your turn b*tches…

By isabella castelo

There are experts in every field: medical experts, financial experts, parenting experts, expert artists, talented musicians. The list is as long as there are hobbies and occupations—so it’s pretty much endless. 

There are relationship experts. You can find them in the form of couples therapists, experienced parents who have “seen it all,” or that friend that’s been in a relationship for 10 months but swears they’re going to marry their partner. These guys have a lot of great stuff to offer, I’m sure, but I have something they don’t have: No experience. 

I, Isabella Castelo, grew up without romance. There were no summer flings, no horrible (or even not so horrible) highschool relationships, no one night stands, and definitely no sex. You might know me from my previous blogs where I explore the influence my loveless life had on my growing up, my self-esteem, and my current relationships. I’m obsessed with love because I never had it. I dissected this obsession and tired it out until I thought I could go no further. Now, I want to hear from you. Your romance, your summer flings, your horrible highschool relationships, and definitely about all your sex! Give me the good and the bad, come as you are. Each week I will read through all your stories (anonymous of course) and hand-pick my favorite. Then, I’ll take the liberty to give my opinion on your less-than-perfect love life and maybe try to give you some advice on how to move forward. Don’t worry… I won’t shy away from telling you when to quit it and move on. 

The past two years analyzing all of my life choices, which are all available in the Your Mag archive, taught me that my experience with no experience is valuable. I, like a bold, naive child, can give you the advice or wake up call or slightly witty comment you need to take control of your love life. 

There’s a lot we can learn from each other, so don’t knock me until you try me. Send me a submission at 3am with tears in your eyes… I’m not too proud to be your last resort. Or maybe you just got into a new relationship and you are noticing the beginnings of some red flags but don’t want to be too dramatic. I’ll let you know if you should run or if you need to relax. Perhaps you’re annoyed with a friend who won’t shut up about this guy or that girl… it’s a safe space here, and I’m a nosey motherfucker, so spill!  

I was obsessed with my love life, or lack thereof, for so long. Now, I’m ready to obsess over yours. I want the nitty gritty, the gory details. If your heart is hurting, you’ve come to the right place. I love love, and I’d love to hear from you. Submissions are rolling so email me at isabella_castelo@emerson.edu for your chance to hear from me… the newest expert(ish) on love.

Love, 

Isabella