Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo
placeholder article
placeholder article

How to Stay Sane While Dating in College

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

 

 

 

There is nothing that makes me physically want to rip my hair out more than trying to understand how a college boy’s mind works. In all honesty, dating in college is downright scary, but don’t get down on yourself. It’s easy to think that you’re the problem, when realistically there are millions of other girls out there in the exact same situation as you. So instead of stressing yourself out, just have fun with it. You only get one college experience, don’t let a guy ruin that opportunity. So bring on the laughs, the tears and let the games begin. Oh, and may the odds be ever in your favor. You’re going to need as many of those as you can get.

 

Have realistic expectations.

This right here is the first problem with us girls. Yes, I think we can all agree that boys are the worst but we aren’t always any better. Between wanting the romance we see in our favorite Netflix shows to the unrealistic tweets about relationship goals on our Twitters feeds we have to keep in mind that stuff like this doesn’t always exist. Sure, there are some lucky exceptions out there who may have already found a Mr. Right to spoil them, but realistically, nine out of 10 times we’re dealing with broke, clueless college boys here. It’s one thing to want the best for yourself but you can’t expect a frat boy to show up outside of your apartment with flowers and a stereo over his head. If you can even get a guy to swing you through a drive-thru for ice cream nowadays, you’re already winning, so give guys a break and go a little easier on them.

 

Listen to your friends.

There’s truly no one who knows you and your love life better than your best friends. Chances are, if your girls are trying to give you advice on guys, they have a point, so instead of getting defensive, listen to them. They can see your relationship from an outsider’s perspective and are just looking out for your best interest. Nothing is worse than sticking with someone toxic, and then hearing the words, “I told you so,” when things end bad. You would want the best for them too, so even when what they’re telling you is hard to hear, listen to their opinions and keep them in the back of your head. They’re only telling you because they care.

 

Be Yourself.

With society setting up unrealistic expectations for both relationships and women today, just being yourself can sometimes be the hardest part. Give yourself more credit and don’t forget what makes everyone love you in the first place. If he can’t handle you at your best and worst moments, or during your goofy times and awkward moments, then is he really worth it anyways? It’s all about who you can have fun with, who you can stay up until 2 a.m. eating junk food and talking about life with. Remember, you’re not only looking for a partner, but a best friend.

 

Know your worth.

I could preach this for days,ladies. Look out for yourselves. It’s okay to be selfish. It’s okay to put yourself first. Stop wearing your heart on your sleeve. Stop stressing over guys who aren’t worth it. You have enough stress to manage between work, classes and just growing up. Why juggle anymore than you need to? Yes, in order to find your Prince Charming, you have to put yourself out there and be vulnerable, just make sure it’s the right time and place for that. Just because you’ve both had a few drinks and look cute at a bar doesn’t mean he’s suddenly going to fall in love with you. Use your best judgment. It’s easy to get comfortable when you’re being told everything you’ve been waiting to hear. Just make sure you’re not being blindsided, but rather being treated the way you deserve.

Her Campus Placeholder Avatar
Morgan Gurican

Illinois State

Contributor account for Illinois State