College grad gift

[dhuba]

I have a niece who is graduating with a Dr. of Physical Therapy and we were invited to a party at a nice restaurant. She will be 25 soon. I want to definitely give money, but how much do you think is appropriate? It will be myself, my husband and my son going. We see this niece quite a bit too. It bothers me somewhat that I have to give anything because when my daughter graduated from her tech program we didn't have a party because I feel like it's asking for money and she didn't get a gift. And I am sure it will be the same when my son graduates college soon. Any thoughts? Even if we didn't go to the restaurant, I would still feel obligated to give a generous gift, so I figured we may as well go.

 

[cassandrap83]

graduating with a doctorate is a little different than graduating from a tech program.

I'd give at least $100.

 

[Lisa71]

A phd is a big deal and a lot of work. 100 dollars and a big congrats.

 

[dhuba]

My other niece graduated with one just a few years ago and no one gave her anything though, and the two are very close. She didn't have a party though. I thought at the least 100, but I was thinking that wasn't enough though. I don't want to look cheap.

 

[LJSquishy]

Ultimately I would give what you feel is doable with your budget.

It sounds like you have a fairly close relationship with her, so I would give $200 if you can since she is family. If not, $100 really is more than fine.

 

[4HppyCamprs]

Okay so I feel like you give what you can afford but in my family and among my inlaws gifts are typically not given nor anticipated unless there is a party. You are correct that it is a grab for money but so is a wedding shower and birthday parties. I am sorry that people didn't send money to your daughter just because she graduated. I am graduating in December and unless a party is thrown I would not expect gifts of any kind.

Sent from my iPhone using DISBoards

 

[Southernmiss]

When DHs sister graduated with her bachelor's degree, I ordered personalized blank notecards for her. The cards were 4x6 size with her initials imprinted on the front. She was able to use the note cards professionally as well.

Just a different sort of idea for you.

 

[malibuconlee]

If you don't want to give money I like to give diploma frames that are college/university specific. I've been able to find them online. I bought one for my husband about 4 or 5 years after he graduated. Also got one for my SIL when she graduated last year.