Question:
What advice do you guys have for dating other class members? Although I'm kind of interested in pursuing something with someone, I'm a little hesitant because I think it would make things really awkward if it didn't work out for the rest of the time here and we have so many friends in common :(
Response 1:
This is a really tough one! It completely depends on your dynamic with the other person. Relationships made during school are often some of the most genuine and long-lasting simply because you really get to know someone outside the context of a relationship before you decide to date. If you are absolutely serious about pursuing a long-lasting relationship then I think it’s worth the risk. The possibility of it not working out is a reality regardless of the setting. However, since you probably will have to see him/her after you break (hopefully it never comes to that), it is really important that you are mature about your behaviour. Are you capable of being civil and even friendly after break-ups? If the two of you remain pleasant, your friends won’t react at all. Personally, I know of two people who dated briefly during the start of pharmacy school and still share a common group of friends. It is absolutely possible. If this is something you are really interested in: go get ‘em tiger!
Response 2:
I actually had a similar experience in the past! I was interested in someone from my program, but I was really wary of the possibility that a breakup would result in an awkward friendship dynamic since we shared the same group of friends. What drove my choice was compatibility. I also talked to two other close friends of what they thought of the (possible) relationship to get a more objective perspective. My advice would be to do the same and see how your friend(s) respond to the idea. There are a lot of factors to consider such as compatibility, how close your friendship is and how maturely you can handle the situation (both during and possibly after the relationship). If you are really interested in someone, you shouldn’t be planning for a break up. You should have your mind set on making the relationship work regardless of the program you are in. Of course, breakups are sometimes inevitable, but if you’re interested in a long-term relationship then it could work. I would think a bit harder if you or the person of interest wants a casual relationship. Overall, act on your emotions maturely. Consider whether this potential relationship will actually make you happy in the long-run or if it is just a crush that you can eventually let go of. Do you think it is worth pursuing this person? Will it make you happy to take the risk and confess or is it better to “play it safe” and remain friends? It is a difficult decision to make and it is ultimately up to you whether you want to make that leap of faith. I wish the best for you!