Graduation season is right around the corner, and while high school graduation is always accompanied by much fanfare, college graduation always seems to sneak up. Here are a few last-minute graduation gift ideas for the soon-to-be college graduate in your life whose accomplishments you want to celebrate.
College Jewelry
A thoughtful gift-giver knows that planning a gift is time-consuming, but just because you are getting a last-minute gift, doesn’t mean it can’t be meaningful. For CU graduates, for example, the Colorado University bookstore may be a good place to pick up CU graduation gifts that are a great way to celebrate your graduate’s college life. If you have time and want to do something a little more extravagant, getting a piece of jewelry that commemorates the occasion is a great way to give someone something small with a lot of meaning. For Colorado State University graduates, CSU graduation gifts like bracelets, necklaces, or earrings engraved with their university’s logo or mascot is an understated way to honor their accomplishment. Spend some time thinking about how your giftee is most likely to wear the piece and what their own personal style is. For example, someone entering the medical profession is more likely to wear a necklace every day than they are a ring.
Wine or Champagne
Wine and champagne might not be the most traditional graduation gift, but they’re staples of celebrations, and that’s exactly what graduation calls for. Best of all, wine and champagne are quick and easy to shop for — even on the way to the party. If you do decide to pick up a bottle, consider adding a personal note of congratulations to the label and the date. That way, should your giftee decide to save the champagne for later, or let the wine age for a few years, they’ll be reminded of their special day when they pop the cork. Even if your gift doesn’t make it through the party, adding a note to the label is a nice way to make a more unique and personalized keepsake that can be easily peeled and preserved.
Weekly Planner
Your graduate might be on the job hunt, or they might be lucky enough to be employed before graduating. Whether they need to plan out job applications, interview times or track tasks and meetings, a weekly planner is a great way to help them stay organized. Best of all, planners can be found at just about any office or art supply store. Combine it with a high-quality pen or carrying bag for a full professional get-up, and your graduate will be ready to take on the workforce.
A Certificate for an Experience
For some people, college is not a time for fun and games. Their schedules are packed with homework, classes, and jobs. Graduation marks a new period of free time and controlling their schedule. Encourage your graduate to embrace their free time with a pass to a fun or relaxing event. A gift certificate for a round of golf, a unique event happening in your area, or the opportunity to try a new hobby are great gifts for a new graduate. They’re also easy to get a hold of. Most businesses offer the ability to purchase tickets or experience certificates online, so you can buy and print the experience at home minutes before your head to the party. Can’t think of the perfect experience? After four or more years of hard work, no graduate is going to turn down a massage!
Gift-giving isn’t easy for everyone, and a busy schedule can keep you from thinking of the right gift until the last minute. Keep these suggestions in mind and you’ll be sure to give a great gift that doesn’t feel last-minute — even if it is!