Being Single at University Vs. Being in A Relationship

13th February 2017 Joe Graham Study

With the imminent arrival of Valentine’s day unfortunately comes the contemplation of your relationship status. Whether you’re loved up or single, it seems the grass is always greener on the other side, especially when added to the stresses of student life. So, to make you feel a little bit better about your love life, or lack of, here are the pros and cons of being both single at university and being in a relationship.

Being Single at University

Pros

You’ve probably heard most people say ‘if you’re not single at uni, you’re doing it wrong’. But why is the single student life that good?

The most obvious advantage of being single at university, is that you have more time for you, whether that means going out with your friends or prioritising your studies. With an extensive amount of exams looming and coursework deadlines creeping up who really has the time for an other half?

Without a boyfriend or girlfriend, the student world is pretty much your oyster and you don’t have to worry about anybody’s happiness except your own. Fancy having a night out on a Wednesday? Do it. Fancy ordering a whole pizza for yourself? Do it. Fancy watching the trashiest of sitcoms? Do it. There’s no one to argue with you.

On top of that, being single and ready to mingle means you can date or drunkenly flirt with anyone you want, while not having to share your bed with a potential snorer or duvet stealer back at your student accommodation.

Cons

While the single life certainly has its ups, it’s no stranger to its fair share of downs. Although best friends are good for comforting you during the uni stresses, it’s not quite the same as cuddles and heart to hearts with a partner.

Being single at university also means completely fending for yourself, which is great if you’re independent, but not ideal when you’ve just come straight out of your family home and aren’t sure how to even make pasta. Finally, while the single life offers you a lot of options romantically, it will come with immediate regrets when you spot your drunken conquest in one of your lectures.

Being in A Relationship at University

Pros

Whether you’re already in one or just starting a relationship at university, being loved up at uni is great because there will always be someone to rant to when it gets too stressful. If you’re with the right partner, you can have unconditional support throughout the good, the bad and the caffeine fuelled all-nighters.

On top of that, you don’t have to deal with the stresses of dating, or wondering if your texts sound too keen. You can slouch around in joggers making minimal effort and still get attention and intimacy. Which can make the endless nights out and Sambuca shots seem pointless in comparison.

University also provides a good and comfortable setting to get know someone without the pressures of the ‘real world’. You and a potential partner can grow up together and learn a lot about each other if you attend the same uni.

Cons

A big downside to being a relationship during uni, is if your boyfriend and girlfriend doesn’t attend the same university as you. Long distance can be difficult, especially when you’re trying to enjoy university and meet new people. You’d be missing out on a lot if you’re travelling to see your other half every other weekend.

On top of that, being in a relationship at university means worrying about someone else. And focusing on somebody else’s wellbeing may mean putting your aspirations on hold. If there’s any time it’s acceptable to be selfish in life, it’s during your studies when you’re learning a lot about yourself.

Last on the list of the cons of being loved up during uni, is the potential of a break-up. The student bubble makes it somewhat difficult to avoid bumping into someone, which may be good if you’ve got a vast circle of friends, but not so great the day after you’ve drunkenly texted your now ex.

In Summary

Ultimately choosing to be single or in a relationship at university is completely personal preference. Some cringe at the thought of sharing their student years with someone – think of all that freedom and flirting, but others were once starting a relationship at university that turned out to be the love of their lives. Perhaps the secret is beginning that relationship at uni and not suffering distance on top of study pressures. Whichever side you lie on, just remember to enjoy your student years.

What are your opinions on being single or in a relationship at university? Let us know in the comments!