Don't Lose Your Groove Over Break: Where to Look for Winter Romance - Part 1

The weather might be colder, but there is no reason your love life needs to cool off over winter break as well. Yes, you'll be home for a month, away from the exciting college parties, the hot guy who lives down the hall, and any other prospects you might have lined up, but never fear! Not only will your heart go on, the break could be a time to try something new, meet some new people in your own town, and have a lot of unexpected fun.
 
So who's the lucky guy going to be?

 
If it's someone you already know, you probably went to high school with him and he's probably one of the following three:
 
The High School Sweetheart
Remember that guy you dated in high school? The one your parents hated but you insisted you were meant to be with? Yeah, that one. Well, odds are he's still around and he's probably grown up a bit since you last saw him. So why not shoot him a text and ask him what he's up to? Check out a friend's party together and rekindle the flame, even if only for the month you're home. College experiences have turned you into a whole new you, so show it off, and find out who he's become since graduation.
 
The Guy You Could Never Have
The worst part of high school was lusting after the hottest guy in school who I knew I would never have a shot with. At least not back then. But things are different now, for everyone. College has made you a confident, educated, exciting woman, and winter break is your chance to show him what he missed out on for those four years. Talk to some friends, visit some old high school haunts, and you'll probably cross paths. Then go on and talk to him. Confidence is a turn on.
 
The One You Never Noticed?
I hate to break it to you, sweetheart, but you aren't the only one who did some growing up since high school – all the nerdy, awkward, quiet guys have grown up too, and some of them have blossomed into adorably awkward hot guys who have wonderful personalities. One of my best guy friends from high school was pretty geeky, and I never looked twice at him, despite how sweet he was. But when I came home after a year of college, he'd grown four inches and produced a stomach I could have washed my clothes on. Moral of the story: never completely disregard anyone, especially the nice guys. And open your eyes – some of them have really matured. Just don't break their hearts when winter break comes to a close.
 
High school crushes are fun for a while, but maybe you're more interested in meeting someone totally new and totally exciting. Hey, I don't blame you. But where are all the guys hiding? If you're interested in meeting a fresh face, you might try the following places:
 
Bars
This is the old stand-by for places to meet dates, but it really has earned its spot.  If you're old enough to drink, checking out a few bars in the area is a good thing to try. Be sure to pick one that isn't too upscale - most guys our age aren't looking for a glass of pinot noir and a pianist in the background. Instead, look around your town for sports bars and lively restaurants. Keep an eye out for ones that stop serving food at around 11 - that usually means you'll encounter a much different crowd than the usual dinner patrons, one that is rowdier, more sociable, and full of guys looking for girls to chat up. Pick someone to DD and go with a few of your old high school friends; order a pitcher of beer and invite some guys to join you in watching the game. Play your cards right and you'll leave with a few new numbers in your phone.
 

Bookstores
Bars are good, but not every girl drinks or is into the sort of guy who frequents the bars. Fortunately, there are plenty of guys out there for her, too. I've always found that bookstores are a wonderful place to meet new people, and there is almost always an adorable, slightly-nerdy-yet-totally-fine guy reading a book or browsing. Most bookstores these days have a music space and coffee shop as well, offering three places in one to hunt down some hotties. Don't be afraid to share a table with a beautiful stranger in the cafe, and never stop yourself from striking up a conversation with someone about the book they're reading. Keep the conversation going and you'll soon find yourselves talking about much more than books, and forging a stronger connection than you would at any frat party.
 
Karaoke Nights
In my town, a couple restaurants host karaoke nights once a week, starting at 10pm. After doing some research, I've learned that this is a fairly common thing - you just need to take the time to look. The restaurant will be filled with college kids, some crowding the bars and others grouped around tables, but everyone will be talking to everyone else. Go get dinner with some old friends and dare each other to get up and take the mic. It doesn't matter how well you sing - in fact, the worse it is, the better. Everyone in the building will love you as long as you're having fun, and more than a few guys will be ready to tease you about your performance. Roll with the punches like a champ and throw a few of your own after hearing their awful voices, and they'll absolutely adore you. For song choice I recommend something classic like Britney Spears, Cher, or "Baby Got Back". Everyone will join in.