It is so encouraging that Sheri Valera, a 21-year old University of Florida political science major and a fellow delegate to the 2004 Republican National Convention, believing in not kissing until her wedding day. The interview in the Fall 2003 edition of Orange and Blue University of Florida magazine: http://www.jou.ufl.edu/Pubs/onb/F03/liplocked.htm

By SCARLETT WILLIAMS

There's a Gainesville legend that says if a University of Florida student graduates and is still a virgin, a brick will fall from Century Tower. But what will happen if one graduates before sharing his or her first kiss? Will the Tower just crumble to pieces? Well, we'll see when political science junior Sheri Valera finishes school.

Photo illustration by: Cassandra Zwick

While it might seem unbelievable that this head-turning, green-eyed brunette has never kissed a boy, it's true. Valera has decided to wait until marriage to lock lips. Through her no-kissing stance, she's determined to set an example for girls to have higher standards and to wait until they meet "the one."

O&B: What's up with the no kissing policy?
Sheri: To guard my heart. It protects me emotionally and spiritually.

O&B: If a guy were to kiss you, how would you feel?
Sheri: I'd slap him because that shows he is thinking only of himself.

O&B: Don't you get the urge?
Sheri: Sure, but when I spend time with a guy, I surround myself with friends to not put myself in the situation.

O&B: Does this mean you have kissed dating goodbye as well?
Sheri: No, but the guy has to initiate it.

O&B: Do kissing scenes in movies make you squirm?
Sheri: Some movies I'm like 'Awww.' But most movies, the girl is too good for the guy. I'm like 'NOOOO! Get your hands off! R-E-S-P-E-C-T!' and want to sing Aretha Franklin.

O&B: Are you nervous about your first kiss being in front of everyone at your wedding?
Sheri: Yeah. But at the same time it will be a great encouragement to a lot of younger girls who are single.