We all dream about the day when we’ll walk down the aisle and say “I do”. We think about how great it would be to have a person to cuddle up with and watch Netflix on a lazy Sunday afternoon or go out on Moe’s Monday dates. Our Instagram timeline is filled with “Man Candy Mondays” and “Woman Crush Wednesdays” and it seems like love is just in the air around everyone but you. But I’m here to tell you that it is perfectly okay to be single while in college.
College is supposed to be the best four years of your life. It is jam packed with unspeakable memories, lifetime friendships, and way too many pizzas to count. So why, (if we don’t have to be) are we tied down during these glamorous years of our lives? I’m not saying that it’s bad to have a boyfriend or a girlfriend, but if you don’t have one it isn’t the end of the world. Here’s some light on why being single in college is perfectly okay (and maybe even better than being in a relationship).
- Learn from others about what you do and don’t want. If you’re tied down in college, you won’t be able to learn what you do and don’t want. By watching how others interact and friend’s relationships, you’ll be able to understand what characteristics you’ll want in a significant other someday.
- Less drama. (Praise the Lord) Having a boyfriend/girlfriend most likely means drama. “Why did you like HER Instagram picture?” “It was just guy’s night out.. I didn’t have a choice! Yeah, you don’t have to deal with any of that. (You can thank me later.)
- You’re never known as “Will’s girlfriend”. You’ll be able to make a name for yourself on campus that doesn’t relate yourself to your significant other. It is so much nicer to be known as the girl that dresses well or the guy that was Valedictorian of his graduating class other than solely known for being in a relationship with someone.
- MONEY. Dating is SO expensive. You have to buy anniversary presents, birthday presents, and chocolates on Valentine's Day. I don’t know about you but I don’t have that kind of cash laying around. Being single means you’ll have that extra money for buying that killer outfit or the new 2k that’s coming out in the fall.
- There is no explaining your actions or intentions. When you get back from that crazy party or your fun night out with your friends, there is no one eagerly waiting to ask every detail of the night. You’re able to have carefree fun without worrying what your boyfriend/girlfriend will think. So basically… more parties, less guilt. ;)
- College is for bridal parties and groomsmen. While you’re single in college, you’ll be able to build greater and lasting friendships. (Trust me, there is plenty of time to find your bride or groom later in life.) You won’t have to worry about splitting your time with bae and your friends, you’ll be able to always say yes to the late night cookout runs and parties without feeling guilty. Enjoy the people you’re with, you only get four years to be surrounded with all your friends all time. You get to a lifetime to be with your spouse.
- That high GPA. It is so much easier to focus and make better grades in class if you don’t have as many distractions. As if Netflix, sorority functions, and Friday night parties aren’t enough, you throw a relationship in there, you will barely have enough time to sleep. Don’t forget the reason you’re in college, it’s to get a good education.
- Focus on loving yourself. When you’re in college, so much is changing. You’re finally finding out who you really are and you’re constantly being pushed out of your comfort zone whether you like it or not. Take time to appreciate the “new” you that is arising out of the late night studying sessions and new people that you’re spending so much time with. Love yourself so when you finally meet that special someone, you’ll appreciate being with them but you’ll also know your self-worth and what you’re made of.
However, if you have already found your soulmate and you’re confident that you’re going to be with this person for the rest of your life, congrats! I’m happy for you and I wish you the best.
As for the rest of us… Being single in college is enjoying your freedom and spending time with whomever you chose. Love will come when you least expect it, so for now, sit back and enjoy the ride of your life.
*** The Odyssey is not responsible for any break-ups that might be caused from this article.
