As Valentine’s Day draws near at Stanford University, many students are preparing for first dates, but not with individuals they swiped right on Tinder or Hinge. Instead, they are turning to Date Drop, a service created by Stanford graduate student Henry Weng. Date Drop matches students with potential dates weekly based on their responses to a detailed questionnaire.
With the online dating scene becoming increasingly frustrating and demoralizing, young adults are seeking alternatives. Date Drop has gained popularity at Stanford, with over 5,000 students trying out the service since its launch. The platform has expanded to 10 more schools, including MIT, Princeton, and the University of Pennsylvania, and Weng has plans to introduce Date Drop in more cities this summer.
Weng initially conceived Date Drop as a project for campus use, but after witnessing a close friend find their partner through the platform, he realized its potential as a startup venture. The Relationship Company, a public benefit corporation founded by Weng, now encompasses Date Drop as its flagship service.
The success of Date Drop has attracted angel investors, including prominent figures like Mark Pincus, Andy Chen, and Elad Gil. Weng envisions The Relationship Company as a platform that facilitates all types of meaningful relationships, not just romantic ones.
Unlike traditional dating apps that focus on short-term matches, Date Drop prioritizes forging long-term connections. Weng’s algorithm is designed to predict compatibility based on in-depth questionnaires and real-world outcomes of matches. His background in computer science and expertise in matching theory have been instrumental in shaping the platform’s approach.
Apart from his technical skills, Weng credits his experience in a “Intro to Clown” class for teaching him valuable lessons in embracing failure and resilience, essential qualities for a startup founder. The Relationship Company currently has a small team, including campus ambassadors, who share the mission of fostering meaningful relationships.
Weng believes that relationships are fundamental to a person’s well-being and happiness. He encourages his employees to prioritize relationships by offering a monthly “relationship stipend” that can be used for dates, gifts, or experiences that strengthen important connections.
Through his work with Date Drop and The Relationship Company, Weng has gained a deeper appreciation for the diversity of people and relationships around him. The platform has opened his eyes to the possibilities of connecting with individuals outside of one’s usual social circles, enriching his perspective on human relationships.
