Sorry, giving cash for a special occasion like this is lazy. There are some good ideas here, OP.

I try to get them a beach towel from their college. That way they can take it to hs beach week.

Agree that Walmart they really want is cash though.

My kid has air pods in constantly—huge music lover. I’m thinking a nice set of headphones- also act as noise cancellation in noisy dorm.

A phone charger. I love the ones from Clutch. Super sleek and easy to carry