Commencement Gifts: A Guide to Giving the Perfect Graduate Present

As the academic year draws to a close, it's time to start thinking about commencement gifts for your graduating friends and loved ones. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. This comprehensive guide will help you find the perfect gift for any graduate, whether they're headed to their first job, graduate school, or simply embarking on a new chapter in their lives.

Transition 1: Graduation Gifts by Interest

Books for the Bookworm:

Books are a classic graduation gift that will be appreciated by any graduate, whether they're a voracious reader or just enjoy having a good book to curl up with. Consider their interests when choosing a book, and opt for something that they'll be interested in reading.

Transition 2: Practical Gifts for the Practical Type

Gift Cards for the Indecisive:

Gift cards are a great option for graduates who are notoriously difficult to buy for. This way, they can choose exactly what they want, and you can avoid the hassle of trying to guess their tastes. Consider a gift card to their favorite store, restaurant, or online retailer.

Personalized Gifts for the Sentimental Type

Engraved Gifts:

Engraved gifts are a thoughtful and personal way to commemorate a graduate's special day. You can engrave anything from a watch to a piece of jewelry with their name, graduation date, or a special message.

Photo Albums or Scrapbooks:

Photo albums or scrapbooks are a great way for graduates to preserve their memories from their college years. You can fill them with photos of their friends, family, and experiences, or let them create their own.

Gifts for the Future

Investment Accounts:

Investment accounts can help graduates start saving for their future, whether it's for retirement, a down payment on a house, or their children's education. Consider contributing to a 529 plan, a Roth IRA, or a traditional IRA.

Transition 3: Tips for Choosing the Perfect Gift

• Consider their interests: What do they like to do? What are their hobbies? What are they studying?
• Be practical: If they're heading to their first job, consider gifts that will help them succeed in their new role.
• Personalize it: Add a personal touch to your gift by engraving it with their name or graduation date.
• Don't break the bank: Graduation gifts don't have to be expensive to be meaningful. There are plenty of thoughtful and affordable options available.

Transition 4: Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don't give them something they already have: Check with the graduate to make sure they don't already own the gift you're considering.
• Don't give them something too personal: Unless you're very close to the graduate, avoid giving them gifts that are too personal, such as clothing or jewelry.
• Don't give them cash: Cash is a boring gift that doesn't show much thought. Opt for a more personal or practical gift instead.

Step-by-Step Approach to Giving a Meaningful Graduation Gift

1. Consider the graduate's interests and needs.
2. Research different gift options.
3. Choose a gift that is both personal and practical.
4. Add a personal touch to your gift.
5. Give your gift with love and congratulations.

FAQs

1. What is the average amount to spend on a graduation gift?

According to a survey by the National Retail Federation, the average amount spent on a graduation gift is $120.

2. What are some popular graduation gift ideas?

Some popular graduation gift ideas include:

• Books
• Gift cards
• Personalized gifts
• Investment accounts
• Experiences
• Money

3. What is the best way to give a graduation gift?

The best way to give a graduation gift is in person, with a heartfelt congratulations. If you can't give your gift in person, consider sending it with a handwritten note.

4. What should I do if I don't know what to get the graduate?

If you're not sure what to get the graduate, consider asking them directly or consulting with their family or friends.

5. Is it okay to give cash as a graduation gift?

Cash is a acceptable graduation gift, but it's not as personal or thoughtful as a physical gift. If you do give cash, consider presenting it in a creative way, such as in a gift card or money balloon.

6. Is it appropriate to give used items as a graduation gift?

It is generally not appropriate to give used items as a graduation gift, unless the graduate has specifically requested them.

Call to Action

Graduation is a time to celebrate the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. By choosing a thoughtful and meaningful gift, you can help your graduate mark this special occasion and wish them all the best in their future endeavors.