Great Graduation Gifts

Graduation is a day of relief, happy that all your time and money have been well-invested and the late nights and worries are now, thankfully, behind you. If you want to treat a graduate friend or relative, or drop a few hints yourself, we have just the thing...

A Job

Once the classes and parties are over, the job hunt begins. A little help with this can earn you a graduate's adoration forever. This can mean a little cash or a word in the ear (or Linkedin recommendation) of an influential acquaintance.

Some classes, perhaps in catering or languages, can help them find some work to tide them over while they're on the lookout for that perfect job.

Relax and Rewind

After all the studying and stress it'd be great to give your graduate a well-earned chance to relax. Depending on your budget, you can treat them to a luxurious spa day or a simple trip to the local cinema.

Or, if you're feeling particularly generous, there are some great deals on sites like Lastminute.com for weekend breaks to cities around the world.

Gourmet Goodies

It's always nice to have a meal after graduation, but the graduate would be doubly impressed if you also slipped them a voucher for their favourite restaurant, deli or sweet shop.

Some might prefer a picnic after all the excitement, which lets you spoil the graduate by cramming all their favourites into a fancy hamper. You can even make one yourself, loading it up with chocolate, cheese, jam, olives and not forgetting a bottle of wine with one of our personalised graduation labels on it.

Get Wired Up

A gadgetless graduate is at a severe disadvantage in today's jobmarket. A good laptop or notebook is an essential piece of kit for many careers. A quality smartphone also allows the graduate to browse for jobs, send and receive emails on the go and hold overseas conversations with potential employers for free via Skype.

Mementoes

Some want a little something to remind them of their big day. Personalised mugs, pens and class hoodies are old favourites, but there is something to be said for the DIY approach.

For example, Bryan Martin bought his daughter a copy of Dr.Seuss's 'Oh, The Places You'll Go!' thirteen years before her graduation. The book, which Brenna Martin found “moving, touching, nostalgia and thoughtful” was filled with comments from every teacher Brenna ever had.