The rise of the internet has changed almost every aspect of our lives. From work to play and everything in between, if you need to do anything, there’s probably an online tool to help you save time and effort.
Using online platforms can be a great time-saver, particularly for busy students. That’s why so many of us turn to online dating apps to help us find love and make connections with others. While online dating is convenient and, in most cases, fun, it also has a dark side. Anyone who’s seen the Netflix documentary The Tindler Swindler knows that it’s surprisingly easy to be hoodwinked online and end up out of pocket or, worse, in physical danger.
Even if you meet someone trustworthy, it can be difficult to make a connection through the internet and then bring that into real life, particularly when you’re busy with your studies. That’s why we’ve created this handy list of tried and tested tips for students looking to find love online…
Choose the right platforms
The first step is to find the perfect online dating platform for you. There are online dating apps and sites out there for almost everyone, ranging from options for members of the LGBTQIA+ community to those that are exclusively for students and everything in between. Check out a selection of options, and ask your fellow students and uni friends for any recommendations, so you can find a selection of platforms to suit you. By asking your classmates what sites they like, you might be able to get some good recommendations or useful advice about dating in the area where you’re studying.
Managing multiple online dating profiles can be a tough task when you’re a student, so try to choose only a small selection of the best options for you. If you don’t like a particular platform, then switch – it’s quick and easy, and you’ll give yourself the best chance of finding someone you like. There are loads of platforms out there, so if you struggle with one, you can always find another.
Always be cautious
Online dating sites can be a great way to meet people, but they can also be a haven for unscrupulous characters who are looking for an easy target. As such, you need to make sure that you take every precaution necessary when you’re meeting someone from the internet. This includes never giving out personal information (such as your bank details or address) to online acquaintances before you get to know them properly, and making sure that you meet for the first time in a neutral location where you can easily leave if you need to, and always telling at least one friend where you’re going and who you’re meeting there.
You also need to be vigilant and know the warning signs when talking to individuals online by doing some background checks. Find out more about how to spot a predator online so you can avoid falling prey to a con artist or predator when you’re looking for romance on the web.
Be honest about what you’re looking for
When it comes to online dating, honesty is always the best policy. It’s important that you let your potential partners know what you’re looking for, how much time you can commit to a new relationship and more. If you’re dishonest or leave out any important information, then you might find that your new relationship quickly sours.
Honesty in online dating extends beyond just what you write; you also need to make sure that any images you post are recent. While you’ll want to use the most flattering pics of yourself you can find, make sure that you don’t put misleading images on your profile so that everyone who meets you in real life knows what you really look like and doesn’t feel cheated. Where possible, try to put a small selection of photos on your profile so that they can see you in a selection of lights and angles. This approach also helps you to showcase your hobbies and give a broader overview of your life to potential suitors.
Keep looking for love
If your first dates aren’t successful, don’t give up. It might be disheartening, but by being persistent you’ll eventually find someone to share your life with. As well as using online dating platforms, you should obviously still keep an eye out in real life for anyone who might be a suitable partner. If you meet someone at a class, in a bookstore or at a university party, don’t overlook them just because you’re using online dating platforms – the old ways of finding love can still be the best!
And if you find you’re getting stressed by online dating and feel frustrated at your lack of success, then consider stepping back from the apps and spending some time as a singleton, focusing on your studies and yourself and generally making the most of your freedom and your friendships. In many cases, love comes into your life when you least expect it, so don’t let your lack of success on online dating apps get you down.
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