On today’s campuses, some students complain that romance is dead. Instead of dating, students just hook up or hang out at parties. Actual dates can get expensive, and if you go out with someone who’s willing to venture beyond the campus bar or dorm party, you should consider yourself spoiled. But dating in college doesn’t have to be so sleazy or low-budget. There are lots of ways you can find romance on and off campus if you’re willing to be a cheap date.
If you want to stay on campus because you have limited transportation or are just plain lazy, you’ve got the perfect opportunity to impress your date by adding a little creativity and mystery to already familiar places. Take some snacks from the dining hall and set up a picnic in a courtyard or near one of the football fields. You can also invite another couple to get dressed up and go on a double "date" to the cafeteria during an off time when it’s not so crowded. Ask friends in the orchestra or band if you two can visit a dress rehearsal or practice, and then sit in the back. You could always go to the real concert, but this way, you’re getting a private show. Another option for going on dates on campus is to ask your roommate to leave your dorm room for an evening while you cook dinner (or assemble things from the cafeteria) in your room or on the balcony. Just limit the number of candles you light, for safety reasons.
If you’d rather leave campus but still don’t want to spend a lot of money, invite your date to the park, or just for a walk downtown. Since you probably spend most of your time on campus, you may be unfamiliar with your city, and a drive or walk to a different neighborhood can be a fun and interesting way to experience something new together. Hit up the grocery store — or the cafeteria again — for snacks to bring with you for a picnic if you can’t afford to go to a restaurant for dinner. Bring a camera and make up your own scavenger hunt: even if you don’t compete against each other, it’s still fun. Art shows often have free food, and if you’re a student, you can probably get in for free or without an invitation. There are lots of opportunities for romance as a college student, so don’t let your friends convince you that a lack of funds is the only thing standing between you and a great date.