Graduation Gifts: What Team TRR Got Then & Would Want Now

5.16.20

Graduation gifts mark one of the most momentous occasions in our lives. Not only are they a reward for accomplishment and hard work, they’re a symbol of transition as we move from one phase of life to the next. That, and the fact that they are often bestowed upon us by our nearest and dearest, make them especially memorable. Of course, this year will be memorable as one in which many of us can’t celebrate graduations in the ways we normally would. For the class of 2020, that’s even more reason to put thought into a gift that may stand in for in-person gatherings. We’ve put together a special graduation gift edit, and for more inspo we turned to members of team TRR to ask about their most memorable graduation gifts, and what they would want if they were graduating today. 

 

Lindsey Taft, Fine Jewelry Merchandise Manager

 

What is the graduation gift that holds the most meaning for you?
An aquamarine cocktail ring with yellow gold setting and diamonds on the side, from my grandmother. We were really close and I received a lot of beautiful jewelry from her over the years, but this ring is definitely my favorite. She passed away a little over a year ago so it’s become even more precious to me now. It’s a really nice reminder of her in my everyday life.

Do you still wear it or use it?
Yes, it’s minimal enough to wear every day (which I do) and the shape almost looks like a signet ring. I like to wear it with other gold rings stacked on top of each other. 

What is your favorite memory from your graduation?
I made the choice to not attend the ceremony so I could go on a trip out to San Francisco. I went to school in NYC and worked full time so I wasn’t super close with many people in my graduating class and that trip ended up inspiring me to move out here so I don’t have any regrets there. Later that summer my parents threw me a surprise party with all of my family and friends which was so much fun.

If you were graduating now, what gift would be at the top of your list?
My ring! It’s become invaluable to me. Jewelry is such a great gift because it’s timeless — who knows, maybe I’ll give it to my daughter or granddaughter one day for their graduation!

 

Amir Azarcon, Sneakers & Streetwear Valuation Manager

 

What is the graduation gift that holds the most meaning for you?
My best graduation present has to be this pair of Supreme x Nike Air Force 1s from my grandfather. This was Supreme’s first Air Force 1 — they’re made up of NYCO fabric and represent New York’s most iconic brand reinterpreting New York’s most iconic shoe.

Do you still wear it or use it?
My favorite part about these sneakers is how incredibly versatile they are — they look great with a pair of trousers or shorts and a t-shirt. I wear them as often as I can but also try to keep them in the best shape possible.

What is your favorite memory from your graduation?
Having all of my family together was really nice.

If you were graduating now, what gift would be at the top of your list?
If I were graduating now, my top choice for a present would be a Rolex Submariner!

 

Alex Tudela, Men’s Editorial Manager

 

What is the graduation gift that holds the most meaning for you?
A (practical) stainless steel watch. I remember originally hoping for the colorful Rolex Milgauss watch, with a green-tinted crystal case and a shocking neon-orange seconds hand in the shape of a lightning bolt. Instead, my more discerning parents gifted me a classic steel timepiece, less ostentatious not only in appearance but also cost.

Do you still wear it or use it?
I haven’t grown up to be the watch-wearing adult I thought I would become. The timepiece is currently perched inside a velvet-lined box on my bookshelf.

What is your favorite memory from your graduation?
Campus Dance is a Brown tradition held on the night before Commencement weekend where the graduating seniors, alumni, friends and family gather on the Main Green for an evening of live music, drinks and dancing. I was looking forward to returning to campus and attending this month, in fact, to celebrate my own 10-year reunion. Unfortunately, due to current circumstances, the event has been canceled, but the memory of my first Campus Dance ten years ago is still cherished.

If you were graduating now, what gift would be at the top of your list?
If I were graduating now, I wouldn’t want anything more than a sense of security. A classic timepiece that holds its value (or even appreciates in value over time) would make a sound gift. Better yet: how about a full-time job?

 

Hayley Purse, Associate Merchandising Manager

 

What is the graduation gift that holds the most meaning for you?
A sterling silver cup engraved with my initials, university crest and graduation year. I love it because I know I will have it forever. My dad received the same gift from his parents when he graduated and still has it on his desk. 

Do you still wear it or use it?
It is mostly used as a desk accessory, but I appreciate how it makes me feel nostalgic every time I look at it. 

What is your favorite memory from your graduation?
I went to school in the South and my sorority threw a big family party on graduation night. It was so nice to celebrate together with everyone’s parents, siblings, cousins, etc! 

If you were graduating now, what gift would be at the top of your list?
A vintage watch, preferably passed down from my mom or from TRR!  Like this one.

 

Kyle Stiansen, Editorial Style Lead

 

What is the graduation gift that holds the most meaning for you?
When I graduated college, Eddie Borgo was at the height of jewelry, so my parents gave me this pendant necklace.

Do you still wear it or use it?
Although my jewelry-wearing days are past me, I still have great memories attached to this necklace. It represents an excitement towards new adventures and a beginning to my career. 

What is your favorite memory from your graduation?
I wasn’t a very academic person, so my favorite memory was knowing that I didn’t have to go back to school. Bobbi Brown and Carolina Herrera also spoke at my graduation, so that was pretty fascinating to listen to.

If you were graduating now, what gift would be at the top of your list?
I would say a great piece of tailoring or a trip somewhere. Being able to travel is one of my great joys and has more of an impact on me than buying clothing. However, a great blazer is certainly crucial for when you start interviewing for jobs.

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