CT in Style – Sarah O’Brien is the Founder & Editor of Connecticut in Style a Connecticut-based Lifestyle Blog.

Over the next month, high schools are going to graduate their seniors and send them off to begin the next major phase of their life. It is such an exciting time for these young adults, many of whom are going to be leaving home to attend college, start a new job or take some time off to travel. In addition to the commencement ceremony, parents across the country have been making plans for their son or daughter’s graduation. My graduation party was a small affair with my family and closest friends from high school. I remember feeling that “leaving home” was really going to happen especially when I started opening my graduation presents – one of which was an enormous black trunk in which I needed to fit my life. Others were more personal and symbolized the greater responsibilities that come with living on your own. I’ve assembled some gift ideas for the graduate to acknowledge this momentous occasion. Have a great weekend!

Timbuk2 Messenger Bag – Starting at $50.00. Time to ditch the backpack, these are uber cool bags for your laptop and books. They come in every color imaginable so you can show your school spirit and match your college colors.

GMC Denali Road Bike – Ranges from $209.00 – $412.00 depending on the frame size. I went to Penn State University. The campus is so large, they have a bus system to make sure you get to class in time. I also lived off campus my last two years and I wish I had a bike back then.

They will LOVE you for this – A monthly subscription to Graze Snack Boxes

Personalized Stationery by Rifle Paper Co. – $85.00 and takes two weeks to ship.

Name Plate Necklace – $9.00 – $14.00

Help him or her with Dorm Room Decor – Here is a link to 10 really beautiful girl’s dorm rooms for inspiration. Mine never looked like that, but I had a friend who transformed her room in college and it was the only place we wanted to hang out.

Pottery Barn has a lot of great products especially for dorm rooms.

Personalized Flat Notes & Calling Cards by Rifle Co. – $135.00 for 25 Flat Notes and 25 Calling Cards

Shower Caddy – This is a MUST for college, they come in blue and pink – $12.00 at Amazon. Fill it with their favorite products (shampoo, conditioner, razors, soap, bath gels, tooth paste, tooth brush, body mitts, pumice stones)