There are many sayings that float around college campuses right from the get-go. For example, "ring by spring" and, "seeking MRS degree." And even though most of us know these are not serious endeavors, it's hard not to become intimidated by them.

I remember a certain Friday night during my freshman year when I stayed in to write a paper. That evening my roommate was hanging out with her boyfriend, two of my other friends were out on Tinder dates, another friend was meeting her new boyfriend's parents, and a couple of gals on my floor were headed out to parties.

Later on that night, as everyone was coming home, more than a few of my friends came to me either seeking relationship advice, or telling me about their evening with so-and-so. Caught up in the romantic lives of all my friends (and even some acquaintances) I exclaimed, "I'm going to join the convent! Send me to the Abbey!"

I knew I was exaggerating and wasn't entirely serious, but my point seemed more than warranted. In the moment it was easy to feel like the only girl in the world without a love life (though that is certainly not the case).

My roommate kindly pointed out that I was ridiculous for deciding to become a nun because I had turned down all the opportunities I'd had to date someone. And she was right. I had. Intentionally, might I add, because I had decided early on that I didn't want to date that year.

Now you may think me a prude, (which is, in fact, a compliment) but I personally believe that the main reason to date is to find a husband. Plain and simple. In addition, I believe the main reason to go to college is to gain as much knowledge/experience as you can.

Someone once told me that college is the only time in your life that it's okay to be selfish. It's a time for self-exploration, where you figure out who you are, what you want to do, and how to accomplish it. It is a time to find true friends (potential bridesmaids) and deepen your relationship with God. A time to develop your independence and caring for yourself. A time to experience everything you can without worrying about anyone else's opinions, timeframe, and desires.

This time is for you.

You are the one paying for it after all.

Looking back, I am so grateful that I wasn't in any of my friends' positions that Friday night, or any night, really. Even though I was lonely at times, I'm so glad that I stuck to my decision and didn't date.

I challenge you to take some time away from the dating scene to make sure you are spending some time on yourself. Spend your valuable time learning about and caring for yourself and your dreams, finding true friends, gaining genuine knowledge, developing your sense of independence, growing closer to God, doing the things you want to do, and worrying about no one else in the process. You will thank yourself, I promise!

"And I will give them singleness of heart and put a new spirit within them. I will take away their stony, stubborn heart and give them a tender, responsive heart." (Ezekiel 11:19, NLT)