Long distance can be hard. Let's face it. However, as difficult as it may be, it is a reality for many couples. Maybe you are shifting from a high school relationship to a college one, or maybe you recently met your significant other over a break in your hometown, and now you have to go your separate ways. Whatever the reason, millions of people find themselves in LDRs for quite some time. Being in a long distance relationship myself, I have thankfully found close companions in college who are in the same situation. I reached out to my most trusted friends and their partners to ask how they have successfully tackled a college LDR and to see what a LDR means to them.

Luke's Advice (Kaitlyn's Boyfriend)

"To me, long distance is a relationship that exemplifies lots of trust and communication. It involves a couple who is willing to sacrifice the comfort of being in close proximity to one another for their potential future together."

Kaitlyn's Advice (Luke's Girlfriend)

"Long distance is definitely a sacrifice but at the same time can be very rewarding. I was very hesitant to enter a long distance relationship at first. Being someone who values quality time, I was scared that I would feel disconnected being over 300 miles apart. However, being apart has taught me to value the time we have together even more. If you are in a long distance relationship, it is even more crucial to date someone who cares about you and your needs even when you are miles apart."

Cedar's Advice (Rebecca's Boyfriend)

"Cherish every interaction you have with your special other. Every text, every picture, every Facetime...every moment spent together. Also, communication is key! It's important to establish both of your expectations at the beginning so each of you knows how to give the other what they need."

Rebecca's Advice (Cedar's Girlfriend)

"To me, a long distance relationship is one that requires many more sacrifices than a typical relationship. Although it can be hard, the rewards that you reap are so much greater than if your relationship was a 'normal' one. The feeling that floods in when you see your partner after a long period of time is like no other. You truthfully begin to cherish them in ways you never thought possible. The simple things that you take for granted when you are constantly together like their laugh, their smile, or even the way their voice calms you in an instant, are truly appreciated more when you're long distance. It does take more maturity and communication at times, but if you're ready and willing to work together, a long distance relationship is definitely achievable in college."

Reading about the realities of two successful long distance couples can hopefully help you figure out if you and your partner are ready and able to take that big leap. It may be a difficult journey with a multitude of ups and downs at times, but as you can see from these 4 individuals, if done right, an LDR can be just as successful as any other dating relationship!

Besides, isn't anything that's really worth it, hard work sometimes?

*Names have been changed to keep the couple's identities confidential*