Expert: ***ERICA*** - 10/15/2008

Question
Ok, so, I'm a freshman in college 4 hours away from my hometown. I'm currently dating a girl 2 years younger than me, and we've been together since the first semester of my senior year in high school. We both love each other very much.

But, being 4 hours away (and that's with good traffic!) I'm only able to see her around twice a month. We figured we could stick it out; we call each other every night, usually talking for at least an hour. We're both very faithful to each other; since being in college I've been asked out by a few of the girls on my hall, politely declining each of them. My girlfriend has had similar situations. So believe me when I say neither of us has any issues with each other personally.

Also, since she's two years behind me, it's going to be a while before she'll be in college, and that's assuming she even goes to the same one as me.

My issue is, it's getting hard for me to deal with this. I'm not sure if I should break up with her, (and preferably remain friends after we're "over it"), or just keep trying to slog through it. Again, the only problem I have with this relationship is the distance between us and how often we get to see each other. I mean, I'm basically dating a cell phone.

So basically... Should I break up with her? If not, what can I do to deal with this?

Thanks in advance for anything you can tell me.


Answer
Dear Stephen,
Do you want to break up with her and try to have fun throughout your college years which are some of the best years of your life??? It depends on your future plans, goals, etc.  Are you planning on marrying her?  Is she going to be closer to you in the near future??  I see a lot of situations like this when you get to college you are introduced to a whole new life.  It is very difficult to maintain a long distance relationship period.  I think that you need to decide what it is that you want and can the 2 of you make reasonable accomodations to see each other more?  College is a fabulous time and she will experience it within a few years.  If the 2 of you are meant to be together you will be, but its difficult to be together when you are far apart... you don't get to do the every day stuff.  I would really soul search and decide which avenue you want to take and is there a solution that can make both of you happy.  Good Luck and Warmest Wishes, Erica