Gift Guide for Law School Graduates

Graduation ceremonies are around the corner! It’s always so exciting–the Bar is already looming overhead, which can make things tense, but earning a J.D. (and wow, do we earn it!) is an incredible accomplishment!

I still remember my graduation very fondly and was so blown away and grateful by how proud my family and friends were of me. And because my love language is gifts–I was also very happy to receive presents as well. Quite a few items, like my card holder, continue to be things I reach for all the time.

If you are planning to give a gift to a law grad, the best options are almost always gift cards to restaurants, grocery stores, and coffee shops. Nice and simple. But a lot of us feel gift cards are impersonal and want to give something more lasting. So what are real items that are law grad can use?

For those that are celebrating your friends’ achievements or are looking to treat yo’ self, here is a mini-gift guide for new law graduates:

One. Diploma Frames: There’s no shame in displaying your diploma proudly! Good frames are pricy, but if you get a sturdy, classic frame it will last decades and will fit nicely in both a modern home office or in a more conservative law firm. While at first blush, it may not seem like a super fun gift, the reality is that it’s very practical and useful gift.

Two. Office Supplies: Office supplies are really great options because you can go a more traditional route and get something that will look posh and professional OR you can get something a little more eclectic, depending on the graduate and their personality. You can also personalize a lot of these items, which gives it a special touch. Even if there’s no job on the horizon, a gift like this acknowledges the graduate’s upcoming career trajectory, which adds to the excitement of what the future has in store.

Three. Water tumbler: This may seem a bit out of place, but as I mentioned, the Bar exam is looming. And for most, their Bar summer was filled with all the emotions, which often leads to under/over-eating. I call my Bar summer the Summer of Candy because I ate candy like there was no tomorrow. Exhibit A:

Super bad habit, but the stress levels are SO high. A way to encourage healthy behaviors is to give the grad healthy tools. A new water tumbler (or some other item that encourages healthy behavior) may give the grad a gentle tug back from the brink of summertime madness. This type of gift is a really great option for current students who may not be able to give their friends something more expensive. Pair the tumbler with the grad’s favorite snack (yes, even if it’s candy) and it’ll be one of their favorite gifts.
Four. Sassy sweats: Sweatshirts like these are so trendy, but practical. The cut is more feminine than a standard hoodie, and well, who doesn’t love Notorious RBG?.