College Stories. My Girlfriend Is Too Naive--- ... May 2026

If she’s open to it, suggest these college survival habits:

College felt like an experiment in selfhood—stretching beliefs until they either tore or grew new seams. Lena’s “naivety” taught me that some risks are worth taking: the risk of being open to friendships that start weirdly and grow tenderly; the risk of believing people can change. My skepticism taught her the practicality of boundaries: checking references, keeping digital security tight, and saying “no” without apologizing. College Stories. My Girlfriend is too naive--- ...

When she makes a questionable choice, ask: If she’s open to it, suggest these college

This builds her critical thinking instead of making her dependent on you. This builds her critical thinking instead of making

You can inform, protect, and advise. But if you try to control or lecture her, you’ll become the bad guy. College is where people learn from their own mistakes—sometimes expensive ones.

We’ve all met that one person in college: bright, kind-hearted, but with a view of the world that’s a little too trusting. When that person is your girlfriend, “naivety” can go from endearing to worrying very quickly.

If you’re feeling this way, you’re not alone. Here’s how to navigate it with empathy, not condescension.