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Dear Melanie,

I really like this guy, but he’s 27 and I’m only 18. I really don’t know what to do without being judged for the age difference.

Young Frosh
Dear Frosh,

If this guy is treating you right and you guys are happy together, it does not matter what other people think. You may be judged, but so what? They aren’t the ones in the relationship, and as long as it’s legal (you’re 18, so it is), then it’s ok.

People will judge you about anything because everyone feels differently about every issue and the only way you are going to be happy is if you don’t worry about what other people think and just follow your heart.

Sometimes age differences can cause maturity differences, but sometimes it makes the relationship work. I know a girl who started dating a 35 year old at 18 and their relationship guided her to make better decisions and really figure out what she wanted to do with her life. Now she’s 23, a cop, and they are getting married. “Age Ain’t Nothin’ But a Number,” as the singer Aaliyah used to say.
Xoxo,
Melanie