How to be a campus crush

MANILA, Philippines — We agree; you have a good personality. You know the makings of an eligible man. Maybe a little off the mark than you’d like to be, but the thing is, you don’t need to be the eligible man—you just have to be yourself.

You’ve probably been meaning to get a date this Valentine’s but just don’t know how.

Here are some pieces of advice to get you into the spirit on the Day of Hearts without sacrificing yourself too much. If you are:

1. The Geek – You know your way better around mangas better than you know the social landscape and maybe this is why you come off as awkward to people. And if you like someone, this can be much trickier. Proudly show off the geek in you and quote something from the comic you like or that one TV series. They might not get it but it’ll be heartwarming for them to know that they’re the first person you think about even when you’re thinking about something you’re most passionate about.

2. Mr. Sentimental – You’ve contemplated to do that “The things I love about you” jar and you’ve been meaning to do it. You’re also all about appreciation posts and long threads on Twitter detailing your affection. You’ll be called baduy when you write her a letter but no one can underestimate the power of honesty and a man who is in touch with his emotions.

3. The Artist – It’s always wonderful to make someone feel appreciated through any art form. Write some poetry, or a song, or make a painting. Not only will this warm the heart of the person you’ve been eyeing, it’ll also get you a greater chance at scoring that coffee date you’ve been hoping for.

4. The MVP – You have the advantage of a headstart. Fitness and athleticism are qualities easily admired in people. Dedicate a game to someone, a special someone maybe, and forget the hubris. Play from the heart and glance at the bleachers every so often so that she knows that she’s worth more than your average game.

5. The Komikero – If they say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, then the way to a woman’s heart is to get her to laugh. Truly laugh. The komikero is quirky, and overflowing with wit; these things can be used to attract the sentiments of anyone.

6. The Silencer – You can come off two ways to anyone who’s seeing you: Standoffish or mysterious. You can use that mysterious aura about you. Everyone loves a little mystery. But what if you don’t have the confidence to talk to that girl you’re admiring from afar during lunch breaks? Why not switch things up a bit, step away from your comfort zone and sit with her, or catch her when she walks home after class. There is no guarantee that the conversation won’t be a little awkward but the effort will surely throw off that standoffish aura you might have you might have been exuding.

7. The Ladies’ Man - Or perhaps it’s not getting women to notice you that is your problem. Maybe they flock around you like hens, what with your irresistible charm. You can always start as a friend, as well as use your charm in a non-intimidating kind of way. The ladies’ man has this superior kind of aura so tone it down. Be genuine in your actions and mean the common flattery you give out on a daily basis.