7 Gifts to Get a New College Grad

Photo Credit: Good Housekeeping

Photo Credit: Good Housekeeping

By: Shannon Thaler

Graduating college is a big deal, and while in 2020 it may not be possible to support grads in packed stadiums as they walk on stage and accept their diploma, showing support is still possible with these thoughtful gift ideas.

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For the grad entering corporate America, textbook readings have been stepping stones to getting a diploma, but it’s time for them to read a real page-turner. Post-grad is the era when reading books actually become an enjoyable pastime, and when looking to gift an advice-driven book filled with tools for success, it’s important to step out of the box. Cue Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office by Lois P. Frankel, which not only fits the bill but also offers some A+ advice on surviving and thriving as a female in corporate America.

Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office by Lois P. Frankel, $12, walmart.com

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Goodbye red solo cup, hello glassware. A true way to celebrate a grad’s achievements is to not only raise a glass, but also to gift them one!

Wine Not? Wine Glass; $16, katybellottedesigns.net

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Adulting is hard, but having to figure out what to eat three times a day is even harder. Help a grad wean off the college meal plan, steer clear of Ramen, and have more time to send out job applications—all while learning to cook—with a gift certificate to a meal delivery service. Home Chef will allow the receiver to select their preferred level of cooking difficulty and dietary restrictions, too.

Home Chef, starting $6.99 per serving, homechef.com

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Everybody knows how important it is to get eight hours of sleep each night, but what college student can say they actually do? Post-grad is time for taking self-care more seriously, so help a grad out and get them a weighted blanket. Proven to improve overall sleep, decrease anxiety and stress, it’s the perfect gift to help grads make up for four years of all-night studying during the week and partying until the daylight on the weekends.

Removable Cover Weighted Blanket; $180, luxome.com

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High school graduation is for a new laptop, but upon college graduation, gifting an external hard drive is a great solution to decluttering said laptop to make it feel like brand new while still keeping all of the work from college. Put research papers in the backseat and make room for resumes and cover letters!

WD 1TB Elements Portable External Hard Drive; $47.99, walmart.com

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The bulky class ring everyone’s come to know and (not) love just got an upgrade. Gift a daintier,  more elegant option a grad will be sure to wear for the long-run. Take it a step further by customizing the metal and engravings.

Kendra Scott Davis College Small Signet Class Ring; $398, balfour.com

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For the grad who accepted a job out of state, give them a gift that reminds them of home. Candles are the perfect gender-neutral, double-as-decor option. Plus, with a candle made specifically with the scents of home, it’s sure to smell good!

Homesick Candle; $34, homesick.com


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