With everyone talking about change in 2008, the Emerald opinion staff has decided to change things up. This year, we will compile a weekly top 10 list on a variety of different topics. The topics will range from short relationship tips, to what not to do before finals, to what to think about when voting for the election. To introduce the column and the year, the opinion staff compiled a list of What Not to Do On Your First Date. So when you take that hottie in your chemistry class out for the first time, you might actually get a second date. If you have any suggestions or comments, we would love your input. Contact the opinion editor at [email protected].
10) Don’t Be Cheap: If you’re taking a date out for the first time, try to avoid $1.50 movies, fast food and activities that make you look too frugal. None of us in college have that much cash, but please, gentlemen, Taco Bell and a $1.50 movie is not romantic.
9) Avoid Drunken Idiocy: If you decide to take the party route for your first date, avoid getting so drunk that you do something you could regret later. You do not want your date to say the next day, “Well, it was fun until they got wasted…”
8) “Not Cocky; Confident”: There is a fine line between being either overly confident or obviously insecure. Don’t brag and don’t hang on to every innuendo he or she might make about a further relationship, and the date should go fabulously.
7) Avoid Conversation Pitfalls: These include telling your entire life story, the dreaded ex, emotional baggage, and intense discussions about world issues.
6) Fill Awkward Silences With Fun Distractions: Avoid planning a date where all you’ll do is talk. That’s tricky, and it can lead to many awkward silences. That being said, don’t plan out every sentence you’re going to say on the date. Let the conversation ebb and flow naturally throughout the evening.
5) “Sexy Can I?”: If you see the relationship going anywhere beyond that night, don’t agree to go back to one of your places to “watch a movie.” We all know what THAT leads to…
4) Avoid Mysterious Dates: Besides avoiding sketch places like parking garages and behind dumpsters, make sure you agree on where you are going. If you know he’s not into shopping at Abercrombie, don’t take him to buy your new jacket. And if she’s not following your favorite football team, she will not appreciate a Monday Night Football bash.
3) Guys – Be A Gentleman: Remember what your mother taught you about holding the door open and listening when she’s talking. When you can bring up things your date said later in the conversation, you’ll score an easy 10 points in her book.
2) Girls – Embarrassing Moments Make the Best Stories: Despite popular belief, imperfections are OK on a first date. As a matter of fact, it may take the pressure off the guy if you accidentally have food on your face or make a total fool of yourself on the bowling lane.
1) Expect the Unexpected: No one can ever plan exactly how a first date will turn out. It may be the best night of your life – or you may never want to see that person ever again. Just remember that if it doesn’t work out this time, the next time you might hit the jackpot.
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