Dear Athena

By:

Posted: 3/27/08

Dear Athena,
I am a new student from out of state, and so far I love this school.

However, lately I have been worried about keeping in touch with my friends at home. I don't want to lose the friends I have had my whole life, but I know that my college experience depends on the new friends that I make.

I have already begun to hang out with my roommates and I feel like we will all be close friends. Is this pulling me away from my good friends back at home?

Thanks,

One is Silver and the Other Gold

Dear One:
You are experiencing some very common growing pains. It is hard to move away from home, leaving lifelong friends and family behind.

The best thing you can do is continue to make new friends here at school, while keeping in contact with your old friends at home.

Friends grow apart as a lack of effort and communication between friends. If you continue to keep in contact with your old friends and make a sincere effort to be a part of their lives, you will keep them as friends forever.

Dear Athena,
I just recently got a girlfriend here at NDNU. We met in class first semester and we've been dating ever since. She is from Hawaii, so she is not likely to stay here in California for summer.

We have decided to stay together, but I am worried that I will miss her too much! I think it would really help me through the summer if we plan a few times when we can see each other. So should I invite her to my house?

Summer Separation

Dear Summer Separation,
This is a question many of us face when continuing relationships over long distances. It is never easy in the beginning to know when to move forward and when to just relax and enjoy your time together. However, summer is a significantly long period of time. I think you are on the right track by arranging a few weekends during the summer where you can visit each other.

It may be a little overwhelming for you both to meet each others families, but if you plan to continue you relationship, it's bound to happen sooner or later! Remember to plan to spend time with family and friends from home over the summer as well as visits with your girlfriend to avoid missing her too much!

Dear Athena,
I met this really hot girl at a club and gave her my number. She called me a week later wanting to meet up. I really want to see her again, but I am nervous. Would it be better for me to meet up with her at a club and bring my friends with me to ease my nerves, or should I just suck it up and ask her on a date?

Dating Dilemma

Dear Dating Dilemma,
Dating can be very tricky sometimes, especially for guys. You don't want to come off too aggressive, but at the same time you don't want to miss your chance. Sometimes the best thing you can do is arrange for the two of you to go to a movie or miniature golf and each bring some friends. This will help each of you to get to know each other in a safe and neutral setting. Who knows maybe one of your girlfriends will hit it off with one of his friends and you can double date!

Dear Athena,
I had been dating a guy for two years, and we broke up about two months ago. It was hard for the first couple of weeks, but after that I felt comfortable flirting with other guys and going out with my friends. I recently met a guy and I really like him. We seem to be hitting it off. A lot of my friends are worried that I am moving on too quickly with this other guy, but I feel great. Should I continue to pursue this guy, or am I moving too quickly.

Too Soon

Dear Too Soon,
I think it is great that you are going out and meeting new people after ending such a long relationship. The fact that you are enjoying the single life is wonderful. If you feel as though you have met someone you are willing to get to know better then go for it! Your friends can not tell you how you feel. Only you know how this new guy makes you feel, so if you feel strongly about dating him, then you should.