GUA News: Your Holiday Survival Guide
How to Survive the “So… What Are You Doing Next?” Question Without Spilling the Gravy
December 16, 2025
by Diane Nolan
Alt Title: How do you Survive the “So… What Are You Doing Next?” Question Without Spilling the Gravy?
The holidays are meant to be restful. A time for over-indulging in all the things you need (or don’t need), sleep – need, box of chocolates – want, questionable jumpers and forgetting what deadlines feel like – for a moment.
And yet, for university students the world over and recent graduates, one thing reliably turns up every year, right on schedule……“So… what are you doing next?”
So… what are you doing next?
It usually arrives somewhere between the starter and dessert of a large meal – any time of year, or when a large gathering of family members runs out of general pleasantaries to pass the time and everyone is sick of the jigsaw puzzle, Fortnite playoffs or the obligatory board game (insert your own family traditions).
It is asked with genuine interest, mild concern and the unshakeable confidence that you must, by now, have your entire future neatly organised.
If this question fills you with a polite smile and internal screaming, congratulations. You are completely normal.
Here is our/your Holiday Survival Guide for navigating holiday conversations with confidence, composure and only minimal eye twitching.
1. Prepare Your Answer Before You Leave the House
Think of this as your holiday script. One calm, repeatable response you can deploy again and again like a well-rehearsed line in a play.
Choose your Player:
The Polite but Vague – “I am exploring a few paths at the moment. I will know more in the new year.”
The Thoughtful Work in Progress – “I am figuring out what direction makes sense for me. I do not want to rush the decision.”
The Professional – “I am applying to roles in X and building experience in Y on the side.”
The Very Impressive One – “I am actually prepping some of my best assignments to submit to the Global Undergraduate Awards at the moment, so I am focused on that process and seeing where it leads me.”
If you successfully embody the amdram within heads nod. Conversations will soften and someone usually says, “Oh that sounds interesting,” and the pressure level drops instantly. Plus the last one is a genuinely great use of your time for future proofing your options.
Remember, you control how much you share. This is not a viva.
2. Set Boundaries Politely but Firmly
Some questions are fine. Some questions arrive with follow-ups. Some feel like a job interview you did not apply for.
It is perfectly acceptable to draw a line. Please feel free to try these useful phrases:
“It is still early days. I will know more soon.”
“I am keeping plans private until things are confirmed.”
“I am trying not to think too far ahead over the holidays.”
Or a great seasonal classic:
“I am taking a break from future-talk and focusing on enjoying the present.”
Calm, mature and deeply seasonal and promotes a smile and hug from most senior members of the group. Use it freely.
3. Master the Art of the Tactical Exit
Not every conversation needs to be endured until the end. Sometimes the best option is a graceful escape.
Options include:
Redirecting the question back to them – “You have been busy this year, have you not?”
Becoming suddenly helpful – “I will just help in the kitchen.”
Relocating three feet to the left and joining another conversation
No degree module prepares you for the Unc Interrogation Technique. Survival instincts are allowed.
4. Quick Answers to Common Questions
Q: “What is next after graduation?”
A: “I am still exploring my options and seeing where things lead.”
Q: “Why do you not have a job yet?”
A: “Different industries hire at different times, and I am in the process of pursuing a few ideas and adjacent industries related to my studies.”
Q: “Are you going to be an eternal student?”
A: “Well, I have thought about a Master’s, but it’s only one option. I am keeping things open. Plus, I think no matter what you do, you never stop learning, so aren’t we all eternal students to stay successful? ”
Q: “So, what is your plan?”
A: “My plan is to make the next right step, not the perfect final one.”
But what if you’re thinking about turning this holiday season and break from the continual trek to lectures as a time to get on, and you have the option to legitimately skip a large family gathering? OR there is a chance that your extended family might offer a genuine solution to a real next step?
5. Tiny Wins Are Allowed but Not Required
If part of you wants to feel a little more prepared and give yourself a leg up for the final term, consider a few small steps during the quieter days:
Update your CV, Resume or LinkedIn profile
Make a short list of people to contact in the new year
Add a small project or skill to your portfolio
If you would rather lie on the sofa and stare into the middle distance, that is also valid. Rest counts.
6. Turn Festive Gatherings into Gentle Networking
Holidays are quietly full of people who know you and intern know other people. So you don’t need the elevator pitch or to deliver a personal brand statement.
A simple line such as:
“If you hear of anything in my field, I would love a heads-up.”
is more than enough. You never know what might come back to you in January.
Finally, A Gentle Reminder About Perspective
Someone will always seem ahead. Someone will always announce a new job, that they have enrolled on a master’s or a five-year plan written in bullet points.
Here is the reality:
Careers are rarely linear.
Most people are still figuring things out.
Rest is productive.
Transition is tiring.
You are not behind. You are simply in the middle of becoming!
Your Official Holiday Permission Slip
- You are allowed to not know.
- You are allowed to change your mind.
- You are allowed to take your time.
- You are allowed to enjoy the holidays without solving your entire future.
