When students go off to college for the first time there are a lot of expectations as to who you are going to meet and what your life is going to be like. I began college in a serious relationship with my boyfriend and we have been dating for 5 years. I was constantly getting questions like “Isn’t it boring to be in a serious relationship right now?” or “Are you sure it’s going to last?” To be honest, I can’t expect people to understand why because they are not in my shoes, but I would like to explain why being in a serious relationship in your 20's is not as bad as you think.

We grew up together

We have definitely grown and changed since we were 16 years old, and I have definitely noticed that we have done the most changing while we were in college. I think that it is amazing that him and I were able to grow and change together. Not many people can say that they have done that and it is a blessing to be able to do so.

You always have someone to talk to

No matter where we are or what we are doing, I can always count on him to talk to me. College is really stressful and it is comforting to know that at the end of the day I know that he is a phone call away to help me talk things through.

You always have someone to come home to

There is no better feeling than coming home to your boyfriend and knowing that he will always be there for you. Let’s be honest, one night stands are fun for a while, but when it comes to having someone all of the time to come home to, being in a serious relationship is where it’s at.

He always keeps me in check

Being in a serious relationship teaches you to compromise, and having someone who knows you better than anyone else always keeps you in check.

Valentine’s day is always exciting

Everyone wants a valentine right? Well in a relationship you never have to wonder who your valentine will be!

You always have someone to do things with

The best thing about being in a serious relationship for me is that I never have to do things alone if I don’t want to. I know that he will always be willing to go do things with me or support me in whatever I do. I know that he will always be willing to go with me to awkward family get-togethers too, and most friends or friends with benefits would opt out of that real quick. I know that no matter what I am doing I can always count on him to be right by my side.