Help! The School Nerd Asked Me Out
The school nerd asked me to be his date to the prom, and I don't want to be! How do I turn him down?
First, if you're sure you don't want to go with him, make sure that he's sure. Giving him a wishy-washy answer will only make things more awkward for both of you when asks you again.
And don't feel pressure to make up an elaborate story about why you can't be his date. It's sure to backfire. Be ambiguous instead. Just thank him for asking and tell him you've already made prom plans. That way, you're covered whether you decide to go with a date, friends, or even solo. If he presses for specifics, just make a joke and make your exit — "I'm bringing my cat. Mr. Whiskers looks great in a tux! See you in Calc!"
Finally, keep the Golden Rule in mind and resist any urge to point him out to your friends and collapse into hysterics at the senior pep rally. He may not be your dream date, but asking someone out — and getting rejected — is not easy for anyone, so try not to go all "Mean Girls" on him.
