I (22F) am honestly so tired of the dating pool in this generation. I have mostly avoided it altogether because I’ve found that most men seem to have lost a sense of chivalry and ambition in life. I’ve had brief talking stages with men who think it’s perfectly acceptable to roll over and ask ME to pay for a first date they asked ME on, or go 50/50, which I personally do not believe in (at least on a FIRST date… because he should be trying to impress me). I’m not high maintenance or expect expensive gifts or restaurants, I just want someone who is working towards a similar lifestyle as myself.

I am tired of men who have nothing and are okay with that. My future career path has me on a track to earn $200,000+ and I would prefer someone who has similar financial ambitions for us to live off of. I’d met so many guys who don’t have cars, have kids and baby mamas, work at a fast food restaurant, and are OLDER THAN ME. I just want to have someone that is at a similar point in life financially and goal-wise as I am. For example, I have a bachelor’s degree, so I would expect someone I’m dating to have a bachelor’s degree or be working towards it. I have a car, so I expect someone i’m dating to have their own transportation as well.

To ensure this, I’ve taken the approach of asking guys right when I meet them several questions so I don’t waste my time. I will always ask if they have kids, a degree, and a car before anything, but I don’t know if I come across as too picky or off-putting by being so direct. AITA for asking about my basic preferences so soon?

LET ME BE CLEAR: I CAN AFFORD TO PAY FOR MYSELF IF I WERE GOING TO RUTHS CHRIS OR STARBUCKS. AND THE RULE WHERE HE PAYS FOR THE FIRST DATE ONLY APPLIES IF HE ASKS, AND APPLIES TO THE FIRST DATE ONLY.