Thanksgiving dinner often comes with a side of questions about college. Between bites of turkey and mashed potatoes, someone is bound to ask, “So, what are you studying?” For many students, explaining their major to curious relatives can feel awkward or even stressful. Whether you are majoring in something creative, technical or still figuring things out, there are easy ways to answer confidently and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Keep it simple
You do not need to give a long explanation full of technical terms. Start with a short, clear answer that anyone can understand. For example, if you are studying journalism, you might say, “I study how people find and share information, and I want to work in media someday.” A simple sentence gives relatives a quick picture without requiring you to defend your choice or future career plans.
Share what you enjoy about it
When family members ask about your major, they are often just trying to connect with you. Instead of focusing on how hard your classes are or what job you hope to get, share what you like about what you study. Saying something like “I really enjoy learning about how stories shape the world” or “I love the creativity of designing projects” helps them understand your passion and keeps the conversation positive.
Relate it to something they know
Sometimes relatives struggle to understand modern college programs, especially if your major sounds unfamiliar. Try connecting it to something they recognize. For example, if you study marketing, explain that it’s about understanding what people like and helping brands communicate better. If you’re in computer science, you could compare your work to solving puzzles that make technology easier to use. Relating your major to something practical helps bridge the gap.
Avoid getting defensive
It is easy to feel frustrated if someone questions your career path or jokes about how your major will make money. Remember that most of the time, relatives are not trying to criticize you. They may simply not understand what your field involves or how much it has changed. Stay calm, answer kindly and change the subject if needed. You can respond with something light, such as “It’s a growing field” or “I’m learning a lot and exploring where it can take me.”
Practice your answer ahead of time
If you already know you will be asked about your major, plan your response before the holiday. Think of a short way to describe what you study, why you like it and what skills you are developing. Having an answer ready makes you feel more confident and prevents awkward pauses at the table.
Ask questions back
If you want to shift the attention off yourself, ask your relatives questions about their own careers or college experiences. Showing interest in them keeps the conversation balanced. Try asking, “What did you study?” or “How did you choose your career path?” You may find that their stories help you feel more connected.
Focus on gratitude
Thanksgiving is about spending time together, not proving your academic worth. Remember that you do not owe anyone a perfect plan for your future. You are allowed to be proud of what you are learning and where you are headed. Focus on the progress you have made and the people who support you along the way.
Explaining your major does not have to be stressful. By keeping your answers simple, positive and personal, you can turn those dinner-table questions into genuine conversations. After all, the most important thing to share at Thanksgiving is not your career plan, but your gratitude.