Winter break: the four weeks out of the year where everyone wants to know everything about you. Whether it's a holiday party or a grocery store run in, odds are you will come face-to-face with classmates, community members, and parents who will want to know everything about your life. In order to ensure survival and ease the awkwardness, here's a list of FAQs and basic answers.
Where do you go to school, again?
Odds are these people are trying to keep tabs on everyone they know, or want to remind you that they go to school somewhere "prestigious." Be polite and excitedly remind them of the college you proudly call home.
Oh, isn't that a party school?
If you go to Ohio University, you know exactly the kind of tone people use with this question, as well as how awful it is to hear it. I always stick with the answer of, "Every school is a party school," because it's true. Sure, Halloween in Athens is one of the biggest block parties in the nation, but that doesn't mean I'm majoring in Beer Chugging with a minor in Blacking Out Every Friday. I always find it best to acknowledge the stereotype, and then immediately debunk it — with a smile on my face, most of the time.
What are you studying?
A basic question, but one that could get annoying when asked over and over again. Just stick to the polite smile and basic "I'm studying____" answer. Keep it simple.
What are you going to do with that?
The ever present follow up question to "What are you studying?" It is the worst question ever. You can never tell if someone is being genuine and showing interest in your future, or is being a tad snide and really wanting to say, "What a stupid major. You won't get anywhere with that." I get asked this question all the time. Just be polite and answer. Don't let the question get you down.
Odds are people will also tell you about their own lives, and whether or not you care, it is always polite to listen. They showed an interest in your life, so you'd best do the same. This time of year is always difficult, but remember: smile, smile, and smile. Be nice and enjoy the little interactions.
