Graduation Gifts

In the comments to my post yesterday, Melissa asked, "What would you recommend as a graduation gift (on a budget) for a fabulous girl just out of law school?"

And I really didn't know. I just got money for my law school graduation and given that we were facing a summer with no income, that was exactly what I wanted. I do kind of wish I had a thing or two to memorialize that occasion, though I suppose the diploma hanging in my office does a good job of that.

I think jewelry is always good. Whenever I travel I'll buy a unique, usually inexpensive (now that I think about it, it's always inexpensive) piece of jewelry to wear when I get back. And then every time someone compliments me on it I can remember where I got it or why I got it and it brings a smile to my face. The jewelry doesn't have to have anything to do with where you're traveling or the occasion itself, it's just a happy reminder on its own. This can be especially nice because I'm assuming your friend will be starting work soon and it's great to have some work-appropriate jewelry to jazz up simple work clothes. So a simple necklace with a bit of color or striking pendant could be a nice "oh thanks, a friend got me this for my graduation" gift.

If she's not a jewelry person, than maybe something for her office? (assuming she has a job of course) A nice picture frame or desk accessory helps personalize the space she'll be spending a lot of time in. Her office will probably provide some supplies but if it's like my office they're very basic and could definitely be improved. One thing I love is a set of bookends for my bookcase- the office supply ones were ugly, light black plastic and instead of those I now have a sturdy silver set holding up my old casebooks and new CLE materials. It doesn't sound exciting, but I appreciate those every day my books aren't falling over like they used to. I also have a snow globe with the Austin sky line that I love and I would really love to have one of Chicago to commemorate my law school days. Hmmm, that would be a good Christmas present, I need to get JP to read this blog...

The attorney next to me received a gorgeous, deep red leather laptop shoulder bag from her husband when she graduated and eight years later she still uses it. Given its quality and looks, I doubt that was a budget item, but it's another idea. If you don't care if it's a permanent memento, you could also do a gift certificate for a manicure or pedicure for her to pamper herself during or after the Bar. I would have greatly appreciated that one.

So those are my thoughts for someone on a budget. I'm sure there are better ones out there, so if anyone has given or received something they loved, chime in!