If you’re new to these parts, last month we launched our SingleRoots Online Dating Experiment. The gist: We gave away 3-month online dating subscriptions to each of the top-rated online dating sites in our Best Christian Dating Sites reviews. In exchange, the recipients will allow us to ride along on their online dating experience. And by “ride along,” we don’t mean we’re actually going on a date with them; the recipients just promise to share their experiences with us.
Micah is 34 and from New Orleans, Louisiana. (You can read his introductory interview here.) He received a 3-month subscription to Christian Mingle. When we checked in with Micah about his first month, here’s what he had to say:
On a scale of 1 to solving a Rubik’s cube, how difficult was the process of signing up and completing your profile?
Micah: For me the first difficulty was simply adjusting to a new platform. I had gotten used to one dating website and had to adjust Christian Mingle. Second, the signing up and registering wasn’t linear. It was less like going down an assembly line and more like walking into an unfamiliar house. I didn’t know where things were, or where I needed to put my things.
What are your first impressions?
Micah: I’m going to keep going with the house metaphor. My first impression of Christian Mingle was the house was cluttered. I saw ads and various components, and I wasn’t sure how they fit together. Also, it initially felt impersonal. The ads and clutter partly contributed to this for me. Also, the user name depersonalized the experience. Instead of associating a name with a face, it’s a number or abbreviation or clever call names.
Have you had any dates yet?
Micah: Nope. I corresponded with one woman who inquired about a picture, but nothing beyond that. I haven’t reached out to anyone either. Still settling in.
What is the most frustrating thing about online dating so far?
Micah: The most frustrating thing for me is the distance that online dating fosters. I can’t talk to the person face to face to know if I even want to get to know them. To be sure, the info we post on our profile does help, but as with all of us, it’s selective.
What’s been the most exciting thing about online dating so far?
Micah: The job I work totally limits my ability to date within that sphere. What’s exciting to me is seeing that there are options for dates out there.
Okay, so you’re one month in. On a scale of 1 to Tom Cruise jumping on Oprah’s couch, how do you feel about online dating at this point?
Micah: From 1-10, I say a 6. As disorienting as it is, I also enjoy the challenge of learning my way around new terrain. The potential of meeting someone is always out there, and that’s exciting. Also, it’s fun learning what types of women I’m interested in or would be compatible with. The self-learning that takes place in online dating is fun for me.
Have you ever had a paid Christian Mingle subscription? Do you share any similarities or differences to Micah’s first-month experience? Tell us about it below!
