Q: I met this girl at the beginning of the semester and she's great. We really click and we can talk for a long time and we just get along well. I really want to get to know her in a different way, though. I don't know how to get any closer. I feel like she's way out of my league. She doesn't have a boyfriend or anything and she's great, but I don't know what to do. I get nervous just thinking about it. What can I do to get closer?

A: First, take a deep breath. You're both human beings. Second, take a step back and just look at what you two share in common and vibe on those commonalities. This isn't some mad dash to the finish line- just take your time and approach her when you feel most comfortable. This shouldn't imply that you not be assertive, however. Ask her how she feels about you. Open yourself to the communication, and you'll find that most of your problems and insecurities with the issue tend to dissolve.

Q: I've been friends with this girl as long as we've known each other. We're childhood friends and we grew up together, but now we go to different colleges. We meet up almost every weekend when we can, but the thing is, I like her and I don't know if she feels the same. We've been platonic all this time, and I don't know if she would be comfortable with that kind of relationship with me. We're just so perfect for each other, but I don't want to make her feel awkward or jeopardize our relationship by making everything awkward. What should I do? I don't want to lose her.

A: You can continue playing the safe route, if you want, but that will most likely only lead to disappointment on at least one side. On the other hand, you can simply ask her how she feels about you and you can be honest with her. You two have been friends for a long time, it's rather doubtful that you admitting your feelings will make her run for the hills. The real key, just like the case above, is to just be honest with yourself and be honest with her. Being closed off is just cutting yourself off from what you feel, and that will inevitably cause errors in communication down the line. Don't be too aggressive and just lay out the truth and ask if it makes her uncomfortable. If you don't get the answer you want, just back away and don't push yourself on the issue.