Questions for Jessica

Why did you participate in this experiment?

All my relationships keep failing. Am I fucking them up, or have I not met the right guy? Tim and I have been friends for years, and we always make fun of each other about our relationship problems. I wonder if putting two people together with opposite issues could help. Plus, these problems seem to be common with many other girls and guys we know, so I want to learn more about love and relationships in an attempt to figure out why.

Do you like dating?

I prefer being single or being in a relationship. Dating can be fun, but it can also just be painfully awkward.

What is difficult about dating in NYC?

Everyone is too busy and thinks they can do better. I can be shy around new people, so I’ve had a hard time meeting guys here. For a long while the only interest I was getting was from a construction worker who would catcall near 15th street. Eventually I tried online dating, and I did meet some great guys, but it didn’t work out with any of them.

When was your last serious relationship?

It ended a year and a half ago. It was painful since we were very much in love. We had many wonderful years together, we lived together, and we had a dog together. However, after discovering he was lying to me for months, the relationship deteriorated.

What do you think about Tim’s current dating life?

Tim disappears on girls soon after things start to get serious. I don’t think there is anything wrong with him dating around if he is honest about it, but I do think he is leading some of these girls on unintentionally. It would be nice if he developed a healthier perspective towards relationships, so if he does meet a great girl, he doesn’t fuck it up.

Do you really need companionship or do you just hate being alone?

I do enjoy being single. I just enjoy being in a loving healthy relationship even more.

What do you love most about being in a relationship?

It’s nice to have someone you can give and receive love and support with. To have someone you can laugh, learn, grow, and explore the world with … and cuddle with. Cuddling is the best.

Are your parents together? What is their relationship like?

They married young at age 23 and have been together for 30 years. They have a very loving and supportive relationship. They are each other’s best friend.

Do you think your parents’ situation directly influences your relationships?

My mom said that I am getting older and I should be less picky or I might wind up as a lonely cat lady. But I know what I like and what I am looking for, and I don’t want to compromise. I just hope I can find a “partner in crime” like my parents did. I am not so interested in marriage or kids yet, just someone wonderful to share life with.

Are you nervous about this experiment?

Of course I am nervous, as I have no idea what the outcome will be. But I am always up for strange experiences and crazy experiments!