Thanksgiving break might be three weeks away, but as fast as time seems to fly in college, you'll be sitting at a table surrounded by food and your family in no time. While it's great to see your family, you know that you’re going to be bombarded by questions about your personal life. We love our families. We love that they take the time to take interest in our well-being, but, you might not have the answers to some of their questions. Here are some questions you could potentially be asked along with their corresponding answers.
How are you?
What you want to say: I have absolutely no idea. I sleep an inadequate amount, I'm pretty sure I'm sick, but I have too many tests after break to think about potentially being sick.
What you should say: I’m doing well! I have a few tests coming up but I'm studying really hard! How are you?
Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend?
What you want to say if you have one: Yes, but we’re not getting married anytime soon so please don't ask that next.
What you want to say if you do not have one: Ugh no, please don't think I'm not social. People like me, okay?
What you should say if you have one: Yes, but we’re so both busy in school right now for it to be anything serious.
What you should say if you don't have one: Not right now! I'm focused on my school work at the moment.
How is school?
What you want to say: Oh my gosh, I have fallen and I can't get up. I have so much to do that this break is more like a pause. I have 4 final exams that count for at least 30% of my total grade for those classes, so it's fine. Everything is fine.
What you should say: It's getting a little stressful since it's almost time for finals, but I'm working hard so hopefully it will pay off!
Do you ever talk to [insert person who goes to your college but you don’t know]?
What you want to say: Who even is that? Are you sure I know them? I mean I know their cousin’s sister-in-law’s mom went to middle school with you, but only because you told me that. My school has over 30,000 students, so it would be impossible for me to know them all.
What you should say: No, I'm not sure that I have met them before. You should introduce us sometime!
What are you studying?
What you want to say: I’ve only told you every time I have ever come home, but I guess I’ll just remind you again.
What you should say: I am studying _______! I like it a lot. I think I will have a good career one day.
You aren't having too much fun, are you?
What you want to say: Oh, I have a ton of fun. This is the best time of my life. I do a lot of things I probably shouldn't do, especially with all the assignments I'm given in class.
What you should say: I'm doing well in school! I have fun, but I do a lot of studying!
Hopefully your Thanksgiving break will be a relaxing time for you and your family, but beware that they might try to investigate your personal life. They care about you, so try not to be overwhelmed by their interest in what you're doing.
