Warning: the content of this piece may ruffle some feathers of certain readers.

So, on behalf of those individuals who feel as though I have stepped over that invisible line, I apologetically regret to inform you that I will not apologize. When did good writing ever not upset some people? But, regardless, let the truth be known: it is what it is.

'Tis the season for snuggling, movie nights, cute ice skating dates, and even the notorious day of love, Valentine’s Day. So unless you already have that significant other writing you sappy love notes, those single eyes are scanning the classrooms, bars, parties, philanthropy events, or even the cafeterias for that special someone. But little do we know, while doing this, we subconsciously already have that picture-perfect man or woman invented in our mind and continue to compare this figment of our imagination to real life candidates. Rule number one and the only rule: STAAHHHP THAT.

 To the boys on this wonderful campus, there is no easy way to say this other than to bluntly say what is on every girl’s mind, especially the girls involved with the Greek system; yes we are sorority girls and that sometimes comes with the stereotypical sorority girl persona but us girls can’t always meet your ridiculously high expectations of being that perfect, one of a kind chick. Many men (now this is where the offense may come in) want a girl that is unrealistically attainable with character traits that are almost humanly impossible to achieve, that Megan Fox with a “dope” personality.

It seems as though men want their girl to be able to eat a cheeseburger or hefty steak and not a dainty salad, but still manage that killer bod.  Or even be that all natural girl who radiates beauty without trying… but have you gentlemen ever truly seen what we look like without a trace of makeup, not showered, and overall not trying to impress? Let me tell you, it is not pretty. And ladies, men are not the only ones to blame. We also crave that ideal man that is sensitive but a bad boy, great grades but always socializing, easy on the eyes but not a player, and worst of all, that frat boy that isn’t like all the other frat boys.

Now, some of you may be reading this and are like “Hey! I apply to all of these, what is she talking about?!” and if that is the case than you are one pretty cool cat. But, bottom line, instead of trying so hard to find that girl or guy that has all of these qualities, try looking for someone who you are happy to be around. They don’t have to be the next Channing Tatum or Victoria’s Secret model, just make sure they are a good person. Keep it simple. We are living the glory years now and college will not last forever, so enjoy the little things and don’t try so hard when looking for that special someone.

But, also do not simply settle for just anybody that is not worthy of your love.  Stephen Chbosky once wrote in his book The Perks of Being a Wallflower  “ We accept the love we think we deserve.” Please, do not only settle for someone because you feel as though you can’t do any better. Put yourself out there. While sometimes you may get hurt or feel like you are not good enough, that is not true and that leads us back to rule number one: STAAHHHP THAT.

Life is too short and your years here at MSU are even shorter. So go out there, have fun, and be young. Don’t set your standards so high that superman himself couldn’t reach them but don’t accept someone just because it’s the easy way out. It is what it is, so take it day by day and appreciate all those unique qualities and imperfections your special someone has to offer.