Considerations:
1. Kids don't accept what parents say. They need to make up their own minds. So take the lad shopping. Don't say it's for him... but note what he likes/dislikes. Enlist the assistance of one of his friends.
2. Find out whether retro appeals to him or not. If it does, you can go used, lo-tech, old school. If he's a techie, he'll likely want all the bells & whistles, which generally means new.
3. What kind of music (style and format) does he use? If he's addicted to his tablet, buds, etc., then he likely has a large digital collection. So you might need a DAC if you're looking at used, low-tech amps etc. One with a headphone output might be nice, as it will give you more flexibility on the amp/receiver.
4. Keep the power output modest. Nothing will get you thrown out of a college dorm like a 1000W amp harmmering put the tunes. It WILL also grate on mom and dad's nerves after a while, not to mention give him tinnitus before the age of 30. Also, bedrooms, dorm rooms, apts etc don't always have robust power (certainly nothing above 15 amp, shared, receptacles),which will avoid sound issues and blown breakers.
5. Satellites/bookshelf speakers and a modest sub makes sense. Can fit in a bedroom, dorm room etc. Easily moved, set up without the assistance of roadies. It also allows near field listening if space really gets tight. (Another reason why big power amps aren't needed).
