Joanna Eberts

Dating is considered by many to be trial and error. Upper-class students consider it a place where “the odds are good but the goods are odd,” where men and women succumb to desperation from lack of emotional or physical satisfaction. Yet regardless of your previous dating experience, views of RIT, and ego (or lack thereof), the RIT dating scene isn’t as hopeless as it may seem. The most important factor is to have confidence in yourself and be aware of certain ethical guidelines behind dating. Whatever your intention is, you need to understand the meaning behind social dynamics, post-hookup interactions, and relationships. Comprehending their means and ends is the most invaluable component of successful dating.

At RIT, dating is a realm of relative uncertainty, guided by no underlying principle other than personality and prudent judgment. As freshmen, you’ve landed yourself in the ever-expanding melting pot of dormitory life, which provides the necessary breeding grounds for fast-paced social interactions, late night candy binges, and YouTube marathons. Whatever the situation, from Rock Band 2 sessions to cross-campus illicit adventures, the right circumstance will eventually make itself favorable to meet someone you’re attracted to.

To be most advantageous, it’s best not to use pickup lines, wipe snot on your date’s jacket, or puke on them after only a moment’s discourse. Start small with polite conversation, expanding slowly into more personal topics such as where they grew up or what their favorite Pokémon character is. As the night progresses, you may find yourself in the opportune position of having an engaging conversation about government conspiracies, astrophysics, or personal enlightenment. Assuming mutual attraction ensues, the remainder of the evening could eclipse all else. By asking your date to spend the night together, you could produce either lasting or extremely short mementos. Remember to start slow, taking note of what your date feels is emotionally comfortable.

In many cases, hookups have no meaning behind them other than an immediate response to latent lust-filled urges. Assuming the worst, he or she may never call you back. Assuming the best, you may have found someone you can talk to and, one day, count on. Still, virtually no relationship begins after a late night rendezvous. Many seek to get to know their date through actual dating, which is easy, enjoyable, and often fun. Planning dates around RIT is relatively simple. Depending on budget and time, seeing a movie, eating dinner together, or going on a bike trip are perfect ways to enjoy your time together. Your date should appreciate your honesty and personality. In many ways, these qualities are more important than unnecessary showmanship.

Whether you’re new or old to dating, just remember that every dating experience is often far from perfect. When in college, experiment. Until you find someone you’re compatible with.