While most think Valentine’s Day is just for the couples around campus, it can still be a blast for singles. Let’s be real — seeing everyone’s Instagram stories about their significant other on Valentine’s Day can be somewhat depressing. Instead of endlessly scrolling through all the happy couples — or Instagram-stalking your ex — let me advise you on how to embrace Valentine’s Day when you are single.
First, there are no rules saying someone else has to buy you flowers, so go get them for yourself. Not only will this brighten up your space, but it’s also a tangible way to show yourself some love and appreciation. Spread the love by getting flowers for your other single friends, too. You can even make a fun event out of it. Gather your friends together, put on some upbeat music and get creative. Not only will you have a blast, but you’ll also strengthen your bonds with your friends and create lasting memories. Invite your friends to come over for a funny presentation night, throw a cute painting party together, show your competitive sides with a game night or go out for the classic brunch.
You also deserve to have some fun with self-care because college life is exhausting, so cook or go out for your favorite dinner, whether it’s a delicious bowl of pasta or your favorite order at Chipotle. Get your nails done or put on a face mask and binge-watch a good show. And, of course, no self-care day is complete without a dessert: Bake a chocolate cake, whip up some homemade cookies or indulge in your favorite store-bought treat. By taking these steps, you’re not only reclaiming Valentine’s Day for yourself, but you’re also showing yourself the love and appreciation you deserve.
Ultimately, Valentine’s Day is all about love, so why not show some love for your college best friends? No doubt that if you scrolled through TikTok in the past month, you have seen the adorable Galentine’s Day celebration ideas all over your For You page. Groups of Colgate students felt inspired to show appreciation for their friendships and throw aesthetic Galentine’s Day parties.
A group of juniors living in the Townhouse Apartments on campus have collectively decided to set aside a night this week to make heart-shaped pizzas and bake sweet treats with each other, in the spirit of Valentine’s Day.
“Valentine’s Day isn’t strictly for couples,” junior Hana Lowenthal said. “My roommates and I are choosing to spend the day together cooking and celebrating our friendship.”
Another group of juniors living in the University Court Apartments are planning a ‘Galentine’s Day’ Mario Kart face-off that could rival any romantic dinner.
“We can’t wait to spend the holiday playing our favorite game together,” junior Danielle McNerny said. “Who needs roses when you can gloat about destroying your best friend as Yoshi on the Mario Kart track?”
As Valentine’s Day creeps up, remember that being single doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate. Whether you’re treating yourself to a bouquet of flowers or chilling at home watching your favorite movie with friends, there’s plenty of love in the air. As you see the romantic gestures and Instagram-perfect moments around you, take comfort in knowing that the true essence of this day lies in cherishing the relationships that matter most — whether they’re romantic or not. So go forth, embrace the joy of being single and remember: The only competition worth winning is the one for the last slice of heart-shaped pizza. Happy Valentine’s Day, Colgate!
