If you are an avid reader of Odyssey articles, you'll see that many have discussed the topic of how women should find their bridesmaids in college, not their husbands. I believe that it does not have to be this way.
Personally, I met my boyfriend the first week of college and we've been dating for nearly 3 years now. I realize that not everyone will find that special someone in college, but I don't think you should focus on just finding your bridesmaids.
When you move away to college there is this notion that you lose a lot of friends from high school. Yes, that does happen because of the distance and inability to communicate face to face, but it doesn't quite have to. For me, I had a select group of girlfriends in high school and we were super close. Even after we all went across the state to different colleges, we've made it a priority to stay close. Although we don't talk much, when we come back for the summer or get together, it's like nothing has ever changed. That's how you can tell we all have a strong friendship.
In high school, you should find that group of girlfriends that will last. Yes, not everyone might be in it as you move onto college, but that's natural. You should still find those girls that will always be honest with you and there for you.
Let's be real, high school is full of drama. We are so naive about relationships and the real world. Props to those who are still with their high school sweetheart, but the reality is, less than 2% marry their high school love. Plus, there are so many more people in the world than that class of 300 some that you've been with for the past 10+ years.
In high school, you should focus on finding those best friends and bridesmaids. In college then, it should be about finding your husband. College is a fun time and you'll make new friends, but finding your other half can be so rewarding too.
You have someone that you can party with on Saturdays, but have brunch with on Sundays. You have someone to cuddle and binge watch Netflix with. You have someone to help you study, and to always encourage you through your academics. And when it comes time to graduate and move onto bigger things in life, you have someone to go through it all with you.
Being in a relationship in college doesn't take away from your freedom. Rather, you get to do all of the same fun things with someone you love. When your man is your best friend, it doesn't mean you can't have your girl best friends, it's just different types of relationships you have with each other. You can still have you man and you gals as best friends.
To those who think you should find your bridesmaids in college and not your husband: Make your high school years valuable by finding your bridesmaids. And when you get to college, you can find that future husband that is your best friend.