Dear Christine,

My girlfriend’s birthday is coming up in a couple of weeks and I
think she’s expecting something nice and expensive. Unfortunately,
after paying off my credit card this month, I don’t have the funds to
give her what she really wants. I want to make her day special, but I
don’t know what to do.

— Broke as a Joke

Dear Broke,

First of all, is this how your relationship has been? Does your
girlfriend expect you to pick up the bill every time you go out, to be
constantly showered with gifts, or to always do what she wants? Let me
tell you this now — those things won’t change. You’ll never be able to
completely satisfy her.

However, if the above scenario doesn’t sound like your girlfriend at
all, then we can move on. What’s her favorite meal? Cook her dinner,
pick up a bottle of wine, and have a nice romantic evening together.
Write her a heartfelt letter and let her know how you feel. Find your
favorite picture of you guys together, and frame it for her. You’ll win
major points in the romance department — and it will be from the heart.
Be creative!

— Christine

Dear Christine,

I’m a junior this year, and I think I’ve decided to change my major.
I’m not enjoying the classes at all, and I really only chose my major
to please my parents. I’m really worried about how much trouble it’s
going to be if I do end up changing.

— Second Thoughts

Dear Second,

Your parents are not the ones who will have to go do your job until
you retire. I know that parents can be a huge influence, but be mature
enough to stand up to them and do what you want to do. You’ll be much
happier 20 years down the road if you’re doing what you want, not what
your parents wanted for you.

Parents mean well, but prove to them that they raised you right by
standing up for what you want. You’re also right — it is a huge hassle
to change your major — but it’s easier to do it now than go back to
school once you’ve already established a career that you detest.

Do some major soul searching, career counseling and job shadowing to
be sure that what you change to is what you really want to do. Do the
research now, and you’ll thank yourself later!

— Christine

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