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The positives of being in a long-distance relationship

Trinity College Foundation Studies

Fri Jul 17 2015

ldr-relationships

LONG distance relationships are tough on any couple, but there are plenty of positives that come with being in one. Trinity College Foundation Studies students Rodgers Luo, Sunny Wang and Skylar Ye look at how international students can benefit from long distance relationships. 

ldr-relationships

Has being in a relationship ever affected your study? Have you ever felt like your work is compromised because of an argument with your boyfriend or girlfriend?

For students, balancing study and a well-meaning relationship with their partner can come with a handful of difficulties. This is especially true for many students from Trinity College – and certainly those in the wider international student community – who currently maintain long distance relationships with their partner.

For instance, one American student we spoke to says she and her Singaporean boyfriend have “undergone numerous difficulties in the past three years” but “still deeply love each other”.

Miscommunication, loneliness and anxiety can put a strain on many long distance relationships but it’s not all bad. For some, being in a long distance relationship can also leave a surprisingly positive effect on academia as well.

Aside from feeling like they’re in a healthy and committed relationship, some of Trinity College’s students believe being in a relationship can help to improve grades.

No particular reason was given for this phenomena, but the belief exists among these students nonetheless. Meanwhile, others felt that although they were in a relationship, they could still attain the same level of marks they would’ve achieved if they were single.

Most of Trinity’s students roughly spend five to eight hours a day communicating with their partner through platforms such as Wechat, Facetime and Skype. While some may think this time could be spent on study (namely the parents of these students!), it is important to note that in committing to a long distance relationship, international students are able to demonstrate patience and prioritise effectively.

In the end, knowing that someone is out there thinking about you, ready to chat at the touch of a button at (almost) any time of day or night, can act as a pillar of strength to see you through those last minutes, from late night essays due the next day to any overwhelming moments of homesickness or loneliness.

This story was produced by Media and Communication students at Trinity College Foundation Studies as part of Meld’s community newsroom collaboration. Education institutions, student clubs/societies and community groups interested in being involved can get in touch us via meld@meldmagazine.com.au.

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