Students work hard on homework and various other projects during the course of their academic career. For those about to graduate, some potentially life-changing decisions await and students have the opportunity to graduate to a new stage in life.

Many families celebrate graduation with a party for the guest of honor, who is presented with a variety of gifts during the festivities.

If he or she has been voted most likely to travel or most likely to be a company CEO, there may be gifts tailor-made for those pursuits.

All-Star Athlete

If your guy or girl took home more trophies and sports-related awards than you can count, a sporty gift may be just what is needed. Plan a day when you can take your graduate to a sporting event of his or her choosing. You may be able to take in a home game of a favorite team or fly to a playoff game. Sports enthusiasts who attend many games may enjoy receiving a ticket stub diary, where they can scrapbook their photos and memories of different games throughout the year.

Travel Bug

Perhaps your graduate has a love for travel and plans on seeing the world before starting a job or furthering his or her academic career. A new set of luggage might be the right fit. If not, consider a subscription to a travel magazine or some books about specific destinations he or she has admired or would like to one day visit. Think about ordering a personalized passport cover and a traveler’s journal for documenting all ports of call.

Future CEO

Some students just seem destined for corporate success. Help pave the way with gifts that befit a CEO. Many mergers and acquisitions are made out on the golf course, so having the skills of the game is a necessity. Golf lessons with a PGA pro or a membership to a golf course is a great place to start.

Students who want to make a good first impression can benefit from a personalized leather portfolio for keeping resumes at the ready. Business cards printed with contact information can be handed out at networking events and job fairs.

Financial Maven

A student who excels in finance and has built a sizable nest egg may appreciate a gift of green. Purchase stock in his or her name, or open up a savings or credit account that can be used for school expenses. Monetary gifts never go out of style and could set a graduate on a course for success.

Philanthropist

If your student has been participating in a cause from as early as you can remember, a philanthropic gift could be a nice touch for graduation. Make a donation in his or her name to a charity of his or her choosing. If you prefer to spread good will together, schedule volunteer time at a community center, hospital or disaster relief organization or enroll in programs that can use volunteers.

Career Person

A graduate ready to begin his or her career may need a few resources to get started. A savvy business wardrobe can help make a good first impression. Gift cards to stores that carry professional wardrobes will benefit those grads who may not have the budget to stock their wardrobes with career essentials.

Purchasing a bus pass or a gift toward commuting costs can be another way to offer a career-related gift.

Stress Relief

Few graduates will scoff at the idea of relaxing before starting a new stage of their life. There are several gift ideas that can help a graduate kick back and relax and wash away memories of stressful exams or school applications. A gift certificate to a spa center that offers facials and massages would prove a relaxing gift. Some graduates may unwind through exercise, so a new piece of exercise equipment or membership to a local gym would be thoughtful. Tickets to a concert or theater performance could be a relaxing and entertaining way to unwind after the hustle and bustle of graduation.

When gifting graduates one can begin by looking at their interests or what items may help them start their new careers or academic pursuits.