It’s officially that time of year. The leaves are changing, the breeze is on the cooler side, your summer tops have been replaced with cozy knits, and suddenly, your solitary warm-weather java jaunts have taken on an air of solitude… it’s cuffing season at last. Despite yearning for an old-fashioned love story straight out of When Harry Met Sally, reality sets in and it’s 2023 – a space filled with left and right swipes on dating apps while hoping that my matched prospects are, in fact, as tall as they claim to be. As for me, the quest of finding the perfect dating app as a student in college has been filled with much trial and error.
Can you wrap your head around the fact that there are more than 1,500 dating platforms like apps and websites currently in existence? From elite exclusives like The League and Raya to more woman-empowered platforms like Bumble where the ladies take the initiative, and down to our beloved favorites such as Hinge and Tinder, there ought to be one that hits the mark, shouldn’t there?
Hinge remains my tried-and-true favourite as it’s where I met my now closest friend (thus debunking the theory suggested in When Harry Met Sally). However, I am open to exploration and sought insights from fellow dating app users regarding the apps they found most useful during their college years. The aim is to help you create your own version of a You’ve Got Mail-esque narrative. Please note that the interviews provided have been edited for clarity and brevity.
Roy, 23, chose Hinge as his preferred dating app.
Hinge was my preferred dating app for two years. I appreciate its unique layout as it permits the expression of personality and interests, unlike other platforms like Tinder. However, I ultimately uninstalled Hinge as I’ve realized that these virtual dating platforms don’t necessarily provide conducive environments for me to meaningfully connect with someone.
Eric, 23, avoided dating apps altogether.
I opt for traditional methods, like striking up conversations in bars. This preference stems from my distaste for dating apps as they tend to pressure individuals into fitting into stereotypical dating app profiles which limit creativity and expression. I believe that in-person encounters permit a more natural development of attraction. Plus, who can resist a nice meet-cute?
Makalah, 20, prefers Bumble to other dating apps.
Bumble is my go-to as it feels more sophisticated than most apps like Hinge and Tinder, offering more detailed personal profiles. Bumble is also more “women-friendly” app.
Darla, 21, uses Tinder as her app of choice.
Despite the less-than-stellar reputation, Tinder has proven valuable with its college linkage feature that allows me to meet students from my own college. My hectic schedule appreciates the convenience of lunch and study dates with potential partners. I’ve had to be candid about seeking more than just a casual hookup, making Tinder my preferred dating app.
Kayleigh, 22, found Dateability to be the perfect fit.
As a disabled and asexual individual, I’ve had to deal with potential partners stating they could never consider dating someone like me. Dateability, which caters to disabled individuals, has put these worries to rest. Importantly, it creates an inviting atmosphere for disabled people to date and sends out the message that disabled individuals deserve love just as much as those who are able-bodied.
Jonas, 24, is a fan of The League.
Although The League requires a waitlist to join, it’s worth the wait. I’ve met people perfectly aligned with my preferences for a relationship. The app requires LinkedIn verification, helps you match based on goals, and enables you to join interest groups and local events to meet like-minded individuals. You get to see five profiles daily, making online dating less game-like and almost as good as meeting someone organically who is also looking for a relationship.
Carly, 23, prefers Hinge.
Hinge is my preference as it offers more prompts for starting a conversation and doesn’t feel as game-like as Tinder. Although, to be honest, I’m not a huge fan of dating apps in general.
Brenda, 21, Bumble.
Bumble is my favourite because it allows women to initiate contact. I’ve found Tinder to be intimidating due to the constant harassment and fetishization, particularly as an Asian woman. In contrast, Hinge feels more genuine and authentic.
Noah, 22, chose Hinge.
It might not be a new or innovative app, but Hinge has been great in matching me with individuals with common interests and delivering exposure to different cultures and hobbies. While compatibility is crucial in a relationship, gaining insights into different cultures and hobbies through dating is equally rewarding. Thus, Hinge is my dating app of choice.
As it turns out, Hinge and Bumble steal the spotlight! Here’s hoping this fall brings some sparks not just for me, but for you as well. Even if that spark is kindled on a dating app, may it lead to a string of witty ice-breakers, audacious public interactions with strangers, and potentially finding that perfect cuddle partner for a yearly Harry Potter movie marathon in December.
Names have been anonymized for privacy.
