We Asked 2021 Grads What They Really Want for Graduation
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As most colleges are still not hosting normal graduation ceremonies, celebrating the class of 2021 might mean selecting the perfect present. Graduation gift ideas can be hard to gather, but we’ve done some of the work for you with a survey of this year’s senior class.
For Julianne Misik of San Diego’s Point Loma University, a standing desk is what’s caught her eye. “It’s important that I stay active as I transition into a 9-to-5 job,” she says. “And this desk gives me the flexibility to sit or stand anytime I want!”
With many graduates resuming the postgraduation-trip tradition, consider gifting a monogrammed luggage piece, travel journal, or Polaroid camera for them to take along for the trip. Future Syracuse University graduate Sophia Ramey tells Vogue she has a weeklong trip to Mexico planned with her closest friends before they part ways for postgrad life. For her, a Paravel Dopp kit will do the trick.
Recent Duke alum Danielle Shulman instructs us to steer clear of gifted experiences since COVID is still a reality and everyone has varying comfort levels. “A good-quality, classy work tote for my postcollege work is always a good gift for grads like myself,” she says. “It’s about time to upgrade from my old backpack!” Shulman currently has her eye on a quilted tote bag from MZ Wallace.
So trade the concert tickets for good-quality, functional gifts like a classic timepiece, stylish designer wallet, or new work tote. And if you want to help ease the transition from dorm life to adult living, treat your graduate to a fresh set of linen sheets, modern cookware staples, or stylish coffee mugs.
Some fun, celebratory gifts that you can’t go wrong with: bubbles with Argaux’s box of Champagne or a pair of Bang Olufsen earbuds. But the best gift of all? Soon-to-be graduate Julius Rees of Syracuse University tells Vogue, “After a year and a half of not being able to travel and staying away from family, celebrating with them is the ultimate graduation gift.”
Below, our top 22 graduation gift ideas for the class of 2021.
