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Graduating from high school is a rite of passage, representing the transition from adolescence to adulthood. For most high school seniors, graduation may mean going to college and living away from home for the first time in their lives. Some may enter the job world. If you have family members or friends graduating from high school, you probably would like to congratulate them with a gift and best wishes, even during this time of economic uncertainties. This article provides some ideas for high school graduation gifts on a budget.

In selecting high school graduation gifts, several crieria should be considered. First, the gifts should bring back fond memories even when the graduate looks at the gift years later. Engraving the gifts with the recipient's name or initial, and date of graduation will add a personal touch and make the gift a keepsake. Second, the gifts should be useful, and can make their lives a little easier. Third, the gifts should fit the recipient's stage in life, and will help them develop good habits to enhance their self esteem. Lastly, since the gifts have to be economical, all of these gifts are under $55.00, with most in the range of $20-$30.

All the gifts listed below can be personalized with the recipient's name or initials at no additional cost.

1. Graduation Picture Frame:

Commemorate this significant milestone with a personalized graduation photo frame. This elegant frame spells out the occasion clearly in bold caption, and holds a 4" x 6" photo. For a truly personal touch, the recipient's name, date of graduation, or a short message can be added to the frame.

2. Key Chain with Flash Drive:

College students need a lot of storage space to save their lecture notes and college term papers. This unique key chain is also a 512 mb flash drive. Elegant and useful, this silver-plated key chain bears the initials of the owner, and can fit in a pocket or purse. This personalized key chain is an ideal gift for college-bound graduates.

3. Desk caddy:

The gently curving design of this desk caddy keeps pens, pencils, and paper clips in place and helps its owner organize his/her desk free of clutter. This gift will fit the desk of any college student.

4. Desk clock:

This contemporary personalized desk clock will make sure the recipient will never be late for class or work. This personalized clock has both analog and digital display, and features glass face cover and black leather face. Other unique features include Quartz movement, a second hand, digital alarm, timer and date setting, making this multi-functional clock an ideal gift for the future executive. Engraved with the initials of the recipient, this desk clock is a great graduation gift.

5. Personalized Pen Set:

Your recipient can sign any important document in style with this genuine rosewood pen. Brass plate on the case can be engraved with the recipient's name or initials, and a short message.

6. Monogrammed Coffee Mug:

This heavy-duty ceramic mug holds 15 ounces of hot drinks, and is perfect for the recipient who doesn't want to keep running to the kitchen for refill while staying up all night to study. The mug is personalized with a single initial.

7. Personalized Sports Mug

This 25 ounces sports mug holds a large amount of beverage for the recipient while he watches his favorite game.

8. Leather Manicure/Shoeshine Kit:

The graduate who is leaving home for the dorm will have everything he needs to groom himself with this well-stocked manicure and shoeshine kit. The gift Set includes a nailbrush, tweezers, nail clipper, cuticle trimmer, scissors and file, as well as neutral shoe polish, application brush, buffer brush and buffing cloth. This practical kit will distinct the graduate with his grooming.

9. Personalized Stainless Steel Bracelet or Necklace:

Girls love jewelry. For the female graduate, send a classic link-style bracelet or necklace made from tarnish-free stainless steel which stays shiny without the need for polishing. To add a personal touch, the charm can be personalized with her initial or name.

10. Personalized Duffle Bag:

This practical duffle bag is crafted with durable water-resistant fabric, brass hardware, heavy-duty zippers and leather detailing. Each bag measures a roomy 23" x 10" x 11" and includes two zippered side pockets. He will proudly packs his belongings in this handsome bag whenever he comes home to visit.

In conclusion, with a little planning, you can send a memorable and useful high school graduation gift to your graduating enior without breaking your budget.