Coming into college, my family and friends constantly questioned, and sometimes doubted, my high school relationship. Since my boyfriend and I were going to the same school, they would always say that it would alter my college experience. While that was true, it was for the better. Here are some of the common misconceptions anyone coming into college in a relationship has experienced.
1. You won’t get to meet other people and make friends
It is entirely possible to be in a relationship and pursue different interests in college. Virginia Tech, especially, offers hundreds of clubs and organizations that you can get involved in with or without each other. I also think it is okay to be involved in the same clubs if you have similar interests, just make sure to branch out and talk to different people to make it feel more individualized.
2. You can’t be your own person
You should be able to be your own person with whoever and wherever you are. During college, you will be able to take different classes, join clubs and meet people who your significant other won’t. What you do with those opportunities is up to you.
3. You’ll never go out or have fun
This is easy if you know how to balance your time between friends and your significant other. I even found that being in a relationship adds an extra element of fun because you get to do more things like date nights. Personally, I like to spend some weekends going out with my girlfriends and then spend the others having fun with my boyfriend. Just remember, you should always be able to have fun whether you’re in a relationship or not!
4. You won’t get to “hook up” with other people
The “hook up” scene isn’t for everyone in the first place. I am perfectly happy in my relationship and don’t feel that I am missing out on this. I think that even if I was single, I would still be searching for a loving relationship and the fairytale ending instead of hook ups.
5. You’ll break up
College does put a strain on your relationship and this statement is true for the couples that realize that they weren’t meant to be. If there is a problem, you should definitely be able to talk to your partner about your feelings and work things out so you are both happy. Some couples might find that it’s better to go their separate ways, but that won’t happen with all couples.
6. You’ll fight more often
Spending more time together might mean arguing more, but that doesn’t always mean that the relationship isn’t meant to be. Just make sure to properly communicate with your partner to make sure you both understand the issues and can work them out.
7. You’ll be distracted and your grades will drop
Being in a relationship does take time, but you need to find a balance between your school work and your social life if you find this happening. I find that being in a relationship has even helped my grades because there is someone to encourage you and study with.
While I do think that it is true that coming into college in a relationship will test it, I think as long as you’re with the right person then everything will work out the way it is supposed to.
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