By: Rachael Jackson Staff Writer
Tinder was released to the world in 2013 as a fast paced dating app. It quickly appealed to those between the ages of 18 and 34 as an easy way to find dates and casual sex. There was an outcry from the media and citizens of the world that Tinder was creating a “hook-up culture” and destroying the establishment of dating.
Along with those citizens, are WOU students who aren’t too keen on the idea of finding dates through Tinder.
“I think it’s kind of dumb and that people should meet in person. Get out of their comfort zone,” said a Western student that wished to remain anonymous.
Many feel that Tinder is shallow. It may feel strange to simply swipe right for those you like and left for those you aren’t digging based solely on a few pictures and a short profile description. There is something to be said for meeting someone in person and seeing if sparks fly, but using Tinder could have its benefits, too.
Tinder sets up an environment in which both parties are on equal footing and have mutual understanding of what the other wants.
Tinder could also be useful for college students because it makes finding people while stuck living on a small campus easy.
College students can meet people both on campus and in nearby cities easily, all it takes is adjusting the desired distance. Going to cities like Salem, Corvallis, and Portland can be difficult and expensive for most students, but meeting people through text first may give the incentive to travel.
Andrea Coffee, a senior education major, found her current boyfriend through Tinder. As of now, they’ve been together almost 6 months.
“I wasn’t expecting to find a relationship,” Coffee said. She continued that it’s a great app “if you’re looking to just ‘hang out.’”
Using Tinder may not be for everybody and safety precautions should be taken when meeting a stranger in person for the first time. However, this app could prove useful for lonely college students looking for more than friendship.
