Should I try to start a relationship if it can't last?

Ok, so I'm in college now, and I never had a real relationship. I'm kinda aloof and cynical when it comes to these kinds of things, so I never to too far out of my way to pursue them. But something changed.I met this guy, and I really like him. Possibly more than I liked anyone before. I like to introspect and think, and he's really smart and contemplative, and I never met a guy who I felt was so intellectually stimulating. I don't want to bore everyone with the details but it's like I finally found someone I genuinely like and am attracted to. Maybe for the first time ever.But he's on a scholarship from another country, and when his studies end in like a year he will have to go back for at least 7 years to work there. I really like him and I think he likes me too, so part of me thinks that if I pursue this I can have a year of fun and be truly happy. But the other part of me thinks like "what is the point" because I'll either be rejected or, even if not, sad when it has to end.Idk what to do