Meaningful Gifts for Grads: 11 Perfect Picks for College Students and Dorm Room Decor

High school graduation marks a major milestone, and what better way to celebrate the moment than with a practical yet personal gift? Whether you're a parent, sibling, teacher, friend, or other connection, it's always hard to say goodbye. As grads head off to college and new adventures, dorm decor becomes essential, and candles are a fantastic choice for showing you love them while sending them off in style. 

Inspired by everything from song lyrics to TikTok trends, our hand-poured candles not only offer warmth and minimalist style, but also add a touch of individuality and self-expression to any space. Whether you’re looking for something upbeat and funny or meaningful and nostalgic, our candles for college students cover all the bases. 

Read on for a roundup of 11 candle picks to help your favorite college student express their personality and create a intimate and personalized environment.

11. “& Wear Your Silver Lining, Wear it Close to Your Skin”—Silver Lining (Mt Joy)

A candle that radiates positivity and hope, our Silver Lining candle is perfect for grads who are ready to embrace new beginnings. Inspired by the iconic Mt. Joy song,  this candle serves as a reminder to stay optimistic and find the silver linings in life. Check it out here.

10. “Living for the Hope of It All”—August (Taylor Swift)

For the Swiftie in your life, the “Living for the Hope of It All” candle is a must-have. Infused with the spirit of Taylor Swift’s music, this positive song lyric candle reflects dreams, hopes, and the excitement of starting a new chapter. Find it here.

9. “Lights, Camera, Bitch, Smile”—I Can Do It With a Broken Heart (Taylor Swift)

Another fantastic choice for Taylor Swift fans is the “Lights, Camera, Bitch, Smile” candle. With its vibrant energy and motivational vibes, it’s perfect for grads who want to step into the spotlight and make their mark, but also a reminder that a positive attitude can go a long way.. Explore it here.

8. “I Was Raised on Little Light”–Northern Attitude (Noah Kahan)

Shopping for a high school grad or college student leaving New England for warmer parts? The “I Was Raised on Little Light” candle is a heartfelt nod to the place they’re leaving behind.

Inspired by Noah Kahan, it’s a sentimental piece that will remind them of home while they explore new horizons. Discover it here.

7. “Anyway, Don’t Be a Stranger”—Scott Street (Phoebe Bridgers)

Inspired by Phoebe Bridgers’ dreamy Scott Street, our “Anyway, Don’t Be a Stranger” candle is ideal for grads who want to stay connected to loved ones while embarking on their journey. It’s a charming (and quirky!) reminder to them to stay in touch while they’re gone.. Check it out here.

6. “If You Want Me I’ll Be in the Bar”—A Case of You (Joni Mitchell)

For the grad who enjoys a good time,  our “If You Want Me I’ll Be In the Bar” candle offers a fun and spirited (literally!) option.  Part of our Candles for Drinking collection, this candle honors the legendary Joni Mitchell while bringing a lively vibe to any dorm room and Browse the whole collection here.

5. “Turn My Birthday into a Lifestyle” –Pop Style (Drake)

Make every day feel like a celebration with the “Turn My Birthday into a Lifestyle” candle. This Drake-inspired hand-poured soy candle is perfect for those who want to keep the party going all year long. Explore it here.

4. “Bend When You Can, Snap When You Have To”–Dear Reader (Taylor’s Version)

It’s no surprise how many Taylor Swift candles make this list, given her tremendous popularity and talent as a relatable lyricist. 

Not only will Swifties love the “Bend When You Can, Snap When You Have To” candle, its empowering message is a great way to inspire resilience and strength as they face new challenges. Find it here.

3. “Players Only Love You When They’re Playing”—Dreams (Fleetwood Mac)

As high school graduates step into the exciting world of college, they're not only facing academic challenges and new environments but also experiencing a new realm of social interactions and relationships. Among these new experiences, many will encounter the complexities of modern dating, including the tricky dynamics of "fuck boys” and (the more elusive) “fuck girls.” 

Featuring lyrics from the inspiring and iconic song, “Dreams,” this natural soy candle is a playful reminder to stay grounded.

2. “Baptize Me in a Bottle of Beam”—Revival (Zach Bryan)

For those who appreciate a bit of country charm with their partying, our festive “Baptize Me in a Bottle of Beam” candle by Zach Bryan is a a compelling choice. It adds a touch of rustic elegance and warmth to any dorm room while also showing some love for ZB and the outlaw lifestyle.  Explore it here.

1. “Serving Cunt” – Catchphrase Collection

For a bold and cheeky touch, the “Serving Cunt” candle from our Catchphrase Collection is sure to make a statement. It’s a fun way to showcase personality and add some sass to dorm décor.

While anyone can serve cunt, Chappell Roan fans will love this candle, which pays homage to the Midwest Princess.  Check it out here.

Find Unique and Useful College Student Gift at Anthem Candle Co

One of the most exciting things about Anthem candles? Not only are they hand-poured in New England using clean ingredients, they're also ALL available in your choice of seven curated scents so you can select a fragrance the recipient will love as much as the candle and sentiment. 

Whether for ambiance,   inspiration, or a touch of sly fun, candles are a wonderful way to enhance dorm décor while allowing grads to express their individuality. The 11 candles featured in this blog offer just a glimpse into our extensive collection of hand-poured, song lyric-inspired candles.

Here’s to brightening up new beginnings and making every space feel like home! To get started, shop our Collections today.