College is a time and place where you are simply forced to figure things out on your own. It will take many trials and test runs before you are able to find what works best for you, and honestly, that’s just how life works as a young adult. Navigating a long-term relationship while in college is one of these things, except you have to find what works best for not only yourself, but also your significant other.
And yes, having a long-term relationship in college is possible and should be appreciated. Oftentimes, you have different schedules, priorities, extracurricular activities, and jobs that make it hard for you to spend quality time with one another. The long days apart can certainly make things difficult, but it’s important to prioritize your significant other, along with clear and consistent communication.
Treat every time you see each other like a special occasion! It’s rare that you get to experience what it’s like to be in a long-term relationship at this point in your life. Don’t get into a routine of just staying in and confining yourself only to one another. Venture out to campus, meet up with your friends, and show your significant other what college life is all about. This is likely all new to them, and they would love to learn more about what your day-to-day looks like here at the University of Illinois.
Try to designate at least one night a week to sit down, with no distractions, and to talk about what your week has looked like so far. Your phone call can consist of the negatives and the positives, the amount of stress you’re feeling this week, or the good grade you recently received. It’s important to keep it real – this is a great opportunity to just let it all out! Being upfront and honest, all while prioritizing one another during this conversation, ensures that you are maintaining a healthy relationship.
While some people may not fully understand what it’s like to be in a long-term relationship, they may make a few comments here and there, or try to step in to give you some unwarranted advice. Try to brush that off. One day they will understand what it’s like to be in your shoes, and will respect the choices you make. Stay true to yourself and your relationship; it’s okay to speak up when you start to feel uncomfortable. Healthy boundaries are important not only in romantic relationships, but in friendships as well.
Be honest with yourself, be honest with your friends and be honest with your partner. Always remind yourself that these are the best years of your life, and being in a long-term relationship will complement your college experience, not ruin it!
