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Why It’s Great to Be Single in College

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Emerson chapter.

Normally when people say they love being single, we’re hesitant to believe them. But I’m going to tell you right now, I’m not at all upset about being single. In fact, I love it! And no, I’m not some kind of fiercely independent lone wolf; I don’t see myself staying single forever and actually hate being by myself for more than a few hours. But right now, while I’m in the middle of my college career, I have no interest in being in a relationship.

Collegiates are often caught in the dilemma of whether to stay single or be in a relationship. Sometimes it can be hard to not feel jealous of those disgustingly cute couples walking around campus. College is supposed to be the best four years of your life. It’s supposed to be the time when we “find ourselves”, when we start to mature, make a whole new set of friends, go out and have fun, have new experiences, and generally just have a great time.
I strongly believe that the best way to do that is without a romantic partner.

Here are my reasons why:

I can focus on my girlfriends.
One of my biggest pet peeves is getting ditched by my friends who have boyfriends. I understand wanting to spend time with your significant other, but it’s still annoying when your friend picks a night with her man over a girls night out on the town. As a single lady I can focus on strengthening my friendships with my girls. My girlfriends are some of the most important people in my life and I cannot imagine putting our friendships in jeopardy for a guy. As the fabulously single Carrie Bradshaw once said, “Maybe our girlfriends are our soulmates, and guys are just people to have fun with.” Words to live by.

I’m free to have fun.
I feel sorry for people who haven’t experienced the single college life. College is a time to enjoy yourself and have fun! I love going out and being able to do whatever I want. And, no, I don’t just mean hook up with all the boys I want. What I mean is that I can go out at a drop of the hat if I’d like and talk to whoever seems interesting or dance however I want and accept a drink from whoever I want. I like being free and spontaneous. Being single for me hasn’t meant being lonely and forgotten, but fun and having the chance to become my own person and not worry about whether or not it’s good enough for someone else. I’m not saying that you can’t enjoy life if you’re in a relationship but at the same time, being single brings out so many possibilities.

I can make my own decisions.
When you’re single you can make choices based exclusively on what would benefit you. What’s best for your relationship isn’t always what’s best for the individual. Decisions like studying abroad, applying to grad school, and where to live should be made with careful consideration. I don’t want to graduate with regrets because I gave up something for a boy.

I don’t have enough time.
I know that sounds ridiculous and like an excuse, but the truth is I’d rather plan my schedule around myself rather than around mine and someone else’s. I have my whole life to plan around my husband and children. Right now I’d just like to plan it around my own.

I’m sure all these reasons will go down the drain when I meet the right guy. Until then, I am single and ready to mingle!
 

Shannon is a journalism major at Emerson College, where she is involved in many different organizations ranging from social media and writing to fashion and styling. Originally from New Hampshire, she loves Boston and one day wants to work for a news station in either Boston or New York City.
Sara graduated from Emerson College in December 2013 with her B.S. in Marketing Communication. She loves writing, designing and DIY.  Follow her on twitter @SaraWynkoop