Gifting Genuine Grad Gifts
As a senior graduating in less than one month, I understand how difficult it can be to give an impactful graduation gift.
Below is a list of fifteen items I plan to gift to loved ones, and would also personally appreciate receiving, too. Grad gifts are the perfect way to help set your graduates up for success as they enter the ”real world.” These items are in no particular order, so I encourage you to read through the entire list to find the right gift for your favorite grad!
Personalized School Artwork
The university holds a special place in any graduate’s heart. What better gift than a personalized piece of art from a place that they hold so dear? Many local art stores and bookstores sell a variety of beautiful drawings, including images of Samford and our lovable Aubie.
Customized Gifts
A personal touch to a gift makes it even more special. Some examples include an engraved portfolio, ring dish, coffee mug, necklace, 3D campus map, and a graduation ornament.
Books
While they may be done hitting the textbooks, other books are perfect sources of advice and leisure reading for new grads. These are just a few of the helpful books that would benefit the recent grad.
Adulting 101
The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter—and How to Make the Most of Them Now
Cook Books
Subscription Services
Set your grad up with all the entertainment they want through subscription services. Some great ones to start with include the following:
Book of the Month Boxes
Streaming Services
Meal Prep/Cooking Plans
Financial Support
While they may have been a broke college student, you don’t want them to be broke post-grad either. Help get them on their feet after graduation with some financial support. Some examples of supporting a graduate financially are money and gift cards.
Memory Keepsakes
In addition to each of the customized gifts, a shadow box would make a great keepsake! They are a great piece of decor for a new apartment that holds all their favorite memories from college.
Alma Mater Jewelry
From necklaces to bracelets and rings, gifting jewelry is one of my favorites! Here is one example of a personalized college necklace here!
Diploma Frame
A diploma frame is a safe gift as each graduate will need one to showcase their big achievement!
Luggage
For the ones setting off after graduation, a new set of luggage with a personalized luggage tag and passport case is perfect!
Technology
Technology is a great gift as well. Devices like Apple Watches or a new laptop are perfect for a new grad. See why you need an Apple Watch here. Also, charging stations are a perfect pair to all that tech. They allow for all devices to be charged in one place. This eliminates annoying cords and searching for the right charger.
Deluxe Folio
A deluxe folio is a great gift for a graduate who is entering the workforce!
Ember Temperature Control Mug
Honestly, I had never heard of this before researching. Although it is expensive, the technology keeps the drink at the designated temperature. The time it keeps the liquid hot depends on the mug size. The mug comes with a charging coaster. You can find them at Best Buy, Amazon, and the company’s website.
The Work Wellness Deck
This deck of cards encompasses 60 prompts that encourage sanity, serenity, and wellness in your place of work, wherever that may be. This is a great gift for any graduate because the deck emphasizes well-being in the workplace.
I hope these ideas take the gifting pressure off and help you continue to celebrate the grad in your life’s big milestone!
Be Well, Auburn.
Editor
An avid sports fan from Sharpsburg, Georgia, Maddie knew she wanted to head to a D1 school. After visiting Auburn, she was set on becoming a member of the Auburn Family.
Maddie enjoys spending quality time with others, watching Friends, working out, playing golf, and making others smile. Maddie also loves dogs and has two adorable chocolate labs at home.
Her favorite place to be is outdoors. Whether it’s going for a stroll or chatting with friends, you can find Maddie spending her time outside. She is passionate about helping others, staying active and organized, enjoying the moment, and closing her rings. If you find Maddie without her Apple Watch, something bad has definitely happened.
