M.R.
I realize that you don't want to get a gift card, but to a girl going away to college a gift card to Target or Bed, Bath, and Beyond is priceless. Remember, they are basically having to get an entire set of bedding, linens, room decor, and on and on.
Ideas for easy 'theme' gifts include:
School Supply Pack - paper, pencils, pens, scissors, stapler, tape, push pins, markers, construction paper, index cards, envelopes and stamps, paper clips, rubber bands, anything you can think of to stock a 'home office'. Place everything into a cute tote bag.
Laundry Pack - Load a canvas laundry tote or laundry basket with a jug of laundry detergent, dryer sheets, fabric softener and ball, any spray stain fighter, pack of plastic hangers, and especially do not forget the roll of quarters!
Good luck to you!