Heading off to university means saying goodbye to many people, including friends, family, and perhaps a romantic partner. Just as you’ll be maintaining friendships from afar, it’s possible to make a long-distance relationship work. To be successful, there are a few things you need to do.
1. Set Some Ground Rules
It’s crucial to have some ground rules to ensure neither of you feel uncomfortable and both of you are on the same page about your relationship. Talk about your basic expectations and things that would bother you.
2. Maintain Open Communication
You won’t know what to expect when you start your long-term relationship. You may experience feelings you didn’t expect or face problems you never anticipated. The best way to resolve anything is through communication — this will prevent you from snapping at each other and turning something small into something big. It’s most important to be completely truthful with each other. Lying even about small things will only lead to problems in the future.
3. Be Positive
No matter if things are going great or you’re having some issues you need to work through, try to stay positive. The right attitude is key to overcoming difficulties.
4. Think About Your Priorities
To ensure you have the full student experience, make the most of your time at university. Your academics need to be your priority, but extracurriculars and other commitments are also important. Don’t allow trying to make your long-distance relationship work stand in the way of doing well in your classes, succeeding with other things that matter to you (such as sports or student organizations), and having fun.
5. Fill Your Time with Activities
Missing your partner is unavoidable, but you’ll both feel better about the distance if you have plenty to keep you busy. Make new friends and fill your free time with activities — and encourage your partner to do the same.
6. Have Scheduled Time to Chat
Rather than messaging each other throughout the day, it’s better to have a set time to talk when you’re not in class, at clubs, or out with friends. Agree to a time to check in with your partner when neither of you will be busy. This will mean you give your partner enough of your time, but staying in touch won’t distract you from other things.
7. Arrange to Visit Each Other
Depending on how long distance you are, it may be possible to meet up regularly or only about once a semester. Whatever the case, arranging visits in advance will mean you always have something to look forward to.
To be able to have your partner stay over for a weekend, it will help if you have your own apartment. You can find Waterloo student rentals at 308 King. You’ll have your own room or even an entire apartment to yourself — all our suites come complete with high-quality furniture, modern appliances, and stylish window coverings. Plus, you’ll be within walking distance of local amenities and public transportation, meaning it will be easy to show your significant other all the top sites in town. Contact us for more information.