Dear Steve,

I'm currently a college senior, and it's been an intense and exciting few months moving toward graduation. I have a boyfriend I've been with for almost two years, but we're unsure about where our relationship should go. He is going back home, across the country, and then a few months later to the other side of the world for a fellowship. I'm very proud and happy for him, but totally devastated for us as a couple. It feels like the only option is for us to break up, as I have no idea when we could be together next.

We could possibly visit each other while he stays in the country, but then he's gone for a year, and while I’m aware we can keep in touch online and on the phone, it’s just not the same. Also, and understandably, he doesn't yet have a plan for after his fellowship, so I have no idea if we'll be near each other.

How do I deal with this impending breakup? I want to enjoy the time we have left together, but lately I feel sad every time I'm around him. Also, it's so hard for me to stop thinking that maybe we'll get back together one day. I know I'm young and have plenty of time to meet people and explore myself, but it's hard to have a positive outlook right now.

I love him so much and can't imagine being without him, physically or emotionally.

– Graduation