College gives every student the opportunity to branch out and meet new people. Some of these people you will like more than others and may even, dare I say, go on a date with. Unfortunately, actually going on dates with someone is scarcely a common thing in today’s society. Dating is about getting to know someone and seeing if you can see yourself connecting with this individual. By skipping the dating process, essentially you are skipping getting to know an individual, and connecting with them. Unfortunately, his trend is becoming easier to do with technology, but it must come to an end.

Do: Step out of your comfort zone

Why does it seem out of the norm to approach someone and ask if they would like to go out on a date with you in person? Why are people so intimidated to approach others and talk to them? Step out of your comfort zone!

Don't: Tinder

Instead of connecting with people and getting to know them beyond their surface, people revert to easier ways to connect with someone, Tinder. Why would you want to spend actual time with someone when you can simply “swipe right” and possibly hook up with someone on this site? I understand that Tinder can be used as a dating app like eHarmony, but the reality is, it isn’t. The majority of people who are on Tinder are not interested in dating whomever they swipe right on.

Do: Be creative

Dating does not have to be expensive at all. There are a plethora of dates that you can go on that requires no money at all. Creative dates are the most remembered and show that someone took the time to plan out an awesome time with you.

Don’t: Have your phone out on a date

This is just basic etiquette. If you are out on a date or just talking to someone in general, what’s the point of spending time with them when you are too distracted on your mobile device? Pay attention.

Please, let's get back to the basics. Let's get back to dating.