What do you get the girl that has everything? It’s a question, well, more an ironic question, that’s been asked for centuries. What are you supposed to get a woman who is graduating high school? I know that high school graduation gifts haven’t really been in style in recent years, but I feel like, as she is the daughter of a close friend, I should get her something that would be useful and not just go the typical gift card route.

With my friend’s daughter planning to go to medical school during her college career, I thought that I should get her something that she might need for her medical studies. After lying in bed for a while trying to figure out what to get her it finally hit me: a women’s lab coat. It made perfect sense: every doctor needs a lab coat, right? What I didn’t know, though, is that there are a lot more to buying a lab coat then I first imagined.

First thing you need to understand about lab coats is that not all are created equal. Think about it: a lab coat is more than just a part of a doctor or nurses’ clothing ensemble, it is a function piece of their medical arsenal. Since a lab coat might be worn for up to 12 hours a day you need something that is not only comfortable, but also has a fit that will not inhibit or limit any movements or procedures. They need to be light and breathable, while being strong enough to stand up to dirt, stains, and, in a lot of cases, medical waste. It needs pockets that can hold pens, paper and equipment and stitching that will stand up to extended use. Yes, these are all things you have to consider when buying a lab coat, which is why it took me nearly a week to find the right one.

While there are a lot of lab coat makers who offer decent products at an ok price, you really must look at a lab coat as more of an investment then a quick purchase. While it cost more than, say, a bouquet of flowers or a Target gift card, the lab coat which I decided on should last her through at least her college years. Plus, because it is custom fit, it’s more personal than just about anything else you can buy a grad.

Upon receiving her gift, I got a long, detailed thank you card from her. She thanked me for thinking outside the box and getting her something that she truly needed. She recently wore it for the first time during a lab assignment and raved about how well it fit. I think all my hard work paid off.

Author Kim Green feels that a women’s lab coat is the perfect gift for a students who longs to attend medical school.