But other roads are bumpy and confusing, leaving those traveling upon them heartbroken or alone.

Oftentimes these less fortunate travelers have to take matters into their own hands by turning to dating websites or social events created specifically for the purpose of being matched up, such as speed dating.

I’ve always believed love isn’t something you should go out looking for — you should let it come to you — so speed dating was never something I considered participating in.

The whole idea never really made sense to me because there are so many other more effective and less awkward ways to meet people, especially on a campus as large as MSU’s.

But I’ve always been intrigued by those who go to such events and have faith they actually might result in success. So when I learned the University Activities Board was hosting a night of speed dating on Saturday, I decided I had to attend.

Going into the event, I was skeptical and convinced it was going to be a waste of time. I expected to make meaningless small talk with one desperate, socially awkward boy after another. And as judgemental and insensitive as that sounds, I know I’m not the only one with those preconceived notions.

After filling out my registration form with some basic information about myself, I took my seat at one of the long, decorated tables and watched more than 100 people pour into the Parlor Rooms on the Union’s second floor and make casual conversation with those around them.

As I scoped out the attendees, I discovered I was pleasantly surprised by the selection of males in the room. Just by glancing around, I noticed several good-looking, well-dressed and charming participants.

My first date was not nearly as uncomfortable as I had expected, and I actually found I was enjoying myself. After our three minutes of date-time were up, the boys rotated to the right and I was paired with someone new.

Although I met some guys who I had little in common with and struggled to find topics to discuss, I also came across plenty of people with similar interests as me with whom I was able to maintain intellectual and interesting conversations.

I met people from all different parts of campus, of all ages and with majors ranging from English and marketing to chemical engineering and political science.
With that being said, I still don’t think speed dating is a logical way to go about finding a significant other. Three minutes is not nearly enough time to truly get to know a person or to decide whether or not you like them.

By the time my date and I got past sharing the basics ­— name, year, major and post-graduation plans — the bell rang, signaling the end of the date and the start of another.
I took this occasion as an opportunity not to find my special someone — I still believe that needs to happen on its own — but as a chance to socialize with people I wouldn’t have stumbled upon otherwise.

Not everyone I met was there looking for love either — some simply were there to make friends and expand their social network as I was. Not all the attendees were trying to impress me with stories about their accomplishments and triumphs in the hopes that they might score my phone number or another date.

Speed dating events provide participants a chance to make connections, which have the potential to develop into something further down the road. They should be viewed as a stop along the way to finding first friendship, then love — not as the final destination.