Valentine’s Day is here, and SSU students have started to make plans with their loved ones, that being their friends, family, or significant others. But, dating in college can be a lot to deal with. Trying to juggle a relationship as well as a full schedule of classes can be hard to manage. Though some SSU students seem to have it figured out.

Addison Renard and Melia Zimmerman both have a significant other on campus. Zimmerman comments “I love going to school with my boyfriend. It’s fun to see him around campus and know that we’re both doing our own thing yet, I can still go say ‘hi’ to him anytime.” 

“It’s a lot more fun and it’s nice having someone you’re super close to, to go to any given day. It makes it easier to communicate and hangout,” said Renard.

Renard’s relationship is stronger than ever because of their ability to communicate and be there for each other. “I always have someone to eat at the dining hall with and it’s really strengthened our relationship.”

Zimmerman and her boyfriend both have different majors which she really enjoys. “It’s fun to learn about his experience of school and share mine with him.”

When asked what her valentine’s plans were, Renard commented, “We are going to have a picnic and walk around Taylor Mountain and then go to ice cream after.” 

Zimmerman’s Valentine’s plans may be on a different day, but they definitely plan on doing something. “For Valentine’s day I have a late class so I’m not sure if we’re doing anything on the day of, but we found some coupons for dinner deals that we may take advantage of.” 

One student that preferred to stay anonymous has been seeing someone but is not yet exclusive. Some people may feel pressured to have a date on Valentine’s day but not this student. “I have never felt pressure at all because why choose to have a day where we appreciate someone. It should be every day you should appreciate and love her.”

While some students go to school with their significant others, some manage long distance relationships. 

Akela Cannon is one of these students. “Long distance is really hard but worth it when it’s with the right person.” 

Cannon offered some advice for those in long distance relationships. “Communication is really key. Dedicating time to each other whether that looks like talking on the phone or just sitting and texting and sending pictures of random things throughout the day helps to feel like we’re not so apart. Long distance is something I never thought I could do because it’s so hard to be apart from your favorite person, but when both of you are willing to make it work, it doesn’t seem so hard.” 

Dating may be the last thing on many students minds as their studies take priority. But for those in relationships, or looking, it can be tricky to manage.

Cannon offered one last piece of  advice, “Just let it all come naturally. Just stop searching and eventually you will find someone worth it all.”