Most of us were brought up to believe that once you got to college you were going to find your “one true love” and possibly the person you would end up marrying. But for most of us, this dream died real fast… and that's OK.
In my opinion, college is supposed to be the best four years of your life and a time for you to truly enjoy yourself. Think about it, it is one of the only times in your life that you can be 100 percent selfish and only worry about what YOU want. So why are we frantically trying to search for someone to share our lives with so quickly?
The new norm of college dating can be described in one word: FUN! It is all about having fun, not taking anything too seriously (unless you really want to), and just focusing on you and what you want. So, here are my 10 tips on college dating.
1. Forget about your high school boyfriend
College is a time to meet new people and make new relationships and you do not need your boyfriend from home holding you back.
2. Don't expect anything too serious
Having a great time with someone one night is awesome and you are probably going to brag to all your friends about it... But try not to get too ahead of yourself! The harsh truth is that most guys/girls in college are just looking to have fun and nothing much more, so do not expect much else after one night, because 9/10 times you will end up being disappointed.
3. Don't be with someone who might be too attached
If you do end up getting into a relationship in college, make sure that person has a life of their own other than dating you. Like I said before, college is a time for you to enjoy and do things for yourself and having a special someone around should just be a plus, not a responsibility. Make sure your significant other respects this or it may be time to end the relationship.
4. Be open to new people!
That's what college is all about, right?!? Figuring out what you do and do not like. So if a guy/girl approaches you that you usually wouldn’t go for or isn’t your type, talk to them and give it a chance! You never know what could happen!
5. Hooking up is NOT a big deal
Now, I’m not saying you should go and hook up with every attractive person you see, but if it happens once in awhile there is no reason to feel bad about yourself for it. College is all about mistakes and learning from them and if you’re really searching for Mr. Right, he is not just going to come knock on your door. So get out there, flirt, laugh and hook up (if you want to).
6. Spend as much time with your friends as you can
This is the only time in your life where you are going to be a 5-minute walk (at most) from your best friends, and you should cherish every moment.
7. Be confident!
Meeting people in college (and in life in general) is all about confidence. If you’ve ever heard someone use the expression, “Your confidence will shine through," know that statement is 100 percent true and people can see your confidence when you have it. So, be confident, there’s no reason you shouldn't be!!
8. Don't say "YES" to someone because you feel like you have to
If you really aren’t feeling the vibes with someone you’re talking to, don’t be afraid to turn them down. This is the time to turn away all those people who you feel aren’t right for you. (Also, this is a HUGE confidence booster).
9. Don't have high expectations
Don’t go out having high hopes that you’re going to meet someone because you are probably just going to be disappointed by the end of the night. Go out with your friends, enjoy yourself, and don’t think about it…. You’ll meet someone when you least expect it.
10. JUST HAVE FUN!
The golden rule of college. But seriously, don't worry about the “norms” of a dating society and don't get so wrapped up in trying to find that someone special (that day will come eventually). Just be yourself, hang out with your friends, and enjoy the everyday life of college… you only get to do it once.
