How to ask a UVic student out on a date

The dos and don’ts of dating on campus during cuffing season

Yes, this is the article you have been waiting for. Cuff season is upon us and I know many of you have your eye on that one person in your class you want to sit next to you. But how should you ask a UVic student out on a date?

Now, I’m not saying I’m a love doctor or that I have a great game (I’m not Barney Stinson), but I spoke to students on campus and compiled the best advice they had to give. So here it is, the secrets to asking someone out.

Location, location, location

First, let’s start with where you ask someone out. There are some no-brainers like not inviting someone to the washroom and not being scary in the woods when someone is all alone. But don’t ask around people in the gym either. This was the answer I got the most regarding a bad location. At the gym you’re tired, sweaty and don’t look good. You are there to do your workout and go. The last thing people want is someone else who is tired, sweaty and not looking their best to walk up to them and have a five-minute conversation in the middle of their set.

The place where students get the green light is the library. It’s comfortable, has lots of people but not a crowd, and who doesn’t want a reason to scour the bright room for readings? Just don’t do it in the basement, because that awkward silence will literally last forever.

Another good spot the students said is the class in the 10 minutes before the professor shows up. If you talk to your neighbor there and feel that connection and he vibrates with you, it’s worth a try.

To look good

How you present yourself is also important. The outfit is an important factor for many people. I’m not saying you need to completely change your style, but if you’re feeling brave, it might be wise to trade in those pajamas and work clothes for, *checks notes*, something else.

The art of the opener

Okay, now you’re all saying to yourselves, “Sajjan, you told us where to go and what to look like, but what am I saying to ask someone out?” First, if you’re thinking that, thank you who have read by-line. Second, I arrive. Most students I spoke to said to avoid small talk and not to ask yes or no questions.

SSome also said to find common ground, which is nice when you’re talking, but how do you get there? You can make a pretty decent opener out of this. It should be something open-ended and in the context of what you already know about that person. Maybe you’re in class and you’re asking a question about the course. Or, if they’re wearing a t-shirt with a band you like, ask them for songs. Just don’t overdo it and ask people about the meaning of life because that’s probably an automatic no.

The not-to-dos

Now for fun: red flags. As mentioned above, topics of conversation can be red flags. Perhaps don’t bring up the current political and economic state of the world (sorry, Jaden) or your (insert ingrained insecurity) caused by (insert traumatic event).

Overconfidence is also taboo according to many students I spoke to, so maybe don’t think too highly of yourself, okay?

Someone also said liking Radiohead is a red flag, which makes me wonder who ruined “Creep” for them?

Green flags

As for other things to do, there was student counseling everywhere (as were clusters on the weekends). It seems like a big deal to find someone’s mood, and even just take a general interest in them. Focusing on school and being of good character was also addressed, so maybe make sure you hit the books? Obviously fun somewhere works here too, but I think what I’m trying to show you is that you just have to take your shot and hope for the best.

We’ve covered the basics and I think you’re ready for cuff season. When fall weather finally hits, it’s nice to have the tools to finally snuggle up to someone in a matching onesie with a Pumpkin Spice Latte in hand.