This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at VCU chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.
How do I politely tell someone that I have absolutely no idea what I’m doing with my life?
“What are you going to school for?”
What do they want to hear? Are they trying to assess my intelligence by judging my major? Is that pesky question just part of the small talk etiquette checklist? Or, are they genuinely curious?
I have started answering that question the best way I know how: “well, as of right now, nothing.” That’s the truth. Yes, I understand you think I should have went to community college for a few years until I know what track I’m on. Yes, I know that my school has the best *insert program name here* in the country and no, that had nothing to do with why I chose my college. Yes, I do realize that being undecided is not ideal or esteemed and no, I am not ashamed of not having a plan.
I should not feel reluctant to tell the truth. In fact, I should feel forutnate that I am free to do whatever I please, with no limitations. I should feel excited about the unexpectedness of my life and all of the room for spontaneity. I should not have to worry about what people want to hear or even meet their expectations.Â
Do they want to hear that, at this point in my life, I have absolutely no idea what I’m doing? Probably not, but, that’s what they’ll get. I have nothing to hide. I attend a four-year university and I don’t know if I’m trying to be a doctor, or lawyer, or engineer, or any of those things. Right now, all I know is that I am trying my best to have a successful educational career and enjoy this time that I’m allowed to not know what I’m doing and that is exactly what I intend to do.
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