phd student gift

7 Best Gifts for PhD Students (By a PhD Student!)

My Top Pick: Care Package

Hi! I’m Chris. I’ve got a PhD, so I know allll about what it feels like to be going through the PhD process. I’ve listed some gift ideas I think would be great for a male or female PhD student. Here’s my list.

The best gift ideas for PhD students are:

• Care Package
• Messenger Bag
• PowerPoint Presentation Clicker & Laser Pointer
• Academic Career Guide Book
• Leather Bound Notebook

Looking for a Graduation Gift?

Best Gifts for PhD Students

1. care package.

Quick Review: A care package is best for a PhD student living away from home for college. Let them know you’re thinking about them and give them a bunch of study snacks!

Why a PhD Student would Like it:

A care package lets someone know you are thinking about them. It doesn’t have to be a special occasion for you to gift a care package – it’s great for a mid-winter pick-me-up. But, of course it’d also be a fitting gift for a birthday or Christmas, too. Care packages that have a range of snacks are great for students because we all like to snack while we study. I particularly like this CraveBox package as it’s much healthier than competitor. They have carefully picked out a diverse range of snacks that won’t show on the hips!

See my Full List of College Care Packages Here

2. Book Ends

Quick Review: PhD students read a lot of books. Brighten up their bookshelf with these classy bookends.

PhD students read books . A lot of books. When I was a PhD student I was going through about 3 books a week – philosophy, social sciences, methodologies, theories … books, books and more books. So bookends is a relevant and classy gift. They will also brighten up a doctoral student’s office or bookshelf. Do they seem like they need a little more decoration in their office? If so, here is the gift you’ll want to get!

3. Messenger Bag

Quick Review: PhD students are always carrying documents and textbooks around. Get them a classy messenger bag to brighten up their wardrobe.

A messenger bag is a popular style of bag for college students and professors (vis-a-vis Ted Moseby of  How I met your Mother ). Perhaps this is because college students and teachers are always carrying documents and textbooks around. If they’re also a teaching assistant, chances are they’ll be carrying around stacks of undergrad papers, too. If you like the idea of a messenger bag but want to shop different styles, check my full list of my favorite messenger bags for college students .

Related Post: Best Headphones for Studying at College

4. PowerPoint Presentation Clicker & Lader Pointer

Quick Review: PhD students give a lot of presentations. They present their research – but also give many lectures to undergrads. Get them a practical presentation clicker with laser pointer.

PhD students need to give presentations – and a lot of them. We have to give presentations about the progress of our research. Plus, we’re constantly asked to give guest lectures on our work to undergraduate students. Then, we go to conferences – where we do even more presentations.

A clicker helps you give your presentation as you can switch slides while walking around the stage. With this one, you can also use the lazer pointer to point out aspects of your presentation or slides that you want to highlight. It’s a great gadget for any PhD student (or professor, for that matter!).

5. Academic Career Guide Book

Quick Review: Getting an academic job after completing your PhD is incredibly difficult. There is 1 job for every 7 graduates. Give them a leg up with an advice book.

In the final year of my PhD, I spent a lot of time stressing about how I would get a job. This book helped me out hugely with tips on how to network and get a job. This book will help a PhD student fund out how to get a tenure-track position or a postdoc that will pay their way. It’s a book that can sit on the bookshelf and be browsed when needed.

6. Leather Bound Notebook

Quick Review: We’re always taking notes at meetings and conferences So get that PhD student a lovely leather bound notebook!

To be honest, I am always carrying around scruffy-looking $1.50 notebooks. I’d love a nice looking notebook like this instead. The great thing about this specific notebook is that it’s refillable – so I can fit those ugly $1.50 notebooks inside the leather binding and keep burning through them – while still having a classy looking notebook instead of my usual dog-eared notepads.

7. Funny Mug

Quick Review: There are tons of mugs out there with PhD themed quotes and images you can browse for, especially on Amazon. One example is below.

Let’s face it, most of us get through our PhD on a very healthy dose of coffee. Grab the PhD student a themed mug for them to place by their desk or in the office. And while you’re at it, why not head to your local coffee roaster and pair this mug gift with a bag of high-quality grinds.

Final Thoughts

I hope this list of the best gifts for PhD students has given you some inspiration! If you feel you’ve still not found quite the right gift, consider checking out my list of gift ideas for undergraduates . You could also consider a college board game .

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Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 15 Animism Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 10 Magical Thinking Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ Social-Emotional Learning (Definition, Examples, Pros & Cons)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ What is Educational Psychology?

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25 Practical Gifts for Grad & PhD Students in 2022

TheGiftYak curates unique gifts and is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission. Learn more .

You’re proud of your graduate and PhD students. Show them just how much you care, with gifts that are a bit fun and a bit practical. Whether they’re working on their dissertation or your doctoral students are simply elbows deep in research, you are sure to find just the right gift on a list that’s almost as smart as they are.

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Top 15 Best PhD Graduation Gifts in 2024

I found the very best PhD graduation gifts. Below, I’ll discuss each. This article includes specific PhD graduation gift recommendations. I did my best to include a little bit about why new doctors appreciate each, and I link to where you can find them.

Note that The Grad Cafe is supported by our audience, I regularly use affiliate links throughout. That means I could get a small commission when you order something on this list. Thanks for your support!

Ready to discuss PhD graduation gifts? Read on.

Table of Contents

You Can’t Go Wrong With…

If you’re at a loss thinking about what to buy a Ph.D. graduate as a present, you can’t go wrong with cash, checks, and gift cards.

There’s no denying that PhDs can be incredibly expensive. Just look at the data from EducationData.org , which states that federal graduate student borrowers have $91,148 average loan balances. It doesn’t matter if they earned their degree in person or online — debt is debt. Cutting a check for any amount can help a PhD graduate buy what they need (or want). They can also choose to pay the amount toward their debt.

Of course, giving cash or a check isn’t everyone’s idea of a good present. In that case, you can always give a gift card .

Amazon Gift Cards come in nice packaging, like this graduation gift box.

Amazon allows you to choose your gift card amount,  starting from $25 and going all the way up to $2,000. You can also send your gift card digitally if you’d rather skip the box altogether.

On Amazon, you can also choose gift cards from specific brands. For example, if you’d like to give the gift of tech, you can opt for an Apple gift card between $25-$500. And if you’re looking for PhD graduation gifts for her , try a Sephora gift card  between $25-$250.

Buy a Graduation-Themed Amazon Gift Card

Buy an Apple Gift Card

Buy a Sephora Gift Card

15 Best PhD Graduation Gifts [2024]

Check out these unique, fun gift ideas for a doctoral graduate near and dear to your heart!

1. A Care Package – CRAVEBOX Gourmet Specialty Snack Box

Care packages are an excellent yet practical way to show you care. The CRAVEBOX Gourmet Specialty Snack Box is a 50-piece collection of gourmet snack samplers.

Why a PhD Graduate Would Like It:

Unless your recipient is a picky eater, they’re bound to like something in this package. After all, who wouldn’t want to try new types of snacks? They might even find their new favorite snack in this box!

Of course, you may want to ask about food sensitivities and preferences before choosing a box like this.

Buy the CRAVEBOX Gourmet Specialty Snack Box

2. Presentation Clicker and Pointer – Logitech R500s

The Logitech R500s is a presentation pointer and clicker that works from a 65ft range(20m). It has a red laser and customizable buttons. The R500s connects via a USB dongle/receiver, but it’s also universally compatible, including with Bluetooth.

PhD graduates, especially ones going into an academic or research-based career , will have to give a lot of presentations. A good clicker like this can make their presentations go more smoothly.

Buy the Logitech R500s

3. RocketBook Smart Reusable Notebook Set

The RocketBook has been around for a while, but it’s still a pretty cool product all around. RocketBooks are essentially notebooks with special pages that let you scan and digitally convert notes. They come in various sizes and have reusable pages if you use the Pilot Frixion pen. That’s a win for the planet!

PhD graduates will likely write a lot  of notes in their lifetime. The RocketBook blends old-school handwritten notes with technology, allowing easily scannable and text-convertible notes with the app’s OCR (optical character recognition) feature. Some may find this gift a novelty, but it’s a great way to help the environment!

Buy the RocketBook Smart Reusable Notebook Set

4. Boogie Board Basics Reusable Writing Pad

The Boogie Board is a reusable writing pad for quick notes and reminders at work or home. You can use anything to write on it, as long as it has a dull pointy end. This board is good for 50,000 resets (board clears) — endless use!

This is one of the coolest gift ideas for PhD graduates because it reduces desk clutter and wasted paper.

Buy the Boogie Board Basics Reusable Writing Pad

5 . Mechanical Pencil + Stylus: rOtring 800+

This rOtring mechanical pencil and stylus hybrid lets you switch seamlessly from paper to screen. It’s a well-designed writing instrument that prevents writing fatigue thanks to its hexagonal barrel.

This mechanical pen and stylus combo is one of the best PhD graduation gifts for students . For many, pencils are the writing instrument of choice. rOtring is a known and reliable pencil brand, so there’s no doubt it will provide an enjoyable writing experience — and it’s a breeze to use!

Buy the rOtring 800+ Mechanical Pencil and Stylus

6. Hobonichi Techo 5-Year Diary

The Hobonichi Techo is a well-known planner/diary loved for its sheer quality and flexibility. The Hobonichi Techo 5-Year Diary allows the user to plan and organize up to five years of their lives.

The Hobonichi Techo 5-Year Diary offers PhD graduates an easy way to keep track of their appointments and events — especially if they prefer pen and paper to phone apps.

Buy the Hobonichi Techo 5-Year Diary

7. HidrateSpark PRO Smart Steel Water Bottle

The HidrateSpark PRO Smart Steel Water Bottle keeps you hydrated with its reminder glow. You can even track your water intake through its free app and customize the bottle’s glow lights and light patterns. The best part? It keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours!

The HidrateSpark PRO bottle makes a great gift for a PhD graduate, especially if they are so busy that they forget to take care of themselves. Dehydration is no joke!

Buy the HidrateSpark PRO Smart Steel Water Bottle

8. Leather Briefcase and Laptop Bag by KomalC

This leather briefcase and laptop bag uses buffalo leather and durable YKK zippers to ensure years and years of use. It fits laptops without being too bulky while still having plenty of room for files, folders, and notebooks.

This KomalC leather briefcase is a high-quality bag a PhD graduate can take with them anywhere. It’s roomy and protects their laptops and important items without being too bulky or uncomfortable.

Buy the Leather Briefcase and Laptop Bag by KomalC

9. Custom Engraved Steel Business Card Case

This beautiful two-tone business card case holds up to 15 business cards. It comes with free personalization, allowing three text lines with up to 25 characters for each line.

PhD graduates often carry business cards. So why not have a nice, engraved case to keep them all in great condition until it’s time to hand them out?

Buy the Custom Engraved Steel Business Card Case

10. Mechanical Retro Style Flip Clock

This retro-style flip clock has a minimalistic design while still displaying the time down to the minute. It has a durable stainless steel frame and ABS plastic cards to ensure longevity. However, it has delicate inner mechanisms, so it’s not the best gift for someone with cats or young children.

This gift is a great conversation starter for your PhD recipient!

Buy the Mechanical Retro Style Flip Clock

11. Sonic Bomb Alarm Clock with Bed Shaker

This alarm clock was made for those who sleep through just about any other alarm. It comes with a shaker that users can put underneath their pillow (or anywhere else where it would make a racket) so the vibrations will wake them up when the alarm rings.

This Sonic Bomb Alarm Clock with Bed Shaker is one of the best PhD graduation gifts for students who sleep like the dead. This alarm clock might help the recipient avoid tardiness, though their sleeping partner might not appreciate it so much!

Buy the Sonic Bomb Alarm Clock with Bed Shaker

12. FlexiSpot Laptop Desk Riser

This laptop desk riser is 27×19 inches — a relatively large desk surface when raised. It has five adjustment settings from 1.8 to 15.9 inches. This Flexispot product allows the user to turn any surface into a standing desk. Make sure you also check the Best Desks for Students .

Sitting all day while working is detrimental to your health. This laptop desk riser is an excellent choice for PhD graduates who spend way too much time at their workstations. And if they don’t want to stand, even the slight elevation of gaze reduces neck strain and back pain.

Buy the FlexiSpot Laptop Desk Riser .

*You can also add the FlexiSpot Anti-Fatigue Mat .

13. FlexiSpot EN1 Electric Height Adjustable Standing Desk

The En1 electric height adjustable desk has a 55×28 inch table top for a spacious work area. It runs quietly while adjusting height smoothly. Users can set the table’s height between 28-47.6 inches. It supports up to 154 lbs, which accommodates even the heaviest workloads.

The EN1 makes is a great PhD graduation gift for the same reason a laptop riser would — it helps your PhD graduate to stand more often, minimizing stress and back pain. This fully electric desk is also quite convenient, without requiring manual adjustments. What better way to kick off your graduate’s high-paying PhD job  than a fabulous new desk?

Buy the FlexiSpot EN1 Electric Height Adjustable Standing Desk

14. Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Canceling Headphones

The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are legendary for great audio quality, comfort, and portability (they fold up to a smaller profile when not in use). It offers ANC (active noise cancellation) and even has built-in Alexa voice control.

If you want to give the gift of peace and focus, this pair of headphones is an incredible choice. While this one’s pricey, you can find other ANC headphones that are more affordable. The XM4s also have a newer version, the XM5 (but these don’t fold up into a smaller profile).

Buy the Sony WH-1000XM4 Noise Canceling Headphones

15. Microsoft Surface Go 3

The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is a tablet that can replace a laptop. It runs on Windows, has a touch screen and decent battery life, and works with a stylus. You can also charge it with a power bank if you run out of juice.

The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is an excellent and pragmatic PhD graduation gift for students because of its productivity capabilities, including responding to emails and word processing. And, of course, it also works well for entertainment purposes. Save this for a loved one — it’s pricy!

Buy the Microsoft Surface Go 3

How Much Should You Spend on PhD Graduation Gifts?

The cost of your PhD gift depends on your relationship with the graduate. It can be anywhere from $10-$300, or maybe even more if you wish — but never spend more than you can afford. Here’s a general guide for how much you might want to spend:

• Acquaintances : <$30
• Friends : $25-$50
• Closest friends and relatives: $50-$100
• Significant others, children, and close loved ones: $100-$300+

Avoid superfluously expensive gifts for people you aren’t close with — that’ll just make them uncomfortable!

Finishing a doctorate is no easy feat — even the online PhDs  take endless hours to complete. Bottom line? Graduating with a PhD is a cause for celebration! And what better way to celebrate your new PhD-holder loved one than with a thoughtful present ?

PhD graduation gifts don’t have to be expensive or luxurious. They can be something as simple as a mug or a shirt with a witty PhD-related message. Doctorate graduation gifts can even be sentimental, like an engraved business card case.

If someone you know recently achieved a PhD (or even an MBA ), this list of the best graduation gifts for PhD students might offer some gift inspiration.

It can be challenging to come up with ideas for PhD graduation gifts, but there’s always a fantastic option out there waiting for you. But remember: if you can’t come up with any ideas that feel right, everyone loves cash or gift cards!

Do you have any other PhD graduation gift suggestions? Leave them in a comment below!

Frequently Asked Questions

What do you give a phd graduate.

The perfect PhD graduation gifts for doctoral graduates depend on your preference — unless the recipient specifically requests something. Cash, checks, and gift cards are popular options but may seem impersonal. Instead, you might give the graduate something pragmatic, like food, or something heartfelt, like a craft. Of course, the 15 suggestions on this list are also great PhD gifts.

What Are Good PhD Graduation Gifts for a University Graduate?

It truly depends — you can give something generic like a mug or shirt with a witty PhD-related saying or something more aligned with your recipient’s interest if you know them well.

What Is the Going Rate for PhD Graduation Gifts?

It really depends on your relationship with the recipient. Gifts can cost anywhere from $10-$300 and sometimes even more. If you’re more an acquaintance than a loved one, choose something on the lower price end to avoid making the recipient uncomfortable.

Is it OK to Give a Check as a PhD Graduation Gift?

Absolutely! Although some people may find checks or cash impersonal, a PhD graduate could probably use the money. After all, they can put it toward student loans or buy something they really need.

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5 Ways To Work While Studying And Get Ahead Of The Competition

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Chriselle Sy

Chriselle has been a passionate professional content writer for over 10 years. She writes educational content for The Grad Cafe, Productivity Spot, The College Monk, and other digital publications.  When she isn't busy writing, she spends her time streaming video games and learning new skills.

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The Savvy Scientist

Experiences of a London PhD student and beyond

Gifts for a PhD Student

Wondering what could be the perfect present for a friend, family member or colleague who are working towards a PhD? Choosing gifts for a PhD student can be tricky, we’re often living in shared houses with limited personal space and there are only so many novelty mugs a person can store!

Whether it’s to celebrate passing their viva, a special occasion or simply to show that you care, here are a few of my favourite suggestions.

Experience Gifts

I’m a big fan of gifting experiences rather than ‘things’ and I believe they are particularly well suited to those early on in their PhD, as a lot of students may be fairly new to the place they’re now studying. PhD stipends only stretch so far, so gifting experiences can be a great way to build memories for those with limited disposable income.

When I lived in London during my PhD I always asked my family for gift vouchers for experiences. This allowed me to visit escape rooms, walk over the O2, go for afternoon tea and see some fantastic West End shows (courtesy of Love Theatre vouchers).

Experiences can be varied to fit every personality type and some may also allow you to support great causes at the same time, such as Migrateful cooking classes for those in London, Bristol or Brighton.

Tripadvisor is a great place for finding ideas for activities. Groupon can also be handy place to check for deals, just make sure that any restrictions on dates/times won’t be an issue.

Subscription Gifts

Lots of us sign up for subscriptions these days, whether for the obligatory Netflix or for various apps. If you’re stuck for a gift for a PhD student why not offer to pay for a few months of a subscription to their favourite apps?

Some ideas for app subscriptions:

• Super Duolingo for language learners
• Headspace or other mindfulness and meditation apps which could come in handy with managing stress during a PhD

Relaxing Gifts

It’s always nice to have a break from work and a voucher for a massage or spa day could provide much needed relaxation. I’d again suggest using Tripadvisor to find recommendations and try to find a deal through Groupon.

Check with the giftee whether they’d be able to attend mid-week. If so you may be able to get more for your money with an off-peak rate and they’ll find it easier to relax with fewer people around.

A PhD student can never have too much food, particularly if it’s quick to prepare or readily available for snacking. Food gifts are brilliant for every budget and here are a few of my favourite suggestions.

Brownies by Post

My partner recently went on the hunt for the best vegan brownies and came across the Best Ever Brownie Company. I can attest that their brownies are absolutely delicious and everyone I’ve sent them to has loved them.

If you know your PhD student well then a gift hamper can be a lovely way to show that you care.

Hampers put together by someone you know can be a fun way to try out things you wouldn’t normally have seen. For Christmas/birthdays by Dad has started giving a selection of new vegan foods he finds and they’re always appreciated. If in doubt pick a theme and roll with it. For my sister’s birthday I recently made up a shoe-box sized hamper with American treats all themed around rainbow sprinkles!

If you don’t live nearby you can also find some lovely hampers online from companies such as:

• Social Supermarket
• Fortnum & Mason

Whether homemade or shop bought I think hampers make great gifts for a PhD student.

Healthy Ready Meals

If you’re keen to gift more substantial meals then COOK and Mindful Chef are two options. Both allow you to buy gift vouchers which your recipient can use to buy whatever they fancy.

I’ve gifted COOK vouchers to several friends and family members and the meals feel home cooked and are very tasty. Do check whether your giftee lives near a store, as if not they’ll probably want to order several items in one go and as such will need a fair bit of freezer space. Therefore COOK vouchers may not as suitable for those living in house shares.

I haven’t personally tried Mindful Chef ready meals, although I have tried several of the recipe boxes, but they look like a fantastic choice for anyone looking for quick and healthy meals.

Takeaway Voucher

If you’re keen to get a food gift but not sure what’s best then a takeaway gift voucher could be the perfect solution. Just Eat do gift vouchers and they’re sure to go down well.

Educational Gifts

PhD students are by nature very curious and plenty will be keen to expand their knowledge beyond their particular field. I’m personally always keen to learn more about the world so anything which helps me expand my horizons goes down favourably.

Subscription to a Learning Platform

Brilliant – Provides interactive courses to help people expand their knowledge of concepts within Maths, Computer Science, Data Analysis, Programming, Science and Engineering. Subscriptions start from a three month period.

Nebula – Nebula has advert-free educational videos and podcasts from over 150 Youtube content creators. Some of the videos on the platform are also available to watch on Youtube with ads, but there are around 60 original shows on the platform as well.

Subscription to Kiwi Crate

If you’re keen to gift a physical present then a subscription to Kiwi Crate could be a lovely idea.

For those who like working with their hands the Eureka Crate is a great way to build skills and explore engineering in a fun and immersive way. Who wouldn’t want to build their own desk lamp? They also do Maker crates for those with an artistic side.

Practical Gifts

So far nearly everything on our list has involved either experiences or consumables, but there are a few practical gifts which could be of great benefit to a PhD student and not take up too much space.

Whether it’s for keeping water cool or keeping coffee hot, a drink container will always come in handy. It could also help with minimising costs if drinks are prepared at home and then taken into uni.

Macbook Air Laptop

A recommendation of a £1000 laptop probably isn’t going to be applicable for most readers. However, if you’re a family member looking to spend money on a computer for someone starting a PhD I can highly recommend MacBook Airs. These days almost all software can run on both PC and Mac and even the M1 MacBook Air which is now several years old is more than powerful enough for most people.

Be sure to make use of Apple’s educational discount for up to 10% off.

Moleskine Notebook & Fisher Space Pen

Notebooks always come in handy, so why not gift your PhD student one at the top of the range. Combine a moleskine notebook with a fisher space pen and you’ve got the perfect way to keep experiment notes orderly and neat.

Moleskine notebooks are vegan, come in a range of colours and you can even pay extra for personalisation. Fisher space pens were originally designed for use in zero gravity and can be used upside down, underwater and at extreme temperatures. Perfect for all kinds of science-ing!

For those who don’t own one already an e-reader is a great way to get back into reading. I personally found reading to be a great way to take a break from my PhD . E-readers such as a Kindle are light and easy to pop in a bag!

Through Project Gutenberg you can access loads of classic books for free and if you opt for a Kindle there are often Amazon offers available for 99p books.

Novelty Gifts

If you are keen to get your PhD student a novelty gift I’d recommend buying a handmade item from a small business on Etsy. I’m a big fan of getting something practical such as a notebook, mug, keyring, chopping board etc.

Just make sure to check where it ships from – I typically filter so that only businesses in the UK are shown.

Here are a few of the potential gifts for a PhD student that I found in just a few minutes of browsing:

• Atoms to Astronauts – STEM mugs and notebooks
• Science Scribbles – Enamel pins and stickers
• My Mini Laboratory – Microscope keyrings and virus planters
• Chemistree Crafts – Wide selection of scientific jewellery, including conical flask earrings
• Bakerology – Science themed cookie cutters – who wouldn’t want to eat a neuron shaped cookie?!

Charitable Donations

Q: What do you get for the person who has everything?

A: A gift for someone else!

It can be hard to know what to get someone when they say there’s nothing that they want, but if your giftee would truly prefer to not receive a gift then make a charitable donation on their behalf.

Choose a charity or cause which is close to their heart and you’ll have a meaningful gift which provides benefit to others as well.

Top Tips on Buying Gifts for a PhD Student

• If your PhD student is short on space stick to gifting an experience or a consumable item
• Everyone needs to eat, so food gifts can be a great safe choice for PhD students
• Feeling stuck for what to buy? Ask! Some people enjoy surprises and others will prefer to set strict guidelines for present buying. I’m very frank and honest with my own family now around receiving gifts as I’m fairly minimalist and don’t like receiving anything I won’t use.
• Short on money? Why not make something homemade. Cupcakes in particular can be a quick and easy gift and are always sure to go down well.

Do you have any other suggestions for gifts for a PhD student or graduate? Are there any gifts you received during your own PhD which you really valued? Let me know in the comments!

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I've been looking for a 100% cotton lab coat for our team for a while and could never find one that was well-designed until now. These coats are exceptional in every way, from the tapered cuffs to stop material from going down your sleeve to the perfect number of pockets to the option of having either a standard lapel collar or popping them up to have a high band look. The material is also high-quality. Anyone who is required to wear a lab coat needs one of these.

And surprisingly traps less heat than other lab coats. I hate sweating under my lab coat.

Pockets are great, fit is amazing, fabric doesn't irritate me. Absolutely worth the investment.

I placed my order in August of 2023. All of the waiting and updates were worth it. This is truly a lab coat made by scientists FOR scientists. The Curie Lab Coat is the one I shall use forever. Derek and his team are fantastic people!

This is the first lab coat I've worn that feels made for me (I guess it was) and not something my pharmacist/optometrist/butcher could have easily picked. It fits like a glove - probably the most comfortable glove you've ever worn and which you can also adjust. I love all the little details that went into the final model, from the knit cuffs to the carefully designed pockets. The fabric is robust, but not restrictive and it does inspire a sense of safety. I can't wait to discover what will go into version 2.0, great job guys!

So happy with my new lab coat. The material quality is superb, all the features are super useful. Love the buttons, how easy it is to close it up and open it when needed. The side zippers are my favourite thing, easy acces to my pants pockets. After the sleeve cuffs, no more dipping sleeves in solutions ahaha. It is very comfortable to wear. Every person who works in a lab should have one definately, a real game changer in my opinion. Thank you for starting this project and making it a real!

What more can I say than: perfect labcoat ! Pockets everywhere, a fitted waist, sleeves with cuffs, what more could you ask for ! The only downside is that they run a little small !

I was verypleased with the service I received from this business. They went above and beyond to help me with anything that I needed within quick time. The lab coat fits perfectly and is of good quality 10/10.

Really good quality and amazing customer service, highly recommend!!

I'll be honest. I wanted to become a scientist in part for wearing the lab coat. Low and behold, almost nobody in academia wears lab coats. That being said, I believe I started a trend at my university as everyone loves wearing this lab coat. It's very convenient, it looks nice, and I get great complements. Two teachers even asked me where I got mine (sorry, but unless you change that chem 141 grade to an A, this secret stays with me.)

Gifted this sign and the person loved it.

Excellent material, nicely cut. Would totally recommend.

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74 Gifts for PhD Students to Keep Them Going

PhD students lead a unique life. Equal parts intellectually stimulating and exhausting, the pursuit of advanced knowledge is a path in life that very few people are suited for. This makes finding the perfect gift for a graduate student quite difficult.

While the ideal gift will depend on their own interests, PhD students have a few things in common that helps to narrow down the field—their overflowing thirst for knowledge and their overwhelming lack of time for anything outside of their studies. With these characteristics in mind, we’ve selected some of the most practical yet still thoughtful gifts for PhD students below, so now you don’t have to undertake PhD-level research to find the perfect present.

Your favorite Ph.D. students will be glad to have this Adjustable Vented Laptop. It's multifunctional; they can use it as a bed tray, a regular study table, and more. It features cooling holes for ventilation, an ergonomic design to keep them relaxed, and also Auto-Lock Joint that makes it adjustable to their desired angle. It is easy to fold when not in use, and is portable. Plus, pure Aluminum Alloy is what makes it; thus, it is lightweight yet sturdy.

If you're looking for practical presents for Ph.D. students, you might find these Telescoping Document Tubes interesting. With this, your dear gift recipient will never have to worry about transporting their essential documents to places. It has a twist lid with a reusable snap cap and label which helps identify the file inside. Its size is adjustable from 24.5 to 40 inches, and they can lock it to maintain their preferred size. Plus, it's water resistant to secure the content.

Moleskine Classic Hard Cover Notebook makes for a timeless present for any Ph.D. students. This notebook is fantastic for many students, professionals, and artists. Using it to write their notes and thoughts, and even drawing or sketching feels terrific. Its elastic closure and sturdy cover make it look sleek and desirable. Plus, the paper's quality is super likable. Moleskin comes in different types - dotted, lined, unlined, and graph paper - you can choose whatever suits your gift recipient.

Your gift recipient is sure to like this Philips Wake-Up Light Alarm Clock a lot. Unlike other bedside light or alarm clocks, it features progressive lighting effects that simulate the way the sun rises and sets. This gradual light change helps set a good mood each time a person wakes up or prepares to sleep. With just a tap, you can snooze it. Its brightness is adjustable, so it also makes an excellent study lamp. Oh! This product looks beautiful!

Keep them inspired and motivated with this coloring book for adults. Coloring can be a great way to ease stress and tension, which is ideal for Ph.D. students who work and study hard to succeed in their chosen path. It features brilliant designs and excellent calligraphy that aid in keeping a person's spirits high. Coloring this book's lovely pages is an activity that lifts the mood and, is, therefore, worth the time and effort.

Ph.D. students spend their time in their study room for doing research, reading, writing, and many more. They need things that will help boost their confidence or something that will spark inspiration. Their study area or even personal space needs to be delightful. You might want to contribute in that regard with these encouraging posters. This gift will help them feel fantastic in whatever they do. Plus, each sign has a bright background to add pop to wherever you place it.

Your beloved Ph.D. students will positively appreciate this Stainless Steel Mug by Zojirushi. It is guaranteed never to leak, plus it is lightweight, which means that they can put it in their bags confidently and comfortably. They want coffee anytime, anywhere? That is made possible with this fantastic mug since it's useful in keeping the beverage warm. If they prefer cold drinks, it works as excellent in keeping liquid cool for hours, too. It comes in four different appealing colors.

Although Ph.D. students are hard-working people, they take a break, too. Most of them do other fun activities, while some enjoy drinking beer. If your gift recipients like beer, also, surprise them with this Brooklyn Brew Shop Everyday IPA Beer Making Kit. With this, they can make their beer at home! Haven't they experienced brewing beer yet? That's fine. This kit is a perfect starter. It comes with a glass fermenter, ingredients, and brew equipment.

The students who study hard are likely to keep their study room clean and organized. That said, any gift that will help make their room tidy will be appreciated. Say this Hall Tree Coat and Hat Rack. They can hang their bags, hats, and coats in this beautiful rack, made of black walnut wood, instead of placing these things on the couch or just anywhere in their room. It looks gorgeous, so it makes a lovely room décor, too.

If they have been drinking hot coffee, tea, or chocolate drink to help keep their senses active, add a bit of fun to that with this playful White Ceramic Mug. Get it personalized to match your Ph.D. student's chosen field. The print reads: Please Do Not Confuse Your Google Search With My Law Degree, and the "Law Degree" is what you can request to get replaced with your gift recipient's degree. This idea is sure to make them smile every time.

Or you might prefer to get them this Ph Diva Mug to inspire them to keep going until they graduate and become real Ph.D. Divas. It is a high-quality mug imprinted to look stylish and inspiring. The print is guaranteed never to fade regardless of the number of times it gets washed. It's sturdy and is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. Do they want to prepare a warm snack using it? That is fine; it's microwave safe, too.

Do they prefer to listen to music while they study or work on their papers? Keep them entertained with this Bedside Lamp by Ampulla that will not only allow them to listen to their playlist, but this will also ensure that their phone won't die on them as they study. It features wireless charging. It's even better that it also functions as a bedside lamp. Plus, its design is so beautiful that it makes an ideal addition to their decor.

Despite the availability of digital reminders, planners, and calendars on smartphones and computers, many hard-working students and professionals prefer to have their planners on their desk, be able to write their notes and make changes using their favorite pens. You might want to get them a Passion Planner Pro. They can also use this to write their daily reflection if that motivates them. This gift is a gentle reminder to keep going for their passions.

The life of Ph.D. students can be very challenging. They have to exert much time and effort to achieve their short-term and long-term goals. They may get stressed out sometimes, or even feel a muscle tension. That said, they will be very grateful to receive gifts that will help them relieve pain and anxiety. This EDGE Cupping Therapy Sets will be of great help for sure. It comes with suction cups made of silicone that are effective for cupping system.

Others prefer this Thera Cane Massager than the cupping system, although both work very well in easing muscle pains and aches in different body parts. This item is especially ideal for when they spend time doing activities that require hard work. With this, they can be their massager; less travel, less cost.

It is necessary for hardworking students to ensure that space, where they work, has an inviting and relaxing ambiance. Having a scented candle like this one by Chesapeake Bay Candle allows them to take pleasure in aromatherapy, and make use of the warm light it provides. This specific candle promotes harmony and balance, which are just two of the things that Ph.D. students need.

If your gift recipients prefer their candles unscented rather than those which gives aromatic scent, then consider giving them Hosley's Unscented Glass Votive Candles. Hosley set comes with 12 clear glass, hand-poured candles. Hosley guarantees that they make their products well from materials of premium quality. Each candle looks nice, which makes it ideal for table lighting.

Most students appreciate listening to their favorite songs while studying or preparing their reports. Others like portable speakers, while some prefer to use headphones. If your favorite Ph.D. students like headphones, too, surprise them with this Samsung Level U Pro Wireless In-ear Headphones to match their Samsung Galaxy gadgets. It's not only stylish, but it also guarantees crisp sound quality for the superior listening experience.

TaoTronics LED Desk Lamp is ideal for studying as it's designed to provide the light that you can adjust to either brighten or dim to protect your eyes. With a lighting system that illuminates sideways to lessen eyestrain and glare, it indeed promotes eye-care, which can be vital for those people who often study until late at night. It features touch control for easy changing of modes. Despite its thin body, it is guaranteed durable since the aluminum alloy is what makes it.

Padfolios like the ones by Stylio allow the students and professionals to bring their essential stuff and documents conveniently and in style. A Stylio Padfolio has an easy-access pocket, paper, pad, and business card holders, and a pen loop. It is handy and is also an excellent alternative for big bags. It is even made sleek with its accent stitching and matte faux leather.

The Ph.D. students you are planning to give gifts to surely spend most of their time sitting in front of their laptop for studying and doing research. They need back support to ensure that they keep themselves comfortable as well as lessen the possibility of developing back pain. Perhaps this Lumbar Support System Cushion by BDK would suffice.

If you would love them to feel relaxed with a cozy chair designed to lessen discomfort than just a mere mesh back supports, then check out this Ignition 2.0 Mid-Back Adjustable Lumbar Work Chair by HON. Its Lumbar Support is adjustable. It has an advanced tilt system, plus the arms that you can also adjust to your desired height and width. Your dear Ph.D. student will feel incredible with this.

Help make their study life more comfortable with this Air Pen Scanner by Scanmarker. With the help of this smart study equipment, they no longer need to write or copy what's on any book literally; they can scan it to reflect on their smartphones or laptops. And not only that, because this device is so smart, it can translate texts in other languages to English as you scan. It's small and portable; students can study and scan wherever they are.

Nothing surpasses handwritten notes when it comes to notetaking. If your Ph.D. student gift recipient is a pen-and-paper kind of person, here's a solution that combines standard notes with technology. Livescribe Echo Smartpen will amaze anyone. It digitizes written notes which means that whatever you write on the paper, you will see on your computer with one tap as soon as you get it connected. Plus, it records what you say as you write and allows you to playback.

Here is the accompaniment of Livescribe smart pens - a set of Livescribe Notebooks. Each comes with 100 pages for writing notes and two pockets for your other loose-leaf handwritten notes. You will get all four different colors - orange, dark blue, black, and red.

This Lunch Bag with Insulated Cooler makes an ideal addition to your favorite Ph.D. students' life. It's a perfect way to ensure that they wouldn't let themselves starve while studying hard. This lunch bag is unique for its features and functional design. They'll get a stylish bag that has several compartments, one insulated for bottles, one for three meals, and one on top for extra dinner or snacks. It also has sturdy zippers, and mesh pockets both inside and outside.

This Hip Flask Gift Set makes for an elegant gift. It's perfect for surprising anyone who appreciates beautifully-designed flasks. This one comes in gorgeous packaging. Open it up and see the classy black velvet bed where the refined bottle and funnel lay. It works great as one of the extraordinary gifts for Ph.D. students and is definitely worth purchasing. It shows the engraved note, "WELL DESERVED." You trust their capabilities so much that you can greet them this way in advance.

The act of inspiring students is a great thing to do. It's to remind them that after hard work comes a bright future. They may not have finished studying yet, but this Ph.D. Apron will remind them of their goal - achieve their degree. This apron also makes an ideal gift for the ones who like to cook food for themselves and their families. It's right Ph.D. students must concentrate on their studies, but it's also nice to do something fun sometimes.

The ones who study hard deserve a pair of socks with a PhD-degree quality like this SmartWool Women's Ph.D. Outdoor Light Pattern Mid Crew. Made with ultra-fine Merino Wool, it allows a super comfortable and revolutionary fit. These socks are ultimately durable to last long. If your gift recipients find outdoor activities perfect for relaxation and recreation, these socks make for a suitable gift for them.

A lot of Ph.D. students study at home. One of the factors to consider when buying gifts for them would be their comfort. You might want to get them these Classic Memory Foam Plush House Slippers. These are perfect for everyone - men and women. Made of 5% Spandex and 95% Cotton, and with a layer of memory foam and elastic sponge, these are breathable plush slippers that will provide extreme comfort to hardworking students at home.

If you would like to add a unique accessory to their collection, you should consider getting a decent and stylish messenger bag just like this one by Estarer. They will find this useful, especially for bringing their laptop and other important stuff with them. When it rains, no worries. The maker uses canvas to create this bag so that it is water resistant. It is durable to last long.

Have you been trying to find a special gift for your favorite Ph.D. student? You have just found an excellent idea! Check out this uncommon Folded Book Art that shows Ph.D. It's a hit to anyone who is studying towards getting their dream degree. This item makes a suitable gift and is perfect for displaying at home for drawing inspiration. They will surely treasure this for the years to come.

If you are planning to surprise those that are working on their thesis, you might want to give them something that will help them. Say a book. The Unwritten Rules of Ph.D. The research will open their eyes and mind to the scholarly world. They will realize that there are a lot more ways to succeed in their aspirations of becoming a degree holder.

Or if you want to guide them so that they would know what to do and how to do things right for their dissertation, you might want to opt for this book instead: How to Write an Exceptional Thesis or Dissertation. A thesis should not hold them back. There must be lots of ways and tips to ensure their success on this matter. Give them this gift, and they will receive not a little book, but great insight about research.

For the artistic Ph.D. students in your life who are fond of writing on their journals and adding a creative touch on to their planners, here is a delightful surprise: Fine-Point Colored Pens. These pens won't cause bleeding through pages. They are guaranteed to write super nicely. Get that vibrant detail in your head added on your notes with the use of these fine-tip pens that are undoubtedly high in quality yet less costly.

Students and professionals often stick their notes on the boards or wherever they can easily see their reminders. In this regard, Post-it Notes have always been reliable in holding securely and leaving no marks when removed. A set of these bright and colorful sticky notes makes for a useful present.

For those who study Chemistry, this Periodic Table of Elements Shower Curtain is something they would love to see at home, in the shower room. In case they have not yet mastered memorizing all the elements, then they can get themselves familiar with everything in the table while taking a shower. It is made of polyester and is waterproof.

For those fun Ph.D. students who undoubtedly study seriously, but would love some fun, too, they will be very appreciative of this "Coffee. Thesis. Nap. Repeat." Hoodie. Anyone who sees them wearing this will know what has been keeping them busy. No questions asked.

Help them get that perfect hair they have wanted to have with this Perfect Hair Day (Ph.D.) Shampoo. It is another fun gift that will not only make them smile but will also let them feel having cleaner hair. This shampoo is undoubtedly ideal for all hair types.

Doesn't it look so smart drinking your favorite wine from this Beaker Wine Glass? This item would trigger nostalgia of spending time at the lab for working on experiments. That is just one of the so many activities that some Ph.D. students must have experienced. This glass shows a visible measurement that they can use to determine how much wine they'd love to indulge.

Your Ph.D. student must be very familiar with the Math formulas etched in this pint clear drinking glass. This gift will surely make them smile remembering those days when they either struggled or feel successful in solving math problems. This transparent drinking glass made from premium materials is perfect for everyone.

Although working on obtaining the Ph.D. Degree is a serious matter, this Ph.D. Definition Picture Frame is sure to make your Ph.D. student smile. Get this ready for their not-yet-scheduled graduation. It is a kind of assurance that they can do it; they shall make it. Soon, they can have their favorite Ph.D. photo showcased in this lovely frame. You get can this frame personalized with their name or your short message for them.

For the lovely Ph.D. students who are still working their way to success, this CafePress Ph.D. Tote Bag makes for an adorable present. They can use it to shop in style when they have time and be able to show everyone around what these students are up to - they are working hard to obtain their degree.

Do you want a fun and pleasant gift for your Ph.D. students? These Retro Floppy Disk Coasters are silicone items. They are designed to look like those floppy disks that were popular in the 90s'. Your gift recipients can surely relate to this gift idea and would love that a set of these coasters come in six different playful colors- neon green, red, sky blue, yellow, black, and pink. These novelty coasters are non-slip.

A part of the Ph.D. Students' academic life comprises of books including the big ones. That is why this Throw Pillow Cushion Cover makes for a fantastic addition to their study room or personal space. This pillowcase is from pure cotton linen. It's designed with a hidden zipper and with a print that won't fade.

These decorative Live Succulent Plants in Ceramic Planters are perfect for surprising anyone, especially those Ph.D. students who appreciate the beauty of nature. Let the natural beauty of these tiny plants help them get their minds refreshed. These low-maintenance, fleshy plants grow perfectly in direct sunlight. If you're not much impressed with white planters, you can choose from black and blush colors instead.

Now you can indicate your message on a beautiful clock so that it will be seen and read every time they check the time. You can personalize this beautiful Glass Block Clock by Things Remembered with short notes that the maker will engrave on the rectangular silver plate on the clock's front side. This item makes an elegant gift for a Ph.D. student.

For the Ph.D. students who often attend meetings or activities that require them to dress up, here is a suitable present - a set of Woven Classic Stripe Men's Necktie and Pocket Square. The soft necktie is dense and elastic, which is ideal for a perfect knot. It has a beautiful texture and looks very appealing. Your handsome gift recipient will certainly be grateful for this idea.

If they study at night, and they tend to get distracted by every type of noise, they may get troubled even by the ticking of the clock. But a clock is something that every household has on their wall. It would be better to have one that doesn't tick at all; one that functions silently. Surprise them with this Decorative Non-Ticking Quartz Wall Clock. It's lightweight, and it doesn't have a glass. It comes in different neutral yet attractive colors.

There will always be instances where we have to make a decision. Sometimes decision-making can be so hard. It happens to students, too, especially to Ph.D. students who already have lots of priorities in life. It would be smart to give them a paperweight which wouldn't only help keep their files and documents in place, but will also help them decide for when they really can't make up their mind.

For all those nights that they need to keep themselves awake to study for exams or to work on their thesis, a coffee maker would be very helpful. This Hamilton Beach Stainless Steel Coffee Maker offers two different ways of brewing your favorite coffee. You either prepare a single serve brew for yourself with ground coffee or a full pot if you think that you need more than just a regular cup.

But if they prefer cold brew than the hot blends, then they will be delighted to receive this Bean Envy Cold Brew, Coffee Maker. It is a 32-ounce Carafe that comes with a microdot filter made of stainless steel for a smooth-textured drink, and a cap made of silicone for keeping the beverage fresh.

You might want to complete your gift of the coffee maker with a pack of this Peet's Ground Coffee. You will only roast the best beans which guarantee a rich and satisfying flavor. Peet's Coffee's rich taste compare with the high-end brands well known in the market. Help keep their senses awake when you offer this Peetnik Pack to them as a gift.

Made with premium-quality Borosilicate Glass, this sophisticated Electric Kettle Water Heater guarantees exceptional quality. When pouring the water into a cup, you will never worry about getting burned because its handle is heat-resistant and non-slip. This kettle is perfect for preparing a cup of your favorite tea when you need to awaken your senses and get ready for late early morning study or late night review.

For the Ph.D. student in your life who is very much into the rich flavor of tea, a gift box of tea samplers will make a delightful present. This gift box by Chinese Tea Culture includes 11 teas - Jasmin, Hibiscus, Chamomile, Decaffeinated, Lemon Grass, Peach Flower, Red Rose, Linden Flower, Chrysanthemum, Mint, and Lavender. With these great choices, they can choose to infuse and indulge in whatever tea suits their mood.

Whether they often travel to places or do the daily routine of going to school, they'd be happy to have a new accessories organizer to keep their smaller things in place; thus, making them easy to find. ProCase Travel Gear Organizer is perfect for storing essential stuff like business cards as well as electronics accessories such as charging cable and adapter, USB cords, in-ear headphones, flash drives, and more. For women, they can use this as cosmetics storage.

Pezin and Hulin promote the idea of making life, work, and travel more convenient. So, they've come up with this Bamboo Charging Station that accommodates multiple devices at the same time. It's a functional docking station for smartphones, iPads, tablets, and even a watch. Eco-Friendly, sturdy bamboo material is what composes this item. For Ph.D. students, it's undoubtedly better to keep all these things in one place to maintain a tidy study area. It comes with four charging cables.

Reward your gorgeous Ph.D. students for their hard work. Any accessories to keep them in style while studying will be highly valuable for sure. Say a new scarf like this Wander Agio Women's Fashion Shawl. It is with premium-quality cotton and yarn. Its color is not going to fade so that it will remain fashionable over time. Thick and comfortable, this makes a perfect present.

Some prefer to stick with the vintage look, so they would rather have the classic style Attaché for carrying their essential documents. They can also put their smartphones, pens, business cards and some books in the different compartments. Solo Grand Central Attaché features dual combination locks for extra security.

One of the essential things that every Ph.D. student has for sure is a pen. Pens are used for writing and taking down notes. The fancy ones make for excellent gifts just like this Pilot Metropolitan Collection Fountain Pen. It's an extraordinary pen with a fine nib that makes full lines and elegant finish ideal for daily use. Plus, it comes in a black barrel suitable as a pleasant surprise.

Made from genuine leather, Alpine Swiss Men's Leather Flip-out ID Wallet is both durable and stylish. You can choose your preferred color or that which suits your gift recipient's personality. It has 12 slots for business cards, a bill section, three extra multi-use pockets, and a flip-out for easy access to license or ID. It comes in a gift box, which makes it ideal as a gift to any handsome man significant to you.

An elegant leather bag to last for the years to come and is yet budget-friendly makes an excellent gift idea for a lovely Ph.D. student. Tory Burch Women's York Small Buckle Tote is modest and undoubtedly chic. Its small gold-tone logo makes it look even more sophisticated. The Saffiano leather that makes up this bag is of premium quality; it's scratch-resistant. Its belted slender handles look fab. Any woman would be proud to schlep this anywhere.

Watches have always been the best accessories. They show a bit of someone's personality when it comes to the type or design of timepiece worn; plus, of course, they tell you the time. This Men's Ultra-Thin Wrist Watch is sleek and functional with a night light. Its dress band is stainless steel, yet it is soft and is comfortable to wear. This gift will indeed be remarkable to them.

While they are still studying and even by the time that they will have already graduated, they will have so many opportunities for taking remarkable photos. Good-quality photos that will last long are worth keeping. Let this Panasonic Lumix Digital Camera be a part of every particular photo-capturing moment in their life.

Tablets can also be one of the most memorable presents that a Ph.D. student can receive. It may not last forever since most of the products of the advanced technology have a lifespan that is not too long, but at least it would still make work easier for them in the years to come.

A new set of beddings makes for a great personal touch. A soft and cozy comforter like this luxurious duvet by Egyptian Bedding will undoubtedly help make every bedtime pleasant and satisfying. Who wouldn't have sweet dreams sleeping in such a fluffy cotton cover? Anyone who receives this will forever be grateful.

There are so many Ph.D. students who've been spending their time studying, but can still manage to find time for their other passions like baking or cooking. These smart students will soon have so much time to spend in the kitchen. Giving them a kitchen appliance, cookware, or even a set of knives will make them feel delighted. These things make for an ideal addition to their life. You might want to consider getting Zwilling J.A. Henckels' Signature Knife Block Set.

Keeping a professional look also matters to Ph.D. students. Whatever they wear, they should look neat. Getting rid of wrinkles on clothes can be more comfortable with the SteamWorks Pro. In just 45 seconds, it already heats up to provide steady steam that lasts up to 90 minutes. It comes with a water tank with 2.5-liter capacity. This tank is detachable. Its Smart Auto-Off feature ensures that the product is safe to use; it automatically turns off when the tank is already empty.

For your favorite handsome Ph.D. students who like comfy casual sneakers, NIKE Men's Tanjun Sneakers can be an excellent gift. Each shoe has a rubber sole. The upper textile is breathable, plus cushioning is lightweight with the foam midsole/outsole for the best comfort. These shoes are available in various appealing colors. You may choose what best suits you or your gift recipient.

If you are looking for a quality pair of dress shoes, check out Johnston & Murphy's Men's Conard Cap Oxford. This lovely pair goes well with any masculine suit. It's durable that you can wear it every day without worrying about it getting torn or broken. It's an excellent pair to invest. Soon you will realize that you're saving money with it not needing to buy a new pair of dress shoes for years because yours still look beautiful and fab.

Having this Corner Desk helps save up space in a specific area; say at home where there are lots of furniture. Its frame is steel, which makes it firm and sturdy, and it has tempered glass. The footrest bar located under the table helps make studying or working more comfortable. Once purchased, you need to assemble it, but it comes with a set of instructions, so no worries.

This Essential Oil Diffuser is a perfect gift for someone who likes to keep their home, bedroom, or thinking space fresh and fragrant. It's easy to use; add 150ml of water and drops of oil, then cover, and it's ready. It covers up to 100 Sq. Ft. Your choice from leaving it on for an hour, for three hours, or until you turn it off. It's misting duration lasts 6-10 hours. It helps in meditation.

Every Ph.D. student would appreciate this Mesh Desk Organizer by Simple Houseware. This item helps to ensure that their study table is tidy. When you get everything organized correctly, the mind can function better. Aside from looking stylish, it is designed to save up space. This organizer is perfect for keeping files, documents, pens, and many other things (usually found on desks) in place.

Hard working Ph.D. students deserve comfort while they study. Rest My Sole is perfect for keeping their feet and legs comfortable under the table. It is non-slip; thus, it effectively holds the feet in place. Using this padded footrest is significantly better than just letting your feet rest on the cold floor. You can choose to either lay this flat on the floor or put it upside down, so you can rock it using your feet to keep them moving.

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The gifts they actually want!

30 Gift Ideas for a PhD Graduation

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PhD students – how long have they been at school?  Too long to count.  During those final formative years, PhD students basically live and breathe their dissertation .  It’s a long slog and when they’re finally done – they deserve a celebration! That’s why we put together this list for gift ideas for a phd graduation. Celebrate their hard work in style with a gift that says congrats. 

Gifts Fit For a PhD Grad

Not just anything will do, this person is a doctor now! Going through a PhD program is a huge endeavor, and definitely an occasion that should be celebrated. These gifts for a PhD graduate are perfect pick-me-ups after stressful school days and dissertation writing and perfect accessories to help them get started in their new career, whatever that will be. 

It’s Dr. Actually Personalized Mug

This personalized mug says “It’s Dr. Actually” on one side and the PhD graduate’s name and title (Dr. Name) on the back. Perfect for that first morning coffee after graduation! You can customize the interior color, too, to match their preferences.

PhD Wine Label

A PhD graduation is definitely the right occasion to break out a great bottle of wine or champagne. Make it even more celebratory by adding a custom wine label like this one; because this wine definitely pairs well with a PhD.

Nespresso Coffee Machine

Now I know the PhD graduate will probably be wondering why you didn’t get this during the program to help with the long nights. That’s valid, but at least now that they’ve graduated they can afford to buy the pods, so… Anyway, if you want a big graduation gift for someone moving into a career, anything to make mornings easier is a win.

Dangerously Overeducated T-Shirt

A hilarious t-shirt fit for a dangerously overeducated PhD graduate! What better way to show off all those painful years of higher education?

High Quality Diploma Frame

Not all frames are created equal when protecting important documents like diplomas. Especially if you want to hang them on the wall! This one has a business-style matting and frame style, plus preservation features like UV protection so the degree inside won’t fade over time.

Personalized Acrylic Sign

The PhD graduate you gift this to could display it at home, in their home office, or at work. Customize it with their name, specialization, and best of all, silhouette. This one has masculine figures, but the seller also offers a female version.

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Scratch Off Bucket List

It’s well known that undergoing a PhD program is pretty much all encompassing. Chances are, a new doctor hasn’t had the time or spare cash to go on too many adventures. If your PhD grad loves to travel, help them start this new chapter with something to look forward to like this scratch off bucket list poster that features popular tourist stops.

The Power of a PhD Career Book

Not everyone who graduates with a PhD knows exactly how they’ll be using it in their future career. If you’re shopping for a doctor who’s still unsure about career goals, this book can help them find meaningful work by utilizing their in creative ways.

Spa Supplies or Spa Day

Now that they finally have some time to rest, help the recent grad relax by gifting some spa or relaxation related gifts. You can’t go wrong with a foot bath, or go bigger and purchase a day at the spa gift certificate for some real R&R.

PHinally Done Mug

The huge relief someone feels when they finish their PhD dissertation?  This mug exclaims it.  

Personalised Silver Star Paperweight

For a fun and unique gift, this silver star paperweight can be personalised with a congratulatory message.  

Business Card Holder Gift Set

They’re a doctor now –  they’re going to need a business card holder.  This genuine leather gift set also comes with a fancy pen and a key chain.  

Deluxe Lavender Spa Gift Set

The feminine PhD graduate will love a long session of relaxation or two with this fragrant lavender spa gift set.  They just might never get out of the bath. And even if their not a mom, this list of gifts that promote relaxation has something on it for everyone.   

PhD Definition Picture Frame  

Here’s something for their mantle.  A definition of PhD that will resonate with someone defending their dissertation.  

Funny Badge Button

There’s nothing like a pun to make people laugh – this funny ‘She wants the PhD’ button will do just that.  

‘Not That Kind of Doctor’ Shirt

Yes, once you get your PhD you become a doctor, but let’s be clear on what kind.   Funny t-shirts are cute gift ideas for a PhD graduation to lighten the mood. 

PhD Cufflinks  

For something a bit more subtle and elegant, these stainless steel cufflinks are a perfect little reminder of all the hard work they’ve gone through.  

Folded Book Art Sculpture  

This unique art sculpture will be a neat addition to their bookshelf.  We guarantee that they’ll have nothing quite like this.  

‘Achieve Your Dreams’ Engraved Gift Pen with Light and Stylus Tip

This stylish pen comes in a keepsake presentation case and makes a great graduation gift.  It is engraved with the words ‘Achieve Your Dreams’ as a gentle reminder of never giving up.  

Going Places Compass Necklace

This delicate necklace makes a nice gift for a girly PhD graduate – a reminder that there are so many places and so many possibilities to go from here. If you’re shopping for someone close to you high end jewellery that they can wear to a new job or enjoy as a keepsake also make great gift ideas for a PhD graduation.

One Line a Day: Five-Year Memory Book  

Yes we remember the big events, but it’s the little things that make a life.  This five-year memory book is a great gift to encourage record keeping and revisiting previous thoughts and memories.  

Wine Gift Set

After a few long years (or sometimes more) of a PhD, the graduate deserves a good hard drink after their graduation.  This wine gift set coupled with a bottle of their favourite will definitely be appreciated.  

Chocolate Fondue and Treat Maker

Fondues are something that people love, but that they rarely purchase for themselves.  Satisfy their sweet tooth with this chocolate fondue and treat maker set.  

Funny Doctor Graduation Candle

Sometimes you just have to commensurate a big moment with a funny gift. Becoming a doctor is no easy feat; remind them with this funny candle gift set.

Indoor Water Lily Fountain

Indoor water fountains are a great gift for any occasion, but especially for a graduate.  It is something special that they will treasure in their home for years to come.  

Tabletop Zen Garden  

PhD’s are stressful but once done it’s time for some in-home relaxation with this tabletop zen garden.  

Celebratory Gourmet Gift Basket  

No one in their right mind would scoff at a gift basket, and since this graduation is a big deal – gift them a big one!  

PhD Ceramic Tile  

For someone who likes to decorate their home with memories of their life, this ceramic tile is ideal and clearly states that a PhD was accomplished.  

PhD Funny Graduation Card  

Know someone who graduated in English Literature? Get them this card, but only if you are familiar with their sense of humour!  

Graduation Cap ‘Big Shot’ Glass  

As previously mentioned, a PhD graduate needs a stiff drink at the end of their dissertation.  Help them out with this nifty ‘Big Shot’ glass!

Hopefully you found the perfect gift ideas for the next PhD graduation you go to! Whether you’re shopping for a friend or family member there are so many fun ways to celebrate this amazing achievement in someone’s life. Don’t forget to address all cards to “Dr. Name” to acknowledge this new chapter (and title) in their life.

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20 Great Gift Ideas for Ph.D. Students

Phd program rankings.

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• ALL Ph.D. Degree Program Rankings

Career Guides

• Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
• Aerospace Engineering
• Behavioral Health (D.B.H.)
• Chemical Engineering (PhD CE)
• Chemistry (D.Chem.)
• Clinical Nutrition (D.C.N.)
• Speech-Language Pathology (CScD)
• Criminology (D.Crim.)
• Economics (DEc)
• Health Science (D.H.S./D.H.Sci)
• Library Science (D.L.S.)
• Molecular Biology (Phd Mol Biol)
• Occupational Safety and Health (D.O.S.H.)
• Physics (Ph.D. Physics)
• ALL PhD Career Guides

Valuable Resources

• Best Laptops for Ph.D. Students
• Gift Ideas for Ph.D. Students
• Burnout & Chronic Stress
• The Key to Free Grad School
• Ph.D. Guide for International and Domestic Students
• Habits Of Highly Effective Leaders
• Online Doctorate Reputation
• Journals for Ph.D. Students
• Earning a PhD
• Write a Perfect Essay Like a PhD
• Master’s Degree As a Bridge To Ph.D.
• Self-Funding Your PhD
• Importance of Accreditation
• Online Ph.D. Support Groups
• Getting Accepted to an Online Ph.D.
• Common Fears of Ph.D. Students
• Habits of Successful People
• US Doctoral Degrees
• ALL VALUABLE RESOURCES

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why earn a Doctorate Degree?
• What are the Ph.D. Admission Requirements?
• How Much Does a Ph.D. Cost?
• How many years will it take for me to achieve my doctorate degree online?
• Do online doctorate degree programs require campus visits?
• Ph.D. vs. Doctorate
• ALL FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
• Highest-Paying Doctoral Degrees
• Famous Ph.D. Theses In History
• Struggles Only a Ph.D. Student Would Understand
• Ph.D. Requiring Residencies
• The World’s Richest Doctors
• Academic Conferences
• Most Popular PhD Degrees
• ALL Ph.D. Highlights

Shopping for a Ph.D. student can be challenging. In pursuing a graduate degree, they deal with a ton of pressure to do well academically and meet the demands of the program. All these things take a toll on their emotional and mental health , causing them fear and anxiety.

Ph.D. students are extremely busy with their classes and extracurricular activities, and rarely do they get the chance to shop leisurely. They do not have the luxury of time to go on a shopping spree and get the things they need. In fact, in the process of completing dissertations, graduate students’ outside interests usually take a back seat .

Interesting read: 5 Common Fears of Ph.D. Students and How To Overcome Them

Are you surprising a friend or snagging something special for a family member who’s pursuing graduate studies?

Presents can make anyone happy, but if you’re getting a Ph.D. student a gift to celebrate their birthday, share their victories, or remember them on special occasions, make sure you give them items that they can appreciate and use!

Get them something that gives them comfort or makes their life easier in some way and promotes their health and overall well-being.

Check out our highly recommended gifts! Navigate your options easily using these page jumps:

Think Ink Pen Ameteer Wireless Finger Ring Presenter Remote Lenovo Yoga Book Epson Workforce WF-110 AboveTEK Portable Laptop Lap Desk Pilot Metropolitan Fountain Pen Omni 20 USB-C Portable Charger GOOVI Robot Vacuum iHome Zenergy (Wake-Up Light Alarm Clock) BEAUTURAL Steamer HoMedics® Shiatsu AirMax Heated Foot Massager Shine App Wool Runners (Men/Women) ECO Lunchbox Weston Laptop Bag Brewsense Drip Coffee Maker Hydro Flask Bottle YnM Weighted Blanket NutriBullet Pro 13-Piece Set Stitch Fix Service

Think Ink Pen

Fidget toys, sometimes called fidgeters, provide the right stimulation that helps Ph.D. candidates cope with stress and anxiety.

The Think Ink Pen is a perfect gift to get them to refocus whenever they feel restless. This discreet toy gets distractions off their minds and relieves their nervous or uneasy feeling.

This fidget pen is made from titanium and steel with a spring, magnetic clip, and a spinnable sphere. The options are endless, and they can take this anywhere, just like a regular pen.

Ameteer Wireless Finger Ring Presenter Remote

Graduate schools require Ph.D. students to create PowerPoint or Google Slide presentations regularly. Gone are the days when presenters stay glued beside the screen to guide the audience through each slideshow.

The Ameteer Wireless Finger Ring Presenter Remote is a presentation clicker that features an adjustable ring that presenters can wear. It is slip-resistant and helps presenters avoid distractions or accidents in the middle of the presentation. Its laser function, plug-and-play receiver, and five buttons give presenters comfort and easy access.

Lenovo Yoga Book

One of the best and practical gifts that you can give a Ph.D. student is the Lenovo Yoga Book. This device helps students digitize notes, type, copy, and even draw directly on the screen.

Quick notetaking is possible through the Lenovo NoteSaver application. You can take notes (physically) and see all your scribblings appear on the screen immediately. Ph.D. students won’t have to lose track of taking essential notes for comprehensive exams, publications, and dissertations.

Epson Workforce WF-110

A printer can make or break a Ph.D. student’s deadline, and that is why giving them a portable printer will surely make a massive difference in their graduate school life.

Ph.D. students can count on the Epson Workforce WF-110 when the campus printer is not available. It features flexible battery charging for printing of reports and coursework materials on-the-go. They enjoy its wireless connectivity,

Plus Wi-Fi Direct, automatic 2-side print, an external accessory battery, and automatic off function helps save battery. When it’s not possible to print from a laptop, students can connect their smartphones or other mobile devices. Prints come out crisp and clean with its quick-drying ink technology. It’s 12 inches long and weighs 3.5lbs so students can pop this printer into their bags when not in use.   

AboveTEK Portable Laptop Lap Desk

Ph.D. students would love to get something that can make studying easier, whether they are on campus, at the office, or home. It’s only right for them to use their laptops on a comfortable lap desk since the weight and heat from keeping laptops in their lap can cause a nuisance.

AboveTEK Portable Laptop Lap Desk is an excellent gift for Ph.D. students to take anywhere. Its retractable mouse pad tray makes the desk stand out among the rest. Its laptop pad is made of durable textured rubbered surface and helps keep their laptops cool, thus, saving fan power. With its ergonomic design, students will appreciate it while they work long hours on their term papers with endless corrections.

Pilot Metropolitan Fountain Pen

Ph.D. students’ lives are built on pens and paper, so giving a fountain pen as a gift would be a great idea. Fountain pens make a statement and are a perfect writing tool for them.

The Metropolitan Fountain Pen is ideal not just for beginners, but for everyone. It has an ink-control system, so they won’t have to worry about creating smooth and perfect lines. The pen comes with a starter cartridge, so there is no need to look for ink when you buy this.

Omni 20 USB-C Portable Charger

Graduate school is hard, it gets even harder when a laptop battery drains out, and outlets are too far to reach. Bestowing your Ph.D. student with an Omni 20 USB-C Portable Charger will be helpful to them, especially in vital times.

This powerhouse features a capacity that can charge multiple devices simultaneously. It also lets them charge their smartphones wirelessly with an output of up to 10W. What’s even more impressive is that this charger serves as a USB hub for data transfer. It’s guaranteed to charge laptops at top speeds fully and is easy to carry in laptop bags or even backpacks.

GOOVI Robot Vacuum

If your Ph.D. student prefers to spend their free time hanging out with family and friends or going out for late-night study sessions, then it’s likely that they wouldn’t have much time to clean their rooms. Good thing, you can give them the GOOVI Robot Vacuum.

This budget-friendly, powerful vacuum can gracefully pick up dirt, crumbs, and dust on hard floors and over carpets. Its 2.83-inch design allows for cleaning hidden trash under sofas or beds. They can preset vacuum time so cleanup can be done while they are busy.

iHome Zenergy (Wake-Up Light Alarm Clock)

An iHome Zenergy is an excellent gift for those that have trouble waking up in the morning, and those who think having their smartphone’s alarm clock is not enough. With a wake-up light alarm clock, Ph.D. students can start their day pleasantly and peacefully.

The iHome Zenergy has a color therapy to promote sleep at night and a sunrise light feature that goes from dim to bright yellow as they wake up. Its alarm comes with 16 environmental and white sound recordings to help them relax as they go to sleep or wake up. No more being jolted by loud noises from conventional alarm clocks.

BEAUTURAL Steamer

Your Ph.D. students may not have enough time to iron their clothes or tidily fold their laundry. So, a perfect gift to keep them from wearing wrinkled clothes is the BEAUTURAL Steamer. This steamer is best rated not only for its price but also for its performance. It is compact so as not to take up too much space and is powerful for its small size.

This handheld steamer holds enough water and heats it in as little as 30 seconds. It can handle all types of fabrics and provides 15 minutes of continuous steaming. Getting wrinkles out of clothes gets easier with the BEUTURAL Steamer

HoMedics® Shiatsu AirMax Heated Foot Massager

Sometimes, hardworking Ph.D. students get their feet swollen up from a long day of standing or walking around from the workplace to the campus. They want to relax and do a little pampering for themselves without having to leave the house.

So, consider a HoMedics® Shiatsu AirMax Heated Foot Massager as a gift. This massager is built with two-foot pockets and rolling nodes that massages soles and arches. It also uses gentle hot air to warm up their feet and ease tension. Your Ph.D. student will thank you for a professional-quality massage at home.

Ph.D. student life means dealing with a lot of stress and unexpected burdens before accomplishing deadlines. A great tool to keep students thriving is a motivational app called Shine.

This app is designed to help people find their motivation and positive mindset needed to succeed. It also helps build skills for a self-care program. Motivational audio tracks are also included to help decrease depression and anxiety. The annual subscription costs $53.99.

Wool Runners ( Men / Women )

Everyone needs to have at least one pair of comfortable runners. Allbirds wool runners come in different styles and colors. Comfortable shoes are required for Ph.D. students who do a lot of walking, commuting, and standing for long hours. Getting them a pair of these not only help prevent injuries or calluses but also add an extra kick to their style.

ECO Lunchbox

Those extra hours in class or lab require extra snacks. Let your Ph.D. student pack a healthy lunch or snack with the ECO Lunchbox Three-In-One. It is made of high-quality food-grade steel, does not contain plastic, and is dishwasher-safe. If you’re trying to reduce plastic waste, this reusable lunchbox is a great choice to help the planet.

Weston Laptop Bag

Ph.D. students find themselves facing a truckload of school-related tasks, so they have to be prepared to do work anywhere and anytime. However, moving their laptop and other essentials from class to class also matters.

You can give them a Weston Laptop Bag for carrying devices and documents around safely and in style. It features a crossbody strap and neoprene luggage-handle sleeve and comes in different colors to liven up their wardrobe.

Brewsense Drip Coffee Maker

A good cup of coffee can cheer up any sleep-deprived Ph.D. student. The gift of coffee maker is something that they would appreciate. The Braun KF6050WH BrewSense Drip Coffee Maker lets them set the temperature and brewing strength ahead of time. This coffee maker gives your Ph.D. student the convenience of having coffee rich in flavor without having to spend much.

Hydro Flask Bottle

Attending back-to-back classes and sessions, running through the hallways to the lab, and the busy schedule might give your Ph.D. student a parched throat. A first water bottle is necessary for keeping you hydrated all the time, and it’s a plus if you can carry it anywhere! The bottle has double vacuum insulation that keeps your beverage hot or cold for hours. It has sweat-free and easy-grip features, so no worries for slip out.

YnM Weighted Blanket

Ph.D. students need to have a healthy sleep habit to combat stress and anxiety. An excellent way to help your Ph.D. student achieve this is by giving them a weighted blanket.

A study showed that weighted blankets ease sleeplessness and provide cocooning feeling, thus decreasing anxiety. The pressure that these blankets give helps them feel safe and relaxed.

The YnM Weighted Blanket is made of extra soft, silky fabric that keeps you comfortable and cool. It is affordable yet is one of the highest-rated weighted blankets in the market.

NutriBullet Pro 13-Piece Set

A perfect blender or smoothie maker is one vital tool to help Ph.D. students stay in shape. With the NurtiBullet Pro, your graduate-student friend can instantly whip up a healthy snack of fruits and vegetables.

This blender breaks down hard vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and kale for a drinkable smoothie. It is designed without any buttons and promotes hassle-free cleaning. It also comes with durable and BPA-free plastic cups that they can leave out on top of their dishwasher or countertop after cleaning.

Stitch Fix Service

For Ph.D. students who have a passion for fashion, but do not have time to try clothes on in the stores will love a Stitch Fix Subscription. Stitch Fix is a clothing box service that helps one make a complete outfit.

Students team up with a stylist to help them choose their wardrobe. This could be useful for students who want to look great with affordable clothes when they run into presentations, attend conferences, graduate school evening events, and other activities. The best way is to give them gift cards. They can try clothes on before buying.

Ideas for a Great “Care Package!”

A planner or notebook to help keep track of their studies.

A coffee mug or travel mug to keep them energized.

A gift card to their favorite restaurant or coffee shop.

A subscription to a magazine or magazine service to keep them informed of current research.

Healthy snacks like granola bars, nuts, and dried fruit keep their energy levels up.

A cozy blanket or throw pillow to make their study space more inviting.

A stress-relieving item like a fidget cube or ball.

A book or two on topics related to their research.

A journal to document their progress.

A fun game to help them take a break and relax.

Check out these other interesting links:

• The Habits Of Highly Effective Leaders
• The World’s Richest Doctors and Their Net Worth
• Ph.D. Programs that Require Residencies !

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• Graduation gifts

The 34 Best Gifts for College Graduates

By Samantha Schoech and Mari Uyehara

Off comes the cap and gown and on comes the daunting task of being an adult. For the college graduate, that usually entails starting a job and moving into their own place. But it can also mean traveling or moving home to figure out next steps. Whatever their path, help them celebrate this next stage and set them up for success with gifts that are both fun and useful.

An illustrated campus

GArtgraphy Custom University Campus Illustration

Printed on museum-grade paper with archival ink, this nostalgic illustration is available for more than 300 colleges and universities.

Buying Options

Saying goodbye to college can be tough, but you can memorialize your grad’s time there with a GArtgraphy Custom University Campus Illustration , available on Etsy. The vendor offers designs, created by artist Joshua Grey, for more than 300 colleges and universities of a smattering of iconic campus buildings with the name of the school at the bottom. Just ping the seller to find out if the school you want illustrated is available. The two-tone artwork is printed with archival ink on museum-grade, semigloss paper in your choice of four sizes and either framed or loose.

Travel inspo

Lonely Planet’s Where to Go When

This visual travel guide suggests events and destinations for every month of the year. It’s as much an inspiration as it is a planner.

If the grad in your life is chomping at the bit to see the world, help them out with Lonely Planet’s Where to Go When . While the internet is teeming with all kinds of travel advice, it’s often unwieldy and overwhelming. This book is tidily organized by month, so your grad can just flip to their intended travel month to figure out what destinations might be best—such as wandering through Iran’s ancient ruins in June or trekking through Montenegro in July. Each month also categorizes potential trips by budget (vital for many young travelers), lists major cultural events around the world, and includes fun travel flow charts of possible itineraries.

Party plates

Poketo Bamboo Salad Plate Set

Available in beautiful abstract shapes and rotating patterns, these nonplastic, durable dishes do scratch easily.

Sure, the grad may do a boring stock-up trip to IKEA for their first apartment, but that doesn’t mean they have to be bound to all-white plates. One of our favorite outdoor dinner sets , the Poketo Bamboo Plates (Set of Four) come in five cheery and colorful designs, with fun graphic shapes and lovely, modern colors. They’re made from certified organic bamboo fiber and cornstarch and printed with food-grade ink. Best of all: Unlike some other bamboo plates, these are dishwasher-safe.

A bracelet with meaning

GracePersonalized Hammered Handwriting Cuff Bracelet

A high-res scan of a handwritten message is engraved on the inside of a dainty cuff, available in a range of affordable metals.

It can be tough to find the right moment to communicate sentimental thoughts with young adults. The GracePersonalized Hammered Handwriting Cuff Bracelet will do the job for you in your own handwriting. Choose from sterling silver, 18-karat rose or yellow gold vermeil and send along a photo of your handwritten message (up to seven words). The company will engrave your message as you’ve written it onto the inner or outer side of the bracelet.

A tough luggage tag

Ovener Silicone Luggage Tag

Rugged silicone and a metal cable mean this tag (which comes two to a pack) may well outlive your luggage. The brightly colored case displays its owner’s name but keeps other personal information out of sight.

Cash or travel gift cards (those from Delta and Hilton don’t expire) might be the most helpful gesture for a young adult. But you can gift yours with a small token, too, namely our pick for best luggage tag for a grad with wanderlust. The Ovener Silicone Luggage Tag has a sturdy silicone body outfitted with a metal grommet and cable to prevent any ripping. And its narrow window only makes the name visible, so your young adult won’t be flashing their contact information to any strangers on the go.

A TikTok-famous tote

Longchamp Le Pliage Original L Tote Bag

This roomy, lightweight bag packs up small when not in use, and the tough nylon is easy to clean and protects its contents from most scuffs.

This preppy cult classic is undergoing a youth revival on TikTok . And why not? The Longchamp Le Pliage Original Tote Bag is lightweight, roomy, and supremely versatile—useful for a new job, weekend errands, or the beach. It’s also one of our top picks for personal-item carry-ons . Created in 1993 by the luxury French brand, its origami-like design can be packed into a neat square (pliage translates to “fold”), barely taking up any space in the cramped closet of a new studio apartment. Made of recycled polyamide canvas coated on the inside for extra protection, its sturdy nylon body easily wipes clean, and its rolled leather straps sit comfortably, without cutting, on shoulders. Though the Le Pliage tote has only one small interior pocket for keys and lip balm, it has a zippered top with a foldover leather snap enclosure, which keeps wallets safe while bopping around cities, near and far.

Portable drinks

RTIC Soft Pack Cooler 20 Can

This simple lunch-box-style cooler, made from a durable coated nylon, is insulated with thick closed-cell foam.

For a future of newfound freedom and responsibility (hopefully), the RTIC Soft Pack Cooler 20 Can — our favorite soft cooler —has grads covered for beach days, road trips, park hangs, and tailgates. With thick walls and a lid constructed with more than 2 inches of closed-cell foam (an efficient but more-expensive insulator), this cooler can keep drinks and other items cold for up to 24 hours. From an earthy brown to a dusty pink, it has 11 colors to suit a variety of styles, and the cooler’s tough, thickly coated nylon is waterproof.

A glittery coin purse

Rose and Rose Boutique Metallic Leather Coin Pouch

About the size of a deck of cards, this affordable, soft leather pouch has three compartments, and it’s handmade in Italy in more than 20 sparkly colors.

Entry into adulthood doesn’t mean living in shades of gray. Handmade in Italy, the Rose and Rose Boutique Metallic Leather Coin Pouch comes in more than 20 glittery hues: hot pink, denim blue, and emerald green, among them. The 4-by-3-inch coin purse has three compartments, and its leather is supremely soft. It’s also available in a larger size measuring 6 by 4 inches, which can hold unfolded bills. Staff writer Samantha Schoech has one for herself and uses it every day; her high school teenage twins approve.

Expanding horizons

Penny Bee Art World Push Pin Map

Printed on unbleached cotton canvas with a foam-board backing, this handsome, hand-drawn, personalized world map comes with your choice of pins (gold, wood, or multicolor).

You save $20 (20%)

Before they’re (likely) yoked with pets, house upkeep, or kids of their own, young adults have more flexibility to see the world. Encourage them to look beyond their borders with this World Push Pin Map , available on Etsy, a hand-drawn black sketch of the world printed on unbleached cotton canvas. You can select the size, MDF wood frame, and one of eight pin options (gold, wooden, multicolored). There’s also a personalization box in the upper right corner, in which you can send text via Etsy and the maker will respond with a proof for approval before printing.

Easier packing

State Bags Bensen Toiletry Kit

This bag opens flat and offers organizational options (including a detachable pouch, handy for quick trips) that should work for light and heavy packers alike.

The proud owner of a college diploma should also be the proud owner of an actual toiletries bag—not a grimy ziplock bag. This hangable canvas State Bags Bensen Toiletry Kit is one of our picks for a host of functional reasons, and it looks great, particularly in the metallic pink . The two roomy mesh pouches (big enough for a regular bottle of shampoo or a canister of shaving cream) make it easy to see what they have inside, and the small snap-off pouch allows them to take necessities on the go.

A forever tool

Leatherman Skeletool CX

Even the repair-impaired need a good basic tool. Smaller and lighter than the original Leatherman multi-tool, our favorite version has a sharp knife, a few other necessities, and a 25-year warranty.

Set them up for a life of self-sufficiency with our pick for best multi-tool . The Leatherman Skeletool CX is a classic, worn on the belts of many a handy person. This lighter model is a fantastic starter tool, with a sharp knife, needle-nose pliers, a wire cutter, a bottle opener, two Phillips screwdrivers, two flat screwdrivers, and a carabiner clip—and it fits comfortably in your pocket. It’s backed by a 25-year warranty, and our testers have been using theirs for a decade with no sign of breakdown.

Vegan messenger bag

Matt & Nat Martel Vegan Messenger Bag

This sleek and simple vegan messenger bag is roomy and professional without being stodgy.

It’s time to chuck the worn-out college backpack for something a little sleeker. This canvas Matt & Nat Martel Vegan Messenger Bag is low profile and professional but not briefcase-level stuffy. It’s one of our favorite messenger bags , and our testers noted a roomy interior with space for a laptop plus the collection of other daily essentials like water bottles and lunch bags. Note that taller or broader grads might not find the 50-inch strap long enough to wear crossbody comfortably; it is removable, though, and the bag has a handle.

A lifetime of learning

MasterClass

With more than 180 classes to choose from, topics ranging from business to screenwriting, and instructors such as Amy Poehler and Tony Hawk, this is the best online platform for a lifetime of continuing ed.

Your recent college grad most likely needs a break from macroeconomics and the 18th-century novel, but that doesn’t mean they don’t want to learn songwriting from Alicia Keys or study photography with Annie Leibovitz. A year’s subscription to the online learning platform MasterClass is about $120 and will enable your grad to explore new subjects and learn from the best. It offers filmmaking with Martin Scorsese, beat making with Timbaland, philosophy with Cornel West, and 180 other classes to choose from.

The gift of good advice

Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice from Dear Sugar

A collection of smart, funny, and deeply compassionate advice columns from best-selling author Cheryl Strayed.

Before Cheryl Strayed became famous for her memoir, Wild , she wrote an advice column on the website The Rumpus using the pseudonym Dear Sugar that quickly became a full-blown phenomenon. Tiny Beautiful Things , a collection of the best Dear Sugar columns, was first published 10 years ago and recently reissued as a special edition with additional columns. What makes this book so beloved is Strayed’s heartfelt, honest, and compassionate advice on everything from art and self-discovery to sex and relationships. A TV show based on the book is on Hulu, too.

Endless dumplings

MìLà VIP Soup Dumpling Club

This subscription delivers two bags of delectable frozen Chinese soup dumplings and a jar of sauce every two months and comes out to about $5 per meal.

As graduates wean themselves off the dining-hall meal plan and late night takeout, a subscription to MìLà’s VIP Soup Dumpling Club would be welcome. The Seattle-based company ships two bags of frozen soup dumplings plus sauce in dry ice every two months. The resulting 100 dumplings are juicy, pillowy, and flavorful, and nothing like grocery store options. You have the choice to add a bamboo steamer included in the first shipment; it makes steaming them up easier, but each bag also contains paper liners that will prevent the dumplings from sticking to metal steamer baskets, too.

The best travel backpack

REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (Men’s)

Our favorite travel backpack is roomy, comfortable, and rugged. With its removable daypack, it’s the only luggage your new grad will need for wandering the world.

REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack (Women’s)

Our runner-up travel backpack is perfect for the graduate planning a grand tour after matriculating. The REI Co-op Ruckpack 60+ Recycled Travel Pack has a spacious interior, a tough exterior, a removable daypack, comfortable, adjustable straps and a hip belt, and even a laptop sleeve (which could alternately be used as a hydration reservoir). It’s too big for carrying-on, especially with strict European airlines, but with the zip-off daypack it’s pretty much all you need for a longer journey. Note that the men’s and women’s versions have the same capacity but are built for different torso lengths.

Tools for adulting

Anvil Homeowner’s Tool Set

This set has all the essentials in a small package at a reasonable price, making it the best choice for common home repairs and upgrades.

You’re not really a grown-up until you have the tools (and bare-minimum skills) to put together your own furniture and hang your own art. Buy your grad a toolkit and save them the stress: The basic Anvil Homeowner’s Tool Set has all the essentials in a small package and at a great price, which is why it’s been our favorite for years. Not only is the set particularly compact—excellent for small new digs—but it has a wide range of bits and handy clamps, and each tool has a steady, solid handfeel.

Give them a charge

TravelCard Plus

This 2.7-ounce power bank has a powerful USB-C PD port, built-in USB-C, and Lightning cables; it charges a little more slowly than bulkier power banks, but it’s portable and light.

Since we rely on our phones for nearly everything these days, being caught with a dead battery is a real bummer. Make sure the grad in your life has a little extra power in their pocket. We picked this charger , the TravelCard Plus , because it’s compact and lightweight, so it’s easier to actually carry around every day. Plus it comes in a variety of colors.

Alma mater medallion

Kyle Cavan College Sunburst Necklace

These school-specific sunburst medallion charms are available in three metals, but not every college is represented.

If your grad loved college, the Kyle Cavan College Sunburst Necklace would be a welcome and sentimental gift. At the time of publication, the jeweler offers over 120 school seals—the list skews a little East Coast—engraved in three finishes including sterling silver, Cavan gold (gold-plated sterling silver), and 14k gold. The charms look expensive and hold up well, even with daily wear.

Our favorite mental health app offers guided meditations aimed at relieving stress, insomnia, and even trauma.

Moving on from their comfortable campus, established friends, and familiar routine, some grads may find themselves a little more stressed than usual. Help them find a little calm with a year-long membership to our top-pick meditation app , Headspace . It has a wonderful selection of courses that aim to combat stress and insomnia, as well as several meditations with goals especially useful for grads, like managing work stress and improving creativity.

Chic luggage

Away The Carry-On

This chic-looking and resilient piece of hard-sided luggage has top-of-the-line components, including shockingly smooth-rolling wheels.

For academic conferences, business trips, or leisure travel, your graduate will need proper luggage. We have many great picks for carry-on backpacks , carry-on suitcases , and duffles . But our travel team deems this sleek Away The Carry-On well worth the hype . The durable polycarbonate hardshell case weighs only 7.6 pounds and has the best 360-degree rollers of any suitcase we tested. The 40-liter carry-on (enough room for three to five days away) comes with an ejectable, TSA-approved USB charger that can charge your phone up to four times, a laundry bag, a built-in combination lock (also TSA approved), and, best of all, a lifetime warranty. Away suitcases are available in four sizes for those taking longer trips.

A gentle alarm clock

Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light HF3520

A kinder, gentler alarm clock that starts with a sunrise-like glow before emitting one of five non-jarring sound options.

Everyone knows it’s hard to get up early and head to work. Ease your grad’s morning struggle with a sunrise alarm clock . In contrast to the soul-crushing buzz of a regular alarm clock, this Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light HF3520 wakes your grad up with an ersatz sunrise designed to resemble a bright day. When the Philips SmartSleep Wake-up Light reaches the zenith of its brightness, it emits one of five nonaggressive alarm options, such as chirping birds or gentle piano music. And in the evening, it creates a faux sunset to help your graduate wind down.

Espresso at home

Nespresso Essenza Mini

The Essenza Mini makes the same espresso as more-expensive Nespresso machines but has a smaller footprint and no unnecessary features.

Our coffee-obsessed testers concluded that the Nespresso Essenza Mini  is the simplest and most affordable way to make ristrettos, espressos, and lungos at home. The lack of bells and whistles is a big part of its charm and makes the learning curve next to nothing. We also love its small footprint. It uses Nespresso coffee pods, but if your grad wants to branch out and explore the world of coffee, it’s also compatible with pods from brands like Lavazza and Starbucks.

Grown-up sheets

Brooklinen Classic Percale Core Sheet Set

Crisp and cool, these percale sheets feel lovely against the skin. The sharp prints change every few months and suit a range of styles.

It’s time to graduate out of those dorm-room twin XLs and into a proper adult bed with proper adult sheets. If they prefer soft, cool, crisp sheets, the Brooklinen Classic Percale Core Sheet Set , one of our top printed-sheet picks , are a great bet. The set comes with a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. You can also upgrade to the Classic Percale Hardcore Sheet Bundle , which adds a duvet cover and two extra pillowcases to the mix. Another bonus: Brooklinen sheets are Oeko-Tex certified to be free of harmful substances.

Roommate-proof drinking glasses

Duralex Multicolor Picardie Tumblers

We love the refined look and feel of these classic French bistro-style glasses. They occasionally stick together when stacked, but the colors are a joy.

Yes, your graduate can continue drinking from the assorted mugs and Mason jars they’ve spent years accumulating. However, the more adult option is to use a proper set of glasses. A bistro classic, the stackable Duralex Multicolor Picardie Tumblers (our upgrade pick in our drinking glass guide ) now come in six fun colors. Made by the French manufacturing company that actually invented the glass tempering process, they’re dishwasher safe, can hold warm and cold drinks, and they’re durable enough to hold up against careless roommates.

Smoothie maker

NutriBullet Pro 900

Powerful, easy to use, and convenient, this personal blender encourages nutrition and saves time.

For a quick, delicious breakfast that can be consumed on the go, it’s hard to beat making your own smoothie. The NutriBullet Pro 900 can turn fresh or frozen fruit and vegetables into a smooth, blended treat, and its travel lid lets you easily take your breakfast with you. Even after testing the many NutriBullet models available, we determined that the Pro 900 should remain our top pick as the best personal blender for its powerful motor, convenient design, and low price. And compared with a full-size blender , it is much easier to clean and doesn’t take up nearly as much space in a shared kitchen.

A grown-up wallet

Leatherology Thin Bifold Wallet

A good wallet is a grown-up essential, and this one is classic, well made, and constructed from nice, pliable leather. You can even get it engraved.

It’s not a cashless society yet. With a slim wallet , your grad won’t have to sacrifice precious space in their bag or pocket. We suggest many excellent picks in our guide, but for a classic look that matches most styles, the Leatherology Thin Bifold Wallet is easy to slide cards in and out of, it features pliable leather, and you can even get it monogrammed.

Noise-cancelling headphones

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

The Bose 700 over-ear headphones deliver excellent noise cancellation in a comfortable, lightweight design that’s traveler friendly—but they carry a high price.

Plucked from the idyllic woods of their sprawling campus and thrust into the chaos of city life, your graduate will be grateful to receive a pair of top-of-the-line headphones. Our top pick , the Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 , is a wireless pair that gets 20 hours of use on a single charge and lets your giftee enjoy music and movies without disturbing a roommate.

A bento lunch box

Takenaka Bento Bite Dual

This adaptable, multi-compartment bento box makes packing a lunch easy (and, weirdly, more fun). They are microwave- and dishwasher-safe and come in many adorable colors, but they are not for liquids.

Without their dining-hall meal plan, your college grad is in for a rude awakening if they try to eat lunch out every day. Save them the struggle by encouraging packed lunches in an adorable bento box . The Takenaka Bento Bite Dual ’s microwave- and dishwasher-safe compartments offer infinite snack storage options. And its geometric shape and poppy colors are so cute that your grad might even look forward to using it. But be warned: Staff writer Dorie Chevlen has used hers for about three years and learned the hard way that it’s no good for transporting liquids. Think sandwiches, not saucy dishes.

A backpack upgrade

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

A sleek and secure laptop backpack that’s high on style. For its relatively low price, we were impressed by its quality build.

A laptop backpack is the best bet for a grad who needs to look professional but prefers toting their stuff hands free. Everlane’s The ReNew Transit Backpack has sleek lines and a low-profile shape, so it won’t be bulky on a rush-hour train. We also love that it’s water resistant, has all-metal hardware, and keeps their computer in a pocket right up against their back for extra security. This option is perhaps less durable than some of our other heavy-duty laptop backpack picks, but for price and style, it’s a clear winner.

More than a timekeeper

Apple Watch Series 9

The Apple Watch Series 9 has a large, bright screen, it’s plenty fast for apps, and it includes some health-related features that the less expensive models don’t.

You save $60 (17%)

Giving someone a watch for graduation is a classic idea for a reason: It’s a sophisticated accessory they can wear to work, and the relentless passage of time is now vital for them to track. The smartwatch has gone from futuristic to omnipresent, and one that syncs to their phone is an even more useful gift for this brave new world. It can show the wearer who’s calling or texting, track their fitness, and control their other smart-home devices. For iPhone owners, we recommend the Apple Watch Series 9 ; for Android owners, we recommend the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 .

All the news that’s fit to print

The New York Times Gift Subscription

The best way to stay informed is with a paper of record. We like the New York Times, but a subscription to any reputable paper is a great gift.

Part of being a real adult is being informed on what’s going on in the world: Your graduate needs a subscription to a reputable daily paper (a paper of record, if you will). You can’t go wrong with a New York Times Gift Subscription ; The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post would also be great bets.

Weighted comfort

Baloo Weighted Blanket

At a comfortable 12 pounds, this weighted blanket feels calming and soothing and is supremely soft. Plus the cushy cover is machine washable.

As your graduate leaps from the comforts of their campus into the cold reality of the working world, they need all the coziness and comfort they can get. We love the 12-pound Baloo Weighted Blanket , one of our favorites out of the 19 we tested . Soft and sturdy, it feels like a combination of a quilt and a comforter. It’s one of the only machine-washable blankets we recommend, and it comes with a lifetime guarantee on materials and workmanship.

We love finding gifts that are unusual, thoughtful, and well vetted. See even more gift ideas we recommend .

This article was edited by Hannah Morrill and Jennifer Hunter.

Meet your guides

Samantha Schoech

Except for the time she gave a boyfriend her mother’s old toaster for Christmas, staff writer Samantha Schoech has a reputation as an excellent gift giver. She lives in San Francisco with two teens, two cats, a geriatric betta fish, and a bookseller husband. Her first book of short stories, My Mother’s Boyfriends, is coming out in 2024.

Mari Uyehara

Mari Uyehara is a staff writer for Wirecutter’s gifts team. She was previously an editor at GQ, Saveur, and Vice, and she won a 2019 James Beard Award for her column on American cooking in Taste. The daughter of a potter, she has long been a believer in the power of a well-made thing.

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• After years of research and gallons upon gallons of melted ice, we have picks for hard and soft coolers, plus backpack and high-end roto-molded options. The Best Coolers  
• After stuffing, shaking, and dunking 23 toiletry bags, we chose six that can serve as your bathroom-in-a-bag in many travel scenarios. Here's what we recommend. The Best Toiletry Bags  
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Further reading

The 27 Best High School Graduation Gifts

by Samantha Schoech

And just like that, the kid you love is all grown up! Honor your beloved high school graduate with our favorite practical, special, and, yes, cool gifts.

The 59 Best Gifts Under $50

The very best of our favorite finds under $50, all in one place.

The 34 Best Gifts for Coffee Lovers

by Dorie Chevlen and Samantha Schoech

We recommend kettles, grinders, carafes, and cups for your favorite caffeine fiend.

The 31 Best Gifts for 5-Year-Olds

by Kelly Glass, Caitlin Giddings, and Wirecutter Staff

Gifts that tap into art, science, sports, or construction are often great choices for 5-year-olds, since many of them are developing personal interests.

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52 Excellent Gifts for Grads of All Ages

By Malia Griggs , Sarah Madaus , and Sara Coughlin

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Between winter semester graduations and preparation for springtime ceremonies, you might be scrambling to find the perfect graduation gifts for the daughter, son, sister, brother, or friend in your life who’s growing up way too fast. No matter their age or level of education, graduating is an accomplishment that’s anything but easy. That’s why your coworker , classmate, young adult, or kiddo celebrating this major milestone deserves the best, exceptionally thoughtful grad gifts.

Whether they’re leaving middle school, high school, college, or even graduating with a professional degree, they’ll have many new responsibilities and challenges to navigate, from learning to drive or picking up more chores to cooking for themselves and building a career . The best graduation gifts are reminders of what they’ve accomplished, and they’re also items and services that help them transition into the future.

From meaningful presents that mark their achievements to bestsellers that will be useful in their next steps, we’ve rounded up a variety of traditional, creative , and practical graduation gift ideas for all types of graduates. And we found them, conveniently, from brands and retailers like Target , Amazon , Etsy, Nordstrom , Minted, and subscription services .

Below, we’ve broken down the best grad gifts by type: gifts for college grads , gifts for high school grads , gifts for nursing or medical school grads , gifts for law school grads , gifts for elementary and middle school grads , and gifts for preschool grads . 

For more present picks, check out all of the best gift ideas of 2022 .

Best College Graduation Gifts

When thinking about the perfect gift for young adults graduating college, look for things that will make their life easier as they navigate post-grad life. A meal kit or meal delivery service like Home Chef is an excellent way for them to sharpen their culinary skills, try new recipes, and save time on grocery shopping . If they already have the cooking skills, handy cookware like Our Place’s cult-favorite Always Pan or the Instant Pot is supremely helpful for prepping food after a long day in the real world. Or, if their top priority is caffeination, set them up with a coffee subscription to SELF Fave service Atlas Coffee .

Clothing subscription boxes like Stitch Fix make shopping for office-ready clothes (or work-from-home clothes) seamless. Amazon’s Echo Dot combines the benefits of an alarm clock and a speaker, plus everyone’s favorite, Alexa. For a more unique graduation gift that’s still useful for college grads, look to custom photo art they can display in their new apartment. A big blanket for movie nights or cuddling with their pet is perfect for nights in. And speaking of blankets, upgrading to a high-quality duvet set will help make their bedroom an oasis.

Subscription

All-New Echo Dot (5th Gen)

Instant Pot Ultra 10-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker

Stitch Fix Subscription

West Elm HydroCool® Cooling Down Alternative Duvet Insert (Full/Queen Size)

AirPods Pro (2nd Gen.)

Minted Quintet Custom Photo Art

Our Place Always Pan

Atlas Coffee

Club Gift Subscription

Atlas Coffee Club

The North Face

1996 Retro Nuptse Down Jacket

Best High School Graduation Gifts

For the high school graduate who may be on their way to college, technical school, or a different path, say congrats with thoughtful items that recognize their responsibility as young adults. A coffee maker , air fryer , or other small home appliances are excellent ideas for soon-to-be college students gathering supplies for their dorm room. You could also go the route of an Amazon Prime subscription which provides a time-saving way for them to order everything from desk and office supplies to toilet paper, textbooks, and more. 

Noise-canceling headphones are always useful, and a set of keepsake photo cards will ensure their friends and family members are always close—even if they’ll be far from home. They might roll their eyes over a book about their new stage of life, but, trust us, they’ll read it eventually and will almost definitely glean some nuggets of wisdom. For a recent grad who’s embarking on a camping adventure or gap year, a gift-box subscription from Nomadik sends boxes that feature gear, snacks, and apparel from popular outdoor brands .

Life and Other Shortcomings (Stories) by Corie Adjimi

Bonavita One-Touch Coffee Brewer

Artifact Uprising Everyday Print Set (Set of 10)

Artifact Uprising

Sony WH-XB910N Extra Bass Noise Cancelling Headphones

Big Blanket Co. Original Stretch Blanket

Big Blanket Co.

Sonix Magnetic Link Wireless Charger

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 Wireless Speaker

Baboon to the Moon Fannypack

Baboon to the Moon

Urban Outfitters

Nomadik Subscription

Cosori Electric Kettle

Amazon Prime Gift Subscription

Best Nurse Graduation Gifts and Medical School Graduation Gifts

Graduation presents for future nurses , doctors, and other health care professionals should center around useful self-care products and gadgets that make everyday tasks more efficient. They’ll likely have early mornings and/or late nights, so a trustworthy alarm is a must. We love that the Philips sunrise alarm clock is a gentle wake-up call. A weighted blanket like Layla’s bestselling version and a heated foot massager can help ease tension after a long day. Perhaps you might gift them a high-quality tumbler to replace their leaky coffee mugs and disposable water bottle collection. The Yeti Rambler tumbler can be customized, and it fits into any tote with ease. You might also consider a sleek charging station that charges two devices at once (and serves as a stand for them to take FaceTimes). And, for a personalized gift for the future nurse or doctor in your life, we love a custom badge reel.

Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light

Yeti Rambler Tumbler (10 oz.)

Dick's Sporting Goods

Shiatsu Foot Massager With Heat

PrettyPictureGiftsCo Personalized Badge Reel

Personalized Nurse Tote Bag

Bombas Gripper Slippers

Courant Mag:2 Essentials Wireless Charging Stand

Weighted Blanket (20-lb.)

Layla Sleep

Hoka Women's Clifton 8

Kiehl's Since 1851 Hydrating Hand Care Set

Brooklyn Candle Studio Deluxe Candle Of The Month Subscription

Brooklyn Candle Studio

Personalized Nurse Tumbler

Best Law School Graduation Gifts

Future lawyers will appreciate timeless, high-quality, and stylish desk essentials and padfolios to keep all of their files organized and at the ready—as well as a personal air cooler to keep them comfortable at said desk. For a more personalized keepsake, a cute tote is both useful and thoughtful, whether they need a high-quality bag for their commute or to use as a compact carry-on . A sleep mask can help them wind down at night and, in the morning, an Ember Smart Mug will always ensure their drink is the temperature they like so there’s never lukewarm coffee or tea. A subscription box like Urbane Box will ensure that they always have on-trend, professional clothes on-hand, and you know they’ll love a neck and back massager after poring over cases all day at their new job.

Aimee Handmade Personalized Leather Legal Padfolio

Madewell Zip-Top Transport Carryall

Temperature Control Smart Mug 2 (10 oz.)

Manta Sleep Mask

Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager

Evachill Portable Conditioner

Best Elementary or Middle School Graduation Gifts

For the new grads who are still kids (cherish these years!), gifts can lean more heavily on fun and novelty . If their next stop is high school, a fun, vintage-style Instax camera will help them create lasting memories with their best friends, and a pretty personalized bar bracelet is affordable in case it gets lost (which, let’s be honest, it very well might). For younger kids, who among them hasn’t put the coveted Nintendo Switch on their list? You could also opt for a monthly subscription box that encourages curiosity and creativity. And customizable coupons make an excellent DIY gift that can be used over time.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Instant Camera

JewelryHills Kids Bar Bracelet

KiwiCo Subscription

Nintendo Switch with Neon Blue and Neon Red Joy-Con

PrintsofLifeEvents Children's Coupon Book

Hydro Flask Wide-Mouth Water Bottle with Flex Straw Lid

Backcountry

Best Preschool Graduation Gifts

For the little one who is heading into their first graduation, a keepsake stuffed animal like the personalized graduation bear below is a cuddly gift they might not understand just yet, but it’s soft and squeezable—and that’s what matters. An uplifting children’s book may inspire them to be the next astronaut, scientist, zoologist, or writer. Wearable items like a colorful tee or wish bracelet are also thoughtful, unfussy presents for the future kindergartener. 

The Gift Chicks Personalized Graduation Bears

The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be by Joanna Gaines

Salem Wishes Preschool Wish Bracelet

Stockberry Apparel Last Day of School Shirt

• 139 Actually Useful Gifts All Practical People Will Appreciate
• 87 Wellness Gifts for the Health Fan in Your Life
• 56 Thoughtful Subscription Gifts for Every Type of Person

SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then   View saved stories .

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Brenda Stolyar Gear Team

The 36 Best Gift Ideas for the New Grad in Your Life

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

A Cash Gift Giftcast Read more

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Or an All-Purpose Backpack Rains Backpack Mini Read more

Ambient Lighting for Their New Home Nanoleaf Shapes Triangles Smarter Kit Read more

Securing a degree is always worth celebrating, but the past few graduating classes have overcome more than the standard all-nighters and strict professors. After dealing with an ongoing pandemic, remote learning, and the rising prices of everything from food to fuel, the graduates of 2024 have succeeded against all odds.

It may feel tough to find a gift that perfectly summarizes how proud of them you are, but we've compiled a list that might help. There are gifts for their first grown-up job, a move to a new city, or some well-deserved summer relaxation as they plot their next adventure. Don't see anything here you like? Check out our other buying guides , like the Best Laptop Backpacks , Best Electric Scooters , Best Electric Bikes , and Best Cheap Headphones .

Updated May 2024: We added the newest versions of all our favorite recommendations.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get a 1-year subscription to WIRED for $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED. com and our print magazine (if you’d like). Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

A Cash Gift

There was nothing I needed more than cash after spending every dime on college textbooks and food for four years, with a lifetime of student loans to look forward to. If you aren't in the same place to be able to physically hand cash or a check to the new grads in your life, consider GiftCast. It's a simple app that lets you virtually gift-wrap your cash with a heartfelt video message and a promise to see them in person as soon as you can. WIRED reviewers have also used and liked services such as Givingli .

★  Gift cards are great, too: A gift card to somewhere like Amazon or Target lets them pick exactly what they want or need for the next phase in life. Other useful options include Grubhub for easy dinners, or a membership to a big box store like Costco .

A Great Leather Purse

Whether your college grad is starting a job in the big city or their local school system, they need a bag that functions as well as it looks and will actually last. Cuyana's System Tote is our favorite laptop tote . It has a simple but elegant design and works with a system of add-ons that snap in for customized organization, like a laptop sleeve , organizational insert , or zippered pouch .

Cuyana has a bunch of other designs, but all are quite pricey. For a little bit less, Longchamp's Le Pliage is a classic that's durable and spacious, and also zips shut. Our favorite one is made from recycled canvas. See our full guide on laptop totes and purses for even more designs and styles.

Or an All-Purpose Backpack

Rains' Backpack Mini is the most stylish pick in our Best Laptop Backpacks guide . It's available in a wide range of colors, and the 8.5-liter capacity offers enough room to stash a laptop in addition to accessories, chargers, and other odds and ends. The elegant design will ensure your college grad won't look like a kid when they commute to their new grown-up job—or that your high school grad won't look like a kid when they head to college classes. (There's also a large version if they tend to pack a lot.)

Ambient Lighting for Their New Home

Smart light panels are great for setting the vibe in a new dorm room. Our top pick , the Nanoleaf Triangles, can be rearranged to create all sorts of shapes. There are tons of color combinations and modes—for example, a party-friendly setting that'll pulse the lights to the beat of music, or a daylight setting to get grads through short winter days. Nanoleaf has tons of other designs we like, like the Nanoleaf Lines . Don't forget to check out our guide to the Best Smart Lighting for more options.

Reece Rogers

Matt Burgess

Brenda Stolyar

A Plant Subscription Box

Flowers are a nice thought for events and milestones, but plants can potentially last years, as grads go from first apartment to second, and from entry-entry level job to executive office. Horti sends a plant and pot in each box, as well as other accessories occasionally. You can choose between pet-friendly or beginner plants or opt for Horti's pick. A subscription starts at $28 a month with a plain terracotta pot, or more if you want a painted pot. There are a few subscription options you can choose from if you'd rather pay upfront instead of month-to-month.

Subscription boxes make great gifts because it's literally the gift that keeps giving, with a new surprise every month you’re signed up for. We have a bunch of recommendations for all types of personalities.

For the Artist

Is your recent grad a photo editor, graphic designer, or digital artist who would really benefit from a dedicated drawing tablet ? The Wacom One 13 Touch ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) is our favorite for most situations. It has a bright 13-inch screen for accurate colors, and the stylus precision rivals that of more expensive drawing tablets. It's not wireless, though, and needs to be plugged in to a computer via USB-C cable.

A Luxury Hair Tool

Giving the gift of good hair means your new college graduate can start all meetings, appointments, and dates on the right foot. Dyson's Airwrap is coveted for its luxury and multiple uses—you can dry your hair , blow it out, or curl it (or do all three!). But that luxury also comes with the Dyson price tag, which is why it'd be a great gift to receive.

Literally Everything

Two things are genuine markers of adulthood these days: getting your own Netflix account and getting your own Amazon Prime subscription. The benefits of Amazon Prime are legion , from free shipping and access to Prime Video to exclusive savings on Prime-only products. Your recent graduate's student discount may be disappearing, but you can save the day by gifting them another year. This is the graduation gift that keeps on giving. They will likely save the money several times over.

A Modern-Day Typewriter

Writing is hard. Writing when you're barraged by distracting notifications is even harder. If your graduate will be writing for a living, the Freewrite Traveler ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) might make an excellent gift. It serves a simple purpose, offering users a blank text field and a keyboard. The recipient will be able to work on their novel or type up a cover letter, free from tempting web links or distracting advertisements. Unlike on typewriters of the past, drafts can be uploaded to services like Google Docs or Evernote with a simple keystroke. Another key difference is that the Freewrite Traveler doesn't weigh a gajillion pounds—the entire device folds down flat and weighs less than 2 pounds.

A Great Multi-Tool

Multi-tools aren't just for outdoorsy folks or handymen. They open up the world of ease to the rest of us, and Leatherman makes the best. The Wave Plus has two stainless steel knives and 16 other handy tools like a file, scissors, bottle and can openers, and an 8-inch ruler. With its 25-year warranty, the company will repair it too.

Luxury Headphones

The WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ) have long been a favorite of ours . They have some of the best sound quality we've heard, with 30 hours of battery life and the ability to automatically pause the music if they sense you talking.

If you're gifting to an Apple fanatic and you can stomach the cost, the Apple AirPods Max ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) deliver great sound and style. But don't worry, we have plenty of cheap picks too.

A Pair of Smart Glasses

We admit that our first review of the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses was skeptical ( 6/10, WIRED Review ). However, several WIRED staff members have since purchased both the sunglasses and the clear prescription versions and love being able to take calls and listen to audio without having to put on yet another pair of earbuds or headphones. The glasses also now come in a wider variety of styles , can be ordered in a clear prescription version , and weigh (and cost) only a fraction more than than regular specs.

For Automated Cleaning

A vacuum is not the most exciting gift, but hear us out. It's likely that a new graduate will be moving into an apartment or house, and they'll probably be busy with a new adult job. In that case, a robot vacuum can pick up the cleaning slack.

Using the app, you can control the Tapo RV30C to start cleaning even if you aren't home, choose which room, or set schedules so it does a sweep each day. It returns to its base to automatically empty the dustbin. It's one of the prettiest new robot vacuums we've seen, too.

An Electric Bike

An electric bike or scooter can make a big difference to a recent high school graduate who has to figure out how to move around a new campus or city. The Trek FX+ 2 ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) is our pick for most people . It doesn't really look like an e-bike, thanks to the cables, battery, and motor hidden inside the frame, but it will get you through a commute without constant recharges. There's some fun extras like lights and a bell, too. It's not the lightest bike we've tried, but at 40 pounds, it also isn't heavy.

An Electric Scooter

If your recent graduate doesn't know how to bike, we also love electric scooters . The Unagi Model One Voyager ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) is our lightweight pick. It's just 30 pounds, but you can still cruise at 15 miles per hour. Riders will likely get a bit more than 10 miles out of a charge, but since it's not too heavy and folds up, it's easily paired with public transportation if necessary. Make sure you get them a helmet , too.

For Easy Meals

Sometimes cooking is exhausting. MìLà's soup dumplings are noodles are delicious and take precisely zero cooking skills to perfect. The founders of MìLà have a restaurant in Washington, and they ship their already popular soup dumplings, flash-freezing them while raw to keep the authentic taste. The quality is obvious. If you can, sending the full experience box allows your recent grad to try one bag of pork dumplings, a noodle variety box, three dipping sauces, a bamboo steamer, and rose lychee ice cream.

A Racing Setup

This is a lot of money to drop on gaming accessories (and it's even more expensive than when we first reviewed it). But if you can afford it and your giftee loves sim racing, then they'll very much love this . They can decompress after work by feeling like they're actually racing alongside their favorite F1 driver. You can use the wheels and pedals alone as long as they have a desk that the wheel can clamp onto, but adding the seat gives it more of a real-world feel.

A Coffee Upgrade

If your grad loves their cup of joe, give them a coffee upgrade. KitchenAid's Semi Automatic Espresso Machine is one of our favorites . The grinder is whisper quiet, and the machine makes great espresso with perfectly frothed milk. It looks great too, especially in white, and has extra features like wheels for moving it out of the way when you aren't using it.

If They Prefer a French Press

An espresso machine is luxurious if your giftee will use it, but a French press is easy, low-maintenance, and hard to mess up. It takes up less room and doesn't even need to be plugged in. We love the Clara because of its minimalist modern design that's shatter-resistant. It also comes with one more filter than most French presses. One pushes the grind down and the other catches any stray sediment. Our morning coffee tasted smoother, with not a hint of bitterness.

A Forever Suitcase

Set your new graduate up for a lifetime of travel with this suitcase that's lasted us well over 20 years. It's made from water-repellent and abrasion-resistant ballistic nylon, and the low-profile wheels and handles are still going strong. There's a lifetime warranty, so should anything go wrong, they can visit a Briggs & Riley–approved dealership for free fixes. It's heavy, though, at 9.3 pounds.

A Smartwatch for iPhone Users

At one time, fancy analog watches would have been a top graduation gift. They still can be for the right person, but your giftee might prefer the usefulness of a smartwatch. The Series 9 ( 7/10, WIRED Recommends ) is our favorite for Apple fans. It has wonderful health tracking features and a spate of safety tools, like fall detection and the option for automated emergency calls. This one also can quickly process Siri requests on the device. Read more about it in our Best Apple Watches guide .

A Smartwatch for Android Users

The Galaxy Watch6 and Watch6 Classic ( 7/10, WIRED Recommends ) will work for any Android user, but they're best paired with Samsungs, since certain health data only works with those phones. They look more like a traditional watch than Apple Watches do, and the Classic has a rotating bezel for scrolling through menus—it has the same satisfaction of putting in your school locker combination (without having to remember numbers).

For other Android users, we like the Google Pixel Watch 2 ( 7/10, WIRED Recommends ), which is beautiful, comfortable, and has a speedy processor to crunch all their fitness data.

Or a Mechanical Watch

Smartwatches do tend to be more popular, but an analog watch is a classic gift—even if it's just for the occasional dressing up. We like this watch for its military look with a stealthy black coating. It's water resistant up to 100 meters and it gets an impressive 80-hour power reserve.

If They Work From Home

When you work in an office, you're generally provided with monitors and keyboards, but if you work from home, you shouldn't have to suffer. The Keychron Q1 Pro mechanical keyboard is our gift recommendation for those who work from home. It has satisfying clickety-clackety switches for long typing sessions, and there's a programmable knob that your giftee can set for volume control, zooming in and out of projects, plus other options.

An Aesthetic Office Chair

The Herman Miller Zeph is an aesthetically-pleasing office chair upgrade, whether your giftee is working from home full time or needs a place to sit while they write their novel. The Zeph is shaped to mold around your body, so despite its lack of adjustability, both our 6'4 and 5'1 testers found it comfortable. We recommend adding the arms and seat pad for the most comfort, but that does raise the price.

Distraction-Free Reading

Bookish grads will appreciate the Kindle Paperwhite, which is the Best Kindle for most people. The e-reader interface is simple and straightforward. With no intrusive vibrations, notifications, or inane newsfeeds to scroll through, Kindle enthusiasts find these devices to be a much better option than phones for distraction-free reading. Analog books are still a thing, of course, but you can't carry 1,000 of them around in your pocket. The Paperwhite is waterproof for reading beside the pool or in the tub and the Signature edition gets adjustable warm light to ensure maximum visibility at night. There are many free or cheap ebooks available online, but if your grad is a particularly voracious reader , you may want to consider including an ebook or audiobook subscription .

Do they enjoy jotting down notes all the time? Consider the newer Kindle Scribe ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ), which is much more expensive but it doubles as a notepad and comes with a stylus. The Kobo Libra Colour ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) also has note-taking abilities with a great color E Ink screen.

For Digital Notes

If they need more digital notebook than e-reader, the ReMarkable 2 is our favorite option . The matte screen feels like paper, there's little lag while writing on it, and the battery lasts for several weeks. On the device, you can organize your work into notebooks and sort them all with tags and folders and then export them to Google Drive or Dropbox. There's also a keyboard attachment that we haven't tried, but it will help during particularly heavy note-taking sessions.

A Keepsake Pen

A good fountain pen is a classic graduation gift, and the Lamy 2000 is one of our favorites. Whether your giftee likes to hand write poems and journal entries, or keeps track of all their new daily tasks with a paper planner , they can do so with the luxurious 14-carat gold nib that surfs effortlessly across the page. Pair it with our favorite ink for a truly satisfying experience.

A Setup for Success

Everyone can benefit from a good paper planner, but that's especially true for young adults entering the workforce. The Happy Planner is one of our favorites . It's affordable, customizable, and suitable for beginners as well as experts. Whether they're keeping track of deadlines, interviews, monthly payments, or their five-year plan, graduates will be able to stay on top of life's endless to-do lists.

A Recycled Workout Mat

Establishing a new workout routine after graduating from high school or college doesn't have to be difficult. It can be as easy as a few pushups in the morning or a 15-minute walk around the block. Cassey Ho , from the wildly popular Blogilates fitness platform, recommends starting with a simple yoga mat to anchor your new grad's working-out-at-home routine. It will also dampen the sound of their footfalls for any downstairs neighbors.

A Simple Cookbook

Help your new college graduate embark on the next phase of their adult life by giving them a jumpstart in the kitchen with an easy, simple cookbook . Some days you just feel uninspired in the kitchen, and other day, you only have so much time. This collection of recipes has delicious, varied recipes that don't require much effort, and it includes estimated prep times as well as cook times.

A Picnic Blanket

Is your new grad planning a big trip for the summer? I own two of these, and they're particularly versatile and useful gifts. These unbelievably soft, warm blankets are made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled polyester material with a durable water-repellent finish to fend off dirt and prevent stains. I've used mine for everything from impromptu picnics and warming up on the couch to an emergency layer after the car broke down on a snowy day. WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu used it as a blanket on his road trip in Iceland. They pack down into a small compression sack for easy storage.

An On-Demand Hug

Nothing signals adulthood like random existential crises. Weighted blankets can help squish away bad feelings. There are tons of good choices available, but this is our absolute favorite . It's satisfyingly heavy, cooling, and one of the prettiest weighted blankets around. Read our Best Weighted Blankets guide for other options, as well as advice on what weight works best. While they can help with some symptoms, remember that weighted blankets are not a substitute for medical treatment.

A Compact Countertop Appliance

We love waffle makers . So will your grad. They've likely seen a tiny model from Dash already, since it went viral on TikTok , but even newcomers will have a blast making single-serve waffles with this gadget. For something a bit more robust, this Black and Decker Waffle Maker may suffice. Neither will take up too much space on compact counters, and both are capable of making magical creations out of everything from potatoes to pie. Pair the maker with this cookbook for an easy, surprisingly useful gift. 

A Coffee Subscription

Nickel and dime expenses like a daily café run can add up—especially for a grad living on an entry-level salary. A coffee subscription, like Mistobox, can make a difference. There are more than 500 coffee options to choose from, so even the most discerning drinkers will be able to enjoy this gift. Check out our Best Coffee Subscription Services guide for more.

Fancy Furniture for Their Cat

Cat parents might tell you that they wouldn't have gotten through those late-night study sessions and term papers without their felines by their side. Perhaps they too deserve a fancy graduation present. Mau's Cento cat tree is pricey, but it's one of the best cat trees we've tried. Not only is it very pretty—and when you live in a small space, everything's design matters—but it's well made, with replaceable parts . Our cats loved lounging on it.

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UMass Dartmouth graduation speaker gives each student $1,000

Robert hale, jr. encourages graduates to give half of gift to a charity or cause.

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A commencement speaker surprised graduates at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth this week by giving them each $1,000 cash in envelopes — but with a catch. 

Robert Hale, Jr., the founder of Quincy-based Granite Telecommunications, told students that "each graduate who crossed the stage" on Thursday "would receive one $500 envelope to keep as a gift" while the second $500 envelope is intended to be given to "someone in need or a charity or cause close to them," the university said. 

"These trying times have heightened the need for sharing, caring, and giving," Hale said. "Our community needs you and your generosity more than ever." 

A UMass Dartmouth spokesperson told FOX Business on Friday that 1,200 graduates received the $1,000 gifts. 

ERIN ANDREWS, ENFAMIL COMMIT $50,000 TO SUPPORT WOMEN STRUGGLING WITH INFERTILITY: ‘YOU’RE NOT ALONE’  

Robert Hale Jr. speaks during the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth commencement ceremony on Thursday.

"Hale told the crowd about his career, including losing $1 billion nearly overnight, and urged them not to let failure define them, using his own life as an example of resilience and perseverance," the university said in a press release. 

MELINDA FRENCH GATES TO RESIGN FROM THE GATES FOUNDATION  

UMass Dartmouth graduates react after they are told they will be given $1,000 each. (UMass Dartmouth)

"As the degree conferral was about to begin, Hale came forward and let the graduates know he had one more bit of advice for them. He told the eager crowd that for him and his wife Karen, ‘the greatest joys we've had in our life have been the gift of giving,’ " UMass Dartmouth added. "Hale let the Class of 2024 know that the two large duffle bags being brought up on stage by security were packed with envelopes full of cash." 

Hale has an estimated net worth of $5.4 billion. (UMass Dartmouth)

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ON FOX BUSINESS     

Hale, who is also part of the Boston Celtics ownership group, has an estimated net worth of $5.4 billion, according to Forbes. 

Reflections on Spring Semester 2024

As I write, it is graduation weekend, and I am about to head to Mariucci Arena for CLA’s undergraduate commencement. This past Friday evening, as department chair, I had the honor of presiding over the  economics department’s graduation ceremony , celebrating both our undergraduate and PhD students who completed their degrees. (It was more “pomp and circumstance” than anything we have ever tried, so special thanks to our amazing staff for their great job pulling it off.) 

A highlight of the ceremony was hearing the three student speakers articulate how their training in Minnesota Economics—whether it be at the graduate or undergraduate level—will equip them as they go out into the world and aim to make a difference. 

A poignant moment was when one undergraduate speaker noted that she and many of her classmates had graduated from high school in the spring of 2020 and they had missed the traditional graduation experience because of COVID. Our ceremony was the first time these students got to be called up to the stage to recognize and celebrate their achievements. Congratulations indeed to the Minnesota Economics class of 2024!

New BA with Business Economics Emphasis

We have some big news about our undergraduate curriculum. In collaboration with the Carlson School of Management (CSOM), we have added a new economics BA degree that has business-economics emphasis, our first new major since the late 1980s. 

We have always had economics students (including surely some reading this newsletter) pursuing a business-economics track, both by taking business-oriented economics courses such as money and banking  within  our major and taking CSOM classes  outside  of our major. What's new and exciting about the new business economics major is that by bringing CSOM classes  inside  the major, students have more options and flexibility for getting business content in their curriculum. 

We are grateful to our alumnus  Matt Mazzucchi (BA ‘04) for coming to campus this spring to speak to a standing-room-only audience, generating great enthusiasm among our undergraduates for the new major. Matt discussed the crucial impact his business economics curriculum at Minnesota has had on his career at Houlihan Lokey, where he is currently managing director and co-head of its Power & Utilities Group and the Energy Group. 

This new major adds to our already great  line-up of major choices . If you have the chance to talk to high school students applying to college, please spread the word about the exciting things we are doing! 

Undergraduates Travel to Washington DC 

In other news about our undergraduate program, we were delighted this year to partner with the Humphrey School of Public Affairs for the third year in a row in offering a  Washington DC career trip  to ten of our undergraduate economics majors. The selected students are all interested in public policy. Through this program, the students made various on-site visits, such as the World Bank, where they attended panel discussions and participated in networking events and informal interviews. Through this program, our students learn how to use their economics degrees as a pathway to public services careers.

Our Graduate Students

Turning to graduate program news, in the December newsletter we put a link to the list of our new PhDs going on the job market. Now with the spring newsletter we can share  our graduate students’ placement results . They range from major research universities, to liberal arts, to government, to industry.

Through the high value added of our program, we are producing tomorrow's leaders across these various spheres.

To better attract top students to our graduate program, we have been expanding our use of fellowships, including increasing the number of first-year students who receive them. We have also used fellowship funds to supplement our teaching stipends, making our offers more competitive with other top institutions. Our ability to expand fellowships is entirely thanks to the generosity of our alumni and friends, which is enabling us to make significant strides forward. While there is still more work to do, I am optimistic that we will continue to make progress.

This year, we introduced a new event for our third-year PhD students, The Richard and Ellen Sandor Poster Conference , and we are grateful to the Sandors for funding the event and establishing a prize for the winner. Combining the lure of prize money with competitive peer pressure motivated our students to create impressive work. In fact, the work was so good that we took the show on the road to the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, just down the street. 

A second new initiative was to ask all our PhD students going on the market next fall to produce early but complete versions of their job market papers this spring. Based on these completed early drafts, the department awarded three dissertation fellowships. Furthermore, every student meeting the deadline received additional support to help with their extra liquidity needs during the job market year. Incentives matter! All the students submitted complete drafts by the deadline. The faculty will be working with the students all summer to polish and improve on these complete drafts to get them in even better condition for the market next fall. 

Again, I want to pause and highlight that all of these new initiatives have only been possible because of the generosity of our alumni and friends. This generosity is making a big difference!

Economics Alum to Receive UMN Outstanding Achievement Award

In June we will have a special event to honor our alumnus Andreu Mas-Colell (PhD ‘72) with the University of Minnesota’s Outstanding Achievement Award, an honor reserved for the University’s most distinguished graduates. 

My colleague Tim Kehoe wrote a wonderful  article about Andreu’s extraordinary contributions , which includes a discussion of Andreu’s pioneering research in economics. Andreu’s work building academic institutions is also being recognized by the award and it is therefore fitting that the award ceremony will be in Barcelona on the site of the Barcelona School of Economics which he built.

Heller-Hurwicz Economics Institute Update

The Heller-Hurwicz Economics Institute (HHEI) continues to be a driving force of excellence for the Department of Economics, both in the way that it supports the rigorous research that we do here and in the way that it serves as a bridge for this research to impact public policy. 

To learn about the many exciting things that HHEI is doing, I encourage you to check the latest  HHEI Annual Report . In April, we kicked off our second season of the  Heller-Hurwicz Office Hours podcast , with topics ranging from mergers and acquisitions, to tax policy, climate, and more. Be sure to catch up on the latest episodes!

Faculty & Staff Awards

Finally, we wish to congratulate Senior Lecturer Fahima Aziz for her Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award and Chief of Staff Kara Kersteter for her Outstanding Service Award!

Thank you for your continued interest and support of both the Department of Economics and the Heller-Hurwicz Economics Institute. If you'd like to make an unrestricted gift this year, you can give to the Economics Annual Fund or the Heller-Hurwicz Program Fund. Or you can search for your favorite named fund. Thanks to the generosity of our alumni and friends, we continuously strive to be one of the best economics programs in the world.

Wishing you a wonderful summer from Minnesota Economics! I love hearing from all of you and you can always drop me a line at  [email protected] .

Thomas J. Holmes Professor and Chair, Department of Economics [email protected]

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Record number of UTSA Honors College students graduate this month

MAY 14, 2024 — This month, 270 seniors in the Honors College are expected to graduate from UTSA, making them the largest graduating class in the college’s history.

Most of the students in this semester’s graduating class didn’t have a typical start to college life, nor have they experienced a traditional graduation ceremony. Due to the pandemic, their high school senior year and first semester of classes at UTSA were held nearly entirely online, leaving them socially isolated. Despite that, these Roadrunners demonstrated resilience, creativity and determination throughout their time at UTSA.

Many of these Honors College graduates already have impressive jobs lined up or will be starting graduate school in the fall.

Conrad Finos , who is earning his bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, will participate in an international internship in Panama on behalf of the U.S. Department of State, before joining the agency full time in Washington, D.C. this fall as a diplomatic information specialist. His engagement with the U.S. Department of State began in 2022, when he was one of 15 students in the country to be awarded a Foreign Affairs Information Technology Fellowship. That experience set him on a path to a career using his technology skills to support U.S. diplomacy abroad.

Johan de Greef , a graduating senior in mechanical engineering, will be moving to Missouri for a career at Whiteman Air Force Base to work on its B-2 Spirit stealth bombers and support base infrastructure.

Grace Johnson , a graduating senior in psychology and art, will be starting a master’s degree in art therapy at Syracuse University in New York this fall.

Mechanical engineering senior Noah Hernandez has accepted a job at aerospace company Blue Origin in Huntsville, Alabama.

Top Scholar Tejas Narayanan will be moving to Colorado to begin work as an environmental consultant for Ernst and Young’s climate change and sustainability services division, where he completed a summer internship in 2023. At UTSA, he was a member of the student organization Plant the Future, he served as a student representative on the university’s Sustainability Council and he interned with the Office of Sustainability.

Many of this year’s Honors College graduates are choosing to stay in Texas to begin their careers or attend graduate school.

For example, cybersecurity senior Catalina Cardenas , will be starting her career in the security and resiliency division at Dell Technologies in Austin, Texas, in July.

Joana Contreras , who is earning her bachelor’s degree in interior design and is preparing for the interior design certification exam to become a licensed interior designer will be working at Texas Wilson, a commercial office design company, in San Antonio.

Finance senior Syndey Scott has accepted a job as an accountant with TC Energy in Houston, Texas.

Cameron Kubicek , an anthropology major with minors in archeological practice and museum studies, will begin a M.A. in Heritage and Museum Studies at Texas Tech University this fall.

Jennifer Cervantes , a microbiology and immunology senior, has been accepted into Texas A&M University’s pharmacy school in College Station.

There are also Honors College graduates who will continue as Roadrunners this fall, pursuing graduate degrees in accounting, architecture, artificial intelligence, business administration, biomedical engineering, computer science, criminology and criminal justice, health, community and policy, information technology and mechanical engineering, to name a few.

Other notable Honors College graduates this semester include:

• Margot Duque , a double major in public administration and policy and French, a UTSA Top Scholar and a 2023 Truman Scholar . After graduation she will participate in the Truman Summer Institute, during which she will intern with the U.S. Department of Education before beginning a full-time position as an educational policy analyst at the Center for the Analysis of Longitudinal Data in Education Research.
• Marissa Coppin , a neuroscience major, a UTSA Top Scholar, 2023 Goldwater Scholar and a 2024 National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) award winner. She will pursue a PhD in Neuroscience at the University of Pennsylvania beginning this fall.
• Ernesto Flores , a physics major, 2023 Goldwater Scholar and 2024 NSF GRFP award winner. He will begin a PhD in Physics at Stanford University this fall.
• William Hughes , a chemistry major and Japanese minor, UTSA Top Scholar and a 2024 recipient of the NSF GRFP award. He will begin a Ph.D. in Chemistry at Colorado State University starting in the fall.

Home to more than 2,000 hardworking, achievement-oriented, conscientious students across all majors, the UTSA Honors College offers one of the most unique experiential honors curricula in the nation. Its practical, hands-on approach to learning allows students to chart their own path and achieve their highest potential.

To graduate from the Honors College, students complete a combination of honors courses and signature experiences, which can be fulfilled by participating in activities inside or outside the classroom such as service projects, professional development programs such as internships and fellowships, intellectual achievement projects such as thesis development and research, study abroad or other cultural exploration experiences, engaged living, skill development, independent study, honors contracts, or by taking additional experiential learning honors courses.

— KC Gonzalez

UTSA Today is produced by University Communications and Marketing , the official news source of The University of Texas at San Antonio. Send your feedback to [email protected] . Keep up-to-date on UTSA news by visiting UTSA Today . Connect with UTSA online at Facebook , Twitter , Youtube and Instagram .

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University of Texas at San Antonio receives ‘transformational’ $40M gift

Utsa’s mission.

The University of Texas at San Antonio is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge through research and discovery, teaching and learning, community engagement and public service. As an institution of access and excellence, UTSA embraces multicultural traditions and serves as a center for intellectual and creative resources as well as a catalyst for socioeconomic development and the commercialization of intellectual property - for Texas, the nation and the world.

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