We love a good party as much as anyone, but the logistics of trying to get to know someone in a packed basement over thumping tunes while everyone is doing shots in the corner are a bit challenging. It’s not exactly the prime environment for romance.
Dating apps are the saving grace of university students everywhere. Whether you’re serious about finding someone, or just looking for a quick hookup, you may just need the right app. After all, everyone’s doing it.
At this point there are dating apps for every niche you can think of, whether you’re into gaming, geek culture, or focusing on your career — there are people seeking the same things you are. As a university student, you have specific needs and probably don’t want to wade through all the older people trying to get married. You need dating apps that are specifically good for uni-aged people.
To help you find the perfect dating app, we’ve tracked down the best options for whatever kind of university experience you want, including leading sites like eharmony, Match, and AdultFriendFinder.
These are the best dating apps for university students in the UK.
Online dating 101
It probably seems obvious, but the first rule of online dating is to just be yourself. It’s all too easy to pretend to be someone you’re not online, but that kind of catfishing game won’t garner you a true connection. By being yourself and presenting yourself accurately and honestly, you open yourself up to the possibility of a great relationship with someone who likes you just the way you are. And isn’t that the whole point of dating?
Don’t be afraid to make the first move. Forget all those outdated rules that say a man is supposed to make the first move or that a woman can’t pay on a first date. Instead, focus on finding an equal partner who helps support your goals, wants to see you succeed, and has dreams of their own.
Get a bit more creative with your messaging than the standard “Hey.” If you’re looking to connect with someone on campus, then open up the conversation with a question about them and a little bit about yourself. Messaging someone is more discussion group than lecture hall — it’s about passing the conversation back and forth.
Once you decide to meet up — which is the entire point, after all — stay open. We often come up with an idea for how someone will be after meeting them online, and it’s rare that our expectations sync up with reality. Allow yourself to really get to know this person for who they are rather than who you thought they would be before you make up your mind.
That said, it’s crucial that you’re honest. If you really don’t feel a connection, then do the right thing and tell them. A good line to use is something like, “I’ve really enjoyed meeting you but I think there are probably better people out there for both of us.” Not only will they appreciate your direct approach, but it will alleviate that post-date awkwardness of wondering where you stand. Ghosting sucks for everyone. Just be up front and save each of you a lot of discomfort.
On the other hand, what if you really do like them after finally meeting in person? Then what? Set up your next date while you’re still hanging out. That old rule about waiting three days to call? It’s dead. RIP outdated dating rules. Make plans to do something low key, and for the first few dates make sure the plans are to meet in a public place. The benefits of making a date to do an activity cannot be overstated. It provides you with ample conversation starters and gives you an opportunity to get a little competitive and joke around. Some playful teasing goes a long way. And remember: It’s all about having fun.
