A diploma frame is an appropriate gift to memorialize your daughter's graduation. Retailers who specialize in diploma frames typically visit your daughter's school. Another option is to visit an office supply store, which typically has diploma frames. Check with your daughter to find out the type of wood or other material she prefers and whether she wants the school's name engraved on it. A diploma frame will be especially appreciated by the daughter who is an academic and who wants to display her credentials by her desk.
Some students graduate with significant debt and no job. A financial gift is appropriate regardless of your budget. A small donation, such as paying one month on a student loan, would be greatly appreciated. Give money towards something specific, such as moving costs, the down payment for a house, or a deposit for an apartment. Alternatively, open a CD or an IRA to help your daughter learn to save for her future.
A daughter who applied herself rigorously to a program, such as medical school or graduate school, deserves a vacation break. Pay for all or some of the travel expenses, such a plane ticket and hotels, for your daughter. Your daughter might enjoy travel overseas, but she might also be happy traveling to south Florida or Hawaii as well. If you have a tight budget, purchase some travel items, such as quality luggage and a language dictionary.
Purchase items that can help your daughter in her new career. Your daughter could utilize a quality watch to help her get to work on time. Engrave the watch with an inspirational or sentimental saying, such as "per aspera ad astra," which is Latin for "through hardships to the stars." You could also take your daughter on a shopping spree to purchase a work wardrobe. For instance, purchase several pairs of black slacks, and some shirts that have collars for a teacher. A graduate with a job working in the fashion industry might need something more specific, such as high heels, skirts, and dresses. Also, a new laptop or a smartphone is practical if your daughter has a job where she is out in the field during her work day.