Top 10 perfect gifts for the graduate

May not only marks the end of the school year, but is also a time where high school and college seniors alike celebrate an important day - graduation.

But what do you get for that special graduate?

The Examiner has compiled a top list of graduation gifts.

Some are more traditional while others require a little bit of thought. Whatever the gift, be sure to choose something that your graduate will remember as they journey into the next phase of their life.



10 Diploma/tassel frame. A traditional gift, but one with lots of meaning.        

9 College spirit basket. Although geared for those high school graduates going off to college, a basket full of college memorabilia is the perfect way to celebrate graduation day. Fill the basket with a college sweatshirt or T-shirt, mugs, pennants – anything that will get your graduate excited about their future alma mater.

8 Jewelry. There are endless possibilities when it comes to jewelry. For the guys, buy a watch and for the girls, necklaces or earrings always do the trick. Another option is to purchase a class ring with the high school or college’s insignia. Whatever the choice, spend time to choose the perfect piece of jewelry that will suit your individual graduate.

7 Making Memories. Mark this momentous occasion by having a special item engraved with your graduate’s name and the date of graduation. It will be a keepsake treasured for years.

6 Moving out essentials. What graduate doesn’t need some moving out supplies? Fill a laundry basket full items like towels, laundry detergent, bathroom essentials, cleaning supplies, home decor, light bulbs, etc. Anything that would be necessary in starting a new place. The gift might seem a little boring, but as your graduate gets ready to move into a new home, the items will be a life saver.

5 Handheld device/PDA. What a great way to stay in contact with your future graduate. These little devices have Bluetooth support and are a great way to manage, access and share all your documents and digital media files.

4 Road Trip. Commemorate the big day by giving your graduate a trip. What about the Mall of America in Minneapolis, Minn., for a little shopping or go bigger – a cruise. The most important thing is for your graduate to have fun and relax before heading off to college or into the work force.

3 Oh the Places You Go. “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And You are the guy who’ll decide where to go.”

One of the most well-known Dr. Seuss books, “Oh the Place You Go,” is a sentimental yet practical gift.. Although written for children, it truly expresses the feelings of anyone ready to send a graduate into the world.

2 Digital camera. What a great way to remember everything that will happen after graduation. There are plenty of digital cameras on the market today. With so many choices, it is a sure bet that will fit the needs of any graduate. Unsure about which to pick? Buy a gift card instead and let the graduate pick out the camera.

1 Cold hard cash. Maybe not the most creative gift, but one sure to please. Every graduate wants a little extra spending money in his pocket. Whether it is to go buy essentials for the next phase in their lives or to go buy something completely frivolous, money is always a nice thing to tuck inside a greeting card.