College students definitely don't have it all figured out. We're in the awkward stage of life where we can enjoy freedom from the real world, yet continue to rely on our assorted crutches. There are plenty of things we just don't have the answer to just yet! Whether we're home seeing family or sitting in an interview, we're bound to be asked these frustrating questions over and over again. With that in mind, here's what NOT to ask us:
1. "So what's your major?"
Cue post-traumatic recruitment flashbacks. I asked this question all day long, knowing that these poor freshmen would all change their majors anyway. This question seems safe, until you lead right into the next...
2. "What are you going to do with that degree?"
Whatever makes the most money? For the long list of majors without obvious career paths ahead of them, this question has both a long and a short answer. Choose wisely!
3. "The job market is so bad right now. Are you worried?"
Nah, not worried at all about the fact that I (along with a million other people my age) are all applying for the same jobs.
4. "What are your plans for this summer?"
When you're talking to the girl who's jetting off to Europe for the summer, your part-time retail gig might not look so great.
5. "Where do you see yourself in five years?"
Stop making five-year plans right this second, unless you want a good laugh down the road. Life never ends up looking like you think it will, so let it be a happy surprise instead of a huge let-down.
6. "When is your next exam? Have you started studying yet?"
Unless this person is offering to study for me, this conversation is a dead-end. Thanks for reminding me of the huge cloud of responsibilities hanging over my head! No pressure!
7. "How often do you study?"
Your answer is either too much or not nearly enough. There is no perfect amount of studying, it's a myth.
8. "Do you go out a lot?" This one is tricky. How can you discuss your social life at family reunions without sounding like either an uppity prude or crazy party girl?
9. "Do you have a ton of free time now?"
The number one biggest lie I was told in high school was that I would have plenty of free time with my new collegiate schedule. FALSE. This time fills up with chapter meetings, involvement activities, volunteering, fundraising, work, socials... oh yeah, and classes, too.
10. (If you're single) "Are you dating anyone? Who is that cute boy in your picture?" OR (If you're in a relationship) "When's the wedding?"
Let's see, according to my five-year-plan and perfect relationship timeline... Not anytime soon. Slow. Your. Roll.
