It’s not as easy after college to meet new people.   Networking is also a valuable way to meet friends and dates.   Andrea Syrtash, special editor of How To Survive The Real World: Life After College Graduation (Hundreds of Heads, $13.95), provides 5 great tips from the book on meeting new friends and dates. 

1)      Write out your “must have”/ “can't stand” list: It can be as silly as wanting a partner to sing in tune, to something as serious as feeling you need to be with someone of the same faith. Whatever is important to you, make a list of ten “must haves” and “can't stands” in a potential mate.

2)       "Pick up" singles for friendship. One issue that singles face is that they feel like the minority amongst their good friends who may have coupled off. By meeting other singles at parties, book clubs, the gym or other social outings, you're more likely to enjoy your single-hood.

3)       Network to create your own possibilities. It’s all about attitude—if you act like you're ready to have fun and would love to meet someone great, people will be compelled to help.  Ask five people if they know a few people you may be interested in. Once you've done your “must have” / “can't stand” list, you can highlight a few things when asked what you're looking for. 

4) Believe in quantity to find quality. Sign up for a few months of online dating.

For many adults it may be hard to get over the fact that it's not as romantic to meet a person this way. There's a good chance you'll make a connection with somebody; but even if you don't, you're practicing your dating muscle and think of all the funny stories to share with others!

5)      Be too busy to notice you're single. Many meet the loves of their lives when they are too excited about their own endeavors and hardly have time to schedule a date. Re-connect with all the fabulous dreams and talents you haven't tapped into in recent years.  Make a list of a few things you want to do and pick one that you can complete this year.  It'll be great for you—and great for the person you meet who will be drawn to your exciting life.