Long Distance Dating in College

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College life is great. You meet a lot of cool people and learn all kinds of interesting things. But something that could put a slight  (or major) damper on your college experiences is doing it without your number one partner in crime by your side.

With 4,186 different colleges and universities in the United States, the chances of you and your current or potential beau attending the same college may be slim.

However, with new and rising technologies it's quite possible to maintain a happy, healthy relationship when the love of your life is away- be it 1 hour or 20.

1. Set Boundaries/ Establish Trust

The very first thing to do when beginning a long term relationship is to make sure you trust each other and that you know what pushes the others buttons. Establishing some rules does not mean you don't trust your partne. It's just a way to ensure that the pair of you are on the same page as far as what constitutes as cheating or what you would be uncomfortable with.

Different people and couples have varying beliefs about cheating. Some couples think texting another girl/boy constantly is cheating while others agree that only sexual physical contact is off limits. The important thing is for a long distance couple is to explain what makes each of you uncomfortable in an open, calm, non-accusatory way so that there is no confusion/accusations down the line.

Once the rules are set, you have to trust that your partner will stick by them. Trust is a huge part of any relationship, and if you feel as if you can't trust your boyfriend/girlfriend, then you need to go ahead and have that conversation as well.

2. Cell Phones vs. Text Messaging

Thanks to the use of cell phones, it's common for couples in college to communicate by talking on the phone or texting. Some people dislike texting as a way to get in contact with their mate because:

• messages can be misconstrued or misinterpreted
• they feel it is impersonal
• they are too busy to text constantly
• they would rather hear a voice than a text tone.

Despite this, some couples don't mind maintaining conversations through text:

• you are able to do homework/watch tv/hang out while texting
• you can have constant communication throughout the day instead of an hour conversation before bed.

In reality it is really up to you and your boyfriend/girlfriend and whatever the pair of you are comfortable with. Some couples talk on the phone once a week while others text all day. Either one is normal and acceptable as long as you both are happy with it.



3. Video Chat

Video chatting is a great way to talk to your partner if hearing their voice over the phone just isn't enough. It's popular for those in long distance relationships who just want some face time.


Do you guys know any other cool ways to keep in contact with your partner or do you have any more tips? Feel free to comment! :)