The questions. The questions that we can’t seem to avoid. These are the questions that taunt us to no end. Every holiday, without fail, they are there. I am here today to tell you that you don’t need to avoid these questions or relatives.

What are you going to do with that major?

For those majors out there that are a bit different than the norm, this question comes up almost every holiday without fail. Aunt Jeanine from Florida or Cousin Annie from Minnesota will bring up the fact that you are in the Arts, Communication, Education, or something else that others assume has “no jobs” in.

First of all, our relatives that are over the age of 30 have a limited view of the world. They were raised to go to college, study one major, and work one job for the rest of their lives. Some of them can’t really grasp the idea that you might be studying something that does not operate the same way. For instance, as a Public Relations major, you might jump from one job to the next and might be moving across the country one day! Or as a Journalist, you could be traveling across the world writing for a magazine. You might be a freelance writer, meaning you’ll jump from one job to the next, and possibly be months without a job. Explain to them that this is risky, but exciting to you, and that you are willing to accept the challenge.

Frustrated beyond belief, explain what you are doing in school, what you’re learning, and tell them how many options you have(if you have more than one), if not, then shut them down with so much knowledge they’ll be sinking in their seats. Talk about professors that have been successful in your field, well-known people in the field, or what you find so great about it.

No matter what you are doing as a college student, deliver your information with confidence! Show them you know what you are talking about, even if you don’t. Hey, fake it til you make it is real, right?

So, no boys? No girls?

I get this at every single holiday without fail. I know it’s because I am such an astounding person that my family is shocked that I am single(but seriously).

To any family members reading this, I promise, from the bottom of my heart, if there is someone in my life, I will tell you. Also, social media will probably be booming with pictures and statuses, so don’t freak out. You will know. It always puts a damper on my day, I really don’t need my holiday to be ruined because of stupid questions like this. Can we all just enjoy our time together?

To respond to this question, my suggestion is that you explain that you are happy as you are right now. No need to make the situation weird and get all, “woe is me” on them. Embrace singledom! Tell them how great it is to not have to worry about buying someone else a Christmas gift or taking someone on dates!

These two questions can be frustrating, and can sometimes change your mood on holidays. If you are prepared with answers, there’s nothing to worry about.