Be my Valentine

Eros vs. philia

Right now, we're completely absorbed by school and work. With a holiday full of celebration, we do get a little break. By now, it's February, and social media has turned into a highlight reel of romantic actions while flowers and chocolate are stocked on store shelves. Therefore, Valentine's Day is frequently focused on couples. However, friendship, another type of love, silently supports students through late-night study sessions, homesickness, and significant life changes on college campuses, especially ours.

Although there may be no flowers or candlelight dinners with Platonic love, it is frequently the foundation of college life. Friendship turns into chosen family for a lot of students who are living far away from their own families. Common experiences, laughter, and trust form the basis of support systems.

The start of independence is marked by college. When students enter the dorm rooms, they leave behind their hometown habits and kind smiles. They start to make new friends and plan itineraries full of new tasks. Relationships are established quickly in the midst of all the novelty.

In contrast to romantic partnerships, friendships on campus tend to develop spontaneously, without any anticipation or pressure. These connections are built through little gestures like walking to class together, meeting friends at The Mill, or checking in with each other whenever they cross paths.

Valentine's Day is being redefined by these platonic relationships throughout the campus. Some pupils have organized their own parties, and campus groups have made sure that everyone is invited to them. We make an effort to enjoy our friends throughout these nights.

These celebrations are perceived by many people as being more intimate and inclusive. These occurrences highlight the diverse forms love can take, such as roommate to roommate, teammate to teammate, and classmate to classmate. These cases represent a more comprehensive knowledge of the community.

College is only temporary. The majority of people just have four years of experience, which go by quickly. However, the friendships established here usually last well beyond graduation. They demonstrate that the campus is full of love in all its manifestations.

It's important to celebrate the friends who have helped you create a community on campus during this February and the months thereafter.

By Brooklyn Wishard