Dear Confused,

You Are Brave and Smart

Dating is scary. Sex and making out are really scary. And being the last one to try it, is lonely. But look, you're brave enough to admit how you feel, smart enough to know what's going on, and there are guys out there who clearly want to be with you and who you want to be with.

When He Asks, Say "Yes"

So all you have to do now is (deep breath) start. The next time a guy likes you and you like him, and you want to say YES to a date - then say YES.

Don't hide from him. Smile right into his eyes when he talks to you and listen to what he says and talk back and enjoy his company.

But I think what you're asking, is "am I going to be a freak or a disappointment or expected to do stuff I don't know about"?

Wrong. She'll be a freak, but it's worth the risk.

No. You're not. ALL FIRST DATES ARE NERVE-WRACKING. AND THEY ARE ALL DIFFERENT.

Tell Him You Want to Go Slow

The way you can cut yourself some slack is to tell the guy that you are old-fashioned. Guys who are expecting you to put out in some way will respond to that news by bringing you back to your dorm in a nanosecond and won't call you later. (Don't cry over that, you would have hated the alternative).

Guys who are cool with taking it slow will say "cool". (Most guys I dated responded with "me too"). Old fashioned just means that you take it seriously and slowly. It doesn't mean you're a prude or hung up or ignorant.

Good luck, and enjoy yourself and be true to who you are. It's not a race, ok?

– Bella