1
this celebratory candle
Homesick New Job Scented Candle
“Omg, it smells like New Job in here!” said no one ever, but a yummy candle that they burn when starting their first job is still a cute way to make scent memories during a pivotal time in their life. The brand also makes location candles, so you could purchase one with their new city on it as a “congrats on moving!” or “don’t forget about us!” gift.
2
this iconic record
Taylor Swift's Tortured Poets Department Vinyl
I guarantee that your Swiftie grad has had their eye on this beautiful vinyl version of Taylor Swift’s most recent album, The Tortured Poets Department.
3
an Amazon gift card
Amazon Gift Card in a Graduation Cap Box
When in doubt!! It's safe to say most college graduates or students want money. This gift card, which comes in a cute graduation cap box, makes it perfect for the occasion.
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4
this faux leather laptop bag
Beis Work Tote in Maple
Just cuz they might need to carry a ~briefcase-like~ bag to the office doesn’t mean it has to be ugly, k? This vegan leather option comes in a bunch of colors, fits a standard laptop, and boasts a handy luggage strap that’ll keep it perched on top of a carry-on for any work-related travel.
5
a grown-up lunch box
Monbento Bento Box with Compartments
Credit: Courtesy Image
They might have had the flexibility to eat wherever during college, but if they have an office job lined up, they’ll be rlly thankful for this practical lunch box set—which comes with three removable containers.
6
this photo sticker printer
HP Sprocket Portable 2x3" Instant Color Photo Printer
Not only does this mini printer spit out the cutest little photos straight from your smartphone, it also can print sticky-backed photos that’ll totally change the game for anyone who loves journaling or scrapbooking.
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7
this adorable grad bear
Aurora Commemorative Graduation Wagner Bear
If you’re planning on taking the ol’ card-and-money route, snag this cute little grad bear to round out your gift. It’s a fun on-theme keepsake and, of course, devastatingly cute.
8
a book to deal with post-grad life
Adam Smiley Poswolsky The Quarter-Life Break-Through
This book gives solid career advice and attempts to answer the age-old question: “How can I have a job I love that also pays my rent?” A question for everyone, but especially in your 20s!
9
this laptop desk
KLEAR Laptop Bed Tray Desk
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Anyone who's WFH would love one of these adjustable laptop stands. They can use it when they're lying in bed or on the couch, then convert it into a stand-up desk when they need to stretch their legs.
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10
a clever card game
Uncommon Goods Things They Don’t Teach You in School Game
Cue alllllll the jokes about learning things in school that you’ll never need to know. This card game is full of 400 random facts to add to that list (and it'll draw out your grad into chatting about their lives).
11
this lucky bracelet
Abbot Lyon Clover Custom Name Bracelet
It’s thematic, get it? This bracelet is a cute lil spin on the classic name necklace with each letter of their name spelled out on a pretty four-leaf clover to wish your new grad the best of luck in their new chapter of life!
12
a handy package
Pinch Provisions Work From Home Self Care Kit
The grad might be going straight from studying at home to working from home, in which case this kit will definitely be their dream gift. Inside they'll find a webcam cover, conference call bingo card, earplugs, and much, much more.
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13
this high-powered handheld vacuum
Black+Decker Dustbuster Cordless Handheld Vacuum
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Absolutely everyone in the world needs a handheld vacuum—especially if they're in a little space and don't have room for the big corded versions. So you're gonna be a lifesaver.
14
this dual magnetic charger
Satechi Aluminum 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Stand
Credit: Courtesy Image
Do they love having their phone available while they work? Get 'em this wireless magnetic charger that also gives their headphones some juice, too. Dual wireless charging while going hands-free? Yes pls.
15
a cute carry-on
Coolife Luggage Suitcase Piece Set
Credit: Courtesy Image
For those post-grad travelers in need of a luggage refresh, these lightweight carry-ons have a hard case and a locking pad to protect their valuables. Oh, and it's so stylish.
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16
this sleek Apple watch
Apple Watch Series 9 [GPS 41mm]
Skip the Rollie and gift them a sleek Apple Watch instead. The waterproof wearable is great for runners, swimmers, and literally anyone who’d prefer to not have their iPhone in hand at all times. They’re so useful!
17
a cool pair of sunglasses
ADE WU Rectangle Sunglasses
Credit: Courtesy Image
Don’t forget to make a punny joke about the future being ~bright~ (get it? get it??) when you hand your new grad these sunnies as a gift.
18
this satin sleep set
Kitsch Satin Sleep Set
Credit: Courtesy Image
What do new grads need? Sleep! What do they not get enough of?? You get it. At least help them get halfway there with a luscious satin pillow, eye mask, and scrunchie set.
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19
the toaster version of an air fryer
Black + Decker Crisp 'N Bake Air Fry Toaster Oven
The new grad is inevitably going to have frozen chicken tenders for dinner when they don’t feel like cooking after a long day of work, okay? Give them this nifty air fryer toaster that’ll crisp up anything from leftover fries to frozen food in a snap.
20
this Bluetooth speaker
JBL Go 3 Eco: Portable Speaker
If they made it all the way through college without one of these babies (they’re basically a necessity for throwing parties), they definitely need one after they graduate. It’s perfect for creating ~ambiance~ in their new apartment.
Hannah is the assistant shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, covering all things from cute apartment decor to trendy fashion finds, TikTok products that are actually worth your $$$, and the perfect gift to buy for your boyfriend's mom. She previously wrote for Seventeen and CR Fashion Book. Follow her on Instagram for hot takes on red carpet fashion and unhinged updates on the books she’s reading on the train.
Daisy Maldonado is an associate shopping editor at Cosmopolitan who loves writing about fashion trends, must-have beauty products, and digital culture. When she's not writing, you can almost certainly find her shopping (she knows her credit card numbers by heart) or obsessing over celebrity news. Although she’s acquired an extensive closet over the years, her favorite item she owns is a Harry Styles Love On Tour hoodie she purchased at his concert in Manchester. Daisy's work has appeared on Refinery29, The Daily Beast, E! News, Allure and more. Keep up with all of her chaotic travels, NYC life and fashionable moments on her Instagram.
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