If you are struggling with a long distance relationship, here are five things that can help you get through it (in no particular order):

1. SKYPE

At least weekly or daily Skype dates are essential, as denoted by the all caps. This may seem petty or silly, but you will miss getting to see your significant other's face and hearing their voice as they talk to you...and getting to see them smile, or say you're beautiful, even after a long day of class and no makeup, can just melt you. :)

2. Trust

Especially when there are going to be times and places that you don't hear about, it is important to trust who you're dating. Causing problems by accusing them of cheating, or liking other girls will only make them resent your lack of trust. You have to trust that they love you and will be there for you even though they aren't there with you.

3. Care packages

It doesn't need to be anything big, but sometimes even just sending him or her some of their favorite foods or some little mementos from past events can be a simple, little surprise to make his/her day and let them know you're thinking about them. It's also just as much fun picking out fun things to send them!

4. Good 'ole-fashioned letters

As silly as this may sound, it really is something that you can keep forever to remember little things; also, it's something you get to look forward to for each letter. They may take a while to write and even longer to send, but they really can create such a romantic, timeless connection. Even calling each other when there is a little break in the day to catch up in between classes, can keep you connected as if you're walking with them.

5. Making the trek to see each other as often as possible.

Having a countdown in place to help you anticipate the upcoming dates is just one way to make the long trips better. Even if it's months before you see each other, when you finally see them it makes it all worth it. The huge, overwhelming feeling of love all at once makes the expensive plane tickets and/or gas tank fill-ups completely worth it.

And, a final note: LDRs are hard work and it's going to take some serious effort from both parties. But honestly, it's so rewarding and worth it when you make it through hard times because you really grow stronger.