glass Whiteboard Desktop Pad

The Quartet Glass Whiteboard Desktop Pad is a great gift for computer science students who love to brainstorm or work problems out on paper. It's a step up from sticky notes and is designed to maximize the efficiency of a programmer's work area.

Having a dedicated whiteboard can help students stay organized and focused, making it easier to achieve their goals. In fact, having your goals in front of you makes you three times more likely to succeed.

Credit: youtube.com, Quartet Desktop Whiteboard, Glass Dry Erase Board Review

This Quartet Glass Whiteboard Desktop Pad is perfect for students who want to work out code without needing to step away from their desk. It's also great for keeping important info front-and-center.

By using a whiteboard, students can work through complex problems and visualize their solutions, making it easier to understand and learn. It's a simple yet effective tool that can make a big difference in a student's productivity and success.

Ultimate Workstation Desk $499

The Ultimate Workstation Desk is a game-changer for computer science students, providing a comfortable and ergonomic workspace that can boost productivity and reduce eye strain.

Investing in a professional desk is a worthwhile investment, as it can pay off in increased productivity and comfort over the thousands of hours spent at their desk.

A great desk for computer science projects should have enough space for multiple screens, devices, notes, and sketches, and feature high-quality, solid workmanship and beautiful optics.

Credit: youtube.com, My Programming Desk Setup (As a Computer Science Student)

Some key features to look for in a workstation desk include an electronically controlled sit/stand option to allow your body a break, and a durable construction that can withstand frequent use.

Here are some key specs to consider when choosing the Ultimate Workstation Desk:

The Ultimate Workstation Desk is a worthwhile investment for computer science students, providing a comfortable and ergonomic workspace that can boost productivity and reduce eye strain.

HP Spectre Laptop for University Projects

The HP Spectre laptop is a great choice for computer science students. It's a good all-around machine for programming.

You'll be able to perform all tasks with ease, whether it's writing, coding, or compiling projects of any size. This laptop is a reliable tool for university projects.

The HP Spectre costs $1299, making it a worthwhile investment for students.

Expand your knowledge: Comp Sci Project Ideas

Kinesis Advantage2 Keyboard

The Kinesis Advantage2 Keyboard is a game-changer for programmers who spend all day in front of their computers. It's a perfect gift for techies who want to reduce physical strain.

Credit: youtube.com, Kinesis Advantage2 Onboard Programming Tutorial

This ergonomic keyboard puts wrists, hands, and fingers in a more relaxed position, making working at a computer all day much more comfortable. Users can even customize the keyboard by changing which keys do what function, increasing their efficiency.

One of the unique features of this keyboard is its contoured design, which allows for a more natural hand position. This can help reduce fatigue and discomfort, especially for programmers who type for long periods.

If you're looking for a keyboard that will make a big impact, the Kinesis Advantage2 is definitely worth considering. It's a thoughtful gift that shows you care about your programmer's comfort and well-being.

Here are some key features of the Kinesis Advantage2 Keyboard:

Overall, the Kinesis Advantage2 Keyboard is a great gift for programmers who want to improve their comfort and productivity.

Leather Sleeve for MacBook

If your student is a minimalist with a classy touch, consider a Personalized Leather Sleeve for MacBook.

Macbook on White Wooden Desk
Credit: pexels.com, Macbook on White Wooden Desk

This thoughtful gift is perfect for someone who's often on-the-go with their laptop.

You can get their name, initials, or even GitHub username engraved on the sleeve for a special touch.

Just bear in mind that you'll need to know which MacBook they have, as the dimensions will be different for each.

AP CS Exam Prep Materials

AP CS Exam Prep Materials can be a thoughtful gift for students preparing for the AP Computer Science exams. The number of high school students taking the AP CSA exam has grown almost 900% in the last 10 years, making it the fastest growing AP exam.

If your high schooler is planning to take either of the AP Computer Science exams, getting them a book, flashcards, or even enrolling them in a live online class could be a great practical gift. For example, consider gifting AP Computer Science A Flashcards, AP Computer Science Principles Premium, 2025: Prep Book with 6 Practice Tests, and an Intro to Java Programming live online class.

These resources can provide your student with the necessary tools to prepare for the exams and succeed in their computer science studies. With the right materials, they can build a strong foundation in computer science and open doors to new opportunities.

Programming and Coding

Credit: youtube.com, Top 5 Gifts for PROGRAMMERS 🎁 (No Raspberry Pi) | what to gift to a programmer friend?

For the programmer in your life, consider gifts that make their workday more comfortable and enjoyable. Practical coding gifts like ergonomic accessories can make a big difference.

Practical coding gifts can also help programmers stay safe and healthy during long coding sessions. These gifts are perfect for programmers who spend most of their time in front of a computer.

If you're looking for a gift that will help your programmer learn something new, consider a codable drone like the CoDrone Programmable Drone. This drone is a fun and fascinating way to learn programming, with seven unique sensors that make it easy to learn.

Suggestion: Comp Sci Help

Pluralsight Course

The Pluralsight Course is a great gift for anyone who loves learning and upskilling. It's perfect for future-proofing their skills in areas like web development, IT ops, and cybersecurity.

With Pluralsight, you don't have to choose what course to buy - your tech education gift will give them access to the entire course library. This means they can pick the courses that interest them the most.

The course library includes skill assessments, interactive courses, and hands-on projects, making it a comprehensive learning experience. You can buy a one-month subscription for $29, three months for $87, a year for $299, or a premium year for $449.

Programming Stickers

Credit: youtube.com, Programming stickers Laptop | Amazon 50 Pcs Coding Stickers Pack Front-end dev, Back-end Languages

Programming stickers are a fun and creative way to express your love for coding. You can find packs of stickers online that come with 50 stickers to decorate various items.

These stickers can be used to personalize laptops, guitars, luggage, and more. They make great nerdy stocking stuffers for techies in your life.

If you're a teacher, you can use stickers to transform your classroom into a visually stimulating environment. For example, you can use stickers to illustrate programming languages or algorithmic diagrams.

Here are some online stores where you can find programming stickers:

  • Amazon
  • AliExpress
  • Etsy (Coding/Programming stickers pack, Coding sticker pack, Computer Programming Knowledge Poster)

Robotics and Coding Toys

Robotics and coding toys are an amazing way to introduce kids to the world of computer science. They can learn to program, build, and create their own robots and games.

Kids can start as young as 3 with the Fisher-Price Code 'N Learn Kinderbot, which helps preschoolers learn colors, numbers, and phrases. As they grow, they can move on to more advanced robots like the Makeblock Ultimate 2.0 Robot, which comes with over 500 mechanical parts and electronic modules.

For older kids, there are plenty of options, including the CoDrone Programmable Drone, which teaches Python or block-based programming, and the ELEGOO Penguin Bot Robot Kit, which is a small and affordable gift that's perfect for beginners.

Arduino Starter

Credit: youtube.com, The best coding toys for kids

The Arduino Starter Kit is a great way to get your teen excited about learning electronics. This kit is perfect for any experience level and includes hands-on projects that will keep anyone enticed.

The possibilities are endless with this Arduino starter kit as you can learn about the basics of programming to the basics of voltages, currents, and more. The main goal of this kit is to learn how to think critically and solve problems.

One of the best things about the Arduino Starter Kit is that it's great for teens who want to learn about electronics. The kit is designed to be user-friendly and easy to follow, making it perfect for beginners.

Here are some key features of the Arduino Starter Kit:

  • Hands-on projects to learn about electronics and programming
  • Perfect for any experience level, from beginner to advanced
  • Learn about the basics of programming, voltages, currents, and more
  • Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills

If you're looking for a fun and educational way to get your teen interested in electronics, the Arduino Starter Kit is a great place to start.

Circuit Board Earrings

Circuit Board Earrings are a unique gift option for women in tech, making a great STEM Christmas gift. They're a great way to mix fashion with a touch of nerdy.

Credit: youtube.com, Cool Circuit Board DIY Bots

These earrings are made from repurposed circuit boards, giving them a one-of-a-kind look. They're perfect for the woman who loves tech and wants to express her personality.

They're a great conversation starter, and who knows, it might just spark a new interest in coding or robotics. The green color makes them a great choice for a Christmas gift for mom.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a computer scientist need?

To excel as a computer scientist, one needs strong programming skills and a solid understanding of software, hardware, and network development. A computer scientist must also be proficient in writing new programming languages and code.

What is the top prize for computer science?

The Turing Award is considered the top prize in computer science, often referred to as the "Nobel Prize of Computing". It's named after Alan Turing, a renowned mathematician and pioneer in the field.

What is the hottest topic in computer science?

The hottest topic in computer science is the convergence of emerging technologies like AI, AR, and IoT, which are transforming industries and creating new opportunities. These cutting-edge technologies are rapidly evolving and reshaping the future of computing and beyond.

Jay Matsuda

Lead Writer

Jay Matsuda is an accomplished writer and blogger who has been sharing his insights and experiences with readers for over a decade. He has a talent for crafting engaging content that resonates with audiences, whether he's writing about travel, food, or personal growth. With a deep passion for exploring new places and meeting new people, Jay brings a unique perspective to everything he writes.

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