College students all over the map share a common struggle, long-distance relationships. While for many this might sound like I am about to discuss romantic issues, it reaches much farther than that. While my boyfriend does live over an hour away, I am able to see him just about every week. This does not hold true for my best friend, however. Over the past years, we have had to learn how to deal with being hours and hours apart (currently it’s 6). When we are in the same city, we’re basically inseparable and my family is always just as excited to see her when she comes home as they are to see me. But how do we deal with the distance that we face during the bulk of the year?
First of all, there are some friendships that will just always work. You can go days, weeks, months, or even years without seeing or talking to each other and then pick right back up where you left off; this is a very important factor in the success of our long-distance relationship. Like any relationship, you just can’t force this kind of ease. Not all of your friendships will stand the test of time, but one that is always so natural is one worth fighting for if need be. So even if you and your BFF can go a long time and still be just as close, don’t just accept that.
The occasional video chat and constant texting don’t hurt. College students are busy and let’s face it, I can’t call nearly as often as I’d like. But I never truly feel too far from her because she’s always just a text away willing to joke around, be a virtual shoulder to cry on, or to encourage me to get my homework done and stop being lazy. And in return, I am always here to do the same. Be sure to send your bestie a supportive text when needed and remember they’re still there for you even if they aren’t physically “there”. This makes the distance seem to disappear, even if just for a few minutes.
Finally, my secret and favorite little way to keep in contact is good old snail mail. Getting a letter is always fun but I get just as excited waiting for the text that the letter has arrived. This is again something that I don’t do all the time, but it makes all the difference. Sure it’s slow and you can’t be sure when your bestie will read it, but a handwritten note beats a text any day of the week in my book. So when you feel like the distance is growing, take a few minutes to write them a note and send it, no matter the content or how long it takes for them to get it. (I try and grab cute or funny cards whenever I see them so I’m stocked up! The card is half the fun.)
So until your long-awaited reunion with your person, remember these few little tips. Always be willing to put in effort no matter how effortless the relationship, always be there for them just like they are for you, and when you have the chance take a little time to write them a letter. The time will fly by and soon you will be reunited and back to the status quo.