How to Select a Graduation Gift

Graduation is a special time in every student's life. Whether they realize it or not, life as they know it is over and their futures lie ahead of them. When choosing a graduation gift, you can choose to focus on the past or help the graduate transition into whatever is in his or her future.

• Find out what the graduate plans to do after high school. If he or she is immediately enrolling in college, think of gifts that will help in that transition. Items that may come in handy include school supplies, dorm-friendly food or something to help with study sessions. Depending on your budget, you could purchase a high-ticket item such as a notebook or tablet computer or a yearly bus pass.


• Consider giving a gift card. This is the perfect solution for ensuring you give a useful gift. Cash gifts may go toward frivolous purchases, so buying gift cards for useful stores will ensure that your purchase goes toward something meaningful.


• Ask the graduate's parents for suggestions. Parents often have their child's best interests in mind, so they may be able to help you decide on a gift that is practical and affordable.


• Consider purchasing a gift that helps the graduate secure his or her memories. A photo album, a digital camera or a journal are all gifts that help new graduates document their time in school or their first year in college.


• Think sentimental. Depending on how close you are to the graduate, this could be easy or hard. Even giving him or her your favorite book with a personalized note inside can be a simple and meaningful gift.