30 People Share The Juiciest Details About How Their High School Crush Ended Up As Adults

High school crushes are one of the most exciting phenomena ever. The truth is, having a high school crush is almost a staple thing everyone experiences, regardless of how silly they may seem.

We’ve all had the one person that gave us butterflies just at the thought of them, not to mention those crazy wobbly legs and red hues on our cheeks. 

Asides from having crushes of our own, we’ve lived vicariously through movie characters. We bet you watched the high school rom-com and encouraged one kid over the screen to tell their crush how they feel about them after months of pining over them.

The most incredible thing, however, is seeing your high school crush years later and having a good laugh at the days when they had such a hold on you.

One Redditor wanted to remind others about those crazy days of blushing and being tongue-tied. They asked, "How did your high school crush turn out as an adult?"

Redditors couldn’t hold themselves back from sharing. And we can tell you for free they sure were some juicy responses.

We’ve compiled the most interesting responses shared, so grab some popcorn and saddle up for a ride!

1. He had a rollercoaster of a life

I admire him more than ever, and more than most people I know, but can't wrap my head around why I ever found him physically attractive. Maybe it was always just his heart.By age 25, he had a PhD, a wife, and was a captain in the navy. By 30, he had two PhDs, a small business where he made a metric a*s-ton of money, and his wife was pregnant. By 31 he was diagnosed with stage-4 skin cancer that swiftly spread to his lymph nodes, bones, esophagus, and a few other places. He was told he had minimal chance of making it 5 more years. Even with the best health insurance money can buy, it still basically wiped him out.Seven years later, he's living a comfortable but not extravagant life as a civilian contractor for the navy, same wife and two happy healthy kids, and spends most of his free time advocating for better public health care.theMycon

2. My high school ex randomly sent me a text years after we split up

The text went, "I know you don't like metal, but I thought you'd like this" and a link to a clarinet cover of a metal song (I played in HS).Little did he know that I hated playing clarinet and I was now a total metal head.justAHeardOfLlamas

3. Became a leading surgeon in a major city.

Pretty impressive, if you ask us!

usagiyojimbo808

The Complexity of Adult Relationships

Dr. Helen Fisher's research on romantic relationships emphasizes the shifting dynamics that occur as individuals transition from adolescence to adulthood. As people grow and change, their relationships with past crushes often evolve, reflecting personal growth and changing values. This is particularly relevant in the context of high school relationships, where initial infatuations can reveal deeper patterns in adult romantic choices.

Understanding these dynamics can provide valuable insights into how early relationships impact future partnerships, influencing emotional availability and attachment styles.

The Psychology of High School Crushes

The phenomenon of high school crushes often stems from a combination of biological and social factors. Dr. Helen Fisher, a biological anthropologist, suggests that the intense emotions associated with crushes are driven by neurochemical changes in the brain, particularly the release of dopamine and norepinephrine. This creates a sense of euphoria and excitement, making these feelings particularly memorable. Understanding the psychological underpinnings of these experiences can provide insight into how they shape our future relationships.

4. My friends high school crush was Tom Holland.

Like they went to the same school

We can relate. It’s Tom Holland; nobody can fault this crush.

5im5am

5. My crush turned into a self-righteous pr*ck who still lives with his parents.

He became livid when he found out my husband and I had a baby. I apparently was supposed to be his back-up plan if he couldn’t find anyone better.Pixie_gurl

6. I believe he’s moved away and is a teacher now.

This person definitely deserves a lot better.

breezylova

The stories shared about high school crushes often highlight the nostalgia associated with those formative experiences. Nostalgia can serve as a powerful emotional tool, evoking memories that foster a sense of connection to our past selves. According to research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, experiencing nostalgia can enhance feelings of social connectedness and improve self-esteem.

Reflecting on past relationships can help individuals understand the lessons learned and the emotional growth achieved over time, aiding in the development of healthier future relationships.

Furthermore, the social context of high school can amplify the emotional stakes associated with crushes. According to research from the Journal of Adolescent Research, the peer dynamics and social hierarchies within high schools can intensify feelings of infatuation. The desire for validation and acceptance often fuels these crushes, leading individuals to idealize their objects of affection. This idealization can complicate future interactions, as it may set unrealistic expectations for romantic relationships later in life.

7. Still super hot

She married some loser and has a few kids with him. That loser was me. Just celebrated 22 years of marriage.BobSacramanto

8. The guy I crushed on for 2 and a half years did not end up turning out great. The second however...

I'm still friends with his younger sister, so I know that he recently acquired his third DUI and his second divorce. He's currently living in his friend's basement and occasionally works for his friend's moving company as a mover, but only when he feels like it. He spends all his money on booze and owes the two moms of his 5 kids tons of child support. But man, was he hot in high school.My second crush in high school is the only reason I got over my first crush. He's currently doing great, mostly because he gets to be married to me for going on 20 years :D.

You’ve just gotta love second crushes

I_Want_A_Llama

9. She passed away our senior year, six months after she agreed to marry me after we graduated

How tragic!

MightyCaseyStruckOut

The Influence of Shared Experiences

Shared experiences play a significant role in shaping relationships, as noted by Dr. Barbara Fredrickson's 'broaden-and-build' theory. Positive interactions and shared memories can enhance social bonds, leading to greater relational satisfaction. When individuals recount their experiences with high school crushes, they often reflect on the emotions and connections that defined those moments.

Creating opportunities for shared experiences in adult relationships can help foster deeper connections and enhance mutual understanding, ultimately contributing to more satisfying partnerships.

The Lasting Impact of First Crushes

Interestingly, first crushes can have a lasting impact on individuals' romantic preferences and attachment styles. Research suggests that early experiences with crushes can influence how individuals approach relationships in adulthood. For instance, those who experienced rejection during their first crush may develop anxious attachment styles, which can manifest in future relationships. This underscores the importance of understanding the emotional ramifications of early romantic experiences.

10. Overdosed and died last year.

I got to see him before he was taken off life support with a really good mutual friend we shared (organ donor too). It was surreal seeing him dwarfed by all these machines. He had one the largest hearts I’ve ever come across.

A painful loss, no doubt.

Voltage_Biter

11. Multiple degrees, on track to being a full-time educator, mother of two, and my wife

Congratulations are in order!

KJR506

12. Still a ten for looks.

I'm sure she kept on as the amazing, kind person she is. She moved to another country, speaks multiple languages and is more successful than I imagined. She seems happy but we haven't talked since the time I told her how I felt about her about 20 years ago.gorgonheap

Moreover, the role of emotional intelligence in adult relationships cannot be overstated. Dr. John Gottman's research on relationship dynamics underscores the importance of understanding and managing emotions in romantic partnerships. Couples who practice emotional intelligence are better equipped to navigate conflicts and enhance intimacy, leading to healthier relationships.

Encouraging open communication and empathy in adult partnerships can help individuals learn from past relationships and cultivate more fulfilling connections in the future.

Moreover, sharing stories about high school crushes can foster connection among peers. According to research in the field of social psychology, discussing shared experiences helps build rapport and strengthen social bonds. This can create a sense of community and understanding, as individuals relate to one another through their experiences of infatuation and heartbreak. Sharing these stories can also serve as a form of catharsis, allowing individuals to reflect on their growth and development.

13. Dead by 32, drugs

Say NO to Drugs!

anon

14. My only GF in high school was my crush.

Her mom banned her from dating me after about a year because my GF admitted to her mom that we were fooling around. This was about 20 years ago.She’s still living with her mom, no kids, and as far as I know never again dated seriously after her mom broke us up. Still has the same job from high school too. It’s like her mom went way into protective overdrive and my former GF never grew up.USPO-222

15. Still cute as heck, one of the kindest and most sensitive people I know, and still one of my best friends 15 years later

A possible love story. We’re rooting for them!Snish_Woogis

Practical Takeaways for Navigating Crushes

To navigate the complexities of crushes, individuals should focus on developing self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Experts recommend journaling about one's feelings to gain clarity and insight into emotional responses. This practice can help individuals process their feelings and make informed decisions about how to approach their crushes. Additionally, seeking support from friends can provide valuable perspectives and encouragement during these emotionally charged experiences.

16. She is actually a very successful artist and an art teacher at a renowned university in France

She even got decorated for her work (Chevalier des arts et des lettres)chinchenping

17. She worked with the Obama administration and got married to some politician’s son

She is happy and that’s the only thing that matters, oh she was also our schools Valedictorian she was so busy with her job she could not organizeour high school reunion so that’s a plus. I wasn’t head over heels for her I admired her but I knew I wasn’t for her.Then there’s another crush of mine, we ran into each other years after graduation at grocery store. After talking I asked her out to dinner at my house, I pull out all the stops I buy rainbow trout filets and make all the fixings.6:30 rolls around I open the door and “who the hell is this man behind her?” Oh this is my fiancé , she tells (neglected to tell me about) me. Turns out they wanted to sell me on some MLM thing. She tried to cross the threshold I put my arm out and asked them politely to leave. I turned away from the door and had my saddest meal I ever ate.Gunslinger_11

18. Became a professional cheerleader, Died of breast cancer at 34.

Googling names from high school is crazy!

Cancer strikes again. Terrible!

frijolita_bonita

19. She's married with a couple of kids now, so pretty standard life I guess.

I briefly worked with mine and didn't realise it was her until I left for another job. She looked almost unrecognisable, but it was 15 years after I last saw her.anon

20. Went on to be a teenaged model for hair products

That's not all...

She also graduated from Yale, toured Europe, opened her own successful ceramics company that is sold worldwide and is often written up in magazines. Makes me feel like s**t every time I think of herdogchowtoastedcheese

21. He’s 32 and still works at the same pizza place and is a conspiracy theorist

I feel like I dodged a bullet.

At least he can whip up a nice Pizza.

thrashglam

22. Haha, my husband!

Our first marriages didn't work out and we reconnected after our divorces. If only I would have confessed I had a crush on him in high school, might have saved myself a lot of trouble... Lol

The second time was the charm.

Pineapple-dancer

23. Hot douche who doesn’t really do much except go to the gym.

To be fair, that’s how he was in high school, I just liked it back then.kevin_moran

24. An insanely talented molecular biology researcher at Boston

And she’s still insanely attractive

He should totally hit her up.

sderou20

25. He’s an attractive gay man.

 I am none of those things.

MelScarn

26. Pretty good. Seems to have her life together, although she had a few setbacks.

She's gone back to uni since job prospects in here field kinda sucked, but seems to be really enjoying it. She's dating me though, so clearly her judgement sucks.

A win for sure.

boltgun_to_the_face

27. One of them is homeless and a druggie. The other one is famous in his home country, is a best selling author

I guess they balance one another out.secondofmyname

28. My English teacher still looks fine as f**k

We certainly didn't see this coming.

vouch4meplz

29. Began acting

It’s weird - every so often I’ll see a commercial or something and be like “oh, hey, I know them!” My crush is an incredibly sweet person, so I’m glad.BitwiseB

30. I had three. One from the first two years and two from the last two.

The first one is now F to M trans, who walked to Colorado to join a cult/commune. He is now in Arizona recording rap albums.The second girl moved to Florida and lives in a swamp. She periodically hits me up to tell me she misses me, how dumb I was that I didn't follow through, that we should get married.The third was a missionary. She wasn't really into it once she grew up, came back home and I introduced her to one of my closest friends. They've been married for 15 years.DrRoborknik

High school crushes are some of the most memorable crushes a person will ever have. That’s why these people had no problem remembering them.

We bet reading this took you down memory lane too. Let’s have a little fun! Tell us about how your high school crush turned out in the comments below.

Expert Opinion

This discussion on high school crushes highlights the intense emotions and social dynamics that influence adolescent experiences. It's interesting to see how these early interactions can shape individuals' future relationships and attachment styles.

Dr Emily Carter

Psychologist

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

Ultimately, high school crushes are a natural part of adolescent development that can shape our understanding of relationships. By reflecting on these experiences, individuals can gain insights into their romantic preferences and emotional patterns. Emphasizing self-awareness and open communication can help navigate these formative experiences and foster healthier relationships in the future.

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In summary, reflecting on high school crushes and their evolution into adult relationships offers valuable insights into personal growth and emotional development. Research supports the idea that shared experiences and emotional intelligence play critical roles in shaping relational satisfaction. By understanding these dynamics, individuals can foster healthier, more fulfilling adult relationships.