The holiday season is right around the corner, and we know what that means: plenty of quality family time and, of course, everyone asking if you have a significant other yet. As wonderful as that is, every college student could agree that some topics are just better to avoid. If you are an adult reading this, please do your college student family member a favor and do not ask any questions regarding the following topics.
Politics
Chances are high that our political views are different than yours. Please don’t ask what we think of Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump. We’re looking for a nice family dinner, not an argument that may end family relationships.
Classes
“What are you taking?” “Do you enjoy that class?” “What are you learning?” “Are your grades good?” “Do you like your professor?” Please stop. I am on break. I am doing everything I possibly can to forget the fact that I am a college student.
Significant Others
If your college student family member is single, it may not be the best time to ask if they’re seeing anyone. Sometimes, it could be a very uncomfortable topic to talk about, especially with Grandma and Grandpa at the dinner table. Save the questions for another, less stressful occasion. Also, keep in mind that we’re still young and it is no longer common to be married by age 20.
Social Life
“What do you do on the weekends?” “Do you party?” “Do you still follow the buddy system?” “Do you drink alcohol?” “You better not try drugs!” Trust us, we’ve heard these spiels hundreds of times. Remember, we are in college. We are mature and responsible (most of the time). We know you’re just looking out for our safety, but please don’t nag us.
Now, family members, we want you to know that we love you, we miss you when we’re away at school, and we love catching up with you, but a holiday dinner is just not the place to bring up these topics. The holiday season is the best time of the year, so let's not ruin it by speaking of any of the dreadful topics mentioned above!
