Spring is in the air, bringing the opportunity for a spring fling. Those who have more trouble with relationships will have a chance to improve their dating skills Thursday.

Mike Domitrz, author and relationship expert, will speak about dating problems that individuals frequently encounter in the Great Hall of the Memorial Union as part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

“The most common relationship problem today revolves around a lack of communication. If partners make assumptions about their relationship without talking openly and honestly, confusion and frustration often arise,” Domitrz said.

Amy Goldsmith, sophomore in graphic design, said relationships during college face many barriers but are important for personal growth.

“College relationships are fun, but are work and take a lot of commitment,” she said.

“They are good for setting up initial bonds that can last for a lifetime.”

Domitrz wrote, “May I Kiss You? A Candid Look at Dating, Communication, Respect & Sexual Assault Awareness,” which was inspired by his sister’s experience with sexual assault. Domitrz said he plans to tell audience members about dating mistakes he has made and mistakes he has seen others make.

Domitrz said the model used in today’s relationships is flawed.

“The current dating system involves one partner going until the other stops them. I explain some dating skills that will help end the guessing game,” he said.

Ellen Semran, co-chairperson of Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Margaret Sloss Women’s Center graduate assistant, said ISU community members have wanted to invite Domitrz to the university in the past. She said now is an opportune time to take advantage of Domitrz’s unique point of view.

“We knew that he was in high demand, so we were determined to bring him to our campus. He is a phenomenal speaker who is personal in his delivery. Often females are the ones addressing sexual assault issues, so he can offer a unique perspective to this problem that can affect everyone,” Semran said.

Domitrz said he hopes to improve the love lives of all who attend. Attendees will leave with a new sense of confidence, he said. Discussion will include the right way to deal with a relationship and the tactics that will lead to personal success.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and the women’s center has planned many activities. A complete schedule can be found at www.dso.iastate.edu/wc.

“Violence, abuse and sexual assault can and do affect everyone either directly or indirectly. Our goal is to unify men, women and children against violence and to increase the awareness about this important, but often silent issue,” Semran said of the month’s activities.

Admission to Domitrz’s lecture is free, and the first 50 attendees will receive a free “Can I Kiss You?” T-shirt.