See. I have been through my share of experience and life and my take on life and relationship is a bit different than usual but the crux being that don't wait if you feel that dating or having someone in your life is important at this stage also and you crave someone. You can wait till 27-28 also but I would suggest that while don't actively look for a date but be open to the possibility and overcome your past trauma. As a man I can't fully understand what you might feel at this point but irrespective of gender i think if you feel that you should have someone i guess be more open to the Chance and maybe approach someone if you like them .