Post-Graduate Dating: Yes You Can
by Alex Temple When you enter the workforce, you will notice that a time bomb has suddenly ignited. Suddenly, you can no longer escape the "talk" about marriage and serious relationships. Weddings will consume a ridiculously large part of your life for the next ten years. Yes, even for you single ones out there. Bridesmaids, best friends, cousins, you name it. You will be drowning in a sea of weddings. You will begin to plan your vacations and wardrobe around weddings. With the voluminous activities comes pressure. Questions and probing will soon follow; "When are you getting married?" "Are you dating anyone?" "Do you think he's the one?"
As annoying as this pressure may seem, at some point you will begin to feel your biological clock ticking. The idea of falling in love and starting a family of your own will become more appealing. Many of you are probably wondering what post-college dating will be like. Most bachelor/bachellorette seniors out there are counting the days to graduation; waiting and ready to enter a more sophisticated dating arena. If your college dating experience consisted of keg stands, hooking up, and puking in the bushes, you are probably ready to enter a new game with mature men and women as opposed to flighty, young coeds. A game where dating consists of roses, wine, and a sensuous kiss good night. Better think again. You will quickly discover that finding your soulmate is an even more arduous task than it was when you were living on that breeding ground known as a college campus.
This task is not impossible, but it becomes more difficult with the pressures of your new lifestyle. It is important to recognize that entering the professional world is an enormous transition that requires time and adaptation. After a few 90 hour work weeks, you will find yourself questioning a lot of things in your life. You will feel exhausted. The thought of initiating conversation, and avoiding those awkward first date moments will be overwhelming. Grabbing a beer with your buds and setting a date with your bed will be all too tempting. Don't give up, though. The moment you meet that special person, your exhaustion will dissipate. Because you are no longer surrounded by a concentrated pool of potential suitors, it becomes important that you put yourself in a position to find love. Here are a few ways you can do just that: Participate in organized dating events. Several major cities host various single affairs geared toward professionals. Examples include dances, 8-minute dating, professional lunch dates, Internet dating, etc. Network with friends, family, coworkers, and alumni associations. Be social. Not only will this enhance your professional success, but it will increase your odds in the game of love. Scope out the Bar scene. Although this may not sound ideal, we all know people who've had success in this arena. And hey, even if you don't find love, at least you had fun. Attend church or other religious ceremonies. This is a great way to find someone with similar values and interests. Join coed sports leagues or gyms. Why not relax, reduce stress, and stay in shape while searching for a companion?
Becoming a professional is a dynamic and exciting time in your life. The dating scene will evolve and mature with this transition, but some things will never change. Find and embrace your independence. Follow your dreams and be confident in who you are. Believe in yourself and believe in your future. Have fun and don't try too hard. Before you realize it, you will be the one pestering your maid of honor/best man about when he/she is going to get hitched! Post-Graduate Dating: The Setup |
