Most Calvin students would agree that dating rituals on our campus are a bit odd. Our strange practices of floor dates, pearling and gaining a ring before spring fail to correlate to practices outside of our bubble. So what’s happening in the dating scene for the broader culture? For over 7.5 million users between the ages of 18 and 24, Tinder is making the cut. This smartphone app designed to match you up with a potential love-interest is gaining popularity, and Calvin students should seriously consider Tinder and its role in today’s dating culture.

First, Tinder makes short work of the pressure usually accompanied in dating culture on campus. The simple process of swiping right for a “like” and left for a “nope” changes the game of expressing interest. As you come across a potential interest’s array of photos, the first question you’d ask probably isn’t “will I marry her?” Instead you might acknowledge an interesting expression in her photos. The initial aim when matching up with someone on Tinder is to spark a connection and not trying to figure out if your first trip to B-Quiv together means more than a trip to B-Quiv.

This is the moment where we address the elephant in the room and discuss the physical attraction so deeply woven into Tinder. Clearly, Tinder acknowledges the component of physical attraction in romantic connections and I wouldn’t dare deny this stigma; without a doubt, Tinder points toward the survival of the sexy, the witty and the dog-loving. Though this is true, it is also true that what appeals as attractive or funny are qualities that lie on a spectrum. Swiping on Tinder allows space for someone’s photos, interests and bio to influence interest. Essentially, Tinder highlights preference.

And with preference, inevitably, the choice of “like” or “nope” comes up. but the unique nature of Tinder’s swipe-and-match feature disseminates the risk of initial rejection. According to Dr. Brene Brown, professor of research at Houston Graduate College of Social Work, “vulnerability,” in any setting, “is the birthplace of innovation, creativity and change.” But rejection in moments of vulnerability can seem like anything but a catalyst for positivity and creativity. Tinder, by design, curbs the risk of receiving direct rejection. There isn’t a question if the person finds you interesting or attractive, you’ve already both swiped right when you match up and the door is open to be yourself.

So, in the end, we return to face the culture of dating here at Calvin. In another place on the spectrum there’s a culture of dating in Tinder. Maybe you find yourself comfortable with the status quo, but maybe you’re curious; you’re ready to try something new. Curb the curiosity by considering the principles of Tinder in your own life. And if you’re curious if I’m on Tinder, you’ll just have to swipe and find out.