My high school hosts a young alumni reunion every year during the weekend following Thanksgiving. Many students come home for the long holiday weekend, so they drop by for the few hours to chat and catch up with old classmates. Who would not want to come to a high school reunion after devouring at least twice their weight in turkey and pie, right? And yet we keep coming back every year. How do we do it?

1. Make small talk.

The weather, college, family, friends, whatever else you can think of. Just please avoid politics or any other sensitive topics. Think less family reunion and more job interview or coffee with the boss.

2. Snack.

Whenever you feel uncomfortable because you are not talking with anyone, eat. Whenever you feel uncomfortable in your conversation, eat. Basically, just eat whenever possible. And try to snag some snacks for the road too.

3. Bring friends.

What better time to revive the old clique than a reunion? Then, it will feel like you truly never left. But let's face it: you would never show up to an event with potential of bumping into plenty of people you do not want to see again without your squad anyway.

4. Reconnect with teachers.

Oftentimes, this will be the only time during the year that you will see your favorite calculus teacher. The opportunity to talk to the most influential people from your adolescence should be enough to encourage you to come to this event. They truly care about your experience since high school, so take the time to chat.

5. Have fun with it.

It may feel like you never left, but you did. You have grown and changed since those awkward years. Do not be afraid to reach out to people you would not have otherwise. Say what is really on your mind. Take risks.

Happy reuniting!