Carly Lucas

Infectuated

Before COVID-19, college relationships were strongly influenced by the cultural norm that relationships should be casual to reduce the risk of making meaningful connections and facing rejection. While many college students are in serious relationships, the herd mentality towards dating in college favors casual relationships over committed ones. As a college student, I fear “catching feelings” just as much as I fear catching COVID-19. My mindset is rooted in the belief that the minimized expectations required by casual relationships prevent heartbreak. Due to concerns for my personal health and safety, the pandemic has allowed me to re-examine how I form new relationships. My IP Project, Infectuated, is a fictional brand that addresses the impact that COVID-19 has had on college dating and relationships. The brand consists of curated products, tips, and tricks that will help college students navigate relationships, both casual and serious, amidst the pandemic. Through a humorous approach, I aim to provide commentary on this subject that is both accessible and critical. Infectuated invites college students to be more thoughtful about how they form new sexual and romantic relationships going forward post-pandemic.