On February 15, 2014, when I was a mere fifteen years old, I was asked out on a date by the shyest and sweetest boy I had ever met. I was nervous and unsure about how the date would go because I didn't know him very well, but I took a chance and agreed to go to lunch with him. Little did I know, I was about to embark on the most beautiful and transformative adventure I had ever been on. Nolan and I dated for the remainder of high school, and when it came time to graduate, we both knew there was no way we were going to break up. I have never been in a long distance relationship before my current relationship, and it has definitely had its challenges. But I have learned a lot about myself and my relationship in the past seven months that I was not expecting to going into college.

1. Miscommunication will happen

College, and life in general, brings differing schedules and days when one of doesn't have a spare minute to chat. This has caused some tension when we don't communicate about our schedules, but don't read too much into it. Little arguments are going to happen, and it doesn't mean you shouldn't be together.

2. Learning to be patient is important

I am one of the most impatient people in the entire world. I hate waiting for anything, but being in a long distance relationship has really made me become a more patient person.

3. Time together is so valuable

Nolan and I live in different states which means we don't see each other as often as we would like to. The time that we do get to spend together is so amazing, and I always make sure to tell him how much I appreciate him and love him in person while I can.

4. Don't let your relationship hold you back from enjoying college

One thing that I think people wonder about going into college in a relationship is if it holds you back from going out and having a good time and making your own decisions. Honestly, I do not let my relationship hold me back in any way. I have dreams and things I want to do with my life, and Nolan fully supports me doing what makes me happy.

5. Technology is truly a blessing

FaceTime is the greatest invention. It is one step up from talking on the phone because you get to actually see one another as you speak. Utilizing technology has been a lifesaver.

6. Some days hurt more than others

There are a lot of days when I feel happy and excited about life. But then there are others where all I can think about is the distance between Nolan and I. The distance at times can be very daunting and intimidating, but that feeling with always go away with time.

7. Little (or big) surprises mean so much more

This year for Valentine's Day Nolan had flowers delivered to me, and I was so thrilled to receive something from him that let me know he was thinking about me. Also, writing letters to one another is a fun way to anticipate getting a little surprise from the other.

8. Missing them makes you love them even more

I didn't think it was possible for my relationship to get any stronger than it already was before I moved to college. Nolan and I continue to grow as individuals and as a couple every single day. The distance between us has made me truly realize how lucky I am.