The Observer, September 5, 2008
Volume XLI, Issue 2
Sex & Dating
It's the beginning of the year, and aside from that random hook up that happened last weekend, it's still a clean slate. Oh, the possibilities! Pretty soon that cutie in your Econ class will look cuter and cuter when you see them every week, and then suddenly, it's the first crush of the year. Now as someone who has personally had more than one disaster when dealing with crushes, and with some friends already asking me "What should I do?" in reference to their own object of affection, a few rules should be kept in mind.
First of all, communication is key. Asking to borrow a pen from said person is never going to result in a passionate love affair. Strike up a conversation, usually something relatable, so it doesn't end awkwardly. Topics include some strange quirk that your joint professor has, how lame the dining hall is, or how much you both love the Browns. Please be friendly and wave every time you see them across campus. Ignoring them out of embarrassment is not a good idea.
Asking the object of your affection out is a good next step. Who knows? They might like you back, and then you would never know. You're only young once, after all. If your friend is having a party, casually mention it, being sure to get their number. This way, you can call them to let them know what time the party is. Asking to study together is also a good way to hang out, and not be too creepy. It's important to get to know the person before you automatically ask them to be your girlfriend of boyfriend.
While you explore the options with your said crush, you may realize you are in love. More likely however, you might realize you two are better as friends. While you figure this out, do not tell everyone you know about your crush. As I know too well, this can easily blow up in your face. The worst thing is finding out that your crush knows your little secret and they don't care. Even worse is if they pity you, or assume that you want to marry them. So if you keep things quiet and low key, there is more of a chance that even if nothing romantic happens, you may still wind up with a great friend.
The most important rule however, is to stay cool. In the end, who really cares if they don't like you back? It's only the second week of school, and who knows what may be around the corner. That's the fun thing about a crush. You never know what may happen.
