Dating Forum Unites Students, Experts In Conversation

posted February 28, 2019 in CommRadio, News by Sebastien Kraft

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – Students and moderators assembled for a discussion forum about dating and relationships in college hosted by the Penn State Student Programming Association Ed-ventures Committee at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday in the HUB-Robeson Center.

The discussion, which involved about 10 students and three moderators, addressed a variety of topics that ranged from hook-up culture to intimacy needs, societal expectations, marriage ambitions, and the increasing role of social media in relationships.

Dejanae Gibson, director of events for the Student Programming Association, emphasized the committee’s openness and acceptance toward all students, regardless of relationship status.

“No matter how you choose to practice or how you are in your identity development, it’s okay to come and share in this space,” said Gibson. “I think it helps to diversify the conversation and not just have one narrative.”

Camille Sluzis, a licensed therapist and service provider for Penn State’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), was on hand to assist with the event. As a moderator, she said her deliberative approach to the event was centered on listening to student viewpoints.

“I’m interested to see where the conversation leads,” said Sluzis. “I know [the organizers] are looking to talk about some trends and different concepts that have come up as far as dating and relationships.”

Gibson added that the various perspectives that students bring to the table are key to effective dialogue.

“We are on a campus with people who are abstinent, people who are married, people who are okay with hooking up, and we want to talk about those things,” said Gibson.

 

 

Sebastien Kraft is a freshman majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email sck5271@psu.edu.