Say hello to the most cliché time of year: Valentine’s Day. This specific holiday has never meant that much to me, either because I’m single or I don’t care to go out for a super fancy dinner once a year (I’d rather just do that every weekend, let’s be honest).

However, even though a lot of people may see Valentine’s Day as a silly tradition, it is still an important part of American culture and thus needs to be addressed.

For poor college students in the midst of what is called “hookup culture,” Valentine’s Day can lose its charm. We don’t necessarily want to go out to a big fancy dinner, and maybe we just want to skip the dinner altogether and get straight to the late-night fun.

So, this week’s Mint is dedicated to making this year’s V-Day unique: out-of-the-ordinary date spots and thoughtful gifts. We will also touch on the must-haves of any Valentine’s Day: the local candy store and fancy date spot.

Although I have never been to The Black Cypress, I have had friends get engaged there and go on magical dates within those four walls. Who knows, maybe this will be the year I try it out (certainly after Valentine’s Day, when they have open tables again).

Palouse Country Candy, the perfect place to pick up special nibbles for your special someone, provides super yummy, locally made candy. I speak from experience. If you like Reese’s, try Palouse Country Candy’s peanut butter cups. Amazing.

We cannot forget the fate of the single people who surround us. The pessimists have to suffer through Single’s Awareness Day. And the optimists get to celebrate Treat Yo’ Self Day, a full 24 hours of chocolate, Netflix and at-home spa treatment.

The final topic we will cover in this week’s Mint is the idea of lingerie and why it should be worn. Victoria’s Secret bombards women with sexy pink and red lace bras and panties, complete with hearts and bows, and although quite cute, we argue women need to purchase these garments for themselves and not for the pleasure of the person who wants to rip it off your body.

I apologize, men, that you are not better represented in this holiday. I hate to break it to you, but Valentine’s Day is the day you make your boo feel spoiled. But, you can still do it in a thoughtful and fun way. Or, if you’re single, have your man night and do your man things.

No matter what your V-Day plans are, try not to overthink your relationship status and just enjoy the day. And hit up Wal-Mart on Feb. 15 for discount candy.

Jennifer Ladwig is a senior communication major from Washougal. She can be contacted at [email protected].