“Because “dating with no purpose” usually leads to purpose, at least in my experience and those of the people around me…. Obviously, our friendship was not just friendship. And we started out l’toeles – as lab partners in Computer Science.”
I think you only strengthen R’ Moshe’s psak- You were originally only “socializing” for school purposes and look how far it led (B”H to a wedding!) Certainly boys and girsl who socialize “just for fun” can have the relationship turn to so much more (and unfortunately, it’s not always a wedding first!)