By this point in our lives, we would like to think that we are experts at dating. 

But ladies, I hate to break it to you, we aren’t. High school dating doesn’t count and neither does some of college. Going to the dining hall, as romantic as that sounds, doesn’t count as the guy taking you out to dinner. Sorry. These have all been practice rounds to lead up to the real, grown-up dating world.

Playing hard to get, pleasing and calling it quits is not acceptable anymore, that game is over. Unless of course you want your dating life to consist of dates to the free shows that are offered by the university every weekend. And I know, we are all independent women who don’t need no man, but getting flowers every once in a while is actually kind of nice. And you’d think we would know how to act on the first date to get a second, but that’s not always the case. So here’s how it’s done:

DO: Give the poor sucker a chance.

If a guy has the guts to walk up to you and initiate a conversation while also having good hygiene, manners and hides his ego long enough to pop the question, ACCEPT. Just because he comes up to you and, god forbid thinks you’re pretty, does not mean he’s creepy. That means he’s a keeper. Let him take you to lunch or dinner, it never hurts to meet new people on a deeper level than what brand of shoes they are wearing. Sometimes it’s hard in college, but it will pay off in the long run when you are happily married, with two kids and living in your dream home. On the other hand, if his name is “T-Swizzle” and he whistles at you to ask you out, run for the hills.

DON’T: Dress like you’re going to the club.

A date is NOT a nightclub. Unless he is taking you to a nightclub on a first date, then you should be running, not walking, in those five-inch stilettos. Jeans and a pretty top is the way to go on a first date, maybe even some leggings, if done correctly, could work.  Modesty is sexy. Showing off your goods too soon will get you a one-night stand, not a cuddly boyfriend. Embrace your body and wear what’s right for you.

DO: Doll yourself up.

What girl doesn’t love to play dress up? After all, we’ve been experts at it since about age 5. It gives a great first impression when you put the extra effort forth, but don’t go over the top. Less is more. Men love the natural look because it shows off inner beauty. Don’t hide who you are, but put on something other than your go-to sweatpants. You’re sure to wow him. After all, he already asked you out.

DON’T: Go over the top.

While we love getting pretty for a date, sometimes it doesn’t always work out in our best interest. For example, don’t go out and try a new hair color before a first date. By some weird chance you could end up with orange hair and honestly, probably won’t get a second date. But then again, do you, because it’s the inside that counts.

DO: offer to pay.

How should paying go on a first date?

This is a debate that I feel will never be resolved. It all depends on the person. Whether you’re a firm believer that he should pay on the first date or that you’re going to split it, you should always at least offer. Most GENTLEMEN won’t let you pay, but it’s the thought that counts and the fact that you offered will mean something to him.

So always remember, ladies, take a chance, a little dab will do, embrace your natural beauty and you never know what could come from that first date!