Is your child graduating from college? Surprise them with a present that sets them up for a brighter future. When choosing a graduation gift for a loved one, think of their unique personality, interests, and goals. Opt for a present that helps them on their journey ahead, so you can continue to show your unwavering support and excitement.
Here are some of the best graduation gifts that keep giving.
Graduation Gift Ideas for a Brighter Future
There is no prouder moment for a parent than witnessing their child achieve their goals, especially when completing higher education. It’s a significant milestone that calls for celebration and recognition. Besides throwing a party, show your appreciation and support through any of these gift ideas for graduation.
1. Emergency starter funds
Many fresh graduates enter the “real world” with limited savings to fall back on. Help them build a financial safety net to avoid incurring debt for unexpected expenses. Financial experts recommend having three to six months’ worth of living costs tucked away. But even a smaller amount can make a significant difference. This way, you can empower the fresh grad to navigate adulthood with greater confidence.
2. First-edition books
If your graduate has a passion for reading and a deep appreciation for literature, consider gifting them one-of-a-kind hardcover books. A rare first edition can be a thoughtful and potentially valuable graduation present for any book-loving person. These early releases often appreciate over time, adding to their significance. Who knows, your gift might even inspire them to start a collection.
3. Insurance plans
As living expenses continue to increase, having insurance provides a valuable safeguard against life’s uncertainties. Contribute to their healthcare, dental care, vehicle, or travel insurance plan. Use this opportunity to educate them about the financial implications of unexpected expenses when one is not insured. Also, discuss the advantages (and peace of mind!) that come with having proper and adequate coverage.
4. Premium bonds
If you prefer not to give cash, consider premium bonds. They can serve as a valuable introduction to the world of investing for fresh graduates entering the workforce. Compared to stocks, bonds have the potential to appreciate and offer guaranteed returns. It’s a thoughtful way to provide a financial asset they can grow over time.
5. Orthodontic treatment
Entering the job market is an exciting new chapter for a young adult. But it can come with fierce competition and meticulous scrutiny from employers. Apart from qualifications, first impressions matter, from attire to demeanour. Is the candidate on time for the job interview? Are they wearing appropriate makeup? And are they confident enough to flash their smile?
Sadly, not everyone is fortunate to be born with perfect pearly whites. If your child has issues with their teeth, now’s your chance to help boost their self-esteem by investing in dental treatments. For example, you can address troublesome overbites or crooked teeth with invisible aligners. Unlike traditional metal braces, ClearCorrect provides a discreet and comfortable solution to misalignments. Consult an oral health professional to determine the most suitable treatment options.
6. Further studies
Set them up for further success by urging them to take post-graduate success. Bring them to study fairs and help them sift through the options. You might also want to consider enrolling them in relevant online courses related to their field.
7. Subscriptions
Ease their financial burden by offering to cover the cost of monthly or annual subscriptions. Consider paying for their streaming service, mobile plans, or productivity software like Microsoft 365 or Adobe. Additionally, you can provide them subscriptions to online educational platforms, enabling them to upskill and level up their expertise.
8. Wardrobe upgrade
You can never go wrong with a bespoke suit! Your graduate will need help transitioning from college clothes to professional outfits. Lead the way by gifting them investment pieces they can use for years to come.
9. Career coaching sessions
Is your graduate still unsure what to do or where to go next? Maybe all they need is someone to talk to. Gift them career coaching sessions so they can discuss their options with a professional.
10. Seasonal tickets
Keep enriching the mind and stimulating the imagination of young adults by gifting them seasonal tickets. Purchasing annual passes in advance will allow them to skip lines and avoid high fees. Consider giving tickets to ballet performances, musical theatre shows, art exhibitions, or museum access.
Tips When Choosing a Graduation Gift
When deciding on the final graduation gift, make sure to consider the following:
- Consider the graduate’s personality.
- Think of your relationship with the recipient.
- Choose a meaningful they can connect to you.
- Don’t give beyond your means.
- Avoid pressuring the graduate about their future.
Why Gift-Giving Is Important
Many people associate gift-giving with birthdays, holidays, and anniversaries. But did you know there are numerous benefits to giving gifts throughout the year – beyond specific occasions?
- According to the American Public Health Association, giving gifts can reduce stress and anxiety.
- It fosters stronger connections and trust between the giver and the recipient.
- Research by the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley has shown that those who gift willingly have a higher sense of self-worth.
- Presents also release “feel-good” chemicals in the brain, like dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin.
- A study by The University of Michigan found that generous individuals have a lower mortality rate.
Presents can strengthen relationships and bring joy to both the giver and the recipient. So, don’t hesitate to choose from these unique graduation gifts. Any of them will surely make a lasting impact on your loved one’s life!
References:
Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley. (n.d.). The Science of Generosity.
Greengrass, M. (n.d.). Giving to others linked to longer life, study finds. https://www.apa.org.
Poulin, M. J., Brown, S., Dillard, A. J., & Smith, D. M. (2013). Giving to Others and the Association Between Stress and Mortality. American Journal of Public Health, 103(9), 1649–1655.
