The class of 2021 might not have had the best senior year of college, but that’s all the more reason to cheer up the new graduates by giving them the best college graduation gifts. Four years (or more for some!) is a long time and snagging that diploma is a major achievement.
As a graduating college senior myself, I’ve accepted that my in-person commencement ceremony has been canceled. While nothing will replace the thrill of accepting my diploma in a football stadium, the achievement of receiving a degree is something we should all be celebrating. While the endless hours spent attending virtual classes can’t be replaced, at least we made it — with a degree to prove it, nonetheless.
Whether the grad in your life needs a new laptop because they exhausted their current ones writing papers or they can’t shake off their newfound love of coffee, finding the perfect graduation gift doesn’t need to be expensive. Some of the best graduation gifts are under $40! However, to help you find what your grad really wants, we asked actual college graduates (including myself!) to share exactly what they’ve been eyeing.
For the Tech-Enthusiast
Since they’ve likely been using the same laptop since high school, it’s time to give them a much-needed upgrade. A new laptop will have the latest and greatest technology (undoubtedly needed for their new job) but is also an expensive venture for them to buy on their own. It’s a practical gift that’ll definitely get tons of use from them — regardless of whether they’re pursuing a new job or attending a graduate degree program.
For the Writer
Nitish, 22, made a serious point for gifting a fancy pen as a graduation gift. Aside from being a go-to tool for signing important work papers, the pen will also serve as a reminder that you’re proud of them for passing this major milestone. Opt for the uber-luxurious Visconti Homo Sapiens Fountain Pen — a.k.a Nitish’s favorite — or the Montblanc Classique 163 Meisterstück Rollerball Pen to gain the full experience.
For the Aspiring Chef
For 21-year-old Jess, handy kitchen appliances are a necessity for life post-college. As a young adult living in the dorms, appliances like an Instant Pot, Air Fryer, and Vitamix blender weren’t necessary. However, moving into an apartment requires some essentials (also, they can’t just run to the cafeteria to grab food anymore) and these kitchen appliances definitely fall under that category.
For the Foodie
Marc, 22, hopes to receive an Our Place Always Pan as a graduation gift. The cult-favorite nonstick pan will majorly upgrade their dorm room microwave as it acts as eight pieces of cookware in one— a fry pan, sauté pan, steamer, skillet, saucepan, non-stick pan, spatula, and spoon rest. Basically, the space-saving pan is ideal for the new grads in a shoebox-sized apartment (but also, for everyone else, too).
For the Busy Bee
Whether it’s for tracking their daily workouts or ensuring they’re not late to *important* business meetings, a water-resistant Apple Watch is just what they need.
For the Mood Setter
What’s Victoria’s, 22, perfect gift? A Glamcor Ultra X Portable Led Lighting Set. Since most new graduates are likely working from home for the foreseeable future, it’s imperative that they have fantastic lighting for Zoom meetings (they wouldn’t want to look washed out, would they?). Plus, these lights also double as incredible props for the multitude of TikTok dances and videos they record during their breaks.
For the Coffee Snob
With the coffee obsession, they acquired in college, a Nespresso VertuoPlus or Smeg Espresso Machine will be greatly appreciated by every college grad. It’s not only super simple to make delicious coffee, lattes, or espresso with them, but also saves them a minimum of $4 per cup (add up multiple cups a day per week and it’s A LOT).
For the Charcuterie Lover
If they already have kitchen appliances, this cheese board will add a personalized touch to their new apartment. This is great for the grad with a charcuterie board obsession (have you seen charcuterieTok?) or for the one who loves entertaining. It has a multitude of foldable sections so it won’t take up a lot of space and you can personalize the initial and date on it.
For the Nostalgic Grad
A photo collage is always on our list of great gift ideas. It’s not only an incredibly thoughtful gift, but it’s also reasonably priced and can be customized with their favorite photos or memories.
For the Shopper
A general PSA about gift cards: they’re always appreciated. An Amazon gift card is always a great option, as it can be used on Amazon Prime, Amazon Fresh, and more. But, if you want something a bit more personal, a Visa gift card can be used anywhere they like—including their favorite local restaurants, clothing store, etc
For the Trend Setter
College graduation is definitely a cause for a special piece of jewelry, and Kate, 22, agrees. Some particularly great options are this gorgeous coin necklace by this incredible, small, Black-owned brand, a pair of knot-shaped earrings from LAGOS, or a pricey but beautiful signature Van Cleef & Arpels bracelet.
For the Traveler
We love a sturdy carry-on as much as the next person, so why not opt for one that’s aesthetically pleasing, too? Enter, the Away Carry-On suitcase, the suitcase that’s the perfect combination of sleek and durable. Featuring a hard shell and 360 rotating wheels, it can fit overhead on a flight, and be brought on car and plane trips. Once we’re back to traveling, your grad will get to flex this incredible suitcase on all their business trips.
For the Napper
Do they love sleeping in on Sunday mornings? Gift them these soft, cozy sheets from Brooklinen, and let them catch those ZZZs.
For the Fitness Devotee
We all have some exercise fanatics on our list. Let them know you care by giving them the gift they really want: A new set of Bala weighted bangles (or even their latest Bala beam!)
For the Hugger
The period after college graduation can be quite stressful. Your new graduate is either figuring out their next steps, tacking a boatload of responsibilities, or beginning a new job in a new environment, which are all scenarios that a weighted blanket would help in. After work (or when they need five minutes to decompress during the day), have them lie under one of these weighted blankets. The weight will instantly help them relax and unwind.
For the Candle Aficionado
Are they trying to jazz up their new place? Try gifting them a boujee, but delicious smelling candle. Whether they want this elegant candle from Black Girl Jane, this transparent and fragrant candle from Byredo, or this glass, vanilla-scented candle from Diptyque, there’s sure to be an option for every grad on your list.
For the Beauty Guru
Amy, 21, is hoping she’ll receive a mini-fridge as her graduation present. It’s a great graduation gift idea as it’s the perfect addition to their new WFH home space. Ideal for keeping beverages and little snacks, it’ll help them avoid getting hangry during their long, exhausting day. And, for the recently graduated college students who are skincare fanatics, it can become a skincare fridge!
For the Budding Photographer
Looking for a cool gift to give your photography-obsessed graduate? A polaroid camera is exactly what you need. Snap a photo, watch it print, and make some memories.
For the Stay-at-Home Pro
When it comes to gifting a set of pajamas, you can’t go wrong with Eberjey. Trust us, these pajamas will become their favorite after just one use. Warning: they’ll probably want another pair (or three, or four).
For the Go-Getter
Sometimes situations call for business cards, which is why this handmade, vegan leather business card holder will come in handy. Its beautiful, teal color and small compact size can easily fit in your pocket, purse, or backpack and promise to keep your business cards free of wrinkles. This cardholder can also double as a makeshift wallet if your graduate needs one.
This story has been updated.
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