There are definitely some things you should never say to a college student. Have you ever walked away from a snide comment that you weren't prepared for? Were you a college student at the time? Well, even if you've never been a college student before, or have yet to become one, it's time to buckle up and enjoy these five things you should never say to a college student.
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1. Just Wait until You Enter the Real World!
I’m sorry, was I living in fantasy land for the past four years? Huh, I guess this was all just a dream, you know? I can’t tell you how much this one comment aggravates me! Whenever I hear this comment, it is just such a turnoff to me because it degrades all of the hard work and accomplishments I’ve made while I’ve been in college. It's one of the worst things you should never say to a college student.
2. Oh, That’s Nice
Hear me out! I’ve just told someone that my degree is not in the hard sciences or is in any shape or form related to business or mathematics and this is the response I get. All. The. Time. It’s always a soft "oh" followed by a “that’s nice.” This is the kind of disappointed “oh” that insinuates you should have a degree in forensics or in global management. Or wait, you should probably get a second major while you’re at it! Never ever say “oh” to a college student when they tell you their major.
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3. What Are Your Plans after Graduation?
Sigh. Oh, you know. I have plans. Of course I do. I’ve got it all planned out. Step by step. Just you wait and see. Do you honestly think I know the answer to that question? So, why do you ask it? Please don’t remind me of the impending doom that comes after graduation. Okay, okay, I know I’m being a bit melodramatic, but you know this is true!
4. Why do We Need the Humanities?
Now, this one hits close to home for me. As a communications major at an interdisciplinary college, I became a critical thinker because of the humanities. I was blessed to be surrounded by a thoughtful group of individuals who gave me great books to read and great people to talk to about those books with. I am indebted to the humanities for the person I am today, so, please, just please, don’t ask why we need the humanities. Not everyone can do biochemistry, or run a business. That’s just not the way the world works. We need the humanities for that reason.
5. Why Are You a Feminist?
Alright, you caught me. This one may be another article in its own right, but along with this question I’ve had people question me, or treat me different because I’m a feminist or even because I’ve had the opportunity to learn more about feminism, or critical theory, or even just about gender.
What other comments have people made to you because you’re a college student?
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