Make an online love connection

Date: February 10, 2009
Where: The Campus Voice

If you were to type in "online dating" into any search engine you would find a number of results, over 43 million to be exact. Anyone looking for love can certainly find it, or at least a site that promises just that.

The more popular sites are eHarmony, Match.com, and Chemistry.com, each one offering their own unique idea of how to bring that perfect couple together.eHarmony has a 29 point compatibility matching system, and proudly says that on average 236 of their members are married every day. What they fail to mention is that you spend a large amount of time filling out their matching system. However, that may be the reason for their success, which married members will likely argue is well worth it.

Match.com is more for the creative writer, though that isn't always a good thing. They leave their singles several free writing sections to say who they are in their own words. Additionally, as you have likely seen in their commercials, they have 20,000 new members each day.

Chemistry.com provides another unique twist to online dating. Like eHarmony, they have a personality profile that members are asked to complete. However, unlike either of the other two sites, Chemistry guides singles to and through their first date. They even request feedback to help refine their program.

Despite the clear popularity of online dating, not everyone is quick to jump on this bandwagon. Some people are still averse to the idea of having to use the Internet to find love. Others think of it as a last resort when all else has failed.

Michelle Felix, a paralegal studies major said, "If I went a good 3 to 5 years without being able to find someone to spend the rest of my life with, stability wise I would probably try it out. But I would have a plan during the first date - an exit strategy." Many people have the same feeling about that first date, and for good reason.

Online dating can be a real plus for those looking to make some connections before that first date. However, it isn't all roses and wedding rings at the end of the day. Most sites cost money to join, or they give a free teaser of your matches but make you pay up if you want to communicate with them. Then you have to deal with the fact that the people on the other side may not be who they say they are.

If you take the time to really get to know that person before you meet them face to face, you'll be much better off. Trust your instincts, make sure that your first date is in a public place, and like Felix said, have an exit strategy. If you don't feel right about the situation, or the person, plan your way out ahead of time.By choosing the right site for you and being smart and safe about online dating, you will find many matches and hopefully one that will last a lifetime.