Best suggestion so far - versatile into the future was 7mm-08 in a ladies/youth rifle and put a slip on recoil pad on it if you want to shoot it.
How about discussing the options with her, get some opportunity to try other rifle calibres at your gun club for her to shoot - ultimately let her decide what she wants/likes.
Many years ago my wife wanted a rifle (5 ft 3in, 120 lbs then). After some discussion, she bought a Mod 77 Ruger in 7x57. The first year I shortened the original stock for her. Later, she commissioned a custom stock with a knockout piece of fiddleback walnut to exactly fit her. This rifle has never fired more than one shot on deer. I wouldn't hesitate to have her go after Elk with the right bullet in handloads. The lady got what she wanted, and I am sure that this rifle will never be for sale.
Girlfriends that want to hunt with you are keepers.
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