if you go into the options, you'll see a Dating Sim sorta option in (i Believe the first tab when you open it up (it should be at the bottom with some other checklist like options) when you remove this option, it'll remove the dating requirements and will only be based on how high there romance is. I've personally found it easier when those dating sim options are off to be in a relationship. Another thing you can do is try to find them at night or around campus, and talk to them (which is how I've been getting friends).