Headed home for Thanksgiving Break? Do you no longer know what to say or do around actual adults instead of college-aged students? Are you scared you'll bring up that funny story from that party that one time and your whole family will judge you? Fear not college students, because I have your survival guide to Thanksgiving Break.
What to Say?
When parents ask you how your grades are: If even one of your test scores is above a B+, brag about that score endlessly so that they get distracted at your good score and don’t even ask about other classes. The higher scoring assignments the better, so even if you got a perfect score on a four-point quiz, soak it up and reap the rewards of non-disappointed parents.
When your extended family asks how your romantic life is going: If you aren’t in a romantic relationship at the time, this is your cue to stuff your face with some food because this is the only holiday where this is deemed as normal behavior. If you are in a relationship, for the sake of your significant other, try to keep the discussion to basic facts. They went to this school, did this after-school activity etc. because these are the things relatives gush about. Oh, they were in DECA? How adorable! Also, if you are feeling in the really sharing mood, choose a single not “going out” pic for the fam to (undoubtedly) pass around.
If someone asks what’s going on in the football game and you just don’t get sports: The classic “clap when everyone else is clapping” is always a great go-to, otherwise bring up sports drama at your own college.
When someone asks you to “help in the kitchen”: This is the perfect time to act scholarly and hit the books, even if that actually means taking a nap in a quiet, vacant room in the house.
If someone brings up politics and you have opposing views: Politely refuse to enter this conversation by either excusing yourself for water or a leisurely trip to the bathroom. If you choose to engage with this ticking time bomb of a conversation, tread lightly because holiday cheer can be ruined as quick as Obama’s hair greyed.
What to Eat?
On Turkey Day: Anything and everything, because this day only comes once a year, right? Stuffing is what you should be doing and what you should be eating.
As At Home Leftovers: The meats that will low-key stink up your fridge at school are best to be savored in the privacy of your parents' house. Also, as much as you’d love to think Grandma’s cranberry sauce packed into Tupperware is going to forever be your J to PB&J’s, think of your poor roomies who will accidentally knock it over and cranberry preserves will stick up your fridge for weeks on end.
To Nab From Your Parents' Fridge: The trick of what to bring home from Thanksgiving is to take what no one expects you to bring back. I’m talking regular bread, pasta sauce, noodles you don’t want to buy, deli meat, the works. Your family is going to be too busy feasting on leftovers for the next couple days (realistically, the next week) to notice anything’s missing until you are already long gone.
What to Wear?
Ladies: The keyword for your ensemble should be “billowy.” From flowing dresses to breezy pants, to keep it comfy to make sure to have room for food and still look put together.
Dos: Wear autumnal tones, such as a nice maroon sweater, or an olive cardigan.
Don’ts: Do not wear neon colors, because no one looks good in them. Don't wear crop tops, because after that meal I can assure you even a Victoria’s Secret Angel wouldn’t want her stomach exposed. Especially don't wear white, because cranberry sauce or gravy will find its way to your clothing and when that happens it will not be pretty
Gents: Looking moderately put together should be your Thanksgiving goal. To make sure your parents are thankful of your presence, maybe veer out of your sweatshirt-sweatpants go-to look and put on some business casual wear that would make any finance major proud.
Dos: Wear a loose and soft sweater that has room in case you gain a 'lil belly and is soft enough that, when you are watching the game later, will feel like your own personal blanket.
Don’ts: Don't wear ironic holiday tees or sweaters, because no one actually thinks they are funny. Don't wear white because you will spill. Also, don't wear a tie while eating that that most likely drag over some type of food in your effort to pass the corn and don't wear a tight belt because, well, you know why.
What To Do?
Catch Up On School Work: I know this seems like the least appealing option, but it is the most productive. Finally having time where you don’t have to worry about class after class the next day makes it easier to crack down on assignments you haven’t paid enough attention to all year. Thanksgiving break is also a great time to do all that extra credit.
Watch Football: If you are feeling #American and #sporty, football is always a Thanksgiving tradition for the Dallas Cowboys. Even if you think Romo should be no momo, entertain yourself and sit down with America’s favorite fall past time with what Texans still call “America’s Team.”
Go To The Movies: There are currently some great movies out at the moment, from the new Bond film "Spectre," to Matt Damon’s "The Martian," the theaters are bursting with high entertainment value. If you aren’t already stuffed to the brim with your Thanksgiving feasts, grab some popcorn and an Icee and get ready to not have to chat with your relatives for at least two hours.
