I've wanted to study fashion design since I was in the sixth grade. Many people have been supportive of my decision and haven't said anything about it, while others question my decision. I realize that when I say I study fashion design, it sounds a bit ridiculous. I get that it's a weird concept, and it seems impractical, but it's what I want to do with my life and to make fun of me for it says more about you than it does me. It just gets tiring hearing people say the same things over and over about my future career.

1. "You realize that that industry is highly competitive."

Thanks, Captain Obvious!

2. "Can you make my wedding dress for free?"

Will you give me a free checkup when you're a doctor?

3. "Do you really think you'll do well?"

4. "Do you watch 'Project Runway?'"

What is this "Project Runway" you speak of? Never heard of it.

5. "You should go on 'Project Runway!'"

Sewing an entire outfit in eight hours to be critiqued by some of the best people in the industry? Yeah, no thanks.

6. "You'll give me a discount on your clothes when you're famous, right?"

That's really not how that works, but...

7. "Can I model your clothes?"

8. "Sew me something!"

9. "You don't handle stress well, so how would you handle being a designer?"