College Graduation Gift Guide

College graduation is right around the corner which means there may be a graduate in your life you are looking to give a gift to. It seems like high school graduation gifts are simple, things for a dorm room, laundry necessities, or cash (cash is king!). Gifts for a recent college graduate are a little trickier. At this stage in life, the once student is now embarking on adulthood. Here are a few ideas on how you can help them transition with a few great gifts.

1. Padfolio: Not only is this professional for interviews, but it also is handy to have when beginning a career. This is one of my go-to gift ideas for a college graduate. Pick them up at Office Depot or splurge for a personalized one from Things Remembered. The University bookstore will likely have them as well.

2. Luggage: At this point, a college student likely has a mismatched set of luggage (if at all). A sturdy set of matching luggage is a good gift idea. Especially for the graduate who has accepted a job that involves travel.

3. Watch: A classic watch is good for both men and women, but men may get more use out of it. Here are a few I like:

Women’s Kate Spade

Women’s Daniel Wellington

Men’s Ted Baker London

Men’s Nixon

4. Suit and/or Professional Wear: Depending on how well you know the graduate, an item or two to help begin their professional wardrobe is helpful. Especially suits as they can be pricey. If you are not this close to the graduate, a gift card to certain stores is a good option.

5. Books: For the last few years their noses have (hopefully) been in textbooks. They now have the opportunity to leisurely read or listen to audiobooks. An Amazon gift card takes care of both of these. Or if you would like to gift a physical book I recommend The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey, EntreLeadership by Dave Ramsey, Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg (there is now a college edition) or Adulting by Kelly Williams Brown. I am always looks for book recommendations so if you know of others put them in the comments below.

6. Diploma frame: That expensive piece of paper should be displayed proudly. Whether it ends up on the wall in an office or at home, frames are expensive, but a great way to share pride. Check the university bookstore or visit a framing store. I got a very nice frame from Aaron Brothers and although it looks custom, it wasn’t.

7. Travel fund: If you have read my blog for any amount of time now you know I am a big proponent for traveling and experiencing the world through other cultures and adventure. If able, start a travel fund for the graduate or simply give them a travel fund piggy bank.

What would you give as a gift for a college graduate? Share in the comments section below.

Until next post…xoxo Becca

  0     |     Labels: college