The need for speed - dating, that is

Dating sure has changed over the years; no longer can you snag a man by passing him the standard “check yes or no” note, and recess has evolved from a flirty game of capture the flag into a 15-minute break between classes, which is likely spent waiting in line for a coffee.

We have to face it — life gets busy. And the busier schedules get, the harder it is to find the time to look for the perfect significant other. What's a girl (or boy) to do?

If picking up at the bar is an unsettling thought, there are other options. The most notable new dating trick is online dating through agencies such as Lavalife and Match.com, who will match your profile to a perfectly suited suitor that is just right for you. While most agencies charge some sort of fee, and it's the fastest way to find exactly who you're looking for, without the pain and embarrassment of lame dates, hidden secrets, and bad habits. In the end, you would have paid more for drinks at the bar than you'll spend on service charges.

As difficult as it may be for some people to shake the stigma of Internet dating, these online services shouldn't be compared to random hook-ups that result in talk show-worthy horror stories.

“The stigmas around being single are definitely changing,” says Lori Miller, Lavalife's singles and dating expert. “Today, singles aren't rushing into things solely to be in a relationship. Lavalife users tell us that single is sexy and they are enjoying their independence, leading active lifestyles, meeting new people and trying new things.”

If online match-ups still aren't for you, there is another popular alternative that is gaining speed in the dating jungle. Speed dating is a growing trend that pairs a number of single women with equally eligible men for a few minutes of small talk. If the singles are interested, numbers can be exchanged and the relationship can grow. If not, the two part ways and move on to the next available speed dater. After a good night of speed dating, you could be going home with 10 or 20 numbers in your pocket — or to someone else's apartment!

London has hosted a number of speed dating events, and will be introducing another new group of singles on February 28 for mid-20's to mid-30's singles. But the FSU didn't want to leave out the younger crowd of eligible bachelors and bachelorettes, they held their own speed dating event last Wednesday in Forwell Hall.

A total of 10 girls and 15 guys showed up ready to be romanced. SAC Art and Design rep Caitlin Yearwood, who coordinated the event, said it wasn't clear if any new loves were in the making, “but you never know!”

Aside from one boy who admitted he already had a girlfriend, the event went smoothly, and will likely be repeated in the future.

“Overall it went really well, especially since it was our first time doing it,” Yearwood said. “I was expecting nobody to show up, so I was happy!”

Whatever method of soulmate-searching you choose, there are lots of options for every type of person, so there's no need to be alone this Valentine's Day!