Hi, my name is Halee and I’ve been in a long distance relationship for two and a half years. No, I’m not crazy. Yes, it’s insanely difficult. But, at the end of the day, it’s worth it all and then some.

Before I begin my spiel, let me first reiterate that a long distance relationship is not easy. However, just because it’s difficult doesn’t mean that it can’t be done. It definitely takes a lot of communication and dedication, among many other things, in order to be successful. But, the time in college will pass whether you decide to commit yourself to someone who is or isn’t here. You should never let distance be a factor, because college is fleeting.

Although it may not always be easy, it’s definitely worth it. As I reflect on my experience over the past few years, I’ve realized I’ve learned a few things that truly have molded me into a better person. Needless to say, through this relationship I’ve gained a lot more than just memories of fun weekends with cute Instagram pictures (humble brag).

A long distance relationship clearly requires you to communicate...and communicate well. When something is wrong I can’t just keep quiet about it and wait for my boyfriend to notice because he can’t see my face or read my body language. If there’s an issue that needs to be addressed or a conflict that needs to be resolved, we have to speak up and express it in a way that won’t upset the other person. I’ve learned to voice my concern and interest sooner rather than later. It’s better to be upfront and get things out of the way than to let them sit and become worse as the day goes on.

Through this I’ve also learned how to be independent and enjoy my friends. I’m able to do what I want when I want to with who I want to. Sometimes it seems people can get so caught up in their significant other that they forget to spend time apart with their own friends, and this can be damaging for everyone involved.

At the end of the day, the most reassuring part of this is the fact that we are each becoming our own selves and we are still able to put that together and make it work when we are with each other.

So yeah, sometimes long distance is a bummer, but I’ve learned to focus on the positives and cherish the times I do get to spend with my boyfriend when I have them and it’s grown us so much. As much as I loathe the distance, I have to believe at the end of the day that it's making us better people. When you really love someone, it’s so worth it.