How many years apart is your significant other?

The maturity level varies greatly at such young ages. A 17 year old could be far more mature than a 16 year old. That's why it's important to stay close to similar ages. I wouldn't go more than two years +/-. Also, I don't think collegians should date high school-aged kids. The worlds are too different. When you get older, age is far less important. Most people are at the same maturity level over 30. I hope that helps.

I'm 3 years older than my husband, but we met when I was 26 and he was 23, so we were adults for a few years. He's the only younger guy that I dated, but I think that as you get older, age differences become less and less important.

At 17 and 18, if you feel you must date, I think you should be trying to stay close to your age, so maybe in the 16 to 19 range?

I'd say +- 2years