Dating just isn't what it used to be. The art of meeting face to face has been replaced by the virtual world of the Internet. Welcome to the world of online dating.

Students are increasingly visiting Web sites that attract college-age singles in the hopes that a love connection will be made in cyberspace. In a technological age,where the number of students spending time on the Internet is growing and people spend more time on Instant Messenger than the telephone, it is easier and easier to meet people from all over the world. Why not meet a potential love interest?

Web sites such as singlestudents.com and allmsu.com have memberships from MSU students - 2,000 and 1,500, respectively - that aid in the process of finding love. Personal ads have appeared in newspapers for decades - it only makes sense that they expand to the Internet.

Meeting someone online can be a great icebreaker. Some people find it easier to have personal conversations through the Internet because it isn't as nerve-wracking and they don't have to talk face to face.

Just the sheer numbers of people connected to the Internet at the same time automatically increases the chance of meeting someone new.

However, online dating should not be a total substitute for meeting in person. The purpose of such online dating services is to help break the ice - not completely replace personal contact.

If you do plan to see someone you met on the Internet in person, please exercise caution. Remember that this person is a stranger; you can't trust everything that you read or see. While it's important not to be cynical, it is important to be careful. Meet during the day, if possible, or in a well-lit area. Bring a friend along if you'd feel more comfortable.

But have fun. A significant other is a special person, and it shouldn't matter how you meet. Anything that will help you meet that special someone in a way that makes you feel comfortable and happy is a good thing.