As the holiday season approaches and people typically couple up, if you ask the majority of high school seniors their opinions on relationships, they’ll probably say they’re just a waste of time. Because college is so soon, they’ll most likely say that there’s no point and it will just end in heartbreak, as each goes off to a different school. But, if you ask me, I’d say they’re definitely worth the risk.

As Mia Bonfiglio ‘20  always says, I am the girl who is “always cuffed.” Throughout my four years in high school, I have been in a few relationships. Some ended on good terms, and others…not so much. But each time one ends, either in heartbreak or otherwise, I learn something new about myself. I have learned how to communicate with a significant other, how to sacrifice my wants for theirs and, most importantly, that it’s okay to be alone sometimes.

In every relationship, you learn to become accustomed to your partner’s ticks, mannerisms and  likes and dislikes, just like they must do for you.The process of intertwining your lives together can be difficult due to time management and working your other friends into the equation. Though challenging at times, the opportunity of getting to know someone on that level is incomparable. The way  you connect with someone you’re dating teaches you how to navigate more serious relationships in the future.

All of my prior relationships have differed to some degree, whether it be the person or the reasons for why it ended. But, the experiences I’ve had with them, both the highs and the lows, have taught me how to not only change my behavior to accommodate their needs, but also to recognize when I am jeopardizing my happiness for theirs. I have learned what a healthy relationship looks like and when it’s okay to step away to take care of myself. I have learned how to appreciate people for who they are, not trying to change them in any way. I have learned to respect and love myself when a relationship just isn’t working out.

Relationships at this age aren’t meant to be taken too seriously. If it works out, great. If it doesn’t, you learned some valuable lessons and possibly remain friends with the person. Before you embark on your post-high school career, it’s a good idea to learn how to go through this experience to better prepare yourself for when relationships really matter. It’s pretty fun to have someone to support you as you experience the chaos of high school.

All in all, high school relationships may seem trivial to some, but this cuffing season I suggest venturing outside your comfort zone and asking out that guy or girl you’ve been crushing on. Will you go to college with them? Will you marry them? Odds are, probably not. But why not enjoy your high school time while you can with someone you like by your side? Why not at least try?