Hi all -
I'm not sure when I can "officially" post on here, but I only have 4 shifts left in the CCU before graduation....so, hopefully I am close enough. My question has to do with how to respond when people ask me what I want for graduation. I've never been good at these questions. I've told some people that gifts are not necessary, but others - well - you simply KNOW they will get you something. I don't want stupid stuff - but I have always been shy about telling people what really would be a good gift idea. Any suggestions? I already have palm, stethescope...plus..I am not moving, so I really don't even need money (well, "need" is the key word there).

Bottom line...what are some things I may need/want that I'm not even aware of yet? My family can't afford anything extravagant.

I hope we don't get bumped for posting here (I have 4 days of surg path left and less than two weeks to graduation )

Some people will just get you something so after stating that gifts are not necessary/expected, I have told people that I will need books, but since each is well over $100, I need money to buy books with. I figure I will get enough for one, but at least that's something I need and it's much better than a gold charm or pen set which I will not be able to enjoy.

Money for great shoes. My mephistos have lasted 5 years - I have 2 pairs (about $200 per pair) and worth every penny.

subscription to online resources -epocrates etc

a gym membership

a weekend getaway for your vacation time

a massage/spa gift certificate for de-stressing

a memory stick for carrying presentations from home to work

a great overnight bag

a black doctors bag (not needed but cool to have)

a gift certificate for house cleaners - you will not have enough time

restaurant gift certificates for post call meals