Valentine’s Day is around the corner and if one is going on a date with their significant other or a date with someone new, NCC students offer advice on their ideal dates. Additionally discussed is ideas on how to treat yourself if single, and the psychological aspect of whether people want a relationship more when Valentine’s Day is near.
Students ideal dates
There are many different kinds of dates one can go on. One person may like long walks and then some cuddle time when watching a TV show or a movie. At another time, one may want to get all dressed up and go to a fancy restaurant and then see a play. There is no right or wrong answer, it’s what makes one happy, and that’s what really matters.
The following includes two date ideas from two NCC students. Maybe one of these will inspire someone for when they go on their next date. While both involve food they slightly differ in activities, but the quality time with that special someone is still there.
Paloma Mena, ’28, says the following via an email interview:
“My ideal date is going thrifting, followed by lunch at a cute (and slightly over-priced) restaurant, and then a nap. With good company, of course,” Mena said.
Meghan Breitberg, ’26, said the following via an email interview:
“My ideal date would be going to my favorite Italian restaurant called The Village, followed by taking a romantic walk around Lincoln Park’s Botanical Gardens,”
Ideas for singles
Singles fear not! You can still pamper themselves, you doesn’t need to be in a relationship to do so. Below are some ideas according to Business Insider.
Options include getting your dose of eye candy by incorporating your celebrity crush into the day by watching the movies they have been in. Treat oneself to a spa day, get your nails done, get a facial, or even a massage. You can also hang out with one’s gals by having their own Galentine’s Day.
Psychological aspect
NCC Professor of Psychology Dr. Leila Azarbad discussed in an email interview how Valentine’s Day can put pressure on people who want to be in a relationship or even if they went through a breakup not too long ago. She continues to say the following:
“With that said, a 2022 Pew Research Center Survey found that 56% of single adults were not looking for a relationship or casual dates around Valentine’s Day, citing enjoying being single as a key reason,” Azarbad said.
The following are some reminders that everyone could use at one point or another in their life,
“Remember that romantic love is just one kind of love, and all forms of love deserve to be celebrated!,” Azarbad said.
She also discusses that one can stick to a routine one has if Valentine’s Day is a hard day for them. Some other ideas include implementing self-care and figuring out what you want to do on this day.
All in all, maybe you picked up some date ideas for a date with their special someone. You don’t need a significant other to do something special for oneself. If you wants to stick to your routine instead, that’s great! Do what is best for oneself on the day of love and romance.
“Follow your heart this Valentine’s Day! Spend it with someone you love, whether that’s a best friend, your grandma, or with a pet,” Mena said per an email interview.
