College Romance on a Budget: A Guide to Ramen-Free Dating

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Got a hot date? Even college students on a tight budget can impress their sweeties. The key to a successful cheap date is creativity and personal attention. This article provides some helpful tips.
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So, you're finally going out with that special someone, but aren't sure how that lint in your pocket will impress? With a little creativity, even college students on a tight budget can make a good impression. How? With a little bit of creativity and a lot of personal attention. Here are some frugal ideas sure to make your date know just how special he/she is without breaking the bank.

1. Make dinner. I know what you're thinking... and no, those fish sticks in your freezer don't count. Actually take the time to find a recipe and prepare it. Show your date that you care. Homemade dinners are much more affordable than restaurant meals. They also provide you with an opportunity to spend time one-on-one, which helps set the mood.

2. Be spontaneous. Can't afford to catch the latest box-office hit at L'Expensive Cinema? Simply look at your date and say, 'Movies are great, but I'd like to take you someplace special.' Then, head for a drive along the beach or to a vista dark enough to see all the stars. Who wouldn't be blown away?

3. Spend quality time at home. There's nothing wrong with snuggling up to a rental movie or pulling out the Twister mat. Consider renting a childhood favorite, popping some popcorn and throwing on some old sweats. Being comfortable together is perhaps the most important aspect of a successful relationship. Why not start now?

4. Take advantage of your environment. Live near the mountains? If you do, how about sledding? Live near the ocean? Beaches are great for sunbathing, volleyball or surf lessons. Even the prairies have hiking trails and wild flowers. Take advantage of what nature and your community have to offer... free of charge.

5. Spend time with friends. Hanging out with friends can be a great way to introduce your friends to your new sweetheart, although with some potential for disaster if they do not get along. If there are no major conflicts, it can make for one of the best evenings you've spent together. Playing games, shooting pool (the cost of which you can split with your friends), or just talking with new and interesting people could be precisely what the two of you need to connect.

Popular Schools

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    1. Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology

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    2. Bryant & Stratton College

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Featured Schools

The schools and programs listed below are popular educational options, and tuition varies based on program and location

Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology

  • Masters in Psychology
  • Masters in Dispute Resolution
  • Masters in Legal Studies

What is your highest level of education completed?

Bryant & Stratton College

  • BA - General Management
  • Criminal Justice Studies - AAS
  • Business Assistant Diploma

What is your high school graduation status?

Grand Canyon University

  • Ed.D in Teaching and Learning with an Emphasis in Adult Learning - Qualitative Research
  • M.S. Psychology with an Emphasis in Gerontology
  • BS in Psychology

What is your highest level of education?

Full Sail University

  • Master of Science - Film Production
  • Sportscasting Bachelors - Campus
  • Computer Science Bachelors with AI Concentration - Online

What is your highest level of education?

Liberty University

  • DME: Doctor of Music Education
  • Bachelor of Science in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics
  • CTG: Communication

What is your highest level of education?

Penn Foster High School

  • HS Diploma

What is your highest level of education?

Penn Foster

  • Career Diploma - Dental Assistant
  • Career Diploma - Motorcycle Repair Technician
  • Career Diploma - Payroll Clerk

What is your highest level of education?

Fordham University

  • Master of Studies in Law in Corporate Compliance
  • Masters in Social Work

What is your highest level of education completed?