Feb. 14, 2023
By Esteban Ramirez
Staff Writer
It is easy to forget that school is about more than academics. It is also a place to develop friendships and find love.
Some may say high schoolers are too young for dating, but that is simply not the case. High school relationships are beneficial to students for a variety of reasons, and while they aren’t necessary, they can be important opportunities for growth and learning.
Relationships help teens develop social skills and become better communicators. They also help teens discover more about themselves and become more self-aware.
Furthermore, meeting new people, and consequently gaining exposure to new hobbies and activities, can lead to strong friendships and bonds with people outside of one’s usual circle. It is easy to fall victim to being content with what you enjoy doing, but relationships help you expand your horizons and introduce you to new pastimes that you can enjoy. And if you’re lucky, you’ll be part of the 2% of couples who end up marrying their high school sweetheart.
Most things in life are unpredictable, and that includes relationships.
It is often stated that your teenage years will be the best years of your life, and there’s no harm in enjoying them while you can. Relationships are fun, they can create unforgettable memories and leave you feeling accomplished with how you spent your time. While teens are known to spend hours each day on their phones, relationships encourage face-to-face contact that can help teens feel more comfortable talking to people in the future.
It is entirely possible for a teenager to realize along the way that they aren’t fit for a high school relationship, and even that is an important discovery.
Most things in life are unpredictable, and that includes relationships. Everyone is different, so it is important to move at your own pace rather than feeling pressured to find a significant other.
There is no shame in focusing on academics, extracurricular activities, family friends, sports and work rather than taking on a relationship. However, teens who believe a high school relationship can enrich their lives should take a chance and maintain an open heart when it comes to finding love.
