It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! That means food galore, cold weather, seeing friends and family, and the much-needed break from school. It's a wonderful life, indeed, but the constant flow of family questions can make you feel more like a Grinch. We all get asked and re-asked the same round of question by everyone it seems (grandma, aunts, neighbors, random guy at Kroger, etc) and in turn, give the same crappy answers. How do we sound like we aren't completely lost in life?
1. How Are Doing In Your Classes?
Chances are you’re suffering from final exam PTSD, and you don’t want to answer this question honestly.
What you want to say: “C’s get degrees, Aunt Pat”.
What you should say: “Some of my classes are hard, but I’m doing my best and I’m really learning a lot!”
2. Do You Like Your Major?
You think you like your major, but every other week you think about changing. Especially when you’ve read “The Dead” for the millionth time and the thought of writing another paper makes you want to cry.
What you want to say: “Yes. No. I’m dropping out of college”.
What you should say: “I really find [insert degree] interesting and [insert school] has a really good program! I’m still exploring my options, though. Luckily, I have time to decide”.
3. Have You Gained Weight?
A little weight gain is nothing to be ashamed of, but whenever your body is suddenly the focus of the conversation you can’t help but feel a little self-conscious.
What you want to say: *eats another bite of macaroni* “Shut up!”
What you should say: “I don’t think so. I try to stay around the same size”.
4. Are You Dating Anyone?
If you are dating someone, this isn’t a bad question. Whether it’s a good relationship or not, you can answer with a simple “yes” and give as many details as you want. However, when you’re single this question seems to hit a nerve.
What you want to say: "Does Netflix count?"
What you should say: “No, I'm really trying to focus on school right now. Plus, there's something liberating about being single".
5. What Are You Going To Do After College?
Cry, but your family doesn’t need to know that.
What you want to say: "I’m preparing myself to live in a box. A very nice box".
What you should say: "I don’t know, but I’m kind of excited about that".
Your family will always ask awkward questions, especially around the holidays, but try to remember they aren’t trying to make you uncomfortable. Since you’ve gone off to college, they don’t get to see you very often but they’re genuinely interested in your life. People won’t always care if you’re eating enough or if you’re making good choices, but your family always will. They watched you grow up and have been wondering who you’d become since the day you were born. So let them know the person you’re becoming. Be nice, listen, and answer the somewhat annoying questions. It will be completely worth it!
