She's young, talented and famous, but Ciara says that doesn't necessarily mean that dating is easy.

"It's definitely tough at times," the "Like a Boy" singer, 21, tells PEOPLE. "I'm now past my year mark of being single, and I've got to say I'm a big fan of love. Being in a relationship is one of the most beautiful things, and I'm looking forward to being in a relationship."

At the same time, Ciara – who dated rapper Bow Wow for a year before they split in April 2006 – says she's in no rush to get back into something serious.

"I'm also at a place where I want to be patient and do it right," she says. "I'm one of those girls that when I date, I date to marry, so I like to take my time and really get to know a person. I do meet people and run across people, but it's all about building a friendship."

Labels: Ciara