So as I sit here completely swamped by studying for finals, end of semester work and various other obligations, it absolutely astounds me that I still have time to hear that so many people are still going through issues concerning the opposite gender at this point in the year. In particular, one topic has caught my interest: rebounds.

Many of us have been there: that guy/girl that you’ve secretly been crushing on for God knows how long finally breaks up with whatever jerk or bitch that they’ve been dating and you’ve been hating, and you get your long-awaited chance to make things happen. The question is, do you move in right away, or give them time to get over the previous relationship?

Let’s weigh the pros and cons of each, real logical-like.

On the one hand, you’ve been pining after this person for quite some time, and it seems like a miracle that they have become available at such a convenient time, almost like an early Christmahanukkwanzaadiwalikah present. You can finally show him or her that you’re the right one for them, and their last partner didn’t really know how to make them happy. Sounds like a great plan, like something straight out of a movie, right?

Maybe, but probably not.

In many cases, the recently single subject of your affection still has feelings for their ex, and this will undoubtedly affect their relationships of the immediate future. Many people will enjoy their newfound freedom from relationships, and will not wish to be shackled again so soon. And then many others will just be looking for some short-lived flings, with little to no actual attachment. These are the worst cases, as one party may become more emotionally involved than the other, which always ends in heartache for someone.

Entering into one of these faux-relationships with a friend may kill any chance you had of forming a real relationship with them. So, logic dictates that we should avoid becoming a rebound at all costs, and instead we should be happy to remain as friends for now, right?

Fortunately, logic has little to no place in the game of love, so fuck that.

Give a grace period of no less than 1.5 weeks and no more than 2.5, and then go for that special someone. Billy Crystal puts it best: “When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.” Granted, this may be a little extreme for college relationships, but you get my point — there is no use waiting, and your hesitation may allow someone else to jump on them.

Express to them that you have no desire to be a rebound, and that you want the real thing. Worst case scenario: They tell you that they aren’t ready for that, you’re still friends and they know how you feel about them when they decide they are ready. And if they wait too long, they may lose you to somebody else as well, so remember the people who are on the other side of the situation!

Best case scenario: You’re lucky enough to snag that special someone and are now involved in a wonderful new relationship. Congratulations! Now don’t screw it up.

Aside from that, good luck on finals, study hard and remember to de-stress whenever possible … if you know what I’m saying.