For many taken seniors on campus there is a dreaded conversation awaiting them and their significant other in the next coming months. Among the several life changing decisions seniors face in the spring, what to do regarding college and their relationship is one of the most feared.

  Not only because of the choice that needs to be made, but also having to think about their future with their partner and how long they want the relationship to last. In some cases, the decision may be mutual and both partners walk away happy, but others may be on different pages trying to find a compromise.

  There are few options for those in this situation: they can choose to go to the same college or a college nearby, they can decide to try long distance, or they can end things when the time comes.

  The first of the options is one many adults warn against, and is typically seen as a bad idea from a societal standpoint.

  “I personally think it’s too risky because if you break up or something bad happens you may be stuck not be following your own dreams, you would be following your significant others dreams,” said Josie Dalldorf (12).

  Many worry about choosing their significant others over what their own passions are. It is important to have a centered focus on what the individual wants and if that happens to line up with their partner, then staying closer together may be an option. It is not uncommon in the area for couples to both attend the local community college for a couple years before transferring. It can definitely help calm the nerves of starting a new school if you have someone you know by your side.

  The second option is trying long distance.

  “He and I are going to do a long distance relationship. It would still be in California but our school are several hours away and we probably wouldn’t be able to see each other aside from the long breaks,” explained Megan Curran (12).

  Long distance can be daunting, going from seeing each other practically every day to not seeing each other for months can take a huge toll on a relationship. However, if the couple makes it out of it alright, it can strengthen the relationship greatly and is definitely worth consideration.

  There are also students who will be at Heritage next year as seniors who will be affected by this as well.

   “Thankfully, I’m going to LMC so I’ll still get to see her when I have time, rather than having to drive from a faraway school back to Heritage,” said Trevor Lee (12) when asked about his girlfriend who is a junior this year.

   Finally the third option is ending the relationship.

   This option may sound brutal, but it can actually relieve a lot of stress on both partners. Not only does it make it so that neither person has to consider anyone other than their own passions, but it also relieves stress once they are back in school.

  Relationships are no walk in the park, every one will come with their own problems and arguments. Considering how stressful college already is, deciding to take a break from dating may be more beneficial than one might think.

  While it’s not a fun conversation to have, the decision of what to do after graduation is an important one. Be clear and to the point with what you want and listen to what your partner wants as well. No matter what the choice is however, seniors should enjoy the last few months with their significant others and have fun.