The move from high school to college comes with brand-new freedom to make your own choices — especially those involving boys. Suddenly, you have the opportunity to interact with these strange creatures (many of whom have finally grown into those broad shoulders) in ways you might not have at home. Do you know what you want from a relationship? Here are 10 types of boys you meet in college and what kind of relationship follows with each!
1. The Dorm Warmer
This handsome, smooth-talking gentleman
likely stumbled across you looking at your best with a red Solo cup in one hand and loud, throbbing music in the background. Your version of dating involves late-night excursions to rendezvous in each other’s rooms and … ahem. There is nothing wrong with a little enjoyment in life, just make sure to be courteous and considerate! “Sexiling” your roommate (throwing them out to get all snuggly with your boy) or earning a noise complaint are not exactly ways to display classiness. Furthermore, if you choose to be with a Dorm Warmer, make sure you both know exactly where the relationship is headed so you do not get hurt.
2. The High School Sweetheart
While it is not always advisable to select your college based on your sweetie, for one reason or another, your High School Sweetheart might be in school with you. College will test the strength of your relationship, so be prepared for rockiness as you both adjust to a new, collegiate lifestyle. To help integrate your sweetie into your life, be the “cool couple” and make friends together! When you are at social gatherings together, do not exile yourselves in a corner; this can be awkward for the singles around you, who don’t want to interrupt your intimate conversation. Instead, be the life of the party and the first ones to dance or approach other groups of people. Avoid monopolizing each other’s time — spend time apart on separate activities and interests so your social life can blossom.
3. The Sleaze
If you see a mister who seems
to have a different girl on his arm each week (or night), you might want to cross his name off your list of options! Cute as he may be, this boy has come to college with the intention of putting as many notches in his bedpost as possible. Do not try to change this sleazy creep; only time will bring maturity and calm down his raging hormones. If cuddling is something you are after, go find a reliable Dorm Warmer who will be there for you consistently — you are worth more than one night with a Sleaze!
4. The Gay BFF
He has great hair, nice biceps, always compliments your new shoes and listens when your life is less-than-perfect. He’s gay. It’s a tragedy. He might be a wonderful person, but you simply are not his type. However, you can absolutely be great friends, and he can give you a unique perspective on your problems. Never underestimate the value of a Gay BFF!
5. The Lifer
This boy is ready to commit. He knows (or thinks he knows) what he wants, and that might be you. Consider his offer carefully. Are you also ready to commit? Make sure the depth of feeling matches on both sides before you decide to enter the relationship. Caution is important when you think a relationship might last a while. Talking seriously and candidly with a Lifer should reassure your doubts. If it does not, he might be a little more enthusiastic than you about the idea of dating, and you have no obligation to say yes. If you do find your other half in him, be sure to follow the same guidelines you would with a High School Sweetheart — you can’t dump your girlfriends for a boyfriend! Remember, your girlfriends love you and do not want to hear about your boyfriend (wonderful as he is) every second you are together. Talk about other things, too!
6. The Shy Guy
He isn’t awkward — he’s shy! That cute boy that keeps glancing at you in lecture might be too intimidated to even approach you. He might be the classic “sweet nerd,” simply the quiet type or even so overwhelmed by the number of people on campus and the number of people that surround you that his confidence has waned. Go talk to him! Ladies are not helpless by a long shot. Times have changed. Ask a Shy Guy on a date if you are interested! A little assertiveness is not a terrible trait as a woman. If you like to be in control, take charge and pursue your own desires for a relationship.
7. The Mama’s Boy
This boy needs to grow up, but not in the same way as the Sleaze. This individual, while sweet, still has his name written in his underwear, cannot wake up for class on time, neglects his homework, forgets to do laundry and dishes and goes home every weekend. In time, he will straighten out, but right now, you should not feel pressured into playing surrogate mommy. If you find yourself doing dishes, laundry and nagging about homework, you might want to “friend zone” your Mama’s Boy!
8. The Inside-Out Man
Whether he is pretty outside and rotten inside, or homely outside with a heart of gold, some boys are not what their images advertise. The best lesson here is that you really have to get to know somebody before you consider a relationship with him. Is he a jerk around his buddies but a total sap alone? Is he fake? Is there a hidden talent or story? Communication is a wonderful life-skill and essential to developing a healthy, happy relationship. Talk to him, whoever he is. You might be surprised.
9. The Friend
Sometimes, you and that sweetie
are not meant to date. He does not have to be gay for you to be friends with him. Guys make good friends, too. Furthermore, you do not need to be dating to be happy in his company. A little testosterone in your life that is not pursuing you can be refreshing — watch a sporting event with a true Friend!
10. The Invisible Man
This might not be a real type of boy, but it is a real relationship. Single ladies are strong, beautiful and just as happy as those who are dating. If you are sick of men, or simply too busy in your studies to handle the upkeep, do not feel pressured to launch yourself into a relationship! Girlfriends exist to be your support, and you can have just as much fun, if not more, during Girls’ Night. When college gets you down, take your group of ladies on a date, sip iced tea and gorge on cheese fries until you can’t move!