How to Buy a Graduation Gift

Graduation is an exuberant milestone. Receiving the announcement isn't necessarily a call for gifts, but if you choose to give one, here are some ideas to help your grad celebrate both his or her magnificent accomplishments as well as the opportunities that lie just ahead.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Mat and frame the diploma. College grads may appreciate a framed photo of their campus. (See <a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_109113_picture-framed.html" target="_top">How to Get a Picture Framed</a>.) Have the graduate's initials and graduation date monogrammed on a picture frame.
2. Inscribe a classic hardcover book, dictionary or encyclopedia with a note of love and pride. Students graduating from grade school or junior high will enjoy a copy of Dr. Seuss's Oh, the Places You'll Go.
3. Buy custom stationery with a college grad's newest letters after his or her name (see <a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_111549_order-custom-invitations.html" target="_top">How to Order Custom Invitations and Announcements</a>).
4. Give money or gift certificates, always appreciated by those in a cash-poor phase. For the grad entering the business world, spring for a briefcase (see <a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_108158_buy-briefcase.html" target="_top">How to Buy a Briefcase</a>), Montblanc pen, leather desk set or business card holder. Perhaps best of all, work your network for job leads and present a few key introductions, listed in a gift card.
5. Splurge on a special grad with a cell phone, personal digital assistant or even a laptop (refer to the Computers and Home Electronics chapter). Sterling silver key chains, cuff links or a money clip are other classy options.
6. Feather the nests of both high school and college graduates with essentials like comforters, lamps, clocks, microwaves, mini fridges, basic cookware, towels and bathroom necessities. High school grads will appreciate sweatshirts, hats, fleece throws and backpacks emblazoned with the insignia of their college-to-be.
7. Celebrate a new chapter in life with something fun--a bicycle, CD or DVD player, digital camera, television and VCR combo or audio system. Leather luggage tags are also keepers.

What to Look For:

• Personalized
• Give meaningful message
• Help with practical needs