Graduation season is upon us and this generation of college students is facing a tough economic climate. Grads can benefit more from practical gifts than the typical fun rewards of years past. If you're looking to bestow your generosity on a beloved post-grad, read on for seven grad-ifying gift ideas.
The Resume Review
Every post-grad on the job hunt within the last year bemoans the new cover letter standard. Resumes and cover letters are more important than ever, meant to serve as works of distinction among an immense pool of applicants. Perfecting these documents may require some extra help. A resume service strengthens documents for $100 to $200, depending on an individual's particular needs. Websites like ResumeMyCareer offer professional tricks for an overwhelmed post-graduate to master the new and necessary art of job finding.
Fitting Furnishings
An upgraded living environment is a huge source of comfort for a post-grad. Being surrounded by nice furnishings, whether in a childhood home or new apartment, calms the newly minted adult. Your gift doesn't need to be furniture or kitchen appliances, even a basket of high quality bed and bath products can be a welcome luxury for a recent grad.
Card Over Cash
CardAvenue.com is a useful site where post-graduates can select, from hundreds of merchants, the type of gift certificate they'd like to receive. Whether your post-grad selects a retail, grocery or gas card, he or she is bound to appreciate the more-tactful-than-cash offering. Staggering amounts of college loans are a grim reality for 2012 graduates, and every bit of savings counts.
A Dress for Success
Use your best judgment in selecting clothing depending on your grad's career ambitions, but barring a formal urban setting or an interest in a high-level position, a traditional suit is not necessarily expected at most interviews. For men, a dress shirt, tie, pants and matching shoes will do the trick. Women should opt for a modest skirt and blouse, tailored trousers or a demure dress.
Foreign Language Lessons
Given the current low employment rate, college graduates are competing against more qualified applicants than ever before. Acquiring mastery of a second language, particularly Spanish, is a desirable asset. Rosetta Stone is an affordable way to offer language lessons, but a GMAT review class geared toward higher education provides useful enrichment, as well.
Briefcase
Upon graduating, oversized totes and backpacks must make way for more professional briefcases. Treat your interviewing post-grad to a sophisticated, soft-sided briefcase to set him or her apart. Make sure there's room for a resume binder, laptop and some snacks for the road.
Smartphone
This may seem like an extravagant gift, but easy access to email and GPS navigation will ensure that your post-graduate does not miss an important opportunity. Associated apps, those fun and practical, don't hurt either.
