Creative Graduation Gifts for Non-Traditional Students

Graduation is a big deal, especially for non-traditional students who may have faced unconventional circumstances on their path to completing their degree. Whether the student in your life took some time off of college for personal reasons or they completed their degree by attending school part-time, it’s time to recognize their major accomplishment! If you’re celebrating a non-traditional student this year, think outside of the usual graduation gifts, and opt for these creative and practical non-traditional graduation gifts instead.

Meal Delivery Service Subscription

Given that takeout can be both expensive and unhealthy, a meal kit delivery service offers a healthier and often more economical option. Even if it’s just for one or two meals each week, these services can take something off the plate (pun intended) of the busy graduate, help them save money, and keep on track with healthy eating goals. Popular options include Blue Apron, EveryPlate, Freshly, and Sunbasket.

Home Office Furniture and Accessories

When it comes to graduation gifts for non-traditional students, keep in mind that some grads may get a job that allows them to work from home. A growing number of jobs allow employees to work remotely these days. Because of that, consider gifts that help make that home office not only practical but cozy, inviting, and functional. Things like faux desk plants that add atmosphere to the space or an ergonomic desk chair are sure to be appreciated, as would a “work-from-home survival kit.” Include a webcam cover, weekly planner, conference call bingo card, earplugs, and a coffee gift card!

A Professional Laptop Bag

It’s safe to say that every single student/graduate uses a laptop, and that laptop might need to travel — so why not do it with a bag that combines both function and fashion? Options like the Rains Backpack Mini offer sleek lines and a flat-to-the-body shape made of materials that will keep their laptop safe and dry in any weather. If they’re environmentally conscious, the Matt & Nat Alex Backpack is made of supple vegan leather and is roomy enough to also fit something like a sweater, some books, and even an extra pair of shoes.

Not Just Any Watch

A watch is a bit of a traditional gift, but a watch that can do practically anything and everything is a gift that never goes out of style! A smartwatch is a sophisticated accessory they can wear to work or working out. Not only does it sync to their phone and tell time, but can also share who’s calling or texting, help them track their fitness, and even control other smart-home devices. If your grad use Apple products, consider the Apple Watch Series 6. For Android, there’s the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2.

Kitchen Gear

If you decide against the meal delivery service, consider helping them outfit their own kitchen with a variety of high-quality kitchen appliances. They can toast to their future with Riedel Vinum Cuvee Prestige flutes, use the Motley Cutting Board that doubles as a classy (and practical) serving tray, or make sure they’re prepared for any meal preparation with items like a high-quality fry pan, a Dutch oven, or the most versatile countertop appliance on the planet — the Instant Pot. If you want to step up your gift game, you could even purchase a dining room set at a discounted price from CORT Furniture Outlet for their new place!

For the non-traditional student in your life, graduation means the closing of a chapter and the beginning of a brand new one! Help them prepare for whatever professional and academic challenges lie ahead with affordable and oh-so-giftable home office essentials from CORT Furniture Outlet.

Start by browsing our always-changing catalog of discounted new and used furniture online. After you find the perfect gift, you can buy it online and pick up in-store the same day! No need to wait for delivery weeks from now. Start shopping for new and used home office furniture today.

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