<p>I am a student at American University, graduating in a little less than eight weeks. I thought that this thread would be a good place to seek some guidance on small gift ideas for my parents. I am finishing college one year early, but in the course of the three years I have been at AU, my parents have been remarkably supportive and although they would not want me spending any amount of money to thank them, I want to give them some small token of gratitude and appreciation.</p>
<p>I would really appreciate any ideas that you can offer. My parents say seeing me walk across the stage and getting my diploma is enough of a gift, but I can’t help but want to offer something else.</p>
<p>Thank you for any ideas that you can offer in advance!</p>
<p>Every parent is different, but I would enjoy a small digital photo album with pics from your college years. Beautiful, scenic pics of the campus, plus silly pics with your roomies and friends, and anything else that captures the feel of your years there. I would include in the album a page that allows you to write a meaningful note of thanks. </p>
<p>The best thank you is specific, and you could list some specific life lessons learned, some attributes of your parents that you hope to emulate, and your acknowledgement of their sacrifices that allowed you to attend college.</p>
<p>This would allow your parents a chance to “show off” their child to family and friends plus bring a tear to their eyes as they realize you appreciate all they have done to help you become successful.</p>
<p>Those are really good ideas! I had always considered writing a thank you note, but I never would have thought of the photo album idea. Thank you for the parent perspective!</p>
<p>I really like the “Willow Tree” figurines sold at Hallmark, they have ones for all sorts of occasions. You could also try browsing Etsy- they have customized gifts like jewelry, coffee mugs, etc. </p>
<p>In addition to a concrete gift, the best thing you could for your parents would be to stay in touch regularly with them! That’s what I will hope for, when my kids eventually leave the nest.</p>
<p>I would like a simple thank-you-note from my college graduates. (Still waiting. . .they graduated in 2010 and 2013) I also like the idea of a photo of you by a campus landmark/sign.
The best gift will be seeing you employed and off their payroll ;)</p>
<p>Everyone has given you great ideas. Adding to sacchi’s idea - how about buying that photo frame from your college bookstore and putting a note in the frame saying that the frame is reserved for a photo of you and your parents on graduation day? Congratulations to you as you graduate. You are very thoughtful. </p>