I'm biased. My parents met in their freshman year at Catholic University and live happily ever after. Adorable, I know. 

There are some strong opinions out there about dating in college and the waiting period for settling down with that special someone. But remember how diverse America -- especially UMD -- is? So, if you're thinking about entering a serious college relationship, or you just like reading about it, here are some pros and cons of being in a committed college relationship. 

Pros

Being in a committed relationship can be pretty great. You always have a date to take to parties and formals, someone to hold your hair back on those wild nights, someone who will always make sure you get home safely and, most importantly, someone who brings you that cup of coffee and cookie after you've had a long day in the library. Maybe this person will be your college sweetheart, or maybe not, but if you enjoy spending time together, then do it! Go fall in love, ya crazy kid.

Love is a tricky concept. Falling in love is great, but relationships can be difficult and hurt, sometimes, but that doesn't mean dating in college is a mistake. I read an awesome article recently, I Am Not The Girl You Will Marry, which brings up a great point: "Right here, in this moment, if you love that person in the here and now, whatever the future has in store, then loving them now is what you should still do."

There is absolutely no point in not dating someone because of what you're "supposed" to be doing as a college student. Be in a relationship if you want to. Have fun. Fall in love. Marry your college sweetheart.

Cons             

Despite all the amazing aspects of being in a serious relationship in college, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Relationships, like all good things, take work. We're talking time, nurturing, communication, attention and trust. These important ingredients can be difficult to muster in college, given the huge hook-up culture, especially for those in long-distance relationships. Putting this huge commitment at the top of your priority list is stressful, especially on top of classes, sorority or fraternity commitments and all the extracurriculars college students are involved in.

Another con is that healthy college relationships may take a while to come around. Everyone knows that college is all about self-discovery and redefining themselves and all that sappy stuff. Clicking with a special someone one semester doesn't automatically mean you'll click the same way a year from now. People change. No matter the terms you and your possible future significant other are on, be careful about the decisions you make. Really liking someone, but then grinding all up on someone else at a bar in front of said possible future significant other is probably not the best idea. If this is too hard of a thing to do, maybe a committed relationship isn't for you, and that’s totally fine!

Most people don't meet their sweethearts in college and there's a reason for that: everyone's changing and maturing. It's important to figure out what you want before getting into a committed relationship, which may take years after college. Relationships of any kind can be really great and help shape who you'll become, so just do you and date if you want to date. College sweethearts make cute stories, but going around looking specifically for that will probably not help you meet your end goal.

So I'll leave it for you to decide: yay or nay?