It can be hard to know how to show your support and encouragement after a friend graduates from law school, especially from a distance. But there are plenty of meaningful ways you can celebrate with your friend and let them know how proud you are of their accomplishment.
7 Incredible Ways to Support Your Friend After Graduation
It’s important to recognize the hard work that goes into achieving such a big milestone, and showing your appreciation is one way you can do that. Here are 7 ways to show your support.
1. Take Them out for a Celebratory Dinner
Graduating law school is a lot of hard work, so consider treating them to a night out. Since it’s their big day, they should be allowed to choose the restaurant. If you’re going with friends or family members, ask them to split the bill. If you’re going alone, pay for the dinner yourself.
Remember that fancier restaurants tend to need reservations. Check in advance if you need to book a table. Either way, try to create an atmosphere where your friend can take a break from studying and reflect on all of their accomplishments, as it’s a great way to show your support.
2. Give Them a Congratulatory Gift
A new lawyer would appreciate a nice gift from their friend. Whether you’re looking for something useful or a fun and simple gift, there are plenty of options to choose from. This includes getting them personalized graduation gifts and souvenirs or recording a video.
If your friend is the sentimental type, consider getting them an engraved pen set that they can use when signing documents in their new job. Or if your friend is more of the practical type, look into getting them accessories that can help make their office look more professional.
3. Send a Congratulatory Card
Writing a heartfelt message in a card to show your friend how proud you are of them is an excellent way to celebrate their success. A congratulatory card or eCard filled with kind words, quotes, and encouragement will help make their big day even more memorable and special.
Think outside the box for this one. Instead of simply writing “Congratulations!” add some personal touches like writing about when you first met or how they inspired you. The message doesn’t have to be long, but it should express how much you care about your friend.
4. Get Creative and Plan an Event
Put together a special gathering for your friend and their law school classmates. You could host a party, organize a game night, or plan an outdoor activity. As you’re planning the ever, It’s essential to think about what type of experience your friend would absolutely enjoy the most.
For example, if your friend loves outdoor activities, you could rent out paddle boats or arrange a beach picnic. If they prefer something more relaxed, you could host a movie night at home with their closest friends. But no matter what you choose, decorate and cater this important event.
5. Help Them Shop for Job Interview Attire
Show your friend that you believe in their success by taking them out to shop for interview attire. You’ll want to find something that helps them make a good first impression because, as a law school graduate, they need to look put together. Plus, shopping with a friend is way more fun!
Start by doing some research about common law firm dress codes. Then, take your friend to a few stores where they can find quality pieces at reasonable prices. While you’re there, help them pick out items like tailored suits, dress pants and skirts, blouses, ties, or scarves.
6. Offer to Help Them With Their Job Search
Help your friend build their network by introducing them to people you know who work in the legal field, if possible. Find out what type of job they’re looking for and use your connections to help open doors for them. Provide advice on how to write a great resume and cover letter.
If you’re more confident in interviews, be sure to give them some interview tips they can use. Having someone knowledgeable in the industry can be incredibly helpful during a job search, as it can be daunting to navigate it alone. Your supportive advice could really get them through.
7. Be a Listening Ear
Provide a safe and understanding space for your friend to talk about their future plans and new career journey. Offer to be a sounding board for their ideas and give a listening ear when they need it. To connect with them, ask them about their goals, fears, successes, and dreams.
Let your friend know that you’re here for them through all parts of this journey—the good and the bad times. No matter what happens in the future, make sure they know that they have someone who cares deeply about them and will always be there to lend an ear or offer support.
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