Whether you know someone who is graduating from college, are throwing a birthday party for an alum or planning a reunion for the gang a la "The Big Chill" - everyone likes a great college gift to remind them of their halcyon days spent at university. So put on your beanie and whip out your alumni credit card - because if there's one thing you'll need to do for any of these events, it's shop!



College Gifts for the New Grad

One thing every new grad needs is money. But instead of simply writing a check and stuffing it in a card - why not create an unforgettable college gift? Maybe wrap the cash inside something special from the school to remind them just how far they've come. Some of the best money-gift combos I've seen include:

" Hooded sweatshirt with a kangaroo pocket stuffed with money

" Reusable plastic water bottle with a check inside

" Diploma frame with a gift card taped to the back

" Umbrella with money taped to the supports

" Bleacher cushion paired with tickets to the homecoming game and just enough cash to get them through the weekend in style

Gifts for the Birthday Boys and Girls

Regardless of how old you are, everyone loves a birthday gift. So if you know someone who loved their college days - a college gift from their alma mater is sure to put a smile on their face. A few college gifts perfect for alumni include:

" A great school tee to wear during their weekend errands

" School logo rain jacket

" Alumni golf shirt

" School-themed scarf and gloves

" Logo travel mug filled with tickets to the big game

If the birthday party you're throwing is for someone who can't get enough school spirit, make it a tailgating-themed party with college gifts and party supplies from the college bookstore or a company like eFollett, which has local and online bookstores for tons of colleges and universities.

Class Reunion Gift Ideas

At a class reunion, people are there to reconnect with old friends and feel that same school spirit that fueled much of their fun at university. So why not give the nostalgia a boost with a few great reunion gifts? Whether they're raffle prizes or gift bags stuffed with goodies, these class reunion gift ideas are sure to be a smash!

" Baseball caps and tees

" Mugs

" Beer steins

" Foam footballs

" Key fobs

Package your collection of reunion gifts in a school tote bag that your friends can use to cart to the grocery store or the beach - and you'll be ready for a fun trip down memory lane in no time.