[SamMarie]

If it is too much to her, you should understand that. College is a lot of stress as it is already and it is true that dating someone is stressful. I don't think you'd be losing her if you've been friends for more than a decade now since it has been that long. It seems that commitment there is true in itself. However, there are other ways to contact her like Skype (webcaming), visiting each other when the times are right, etc. It's not impossible, but whether the strategies I suggested will work between you both is something you both have to agree and commit to. If these ways are feasible, just continue to assure her in the best way that you can. It isn't easy, but I'm sure it's worth the stress. Be there for each other. Good luck!