College Life
The 2023 College Bucket List: 55 Things To Do Before Graduation
This is the ultimate college bucket list of things every college student must do before graduation. Have fun and create memories that will last forever.
Are you experiencing FOMO (fear of missing out) on things you haven’t done during your college years?
You are not alone. College is a very busy period of our lives that sometimes it’s hard to keep up with everything that is going on around us.
Fortunately, I have compiled a college bucket list of the best 55 activities that will help you complete the full college experience.
I hope you have fun and create memories that will last forever.
You can also access our college bucket list as a free printable below.
1. Decorate Your Dorm
The feng shui of your dorm is a huge aspect of your college experience, especially since the pandemic has caused us to spend more time in our rooms.
While a few posters are nice, adding a few cozy adornments will make your room feel more like a home, and will seriously improve your day-to-day experience at school.
2. Join a club
You may be unmotivated to join clubs, especially if you are an upperclassman.
But talking to your peers about shared interests is a great opportunity to make new friends and pursue your passions outside of the classroom.
3. Take a “fun” class
We often feel that we can only take classes that will support our major, but most people have academic interests that don’t fall into this category.
Every student deserves to take a college-level class on a subject they are personally interested in.
This will also help broaden your education and worldly knowledge, outside of your specialization.
4. Volunteer
We spend a lot of time in college thinking about ourselves, but giving back is an important way to help others.
This also fuels individual growth and strengthens community ties.
Most schools offer volunteer opportunities on campus, but there are also great websites that help connect you to local opportunities.
5. Walk around your entire campus
We spend a lot of our time walking from classes, to dining halls, to dorms, but we tend to disregard the places on campus that we don’t necessarily need to go to.
Try walking from one end of campus to the other, and you may find amazing buildings that you would otherwise never notice: coffee shops, dining halls, a building with a perfect study nook.
6. Shoot your shot!
We’re not all going to find our true love in college, but you’ll never know if you don’t try.
Make it a mission to tell your crush how you feel about them before you leave for grad school and never see them again.
7. Reflect with your friends on your college experience
College really does go by fast, and if you don’t stop to look around, you might just miss it.
So take a day to just sit down in the quad and reflect with your friends about your time together.
8. Read a book or two completely for your own enjoyment
As we get older, the opportunity for reading comes far less often, so spend some free time reading a book you genuinely are interested in, before you graduate.
9. Crash a party and make a new friend
It’s easy to stay with the same group of people throughout your time in college, but this wouldn’t be a college bucket list without some semi-risky activities.
Walk into a party that you may not have been invited to, and you might just leave with a new friendship, at least for the night.
10. Sneak into somewhere restricted on campus
There are many restricted areas on campus that are supposedly off-limits to students, but taking one little visit isn’t going to hurt anyone.
Plus, you’ll have a great story to tell your kids one day, to show them how cool you were during your college years.
11. Throw a themed party
Either throw or attend a themed party, where you have to dress up in goofy costumes.
These parties really do only happen in college, and they’re worth experiencing before you move on to the benign office Christmas party of your mid-20s.
12. Skip class
You probably have done this one already, but it goes without saying that the feeling of sleeping in during your 9 AM class is truly incredible.
So, if you haven’t already, make sure you miss a class before you graduate, and experience the joy that is two extra hours of sleep.
13. Dance like no one’s watching
It is easy to feel self-conscious about dancing at parties, but at the end of the day, you probably won’t see most of these people ever again, so just do it.
Go crazy and dance like you are jamming out by yourself in the kitchen, because why not?
14. Spend all of the campus money on your account
College is really, really expensive, so make sure that you use every single dollar to your advantage.
If you have campus cash or a meal plan, make sure to squeeze it ‘til the last drop, because that’s what colleges do to your pockets.
Go have that delicious ice cream and favorite meals until you can´t see them anymore!
15. Work on living more sustainably
It is hard to think about being environmentally friendly with all the other stresses of college, but there are easy ways to lower your carbon footprint, without building a wind turbine on top of your dorm.
Try reusable tumblers, bamboo toothbrushes, or shampoo and conditioner bars.
16. Senior road trip with friends
Go on a road trip, because road trips are awesome, and it’s a great way to bond with your friends from school, while you still have the chance to all be in the same place.
17. Go to a sporting event (even if it’s ironically)
College sports are not everyone’s cup of tea but attending a game can actually be a lot of fun, even if you’re secretly laughing at everyone else’s team spirit for your D3 football team.
A sports game can be a simple way of having a great time in college!
18. Participate in one of your schools’ traditions
Every college has some weird tradition, whether it’s embarrassing, hilarious, or both.
While this is one of the more obscure tasks on the list, you definitely can’t complete a college bucket list without participating.
19. Get a great grade in a hard class that you’re proud of
College is a lot of work. Compared to high school, it’s more difficult to get a great grade in a class.
Challenge yourself to take a difficult class and push yourself to your limit to succeed.
If you can succeed in that environment, it will give you the confidence to challenge yourself in the future.
20. Try not to stress out during your final weeks at school
Finals are really scary and can often be a large part of your final grade, but stressing about them accomplishes nothing.
Try your best and remember that this is not a life-or-death situation… unless you have a really crazy professor.
21. Study Abroad
Learning in a different country, and possibly even in a different language, is truly an eye-opening experience that every student deserves to have before they graduate.
22. Take a silly photo in front of a mascot/statue
This one is just great for memories, and even if it feels cheesy, you will thank yourself for doing this down the line.
23. Pull an all-nighter
One of the least fun activities on the college bucket list, pulling an all-nighter is an exhausting activity that may save you from failing a test or essay.
It is a harrowing experience, but you cannot say you have truly lived in college until you have seen the sunrise while finishing an assignment due hours later.
24. Show up to class looking like a mess
We spend a lot of time in college trying to look presentable, while also studying five hours a day and running on even less sleep.
So just relax for a day, and walk out the house in your pajamas, exactly how you woke up.
Don’t worry, everyone has been there.
25. Explore the town that your college is in
Many college towns feel sleepy and uninteresting, but if you have the time, exploring your town can help you discover some great restaurants and shops for when you leave campus.
26. Get a disposable camera and capture memories
Smartphone photography can only go so far, and the memories captured on film are often some of the bests.
Head to your local CVS, get a disposable camera and shoot a roll of film at least once.
27. Bond with a professor
While we may not love every professor we have, there are many that are extremely friendly and intelligent.
It is worth the time to get to know them outside the classroom, over lunch or a cup of coffee.
28. Stay up late and nap during the day (for the last time)
The ability to sleep in and nap during the day is something that young people tend to take for granted.
After college, this is almost impossible, so take every opportunity to wake up at noon while you still can.
29. Day drink (also for the last time)
Another activity that doesn’t happen after college is getting drunk in the middle of the day.
This isn’t everyone’s favorite, but it is 100% worth a try and is a staple for the college bucket list.
30. Go out with friends and eat great food after a hangover
After a hangover, go out and eat some great food. Hangover meals with friends are some of the happiest moments of our youth.
31. Express your gratitude
We often think our friends from school will last forever, but unfortunately, this is not always the case.
Make sure to let everyone know that you appreciate them before you graduate.
32. Travel to a different climate (if possible)
Depending on where you go to school, the weather can be quite dreary.
Try to travel somewhere nice and sunny, at least once, while on winter break.
33. Make sure to take advantage of your college library
Libraries are not everyone’s favorite place to hang out, but the resources they provide are extremely helpful.
You won’t have access to this amount of literature ever again after college, so just keep that in mind for your next visit.
34. Make sure you know how to write a dope resume and cover letter
Looking for jobs can be a grueling process for recently graduated students, so set yourself up for success by learning how to write a great resume and cover letter.
35. Cook an awesome meal for your friends
While your college diet may consist mainly of ramen and cereal, there is something special about cooking for the people that you care about.
Make a dish for your friends and eat it with them, and they might even do the same for you.
36. Find internship opportunities for the summer after senior year!
Internships and jobs can be a stressful thing to think about on top of the workload of college, but it is essential to have something lined up for the summer after your senior year.
So what are you waiting for? Go find your dream internship and find out what you’re good at, and what your interests really are.
It’s okay if you don’t excel at first, this is just the start of your dream job.
37. Make a mark on campus
Writing your name on a tree feels played out, but try to find a mark you can make on campus.
You can come back in five, ten, or twenty years later, and look for it.
Trying to find it will be a fun challenge, and it will also bring back all the memories surrounding your college days.
38. Push yourself to try a new activity that takes you out of your comfort zone
We only get a brief opportunity to try new things, and you will regret it if your shyness overcomes your new experiences.
Even if it is something simple like learning a challenging game with your friends, pushing yourself out of your comfort zone is a big part of what college bucket lists are all about.
39. Use every student discount available while you still can
Many museums, restaurants, and forms of public transportation have student discounts that save you a significant chunk of change.
Take advantage of these while you can, because you end up saving a ton of money.
Your older self will thank you.
40. Find a tall building and enjoy a good view of campus from above
College campuses can often be really pretty from above. Find a way to look down at all the buildings (and students) to have a great experience.
41. Go to an All You Can Eat Buffet with Friends
Spending the day eating without worrying about running up the tab is quite a unique experience especially for your average college student.
Whether it’s Chicken Wings, Sushi, or Tiki Missala, you will end the day extremely stuffed but also extremely satisfied.
Whether it’s Chicken Wings, Sushi, or Tiki Missala, you will end the day extremely stuffed but also extremely satisfied.
42. Rush a Fraternity or Sorority on campus
By no means am I saying join one of these organizations, unless you really want to, but the rushing process is a fun way to meet people, and go to a bunch of parties.
Also, you’ll never know if Greek life is right for you unless you try.
43. Try a Campus Specific Dating App
Many schools have a yearly dating ritual in which all students send information about themselves and receive a “perfect match” on campus.
This may seem like a silly way to find “the one”, but it is definitely a fun way to meet new people, and like many other College Bucket List activities, you’ll only know unless you try.
44. Learn a new language
College is one of the last times you have the time and resources to learn a language, outside of the one(s) you have grown up speaking.
If you have already taken a language throughout high school there’s no reason to stop now, and if you focus hard enough, you might graduate with a degree as well as a new language under your belt.
45. Go to a concert with friends
This hallmark experience of college life has been put on pause due to the pandemic, but once it is safe to go see your favorite artist, take the opportunity to jump up and down for 3 hours while you’re still young enough that you won’t feel it for the next week.
46. Live in a house with friends or anywhere off-campus
While dorm living is convenient, it is also cramped and noisy.
University housing is a great opportunity to live with your friends and get some privacy from the rest of campus.
A dorm room is a great experience at the beginning of college, but when you’re almost getting to the end, living with friends off- campus is a great idea you should get on your bucket list!
47. Talk to your campus employees
The staff who clean the dorms, serve your food, and help maintain the campus are a huge part of our college experience, so treat them with respect and kindness.
If you see the same person every day, say hi or start a conversation, just like you would with another student or professor.
48. Wear an outfit that you would never wear as an adult
Your future job might have a strict dress code, where your personal sense of style is taboo.
That’s why college is a great place to take fashion risks and try on outfits that wouldn’t be appropriate in a cubicle.
49. Play an intramural sports
Sports may not be your thing, but intramural teams are a friendly and low-stress environment where everyone is welcome.
They’re an easy way to get exercise, and it’s more fun than the gym.
50. Make a cool graduation cap
You don’t want to just be another head in the crowd at graduation.
Customize your cap so that your friends and family know it’s you that’s graduating.
51. Find a body of water near your campus and jump in!
Most schools are close to some sort of pond, lake, or beach, so on a warm day, go find some water and jump in.
It’s a refreshing break from college life, and way better than the campus pool.
52. Find the best restaurant (on a budget) in your college town
Even if you feel like the college town is practically a food desert, make sure to find one spot that you can always go to, when you are in need of a delicious meal.
53. Buy a pet fish
Having a little fish is an easy pet to keep you company in your dorm, without the maintenance of having a dog or cat on campus.
54. Go bar hopping with your parents
Parents’ weekend is the perfect time to show your family what you’ve been up to at school, and there’s no better place to do this than the local bar.
You might even see a side of mom and dad that hasn’t come out since they were your age.
55. Network, Network, Network
Networking is crucial for finding job opportunities and building professional relationships.
Attend networking events, join professional relationships organizations, and connect with alumni from your school or program.
Building a strong professional network can help you find job opportunities and make valuable connections in your field.
56. Make international friends that you can hang out with
Meeting new people from different countries is one of the best aspects of attending college.
Getting to know people from diverse backgrounds and interests can be very rewarding.
Therefore, don’t be hesitant to introduce yourself to others and make some new friends.
57. Conquer a fear
Attempt to overcome a fear. Phobias come in a wide variety of forms in people.
The fear of stars, long words, and garlic are a few of the strangest phobias.
The most prevalent phobias include those of spiders, snakes, heights, and flying.
In actuality, 33 to 40% of the general population experiences flying-related anxiety and fear.
More than three-quarters of adults experience dental phobia or anxiety. 33 percent of Americans are afraid of failing.
Choose a fear and decide what you must do to overcome it.
58. Live for a year or two on campus
Nowadays, online and traditional classes are combined at colleges and universities.
Living on campus may be more of a necessity for first-year students than a choice.
This rule is meant to make facilities, activities, services, etc. more easily accessible to them, assisting them in adjusting to college life.
If you have the option to choose between living in a residence hall or a dorm, the following are the main benefits:
If you factor in the monthly costs for things like electricity, internet access, and other luxuries that make living in a dorm more comfortable, it turns out to be less expensive than living in an off-campus apartment.
Meal plans are included in the room and board, so residents who live on campus don’t have to worry about cooking or buying food.
59. A House to Rent with Friends
College students are expected to take on greater responsibility and enjoy greater independence.
Living off-campus is a completely different experience with fewer and less strict rules.
If you have your own bedroom, you won’t have to worry about bothering your roommate or arriving home late.
By inviting your friends to move in with you, the financial burden of renting becomes lessened.
These benefits come with sharing a home with your friends:
– Spend less on rent.
– Provide a larger living space.
– Spread out the cost of groceries and food.
– Develop or learn skills in areas such as communication, money management, cooking, and home upkeep.
60. Get on the Dean’s List
Academically outstanding students who achieve the dean’s list receive recognition.
While the specifications differ from school to school, the GPA cutoff is typically around 3.5.
Making the dean’s list is undoubtedly difficult, but the effort is worthwhile.
Your name being on the list may open up opportunities for scholarships and invitations to exclusive celebrations (also known as parties).
Realize all of your learning potential while in college; after all, that is why you are there.
61. Travel the world
The other side of the world is calling to you with adventures, difficulties, victories, and lessons learned both inside and outside the classroom.
One of the best immersive experiences for your present and future selves during college is traveling outside of your comfort zone.
You’ll take home and use in your academic and professional lives the intangibles, such as interpersonal skills, useful life hacks, work ethics, cultural differences, and perspectives.
Exploring new worlds is not as expensive as it seems, depending on your destination and assuming you have your finances in order.
This is a great college bucket list idea if you love exploring new horizons and learning from the differences that exist among us.
62. Go to a play
All the theater students have probably done this at least once.
Going to a play with your friends would be a great way to strengthen your friendship, regardless of whether you have ever seen a play.
Nothing is more enthralling and fascinating than a Broadway show’s brilliant lighting, well-choreographed movement, and amazing music.
Attending a play would allow you to hang out with your friends while immersing yourself in the world of drama. A theater is a place where magic is created.
63. Letter in a time capsule
One great way to keep the memories you have with all of your family and friends is to write a time capsule letter.
Looking back at that letter and reading what your younger self wrote and the memories you made in the past would be enjoyable experience as well.
– A letter for the future you
Even though it’s kind of a cliche, if you only leave one thing for your future self, make it this. It’s like stepping back in time.
When it comes time to graduate, tell yourself what you think you will need to hear.
Reassure yourself that your worries about graduating and entering the real world are unfounded.
Congratulate yourself on completing your studies. Encourage yourself to keep making progress toward your goals without stopping.
Tell yourself the things you know you need to hear in an honest manner.
– A list of your preferred things
Making a list of your favorite things will help the time capsule be more humorous because we’re always so ashamed of our former selves and the odd phases we went through.
Talk about your favorite stores, a piece of clothing you wear way too often, your favorite restaurants, and your favorite foods.
Which activities were your favorites? Which color did you prefer?
All of this is important. Who knows how much you have changed—it motivates us to see our own development.
This is a great idea for a good laugh with your college friends.
64. Make a scrapbook for seniors
Making a senior scrapbook is a unique way to ensure that you always have all of your memories with you.
You will be able to look back on all the enjoyable times you’ve had with your loved ones because all of your photos and memorabilia will be kept in one location.
Whatever stage of life you’re in is irrelevant. You can always look back on your senior year’s significant events because you have records of them.
This is great to have all the memories from freshman year to senior year all in one place !
65. Organize a house party
Yes, the cleanup process could take weeks, but if you’re a student living in a university residence, you have to throw a house party.
Send out a ton of invitations, bring out the biggest speakers you can find, and prepare the ideal playlist.
Just make sure your neighbors are aware of it in advance; you don’t want to receive a fine.
66. Play every drinking game there is
It can be very cost-effective to have a few drinks before going out, but you can make it more exciting by playing some entertaining games.
Although Ring of Fire may be the most popular drinking game, there are a ton of other pre-drinking activities available.
With our comprehensive list of drinking games, you can become an expert and dazzle your friends with your knowledge.
67. Run
Grab your running shoes and get moving, whether it’s a Tough Mudder, a half-marathon, or a color run.
You’ll probably be surprised at what you can actually accomplish if you’re determined enough, even if you’re a terrible runner.
For added motivation, you could even try to persuade one of your housemates to join you during your workout.
Plus, it’s pretty thrilling to run through a rainbow of colors! You can even train by playing different sports with friends, like basketball, football, volleyball, or any other sport you´ve always wanted to play!
68. Get a part time job
A part-time job at the university is a necessity for many students.
They’re a great way to improve your finances and pick up some new skills, even if you don’t need one. It looks great on your resume as well.
Long university breaks are the ideal time to earn money. The best summer employment for students is covered in our guide.
You can also work a few hours over the weekend or before or after classes.
Just be sure to schedule enough time for both studying and relaxing.
69. Test out a strange society
Throw yourself into it and try something really bizarre because you’re probably never going to get another chance to try out the cheese club or dress up as a Viking.
At worst, you might embarrass yourself and never again show your face, or it might turn into your new favorite hobby.
In either case, you’ll kick yourself for not giving it a shot.
70. Take a random class
Listen to those vibes and go with the flow. Or, even better, inquire about the course on social media.
You won’t believe how much fun it is to enroll in a course you have no interest in and discover that it covers a fascinating subject.
This can even be the start of a lifetime passion!
71. Get a tattoo
A great way to express oneself and make a statement is through tattoos.
However, there are drawbacks to this mode of expression.
Tattoo removal can be costly and is permanent. So, think very carefully before purchasing one.
72. Take a picture with your school mascot
You should put a picture of yourself with your school mascot on your bucket list.
It is the ideal way to cherish your memories and have a good time with your friends.
It will be a wonderful memory that you can treasure and spread to the rest of the world.
73. Beach day
If you want to love yourself during your college experience, go to the beach with your friends.
Either go to the beach alone and unwind, or go with friends and have fun.
There are numerous enjoyable activities at the beach, which is also relaxing.
Spending your free day there is a great idea.
74. Spring Break Trip
I am aware that planning and funding a trip can be challenging for college students.
But if you really work hard to find good deals and where the best and most reasonably priced Spring Break destinations are, you can totally pull this off.
There probably won’t ever be a time in your lives when you and your friends can go away together alone and not have to worry about other obligations for a full week as great as Spring Break.
75. Starting a minor
Since you’ve already taken the majority of the classes required for your major, many seniors spend their final semester of college taking a variety of unrelated classes.
Adding a minor is something you might want to think about for your final year, particularly your final semester.
This is a fantastic option for you if you have taken a few classes in the same area of study because you have already made significant progress toward finishing the minor.
Another interesting fact is that you can add a minor pretty much at any time during your senior year.
76. Write letters to the people who have had the biggest impact on you during your time in college, including your closest friends, professors, and role models.
The most significant item on this bucket list is probably this one.
One of the most touching gifts you can give those who have had a real impact on your life is a letter written from the heart.
Inform them of your shared growth and express your gratitude for having met them, even if not all of your memories of them are favorable.
I still read the yearbook entries from my former high school and try to keep in mind the enduring friendships I’ve forged throughout the years when I’m feeling down.
77. Turn into a local
Wherever you go for college, really get to know the area.
Make sure to experience the beaches, hikes, the nightlife, and the culture the city/town has to offer.
You may end up staying, and you may not, so live it up there for the 4 {or 5} years it takes to graduate.
78. Karaoke night
Finding new ways to make the night memorable is an important part of going out with your friends.
You can always find something to do with your friends to make it a great night to remember, whether it’s on a Friday night or a last-minute weekend.
Singing loudly with their friends is something that most people enjoy when they’re having a good time.
It’s a good way to strengthen relationships and is enjoyable for all parties.
The best places to go on a night out are those that have karaoke equipment.
Every friend group should engage in the fun activity of playing their favorite music and singing loudly together. especially if it’s your first time.
79. Ace an exam
The top item on your college bucket list should unquestionably be this!
Set your classes in order of importance, review your notes, create a study schedule, test your knowledge, and then ace your final.
Knowing that your efforts paid off is the best feeling in the entire world. It gives you a powerful feeling.
80. Go to a college ballroom dance
There is a lot of social fun to be had in college; it is not solely about academics.
Attend a formal dance while decked out in your best dress or suit.
It is the ideal way to make new friends or get in touch with old ones that you haven’t seen in a while due to your intense study schedule.
81. Spent time with your family
Although it may seem dull now, you’ll be glad you took part when you think back on all the family trips and outings.
Say goodbye to flexible schedules when you start working; you’ll soon be so busy that you’ll have to negotiate with coworkers to get time off, especially around the holidays.
As a result, you might later find it challenging to strike a balance between work, social obligations, and family time.
82. Use a classroom projector to watch a movie on campus.
When you and your friends are between classes and are completely bored, sneak into an empty classroom, connect a laptop to the projector, and watch a movie or two.
Consider it a low-cost cinematic experience; just remember to pack some snacks.
These suggestions aren’t for everyone because they’re only meant to motivate you to get the most out of your time at school.
In the end, you should only do things that you are comfortable with and not give in to peer pressure.
Enjoy crossing things off your bucket list while staying safe.
83. Purchase airline tickets for a last-minute getaway
Do airport hangouts make you want to pack up everything and board the next available flight?
Do it; there’s nothing better than a last-minute, spontaneous trip with some friends to a new location!
84. Visit each restaurant in the area
Over the course of your four years of college, set a goal to dine at each and every establishment in the city.
In a bigger city, this might be challenging, but in a smaller college town, it’s definitely doable!
85. Graduate!
All of these ups and downs won’t be worth it without that degree, so make sure you graduate and cross that stage!
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FAQs
- Why is a bucket list important?
The goal of a bucket list is to live a life filled with dreams and aspirations.
Making a bucket list gives us the opportunity to consider our values and aspirations in addition to listing significant life milestones and experiences that we want to have.
- What are some fun college bucket list ideas?
As mentioned above, some fun college bucket list ideas are: going bar hopping with your parents and having a great laugh with them, while also spending quality time together; and also organizing a house party you´ll never forget!
- What are some freshman college bucket list ideas?
The best freshman college bucket list ideas are: Making international friends you can hang out with so you can learn about different cultures, and start learning a new language!
- What are some things to do in college for fun?
Some fun things to do in college include, going to a sports game inside campus, and participating in one of your campus traditions.
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Graduation is right around the corne. For most students, it cannot come faster. Make sure you are prepared for your loved one’s special moment! Luckily, we’ve got you covered. After extensive research, we have devised our list of the 40 best graduation gifts for 2021. Read on to ensure that your graduate gets the gift they deserve.
For High School Graduates
1. Monogrammed Laundry Bag
For some students, going off to college means they have to do their own laundry for the first time. This gift is perfect in order to prepare them for the new life ahead. Customize it with your grad’s name, so they do not get it confused with anyone else’s. I would love a personalized laundry bag so my clothes do not get lost in my room!
2. Personalized Insulated YETI Tumbler
Staying hydrated is always important, especially without reminders from parents. This insulated water bottle will keep your grad’s drink at the perfect temperature, whether it be hot coffee or ice cold water. I would give this gift to someone who you know values the importance of staying hydrated. #hydrationnation
3. Personal Leather Journal
Whether they write stories, poems, or just like to put pen to paper, this journal will catch your student’s eyes with its nice leather binding. This gift will surely leave your grad never wanting to put down their pen. If I were to receive this gift, I would fill it completely in just a couple weeks no doubt!
4. Guardian Dorm Angel Wings
There’s nothing quite as comforting as having an angel watching over you. For those who worry about their children, this gift can bring a sense of peace. Knowing someone is always watching over me would absolutely give me greater peace of mind.
5. Adidas Duffle Bag
Trendy and comfortable to carry, this Adidas duffle is a great gift for your graduate. The perfect size for traveling, this bag will come in handy when moving in and out of your new dorm. This bag could have helped me out when moving into my dorm freshman year!
6. College Crewneck Sweatshirt
No matter what school your grad is attending, this crewneck is absolutely perfect for a new college student. Give your grad an early opportunity to represent their four-year home with this gift. I always love to wear anything that shows off my school choice and spirit.
7. NCAA Leather Cash and Card Holder
Help your grad start off at their new school with a fresh new wallet, embroidered with their school’s logo. This gift will help to ensure that your new college student always has their necessary ID cards on them. As another great way to represent my school choice, I would have loved to receive this gift.
8. NCAA Ultrasoft College Throw Blanket
This gift will come in handy on multiple occasions: cold nights in the dorm, outside in the autumn or winter, or thrown over the back of a chair for decor. Once again, this item offers your grad the chance to represent their academic path. That being said, it would have made the perfect gift for me as a student.
9. Gameday Clear Crossbody Bag
This bag is perfect for your sports-loving college student. The design allows for easy access to all of the components of the bag, if they get it checked somewhere like a stadium or airport. Why wouldn’t anyone want to make their trip to the stadium simple, making this the perfect gift.
10. Dorm Sweet Dorm Embroidered Pillow
It’s always nice to feel at home, especially when you are miles away from your childhood home. This pillow could give your student that sense of comfort while in their dorm, making it a perfect gift for homesickness. Any student would be lucky to have this incredibly fair priced pillow for their dorm.
11. Plush Graduation Bear
It’s hard to make friends. Send your graduate off to school with a guaranteed companion, with this little cute plush bear. I love this gift so much, it stands out to me as the cutest gift on this list by far.
12. The 5-Ingredient College Cookbook
Easy and simple for any student, this gift will ensure that your graduate doesn’t starve. It also could be beneficial in keeping your student off of a strict ramen noodle diet and avoid the “Freshman 15”. I would have loved to have this myself, it would have come in handy when all I had to eat was Ramen.
13. “Friends” Picture Frame
Students spend more time with their roommates than anyone else, so why not preemptively manifest a good relationship with a suitable picture frame? You could even make a small collage of your favorite moments and put that in the frame. Something to hold my favorite picture would have been nice to have in my dorm.
14. Collegiate Flag
A college flag is something you will find in many apartments on every campus nationwide. Whether they hang it on the wall or on their flag-pole outside, this gift gives your grad the opportunity to show their pride. I would be glad to be able to fly my college’s flag in their room or even outside my house.
15. “Call Your Mom” Sign
This is a rather comic gift, but in addition to making your loved one smile, it will also remind them to keep in touch while away. Hopefully, it will get you a phone call from your student, at least once a week. This gift hits close to home as I am one of those people who sometimes gets so lost in all the craziness of school that I forget to call. Sorry mom!
16. Personalized Monogrammed Towel
It’s important to make sure your student stays clean all semester. This towel will help them keep track of their own, ensuring it never gets lost. I know that keeping track of my towel in the communal bathrooms was hard, with this gift, that challenge disappears!
17. Hammock for Two
Chilling on campus has never been more fun, when you’re hanging out in this hammock— pun intended. Your student can bring their roommate, friends, or significant other and enjoy the view of the beautiful sky. I love hammocks any time anywhere, this gift would have me using it every single day.
18. College Gameday Bracelet
Get your student energized and pumped up for sporting events with a bracelet in their university’s colors. These will be the colors they bleed for the next four years, so start them off early with this gift. You would never catch me without this bracelet on my wrist on gameday repping my school.
19. “She Believed She Could So She Studied Her Ass Off and She Did” Coffee Mug
Daily affirmations are vital for any point in school. This mug will give your student the daily confidence that she needs to get herself through the day. I wish I had this mug to help me compose myself in times when I lacked confidence.
20. Embroidered Makeup Bag
This makeup bag stands out as a great gift to let your student know how much they mean to you. You can even personalize it with your graduate’s name so everyone knows who it belongs to. Anyone would be lucky to have such an amazing gift, and the customization aspect just adds to that awesomeness.
For College Graduates
21. Samsonite Omni Expandable Hardside Luggage
This luggage bag is the absolute perfect gift for anyone who will be traveling in the future. Your brand new adult will find this gift to be incredibly useful when the time comes to travel. I personally felt that this brand of luggage was the best suitable for my needs.
22. Personalized Leather Travel/Shaving Bag
This bag is perfect for those who find themselves shaving very often. The customization aspect of the gift is just a bonus! I would be grateful to be gifted this incredibly priced travel bag that I’d use daily!
23. Stainless Steel Customizable Bracelet Cuff
A wonderful reminder of your student’s time at home, this bracelet will bring back memories of the past whenever your student wears it. Customize it with a lovely message to put a smile on your grad’s face. The thing that stood out the most to me was the amazing deal that you can get it for!
24. DIY Photo Album Scrapbook
Giving your grad a photo album will allow them to customize the gift themselves. This gift is sure to last forever, making it great for someone creating new memories. I never had a scrapbook of my own, but I sure wish I did.
25. Snack Chest Care Package
If you do not trust your grad to feed themselves, this snack box makes it much easier for them to do so. The gift includes dozens of various snacks, which means they will never get old to your student. This is the ideal gift for me, I love snacks but hate having to leave my room to get some, this stockpile would surely come in handy.
26. Bicycle Repair Kit
This bicycle repair kit is perfect for a student who is likely to bike a lot once they graduate. This gift gives them one last helping hand from you, before they finally leave you for good. I ride my bike all the time, this gift could have helped me out on multiple occasions.
27. “In Case of Emergency Break Glass” Frame
Another gag gift, this frame will give your student a laugh when they see it sitting on the wall. Who knows? Maybe the rainy day money will come in handy. I always find myself in need of a spare dollar, so I find this gift beneficial for sure.
28. Polaroid Pocket Printer
This is a small portable printer that connects to your grad’s phone, making it a very convenient gift. It’s perfect for your grad who takes lots of photos and needs them printed often. I think anyone would be happy to receive such a high tech futuristic gift from anyone.
29. Custom Graduation Frame
Give your grad a simple, yet thoughtful gift of a customized graduation frame. Engrave their graduation year in the frame so it stands out once their senior portraits finally come out. I still have my senior portrait standing in my room, all it’s missing is a customized frame.
30. Roav Viva In Car Navigation & Charger
A car charger and a GPS put together, anyone would be thrilled to receive this gift. However, it’s perfect for graduates who will be spending hours in the car traveling to and from work. I wish that I had this awesome device in my car, it would most definitely come in handy.
31. Smart Reusable Notebook
This notebook is special in the fact that once used completely, pages can be erased easily so that the notebook can be reused again. This notebook is potentially an endless journal for people who enjoy writing. If I had this book when I was in school I would have been able save countless pages wasted by doodles.
32. Universal Portable Bluetooth Keyboard
This foldable keyboard is a wonderful gift for those who travel with their tablets. It is compatible with every computer system, making it a valuable asset in any graduate’s life. If I had one of these, I would have done my work laying back in my bed every day.
33. How to Cook Everything
A great gift for anyone who struggles with cooking. This book could turn an amateur into a full-out chef. Don’t forget to add salt! I found that this book had some great recipes that were rather delicious!
34. Customized Passport Holder
This passport holder allows customization, so that your student knows exactly what their passport looks like. This is another wonderful gift for those graduates who cannot seem to stop traveling. If I was going on a trip somewhere, I’d want to travel in style with this wonderous passport holder.
35. Embossed Fine Leather Mouse Pad
This mouse pad is great for any graduate who is planning to spend a lot of time on their computers. The smooth leather makes a great track for any mouse and is guaranteed to last for a long time. I usually don’t use a mouse, but if I was gifted this pad, I would go out and buy one immediately.
36. Slim Business Card Carrier
Becoming an adult means being introduced to new aspects of the world, including business cards. Start your graduate off right with a beautiful business card holder. Now that I am getting close to graduating, this gift seems like it could come in handy.
37. Farberware 21 pc. Cutlery Set
This 21 piece set of kitchen cutlery is great for your graduate who is moving into their own place. This set includes anything that your student could possibly need in their kitchen. Moving out would be one step easier if I were to have this set of cutlery.
38. 400 Thread Count Sheet Set
Another great one for those grads living on their own, this sheet set will help your student start off with clean sheets for their new life. These sheets stand out as some of the softest and most comfortable on the market. Maybe if I had these when I was living in my dorm I would have actually changed my sheets once in a while.
39. Personalized Leather Slim Bifold Wallet
Going off into the real world requires a professional look, so your grad’s beat up college wallet just will not do anymore. Customize this leather wallet for them to keep them looking as proper as they can be. I’ve been needing a new wallet for a while now, a personalized one doesn’t seem too bad.
40. Herschel Messenger Bag
This bag is great for any grad who carries a good amount of stuff with them at any given time. This gift has a comfortable fit and a fashionable style, making it perfect for navigating a post-college life. If I had this bag, I would feel confident and comfortable to go anywhere in the world.
There is an indescribable pride in watching your loved one graduate. It’s a momentous occasion, and deserves to be celebrated as such! While a gift cannot stand alone as a measure of pride, it will give your graduate a perfect memento of their achievement.
