The Ultimate Guide: The Best Gifts for College Graduates

Graduating from college is a monumental achievement, marking the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and growth. It's a time of celebration and transition as graduates embark on the next chapter of their lives, particularly if they are officially entering into adulthood. If you're on the hunt for the perfect gift to congratulate and support a college graduate, look no further. Here's a curated list of meaningful and practical gifts that are sure to help make their post-graduate journey a little brighter.

The Ultimate Guide: The Best Gifts for College Graduates

1. Financial Literacy Resources

Equip them with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate their finances confidently. Consider gifting them an appointment with a financial planner. One who charges a flat fee and doesn't receive a commission is often someone who will give sound general advice for future planning depending on their situation.
There are also financial literacy courses you could pay for {make sure this is something they want!}, or an opportunity to set them up with a Roth IRA and make their first contribution. If you'd like to gift them stock, look into stocks that provide dividends and then show them how to look into dividend reimbursement. Building a strong financial foundation early on sets them up for long-term success.

2. Travel Resources

Encourage them to explore the world and broaden their horizons with the gift of travel. Whether it's  weekend getaway to a nearby city, business travel, or a backpacking adventure across the world, giving them the tools they need might just be their favorite gift!

Some ideas to consider: Paying for their first passport or for passport renewalBuying a high-quality suitcase or travel backpackPaying for TSA precheck or Global EntryPurchasing a AAA subscriptionGifting priority passes or lounge access

3. Professional Wardrobe Essentials

Help your graduate make a smooth transition into the professional world by gifting them professional wardrobe pieces. This could be something they can use for job interviews, networking events or for everyday work wear. 
You could also look into clothing rental subscription services like Armoire so that monthly they can rent high-end pieces they can use as they settle into a style they embrace. There are also clothing subscription boxes they can try as well for both men and women.

4. Professional Development Opportunities

Invest in their continued learning and growth by gifting them access to workshops, conferences or online courses that are relevant to their field. Supporting them in their career advancement is priceless and helps to provide other valuable networking opportunities that will help them thrive.

Consider gifting them:LinkedIn Professional subscriptionsMasterclass SubscriptionAlumni Association MembershipCover their test feesSubscription into a professional organization

5. Things to Make Adulting Easier

College is over and putting aside some of the hand-me-downs they've been using for years just might help them feel confident in this next chapter of their lives. 

Some ideas to consider: A new laptop-after years of use in college, they may need a replacement A new mattressA couch for their grown-up house or apartmentDocument safe Kitchen essentials like new pots & pans or a knife setMeal planning subscription 
Remember, the best gift is one that reflects the graduate's personality, interests, and aspirations. Whether it's a practical item to ease their transition into adulthood or a heartfelt gesture to commemorate their achievements, your thoughtfulness, and support will undoubtedly be appreciated as they embark on this exciting new chapter in their lives. 

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