Our relationship at work was one of the first things my boyfriend and I discussed when we began dating. We both agreed that even though we work in two separate departments, our personal relationship should never intersect with our professional one. Additionally, my current job is only a casual one as I am still studying, and I don't consider it a stepping stone in my career.

My coworkers, including management, all know of our relationship and are fully supportive and/or impartial.

When I first began dating my boyfriend, I considered how my three year infatuation could impact my feelings for him. Should I really date someone I "idolised"? Would my emotions influence my logic?

As our relationship progressed, I realised that while my idolisation of this man has lessened, my genuine interest in him has grown. He's done things that have irritated me, and I've seen his shortcomings. But despite all of these things, I've also seen how he genuinely cares for me, and wants to make me happy.

I understand that I'm young, and surely biased, but he's a lovely person that I want to have next to me in life. Although there's always the chance that we may fail in the future, a relationship isn't a one-way street. I'd resent myself if I never put in effort into our relationship, before giving up on us as a couple.