Online dating is the new wave

Staff+Reporter+Michelle+Bolden.

Newspaper Adviser Damien Tippett

Staff Reporter Michelle Bolden.

Michelle Bolden, Staff Reporter

There is nothing wrong with finding a little lovin’ online. That is, if someone feels more comfortable setting up dates through their computer rather than spending countless nights trying to get picked up at a bar, let them live!

We all know those people who naturally seem so alluring and infectious that they can practically charm whomever they choose. These people can fearlessly walk up and start a conversation with the opposite sex without hesitation. However, for those of us who are more introverted or a little on the shy side, such activities might seem unthinkable. Well, what can we do? Die alone?

Of course not! That is where online dating comes in. For some people, this is the best wing-man. According to a study conducted by Pewresearch.org, 59% of people say that online dating is a great way to meet new people this day in age. The study also shows that adults between the ages of 25-34 most prominently date online.

Should teens be jumping into the online dating party? Would your mother approve? No. Teenagers should not at all be concerned with finding that special someone. For the older, mature crowd, however, online dating is the perfect tool to spice up their love lives, responsibly of course.

Turning to online dating does not necessarily equate to desperateness, either. Many find that dating is difficult for numerous reasons. They may be paranoid of being catfished, scared that hot guy does not look like his profile picture, or are simply not comfortable talking to strangers. Whatever the case may be, online dating can come in handy for these people

There are even specialized dating sites for those who want a more specific search for a match such as Black People Meet, Christian Mingle, and of course Farmers Only because, you know, city folks just don’t get it.

Only 5% of Americans say they actually met their spouse online, but that is beside the point. Online dating is a way to get your foot in the door.  It allows people to get comfortable with going on dates and interacting more with a variety of people. Online dating can even help people figure out their type, build a better idea of what they would want  in a partner,and give them experience to base their decisions off of.

There are plenty of fish in the sea, but how can you explore all your options if you limit yourself to the small pond that you live in. If all Sally has only ever dated Brad and Tom, how could she possible know that she could get on well with Sam?