Valentine's for the College Student

Valentine's Day can be magical or mundane, depending on the agenda. Keeping things simple can be hard, especially when images of rose petals and candles pop up in one's head.

Suggestion #1

Try something different - it doesn't have to be an entirely new place, as long as it isn't a place you go every week. This means that the Olive Garden might be out of the running, unless it's a place that's special or is someplace the two of you wouldn't normally frequent. Trying new things can bring couples together, and if nothing else, it's a small risk. Locally owned, hole-in-the-wall type establishments tend to create a more intimate environment. If you're really trying to save on cash, getting food to-go generally means you don't have to tip as much as you would sitting down.

Suggestion #2

Plan ahead, and have small surprises prepared. Some people don't like surprises, and so it's best to play it safe. While on a budget, it can be hard to find something significant enough to mean something, but creativity comes in handy. Making a card sounds corny and childish, but homemade things make the fondest memories. Planning a massage using lotion or just your hands can be meaningful to any active man or woman, and it is a way to express your feelings without breaking the bank. Dormitories are not the best place for teddy bears and other such gifts, and so things like chocolates or balloons are more suited for dorm living. Most college students don't have high expectations when it comes to surprises, but the littlest things count.

Suggestion #3

Focus on the conversation at hand. When couples have been together for awhile, they tend to get distracted. The greatest gift of all is the gift of genuine interest. It doesn't matter if you don't care about World of Warcraft, and it might not make the best dinner conversation, but it can mean the world to a particular gamer in your life. Likewise, Grey's Anatomy may not be your favorite show, but hearing the tales of Meredith and George will make a difference in the long run. Offering bits of input will make a conversation go farther, and hopefully everyone will feel a bit more appreciated by the end of the night.

Suggestion #4

Have play time. As easy as it is to focus on the paper due tomorrow, try to have a little fun. Life isn't always easy, but it's important to get back to basics. Try reviving the Super Nintendo that's been sitting in your basement for years, or have a little wrestling match. A good Valentine's date has the romanticism that usually involves dinner, but laughter is the key to any good date.