Just after “you’re graduating?” comes, “so.” In the half-second between that “so” and the inevitable “what are you doing next year?” a primal urge to turn on one’s heels and flee is awakened. But, we are strong. We can face this. Use the flow chart below to find out what type of Senior-itis you have — and how to answer that dreaded question.

Soon to be Settled: Your applications are at-large, your interview is next week, you’re waiting on more details. You need to get the inquisitor off your back by assuring them that you’re inches from a definite plan and you will certainly let them know as soon as arrangements are finalized. Keep that ball in your court so you don’t get recurring questions before you’re ready.

The Humble Horn Toot: You’d think this would be easy. You’ve got a plan and that plan affirms that college was a smart investment for you. All you need now is mastery of delivery. 3 Steps: Smile. Relay your future job or school plan and location. Finish up with a sentiment about how blown away you are that you’ve been given this opportunity.

Straight-Forward, with a Side of Silly: You’re sorting irregular Tupperware lids next year. Your listener won’t feel the need to point out the empathetic disappointment they feel for you if you cut right to the chase. Rip the band-aid off quickly, a la “Saving the world, one kitchen storage product mishap at a time.” Give a laugh, pat the investigator on the shoulder and scoot out of there.

Confident Anticipation: There are simply too many viable options in this world. You’re sitting pretty as a business major and guaranteed to funnel into a high-demand career. Here is where you assure the curious one that companies should be so lucky as to hire you and have you choose them. “I have so many interests and I’m excited to pursue the path that will best use my talents.” See, it’s vague…but you’ve given the illusion of a plan.

Sarcasm in a Can: This is for all of those students who have constantly heard, “well, you know, Masters is the new Bachelors, so that’s good that you’re majoring in something that interests you in undergrad.” Grab the stereotype that applies most directly to your major and embellish, leaving your conversation partner with no option but to laugh and commend you on your healthy perspective. Philosophy majors, explain that you’ll spend next year contemplating what it is to be alive. Peace studies majors, remind them that your calendar is slammed with passive protests so you’ve really only got a few hours per week to work at the local, world-friendly coffee shop.

Don’t see yourself here? Hit ‘em with your non-sellout status. Nobody argues with someone who lights up when they talk about their passion to positively affect the world. Maybe you’ve got a plan; maybe you’re waiting for the perfect one. Either way, you will not be intimidated into anything less than the implementation of your enthusiasm in a delightful career path. Flash a smile, make them laugh, and then pass the kindly church lady off to the next soon-to-be college grad.

You might also be interested in:

1. Senior year limbo: What you should be doing between now and getting a job
2. How to stay sane during junior year
3. 10 New Year’s resolutions for college students
4. Ms. Van Wilder? A super senior on the 5-year plan
5. Junior year – the best place to be?