Gifts for Grads

With graduation season approaching, it can be difficult to find the right gift for today's graduates.  Here are a few classic choices to help you get started with your shopping.

Most graduates appreciate a nice frame for their new diploma.  This is appropriate for either a high school or college graduate.  Many colleges sell frames with their logos on it to make it even more personal.  Similarly, a shadow box might be a good choice.  Shadow boxes allow the graduate to keep other mementoes, such as caps or tassels, along with their diploma under glass.  A digital photo frame might also work well for graduates who wish to display an album of all of their high school or college memories.

Instead of focusing on frames, you might consider focusing on the school when buying a graduation gift.  This is particularly good for college graduates, who may want sweatshirts, bags, bumper stickers, or other merchandise from their alma mater.  Visiting the campus bookstore of any college or university will provide you with plenty of items to choose from.

Graduates who are preparing to enter the working world might appreciate a present that is more professional.  For instance, a business card holder can be a good choice for graduates who will be looking to network their services.  A briefcase is also appropriate for graduates who are entering certain fields, like business.  Similarly, an engraved pen is a classic gift that works well for business interviews and other professional settings.

If the graduate is planning to move, you might consider buying him or her a gift for their new apartment or dorm room.  Practical gifts, like a tool kit or a gift card to a home improvement or decorating store, are good choices.  You can also purchase city guides if the graduate is moving far away from home.

All of these items make good gifts for the new graduate.