The concept of true love is fading away because everyone has a plan. (Well, everyone is 'expected' to have a plan.) This plan consists of some steps, and these steps are taken based on data obtained from observing the steps taken by other people. Every now and then, somebody will give you a good plan that is 'supposed to' work, because it has worked for a number of people, except there is no guarantee that the same plan will work for you.

True love does not happen in microseconds. It starts from a special moment and it builds up over time. It can start in childhood or adolescence. It can start when all your hair are white. There are ups and downs in every relationship.

As far as dating is concerned, it is nothing but testing compatibility with a person. There is no guarantee that dating will lead to a relationship. There is no guarantee that a relationship requires dating. There is no official rule book on dating.

You are 18, man. Getting a girlfriend for the sake of 'having a girlfriend' is counterproductive to your other life goals. Just enjoy your life and watch out of signs.