Graduation Gift Ideas

A few of our best ideas for your graduate

We’ve gathered some of our favorite graduation gift ideas for you.

After all their work (and your support), it is time to celebrate!

BOOKS

A behind-the-scenes look at what your student needs to know about college life. We’ve purchased this one for our own kiddos. Topics range from the gamut from roommates to classes to money matters.

Sixty pages of Dr. Seuss filled with a thoughtful and humorous collection of quotes with valuable advice about life

Help students be happy and successful with this engaging book written by NYU “Science of Happiness” professors…lifelong tips and good habits to help students thrive.

From one of our favorite authors, Jeffrey Selingo, comes practical advice for students and graduates (and even parents) about jump starting their careers in a challenging environment. Includes a step-by-step plan for gaining the skills employers are looking for.

Help your graduate be the “author of their life” and record their precious thoughts and memories

KEEPSAKES

Photo frame holds the diploma and the tassel. The quote by Eleanor Roosevelt reads, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”

Today is a brand new day inspirational wall art. Aspire for more. Take chances. Be amazing.

Where in the world will your graduate travel? This cork globe is a fun way to keep track.

Sterling Silver “Go in the Direction Of Your Dreams” with Compass Pendant 18″ Necklace

Students may be more likely to check the time on a phone, but a fashionable wristwatch will come in handy.

COLLEGE LIFE

Three piece expandable lightweight spinner luggage set

Apple AirPods with Charging Case (Latest Model)

A student’s selected college flag can make a great addition to their dorm wall.

Portable laptop desk for working in bed

Luxurious LUCID 3″ Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper (Be sure to select the Twin XL size!)

TAKE A TRIP

If you want to make memories instead of (or in addition to) giving a physical graduation gift, consider a special trip. Your student will love helping to choose and plan the vacation to celebrate all their hard work.

City? Outdoors? Beach? Amusement park? The options are endless.

Have a student who is not interested in a graduation party? A special trip is a great option.

Here are a few articles with trip brainstorming ideas:

Collegiate Parent (This list is for college graduation but could easily apply to high school graduation as well.)
Travel Channel (for the slightly more extravagant budget)
7 Summer Trips from the Daily Mail

FOR THOSE CREATIVE GIFT GIVERS

Sometimes you need a graduation gift idea that’s a little bit different. We found these great parent ideas on Grown and Flown’s Facebook page:

A fully packed wallet–Buy a new wallet and fill it with store gift cards, a little cash, some family pictures, and some coins for the college laundry.
A miles from home sign to hang in their dorm (like this from Etsy). Etsy also has cute key chains.
A loaded bound for college laundry basket with all kinds of cleaning and toiletry items.
College specific…beyond the t-shirt or blanket…how about local restaurant gift cards or a gift card to the college bookstore?
If you are gifting money (and what future college student doesn’t appreciate that?!), you can get super creative in the way you present it. Click here for ideas from Hallmark or a Google search can help.

Disclaimer: We put this shopping list together just like any other parent…by browsing Amazon and the internet. We have no personal experience with these products. Happy shopping!

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