With Valentine’s Day coming soon, many Washburn University students, whether in a committed relationship or still looking for love, want to know the perfect gift for their beloved.

“My soulmate? Yeah, okay. You caught me off guard there,” said Mohammad Asfaque, junior mathematics major. “I think gifts should be thoughtful. I haven’t really thought about my soulmate yet, but maybe flowers—flowers are a good gift.”

Some people don’t make a big deal out of Valentine’s Day.

“Valentine’s Day? My wife and I don’t do much for it,” said Anthony Hull, sophomore history major. “We never really have. It sounds mean, but it feels like a holiday made by companies to sell stuff. I buy my wife flowers and chocolates, but that’s it. I also get some candy. I buy her gifts at other times, too, so it’s just another excuse to do it. If I didn’t get anything, it wouldn’t be a big deal.”

For others, a Valentine’s Day gift should be special and personal.

“The best gift you can give your partner is something unique and from the heart,” said Taylor Romanchek, senior mass media major. “It could be a photo book, something that reminds them of a fun memory or even a homemade music album. One of my friends made her boyfriend a CD with all the songs they listened to while dating. I think that’s really sweet.”

Whether it’s flowers, chocolates, a personal gift or just spending time together, Valentine’s Day means different things to different people. No matter how students celebrate, the most important thing is to show love and appreciation to that special someone in their life.

Edited by Eden Conrad and Stuti Khadka