Are graduation presents a ‘thing’?

[Pleasedontdothat]

Ds1 has finally graduated (it’s taken him 7 years, don’t ask ..) We were planning to take him and his girlfriend out for a nice dinner after his graduation ceremony and a token ‘starting out in the adult world’ gift but we’re not sure what would be appropriate or expected. When I graduated my parents took me out for dinner and I got congratulations cards from my grandparents but that was about it..any thoughts?

I didn't get a gift either (U.K.)

DD's graduation is coming up in a few weeks but I hadn't really thought about a gift other than we were going to go out for a nice meal. I mean I wouldn't know what to get anyway especially as she's already secured a job, has recently bought a car and is earning more than me!!

She's not one for things like a watch or jewellery.

Years ago 21st birthdays were more of a thing and you didn’t get a graduation present as well! We did pay for DDs wig when she became a barrister. Degree was the first step on that ladder. So we “celebrated” the big one. And yes, wigs are quite pricy! Plus it’s tin with her initials on it!

Omg not a car or cash!

I got a charm for my Pandora referencing my degree, a bunch of roses and a nice meal out.

My husband got cufflinks referencing his degree and a big meal. I was dating him so I tagged along and I think if I remember I got him a nice smart tie and a card.

We had a nice meal out with DH family.

My DSis is graduating soon as a mature student and I've got her a bag of her fav sweets and a gift voucher. Our parents are taking her out for a meal but because she is the other side of the country it's not practical for us to join her.

No, we've just done a nice meal each time.

I would say not necessarily. I didn't get DD anything other than a card. We went out for a meal after her graduation.

I think you can get a certificate from the university. You had to pay extra for it at mine though so no one got one!

We gave our son money and took him out somewhere nice for dinner.

He’s just finished his MA, so hopefully we’ll be celebrating again soon 🤞

I bought my DD a piece of jewellery that she can wear and treasure. I don't think it's particularly a "thing" but I wanted to do that, she deserved it!