parenting

It’s finally May! For many college students, this month means the coming of summer  internships, travel opportunities, summer jobs, relaxation and time to catch up with friends from home. For graduating seniors, though, it may signify the beginning of a new job, moving to a new apartment, or a return home to regroup, until the right opportunity comes along.

But for all graduates, no matter the circumstance, it should also be a time to reflect on, and bask in, their accomplishments. It’s also traditionally a time that family and friends honor the new grad with a few token gifts to help them get started in their new life.

Here are 5 great gift ideas for grads.

• Still have a few weeks (or even a few days) before the big event? Visit GraduationSource.com for good deals on caps, gowns, cords, hoods, and other accessories. They offer same day shipping & overnight delivery on all graduation regalia.
• Is your grad off to that first big job? A day planner from Franklin-Covey will help organize the workweek and important tasks. Plus, they look really sharp, and right now you can save 15% and Get Free Shipping on all Orders of $65 or More.
• If that new job hasn’t materialized yet, your grad might benefit from learning strategies for job hunting during the recession from Vault.com. Right now you can SAVE 15% with Gold Membership. Or, if that isn’t in your budget, each new member can get FREE Career Guides with their Free Vault Membership.
• If you want to give something inspirational and have the opportunity to personalize it, then you may want to consider one of the “Design Your Own Inspiration” packages from Successories.com You can choose any image from their popular offering of motivational posters, pick a frame you like and add your own inspirational message.
• If you know your grad just wants or needs money, give a Personalized Visa photo Gift Card from GiftCards.Com. You can add your own image to the card, and it’s accepted anywhere. I have used their service several times, for the difficult people on my lists, and the cards have always been appreciated (and kept, even after the funds were spent!)

Of course, the above are just a few ideas. As long as your grad has your support, encouragement, love and understanding, he or she will be just fine, no matter what the world may bring. Best of luck to you and your grads this season!

(Disclosure: All product links above are affiliate links. This means that I may receive a commission for recommending the products if you click through and buy something. I only join affiliate programs for products I currently use, have used, or would use or give as a gift. If you do like the ideas I listed, please feel free to click the link and buy them, or to go somewhere else if you find a better deal. But if the products and prices are in line with what you think is fair, and you choose to buy here, your funds will go toward supporting me and my site. Thanks for reading, and good luck!)