Ah, commencement. Whenever this time of the year rolls around at Cal, we can’t help but get a tad nostalgic. It’s hard not to miss the wildly optimistic and what we’d like to think were the harmlessly reckless years that comprised our undergraduate career at UC. Turning back to find a snapshot to share with all of you, however, we found it impossible to find a photo that wasn’t {a} ridiculously unflattering {we don’t care to comment on our freshman year footwear or apparel choices} or {b} appropriate to share with the general public {and yet is still somehow uploaded AND tagged on Facebook – it’s a good thing we’re already gainfully employed}. Let’s leave memories as memories, shall we?

Instead, and more appropriately, we thought we’d share some Oxford Hall gifts we think would be fabulous choices for any recent graduate. Some are a little glittery {of course}, some a little sweet, and some are just plain practical. We’ve also popped in some quotes from some of our favorite graduation speeches because, well, good advice is good advice, graduating our not.

Cheers to the class of 2013!

Office appropriate ear wear – perfect for the first {or 100th} day on the job. Viv&Ingrid, $161

Nail art is trendy but does not win you any favors in an interview {well, most interviews} – opt for a polished neutral instead. Deborah Lippmann’s Shape of My Heart – $17

Take it from us, it is a lot easier to set the example instead of being the example. But if you end up as the latter, this gold leather business card holder from Russell + Hazel can certainly help you in the looking-responsible department. Russell + Hazel, $31

All that glitters isn’t gold, and post-grad life can start looking a little dull when you’re trolling Craigslist full-time and Mom and Dad stop paying your cell phone bill. Remind yourself brighter times are ahead with this little gem – ban.do, $12