Why is it that random stangers feel the need to ask you about you want to do with the rest of your life?

As soon as the words slip your lips that you're in highschool, the automatic question is "what do you want to do when you finish?" For the o.oooo1% of us who have actually figured this, sure, that's great. But for the other lot, who are just trying to get through their next assignment let alone thinking about possibly the biggest decision of our young lives, well, it leads to some awkward fumbling and slurred sentences. What amazes me is the range of people who ask you this - while working at the supermarket the other day, I was asked the very question by a random lady buying cornflakes. I mean, come on, do you really think I'm going to have a heart to heart over a cash register?

The generic answer is, of course, "I'm still deciding between some different pathways". It's always a winner, as it lets people think you're really intellectual and mature, while those pathways actually include the escape exits - front or back, which should I choose? But of course, this all collapses if they ask which pathways they might be. We've already had a discussion (okay, me rambling for half a page) about awkward silences, and this is another surefire way to create one. You may be thinking 'is this girl socially challenged?', but I assure you, I'm not. I am perfectly able to create conversation. But come on. This is extreme circumstances. Bluffing can of course be used, in which the anwerer comes up with a random career path they have no real intention of following, but sounds real enough. My personal favourite is "something in Public Relations". If anyone can tell me what this actually is, I'll give you 50 bucks*.

Alas, after many trials and errors, I have come to the conclusion that there is no safe answer and mostly end up just saying "I don't know". This either has one of two reactions; a sympathetic nod, complete with head lean, or a half hour rant about how today's society is corrupting our youth. Neither are exactly optimal responses, but will have to do under the circumstances.

But for you, my dear readers, I will try to answer this century-old question as truthfully as I can. When I finish school I want to travel for a ridiculously long time, living on nothing more than a shoestring and go into complete denial about any responsibility or choices I have to makes. There. I'm sure my 90-year-old grandfather will just love that.

xx Miss Moi

*Okay, I admit I was bit dramatic. No, I will not be giving anyone $50. Sorry to get your hopes up ;)

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