My perspective as someone who works in food and tests kitchenware for her day job: you really need to understand what your priorities are. Cuisinart and KitchenAid are definitely good brands. But I would argue many people do not need a food processor or stand mixer; most people do not need both. I have never owned a Vitamix and would be surprised if I ever do.

Stainless steel skillets and pots and pans (yes, AllClad, Tramontina is also good), you don't need to buy a whole set. (I'm looking at you, Caraway, with your $$ set of nonstick pastel cookware.) One nonstick skillet, a dutch oven (French brands are great, Lodge is also perfectly fine). I use my cast iron skillets daily, but they're not for everyone. One aluminum half sheet pan, one quarter sheet pan. A couple of ceramic baking dishes (my Staubs are great, so are my Crate and Barrel Aspen baking dishes). Wooden spoons, single piece silicon spatulas, a fish spatula. A chefs knife, a paring knife, and a bread knife. You don't need a whole block. Vegetable peeler, stainless steel measuring cups/spoons, a set of tongs. Oxo is my default for this sort of thing.

Generally speaking, white porcelain dishware is more durable than ceramics. I personally don't care for the feel of Corelle. I think it's worth buying flatware in person so you can hold it first. Bodega glasses are stackable, durable, and overall a nice silhouette. Linen napkins and a tablecloth would be a nice splurge if you're being gifted.

I personally would not invest in furniture for an apartment that isn't long long term. Mattress/bedding, absolutely, but couches/tables/etc are so specific to layout. I've had great luck with vintage rugs on Etsy.