Starting Uni can be scary enough without thinking about dating; moving to a new place, making friends, and getting to grips with a (probably) new town and type of learning are a lot to think about before you add in having a romantic life. We’ve got the best tips for dating at University. Whether you’re new to the dating game, or you’re about to start a long distance relationship with your S.O., these tips should help you get to grips with dating at uni:
“Variety! Options! Fit lads everywhere!” – from the safety of your bed, you can choose your ideal date. Perfect right? No commitments, with a chance to meet plenty of people who are interested in the same thing as you. And if you just end up as mates, at least you got to go on a nice night out.
You probably won’t meet your soulmate in a grotty club after one too many jagerbombs, but you never know until you try! Once your confidence is boosted by a couple of drinks, get the conversation flowing with the girl who caught your eye at the bar (or whoever you’re into), and see where the night takes you. You may be surprised…
Don’t forget that you’re a student. It may be tempting once you’ve found your ideal partner to spend every possible moment with them, but an important part of dating at uni is maintaining a healthy balance – you’re not going to break up over that extra hour you spent in the library.
The only thing worse than being that couple who make out on every available surface around campus, is being the couple who do it while your lecturer is trying to explain quantum physics to the class. See tip 3 – the world won’t end if you’re not joined at the hip/mouth 24/7.
Although space to get work done, and have a life beyond your latest date, is important, it’s also vital to have balance in your relationship. Whether you have whole days off together, or can only see each other in the evenings, make these times worthwhile and stress-free by doing something you both enjoy. Go out for a meal, or watch a movie together, for example.
They haven’t texted you back in half an hour? Relax! Remember that you’re both independent people, and that if they’re also a student they’re probably busy with assignments. (See tip 3)
If your S.O. has decided to abandon you for a different university, or is living and working in a different city, make the time you have together special. Whether you see each other every weekend, or only a few times a term, make plans for these visits to show each other your new home/go back to places you love in your hometown, and get to know the people they’re living with now. You’ll get to see your boo and make new friends at the same time – they’ll probably end up being a second set of housemates by the time you graduate! Depending on how far away they’re living, use the travel time as a way to get work done before you see them, so that you can fully enjoy your time together.
Although it may be tempting to use your new found freedom to play the field, make sure that you take care of yourself and stay safe. Always make sure your friends and housemates know where you have gone if you leave a night out without them, and make sure that any/all of your relationships are safe and healthy. The last thing you want while you’re working on assignments is health concerns… This is one of the most crucial tips for dating at university.
This is especially important in long distance relationships, but is not exclusive to LDRs. Its highly likely that your S.O. or date will have a different friendship group to you, and that you will both end up socialising without one another at times. Dating healthily requires trust, and not trying to control your partner’s time. They’re allowed to have a night out with the lads/gals when they want to.
It can be difficult to maintain a balance when your S.O. is living across the country; either you’re glued to your phone or you feel as though you haven’t managed to talk in days… But balance is vital for dating long distance. Before you’re separated by counties, talk to your partner about ways to maintain contact that won’t be too disruptive to either of your daily lives. Plan Skype or phone calls, and Snapchat and text throughout the day where possible to avoid feeling distant from them – but don’t forget to focus on your degree! This is one of the most important tips for dating at university.
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