My stance on relationships is that it is best to wait at a young age to focus more on growth and education and any other interests that you wish to pursue. You're free, enjoy it. Live and love life. For you though, since you are 18 and not so young anymore. Relationships are a well and fundamental way to grow a beneficial respect for another person who also shares the same feelings as you do to them. Now, I cannot say it is love mainly because I myself have never experienced it and I believe there are multiple meanings other than just "love". But what I can say, is once you find whatever feeling or special connection you have between a partner it must be held onto. Taken to full extent, and both parties should be responsible for this. Otherwise, it may lead to a very harmful relationship if one is giving more than the other.

I personally myself haven't dated, and I am not ashamed of it. Given the choice, I still wouldn't because I find myself to be an unfit partner for anyone as of now. I'm too focused on more important things right now and I fear that would negatively impact any relationship. Once I have completed my studies I will then hope to find myself a lover. One that I could have not have had in Middle School or High School because I would've wanted to devote as much time, love and care to as possible and not been able to. So out of respect to those I hold feelings towards, I believe it's best to wait until you're willing to commit to that other person.