5 Gifts for Every College Graduate

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I graduate exactly one month from today. (Taking a moment to let that sink in, while screaming internally!) I am filled with terror and excitement, but I am choosing to focus on embracing my last few moments as a college student. With every new season of life comes fear of change, lifestyle adjustments, and enthusiasm for adventures. Graduating college is the first of many actions that marks life’s major milestones. Conquer, excel, and thrive as you head towards what your college studies and experiences have been preparing you for with the help of some extra tools.

1. I Will Teach You to be Rich by Ramit Sethi

If there’s one thing on this list that I am most excited about, it’s Ramit’s book. Finances is a generally taboo subject among peers, friends, and families, and that’s because of the stress and discomfort it causes. Ramit breaks it down for you in easy to understand terms and positively changes your financial mindset, allowing you to envision and manifest your rich life. He offers word-for-word scripts to waive late credit card fees, approaches to tackle student debts and loans, and explicit ways to start investing. I was able to successfully reclaim $90 of account maintenance charges after calling my bank and using Ramit’s script. It works. The second edition of the book comes out today, May 14th, with updated tools and resources and new insights to money decisions and psychology.

2. Gym Membership

One of the biggest perks to being a student is access to the on-campus gym. Maintaining exercise habits and fitness goals is be a great way to establish a new routine as a full-fledged adult. I am completely biased and love the YMCA organization. The YMCA is community-oriented, committed to healthy living, carries out a social responsibility, and nurtures youth development. They offer amazing favorite classes—Les Mills BodyFlow and BodyPump, Boot Camp, and Yoga Flow—that are bound to transpire sweat and release toxins.

3. Journal and Pen Duo

I am a huge advocate for daily journaling, which includes writing down your thoughts, reflecting on your day, and making a gratitude list. This is the perfect time to commemorate this chapter of your life by starting anew with a sturdy hardcover journal along with a well-made pen. I look for journals with blank ivory pages and non-spiraled bindings and pens with smooth grips and fine tips. You can always find peace and inner strength from reflection and mindful rituals.


4. Online Classes

Learning is a lifelong process that ignites new ideas and connections. Utilize free time to hone in on a skill, read more books, and share your experiences with others who have similar goals. There is a multitude of online videos, workshops, and webinars that teach skills based on projects and lectures. Continue to invigorate your brain cells and challenge your abilities.

5. A Set of Pajamas

The days of wearing faded college t-shirts with armpit holes are over. Treat yourself to a luxurious set of pajamas that you can effortlessly change out of in the mornings and can’t wait to get back into at the end of the day. Consider opting for a cotton, silk, or linen fabric, which are all lightweight and breathable.

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Waresa Hu