Yes: Mia Shields
It could be the overwhelming romantic within me, or I may be naive. But if you like someone, is it not worth it? The blurry haze between “talking” and dating, “situationships” and confusion is mentally draining; at that point, just label it.
Why not spend the last months of your senior year receiving flowers, having fun on Valentine’s Day and going to prom with someone you genuinely care about?
If the relationship only lasts within the fleeting time of senior year, then at least you gave it your all and got the closure you need to be excited about the future. Whether you started dating senior year or sophomore year, we are all in the same boat: time is running out, so spend it the way you want.
And who knows, long distance is not a foreign, freaky concept. It exists. It is hard and may not be for everyone, but a weird taboo surrounds the idea of distance. However, I think sometimes distance can be healthy for a relationship and give two people time to grow without being hyper-dependent on each other -— which may happen if you were at the same college.
I agree that senior year is a complex, and emotionally overwhelming time, but love and relationships do not always have to be this difficult, scary concept. It should not be thought of as “holding you back,” but as a pillar of support during the scary and sad times ahead.
No: Alex James
With college applications, potential geographic separation, and the transition into a new phase of life weighing on our minds, the question of starting a relationship senior year becomes a real debate. These last few months are the time for making final memories and figuring out what comes next — not getting tied.
Amid this huge whirlwind of senior year chaos, it is crucial to focus on yourself, and your goals and living in the moment to savor the last few bits with your friends before scattering in different directions. It is simply too late to get involved with the ups and downs of a new relationship. Getting into one might seem exciting, but it can quickly become a distraction. With so much on the line, staying single means concentrating on priorities and making the most of this once-in-a-lifetime year.
Sure, romance might seem tempting, but do you want to add emotional turbulence to an already stressful year? High school relationships can be wonderful, but for seniors, they often come with an expiration date. With college and other opportunities on the horizon, most couples end up going their separate ways. Even the strongest couples struggle with the reality of long-distance and the demands of a new chapter in life. Instead of putting into something that was over before it even started, enjoy your freedom and prepare for what is ahead.
The phase after high school is a time of growth, to meet new people and gain new experiences. Focusing on a relationship and putting a strain on your freedom can cause difficulties when trying to embrace change. Long-distance relationships can be draining and demanding, full of miscommunications and missed opportunities. Some journeys are meant to be traveled alone.
