The creation of the internet has lead to many great things. Humans have been able to communicate instantaneously and our world has become more connected and efficient. Yet of all of the technological innovation that humanity has achieved, by far the most influential have been the creation of dating apps such as Tinder. Being able to swipe left or right on a potential hookup or dating partner has given humans the extraordinary ability to meet a possible companion without even having to leave their bedrooms. Aside from convenience, here are some other reasons to use dating apps.

First, dating apps can help with self-validation and feelings of personal agency. The thrill of seeing someone match with you, and the sense of superiority that comes from swiping left on them is by far the most shallow, yet most exciting reason to use such an app. Simply stated, when you match with someone, it makes you feel good. After all, you feel attractive enough for someone, who may at first appear out of your league, to swipe right on you. Swiping left, in turn, gives you a sense of superiority and sense of agency over your life, even when decisions from work and school seem completely beyond your control.

Dating apps are also a fantastic way to communicate with people. Have you ever had a crush on someone in class, but you didn’t have the courage to talk to them? Well, under the assumption that they swiped right on you, Tinder is an ideal way to make a positive and memorable first introduction. That being said, the downside of that is that if they don’t reply to you, or if your date ends badly, there will be a bit of awkwardness for the rest of the semester. Furthermore, if you aren’t interested in anyone you’ve met so far, dating apps are a great way to find someone who shares your interests; you can keep swiping until you match with someone who has the same beliefs, hobbies, and experiences as you. Gone are the days when you have to bear a dull conversation with someone who you clearly have nothing in common with.

Another reason to use these dating apps are that they can result in a fun, casual relationship. I’m not encouraging casual relationships, nor am I condemning them. However, if you’re someone who prefers something casual instead of a serious relationship, dating apps are the places to find someone who shares your expectations without having to hurt anyone’s feelings. While there is an unspoken rule that the purpose of these apps are for hookups, there are also many stories of people finding their spouses on dating apps, so no matter what you’re looking for, as long as you make your expectations clear, one of these dating apps can likely help you out.

College is a great time and place to use dating apps. They’re fun, convenient and a great way to experience all of the excitement and make all of the mistakes that will inevitably occur to a college student attempting to navigate the new, exciting world that technology has constructed.