As Valentine’s Day approaches, UW-Whitewater students are preparing for the holiday in different ways, from cozy date nights to navigating the added stress of money, schedules and long-distance relationships. While some students look forward to celebrating with romantic dinners or quiet and comfy nights in, others see the holiday as just another day on the calendar.
On campus, Valentine’s Day reflects the realities of student life, where some are balancing academics and relationships, work and finances. While some students enjoy the holiday, using it as a chance to slow down and celebrate, others are feeling pressure to meet expectations despite busy schedules and limited budgets.
For most students, their ideal Valentine’s Day doesn’t include anything extravagant, instead focusing on quality time with friends and significant others, and a simple plan for the day.
“Going out for dinner, having a cute little date night, then going home to watch a movie,” freshman Savannah Rosin said.
“Making dinner together and then going out for a sweet treat afterwards,” freshman Abby Grams said.
While the holiday can be exciting, several students said Valentine’s Day also brings added pressure in college, making the holiday feel more overwhelming than romantic. With money and distance, trying to find a way to still enjoy the holiday can be stressful.
“I already feel more stress because we’re long distance,” Grams said. “It seems like there’s too much to focus on.”
“I’m a broke college student,” Rosin said. “Money really is a factor.”
While some are picking out the perfect romantic comedy or dinner spot, not all students are feeling the same pressure around Valentine’s Day. Some students see this as just another day, no celebration needed.
“Typically it’s just another day,” freshman Ezekiel Sweets said. “But maybe this year will be different.”
“I mean, I might be spending it, but it’s honestly something like just a whatever thing. Nothing crazy,” freshman Richi Kalra said.
Students were also split on whether Valentine’s Day lives up to the hype. Some say it’s underrated and not getting the appreciation it deserves. Others said it’s overrated, and that it’s just another day to them.
“I’d say it’s very underrated, because compared to other holidays, you’re spending it with someone that’s very special to you,” freshman Navin Rahman said. “Compared to Halloween where you’re just with a large group of people.”
“I’m not going to lie, I’ve never liked Valentine’s day,” Rosin said. “I’m going to say it’s overrated.”
Together, the responses show that there is no single way students are approaching the holiday. For many students, Valentine’s Day comes down to one thing: spending time with the people who matter most. Small dinner dates, a movie night, and staying in are some of UW-W students’ favorite ways to spend the holiday.
Whether students are planning dates, keeping things lowkey, or treating it like any other day, Valentine’s Day looks different for everyone across campus.
