HELP ME SOPHIE V: BAD BREATH AND BO

Help Me Sophie V: The tale of bad breath and B.O.

By Sophie V

Columnist

The first few weeks back to school are always an exciting time for any college student looking to gamble in the game of love.

Single folks will definitely be looking forward to mingle with other students. Of course, this is easier said than done, so you should capitalize on the high ‘back to school’ energy to try and meet new people, before assignments and tests slowly eat away at your social life and mental stability.

Here are a few tips, if you’re trying to meet someone special or even just someone at all: 

First impressions are important and are absolutely the beginning step in finding your lucky new beau. When in doubt, don’t be afraid to dress up!  Get your fancy pants out and wear them. Nothing says, "I'm what you've been waiting for," like a guy or gal in an outfit so sharp you could cut paper with it. I'm not saying you should wear your Sunday best to class, however. You don’t want people to think you’re headed to prom instead of English 101.  Just don't expect to sweep anyone off his or her feet when you look dumpy.

Make sure you smell good. Sounds simple right? Wrong! We live in Louisiana, a place that seems to be unable to combine the words ‘comfortable’ and ‘weather’ in the in the same sentence without explosions.  Not to mention there are 40 other students crowded in tiny desks in tiny classrooms. 90 percent of those students are nervous as hell and sweating profusely. You know, just like you.  This spells body odor nightmare. Don't be shy kids: Apply, sniff and reapply.

Odor doesn’t just come from the body. Check your breath privilege, and be sure to brush those fangs.  Speaking is one of the best ways to get in good with your potential paramour, but if your breath knocks him or her out from the get go you’re going to have a difficult time getting their Facebook profile, let alone a phone number.  Brush your teeth regularly or at least pop a mint in if you happen to forget this crucial morning ritual.

Once your pearly whites are sparkling clean, make sure to show them off with a smile.  Not only will you attract and dish out positivity, but smiling releases endorphins within the body that help lower stress, thus reducing your anxiety.  Who knows, perhaps smiling will keep you from choking up the next time that certain someone special come your way.

Have a question or point to make to Sophie V? Email her any questions about relationships, dating, or sex at helpmesophiev@gmail.com.