Name: Athina Wang and Florence Shin

Website: shopcovry.com

Twitter Handle: @shopcovry

Instagram Handle: @shopcovry

Let's face it: We all want to be the boss b*tches we were born to be, and we're willing to learn how to be the bosses of our own life because, frankly, we could use the insight. Thankfully, Covry founders Athina Wang and Florence Shin have a plethora of business and entrepreneurial knowledge to help us learn how to hone our personal version of professional success. 

If you aren't familiar with Covry and the company's stylish sun specs, then Athina and Florence might have something to fill that void in your summer lookbook because Covry's designs somehow make the most minimalistic frames seem extra. Beyond crafting Covry's fashionable fits, Athina and Florence talk about the importance of listening to customer feedback, how to ignite a business and learning from business hiccups. 

Her Campus: What does your current job entail and is there such a thing as a typical day?

Florence Shin and Athina Wang: When you have your own business and you’re an entrepreneur, no day is the same, ever. Both of us work very collaboratively. So we have a hand in pretty much every department, in product development, design, marketing to sales. So, it’s really common for something to come up and then that project has to take priority for the day, and we just try to plan or do the best that we can. I think that it’s the spontaneity that can come up that really keeps us on our toes. And, that’s what’s exciting about entrepreneurship.

HC: Absolutely, and having that malleable nature in your line of work kind of leaves you open to more opportunities in a sense.

F&A: Right, exactly.

HC: Then, what’s the best part of your job, in your opinion?

F&A: The best part of our job is definitely hearing from our customers. The customer feedback has been so instrumental in our business, from the products that we make to design details--everything, even with our customer service. We take our customer feedback seriously, and it’s really, really helpful.

We’ve made designs based off of what our customers have said, and they’ve become bestsellers. It is really awesome to hear what they think because we put so much effort into making this, and it’s really awesome to get such positive feedback and know that our frames have made a change in their life or made someone’s day. You know, things like that. That’s really motivating. That’s what pushes us forward in our business.

HC: Definitely, and just seeing how far your reach [to your customers] is, that’s amazing. Then, what was your first entry-level job in your field? And how did you get it?

AW: So for me, my last semester in college, I interned at the fashion organization. And as soon as I graduated, I was on full-time as an account coordinator, then I helped them with the branding and communications, beauty, fashion and retail brands.

FS: My first job, I interned at this fashion organizations, so they helped startup companies and growing apparel companies, and all ends of the fashion industry. Then, my boss, who was at the fashion organization, she connected me to an apparel production company. That’s where I started my career in the production. I got to travel overseas, and that’s all been really awesome for when we traded our own sunglass line because we manufacture overseas as well.

HC: That’s amazing. And then, what are some words of wisdom, whether is a quote from someone you know or a fun anecdote, do you find most valuable in your professional life?

F&A: Well, my boss used to say that fashion was always business, and it wasn’t just designing or making art. So, we already try to keep that at the back of our minds because, at the end of the day, our goal is to create a profitable business so that we can continue making beautiful products. And I mean, we work with a lot of designers, and it’s a common trait for designers to be really proud of their work and their art and to be focused on that. At the end of the day, you have to sell and you have to have a business, so that’s what we always try to keep in mind while we’re working.

HC: And what’s one mistake or a challenge that you’ve overcome that you’ve learned from along the way?

F&A: Well, there was a short period of time when we spent a lot of our time and energy and money on traditional advertising outlets. We did that mostly because it was something that we thought we had to do, because it was something that everyone was doing, and that’s what we were taught in business school and things like that. But, the results just didn't’ really meet our goals and expectations.

So, it forced us to kind of pull back and restrategize and just think of other creative channels to work on. But, I think the biggest thing that we learned from it was to don’t just do something because you think it’s the right thing to do because every business is unique. And something that works for one business might not work for your business. It just overall challenges you to think outside the box versus following the traditional route all the time.

HC: And I’m sure that helped you rebuild your personal brand, and as you said, you’ve restructured what you were doing with advertising. I think that’s a good piece of advice to learn from, in any industry.

F&A: Yeah.

HC: What’s been the most surreal moment of your career so far?

F&A: We were actually invited to speak at Harvard Business School’s Women’s Conferences in Entrepreneurship. We were on an amazing panel with such awesome women, and they all had very successful businesses. And, it was just such a great opportunity to share our experience in a room full of amazing women and to help them answer any questions they had. It was just fun to talk to other women who are interested in entrepreneurship.

HC: Definitely, and that’s amazing. Then, what do you look for when you’re considering hiring someone?

F&A: The biggest thing that we look for is people who are passionate and excited. I think it really shows not just in their personality but in their research. Like, have they researched our brand? Have they researched us? I think it just shows that they really want to be there, and they want to be a part of the team. Then, just overall, having a good attitude.

HC: Absolutely. I feel like attitude is often underrated in a lot of job seekers.

F&A: Yes, a great attitude goes a long way.

HC: And what advice would you give to a 20-something student who might have similar aspirations?

F&A: A lot of people have a bunch of ideas that they’re really passionate about, but the most important thing is just to get started. You know, it doesn’t really do much to have a bunch of ideas when you don’t actually execute anything. So, we always say whatever you think you want to do, just try it, and you can always start with baby steps. When we started, we started really slow. It was like one day we were like, ‘Oh, let’s get a business license.’ And the next day, it was something else. We didn’t try to go in tackling, ‘Let’s build a business today.’ It was baby steps, and we were able to think and grow because we took small steps. You’re able to actually go through the business and create the business that way. So, we always think it’s important to just get started, no matter what you’re doing.

HC: This is the last question: What’s the one thing that stood out to you most on a resume?

F&A: I mean, there are a lot of things, like experience is one of the most important things. If they have relevant experience that they can apply to their position with us, but we also like if they have a lot of experience working in different areas that may not be exactly the most relevant. That shows that they’re adaptable and flexible, and they have a great work ethic if they’ve had a lot of different positions.

We also really like people who have their own projects or hobbies that they’re really interested in because that tends to show more diversity in their life, as well.

Good morning Her Campus! With a break-neck news cycle, there is no possible way for you to stay on top of every story that comes across your feeds—we’re all only human, after all.

But, life comes at you fast. So grab a cup of coffee and settle in for this quick and dirty guide to stories you might’ve been sleeping on (like, literally. It’s early.)

Everything Happening with Brett Kavanaugh's Supreme Court Nomination

Public Hearing Confirmed for Sexual Assault Claims Against Kavanaugh

Christine Blasey Ford's lawyers have confirmed that she will testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday in regards to her accusation that Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her when they were teenagers. The lawyers made the announcement on Sunday, though they said certain details — like if an outside lawyer will question her, which Ford's lawyers have argued will give the hearing "a prosecutorial tone"— still need to be sorted out, The New York Times reported. 

Sen. Hirono Previews Kavanaugh's Hearing

Hawaii Democratic Senator Mazie Hirono revealed on Sunday what sort of questions she plans to ask Kavanaugh at Thursday's hearing. She's been a staunch critic of the judge — often doubting his credibility — and she told CNN's Jake Tapper that she'll use her position on the Senate Judiciary Committee to question Kavanaugh about his time in high school. "I would be wanting to hear what kind of environment it was in high school," she said. "Apparently, there was a lot of drinking and partying going on."

Hirono also discussed the possibility of an investigation into the accusations against Kavanaugh, even if he's confirmed to the Supreme Court. "Frankly, I have such concerns about this person getting to the Supreme Court," she said. "But, on the other hand, we know that — I know that Maryland has eliminated the statute of limitations for kidnapping and for sexual assault of a minor. And I think that is still out there. And so there may be an investigation along those lines. So, I think that this is a situation that is not going to go away."

Kavanaugh Might Be Hurting the GOP

A new NBC News-Wall Street Journal survey showed that Democrats are lading Republicans by 52 percent to 40 percent for control of Congress. According to CNN, Republicans were already worried that the accusations against Kavanaugh would turn away votes from suburban women, and that was before President Trump publicly questioned why Ford didn't come forward back when she was allegedly assaulted. "In swing states with governor's races and districts with House seats up for grabs -- particularly suburban regions where Democrats are counting on strong support from women -- the allegation facing Kavanaugh could be most politically potent, Democrats said," CNN reported.

Trump Administration Introducing Green Card Restrictions

Up until Saturday, when Trump administration officials announced the "Inadmissibility on Public Charge Grounds" rule, immigrants could legally use food assistance, Section 8 housing vouchers, and other public benefits. Now, utilizing these aid programs could put them at risk of being denied green cards. The Department of Homeland Security's website detailed the changes, and how immigration caseworkers will be required to note the use of public benefits as "heavily weighed negative factors" for people applying for green cards (which allow them to remain or become legal citizens in the US on a permanent basis). 

According to The New York Times, the restrictions "could force millions of poor immigrants who rely on public assistance for food and shelter to make a difficult choice between accepting financial help and seeking a green card to live and work legally in the United States."

But the Department of Homeland Security said the changes will "ensure that those seeking to enter and remain in the United States either temporarily or permanently can support themselves financially and will not be reliant on public benefits."

Congress Considering Big Changes to Airplanes

The House introduced legislation to give airplane passengers bigger seats, more legroom, and more as Congress faces a September 30 deadline to keep Federal Aviation Administration programs running. The proposed regulations are part of a five-year extension of FAA programs, which Democrats and Republicans announced on Saturday. In addition to increasing passenger space, the bill would also prohibit airlines from bumping passengers who have already boarded a plane. 

USA Today reported that the FAA just recently rejected the idea of imposing minimum standards for airplane seats and legroom in July. However, the new bill has received bipartisan support. Republican Senator John Thune, chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, even said he expects both the House and Senate to quickly pass the legislation. 

"Relief could soon be on the way for weary airline passengers facing smaller and smaller seats," Democratic Senator Bill Nelson said. According to USA Today, the room between rows has been rapidly shrinking overtime — going from the typical 34 or 35 inches between rows to now less than 30 inches on some planes. 

What to look for...

Fall TV! This week marks the return of a ton of your favorite shows. 

If you’ve taken a high school English class, chances are you’ve probably heard of F. Scott Fitzgerald—and you may have even read one of his novels or short stories. Fitzgerald, who rose to prominence at the height of the 1920s Jazz Age, was born on this day, September 24, in 1896 (he would’ve been 122 years old today!). So who was Fitzgerald, exactly?

Born in St. Paul, MN, Fitzgerald attended Princeton University, where his writing was published by several campus publications—however, his grades suffered, and he soon dropped out to join the army. He was stationed in Alabama, where he met Zelda Sayre, the other half of what was perhaps the most tumultuous couple of the early 20th century. After the war ended, he returned to writing, but also struggled with alcoholism. He died of a heart attack at only 44 years old.

During his lifetime, Fitzgerald’s work only achieved modest success; it was after his death that people began to regard his work, especially The Great Gatsby, as quintessential American novels. His works were a look into the “Roaring Twenties” and a voice for the Lost Generation—he criticized the excess and drama of the 1920s, which had had a big impact on his marriage and life. He is widely considered one of the greatest American authors of the 20th century.

To celebrate Fitzgerald’s birthday, here are the books you should be reading.

1. This Side of Paradise (1920)

This Side of Paradise is Fitzgerald’s first published novel, and a rewriting of his earlier work The Romantic Egotist, which had failed to reach publication. The influences of Fitzgerald’s own life on this novel are clear: its protagonist, Amory Blaine, is a Princeton student from the Midwest and a talented writer. He even falls in love with a character many say is based on Zelda. The success of This Side of Paradise persuaded Zelda to marry Fitzgerald, and also began his life as a “celebrity.”

2. The Beautiful and Damned (1922)

Fitzgerald’s second novel also drew considerable inspiration from his own life and marriage to Zelda—in fact, this one is notable because Zelda famously wrote that Fitzgerald had copied writing from her diary and that he believed “plagiarism begins at home.” While the originality of Fitzgerald’s work is still debated, The Beautiful and Damned follows the relationship between a socialite and his wife, which includes commentary on the Lost Generation’s focus on the past. The protagonist, Anthony Patch, also mirrors Fitzgerald, serving in the army and later dealing with alcoholism and a partying lifestyle.

3. The Great Gatsby (1925)

How could we leave out The Great Gatsby? Though it did not receive much attention until after Fitzgerald’s death, this novel is commonly regarded as his best work—and maybe even the best work of American literature, period. Narrated by a young man named Nick Carraway, the novel focuses on Nick’s neighbor Jay Gatsby, who embodies the American dream, yet is still miserable. Take a closer look at this novel and you’ll realize the irony of all those Gatsby-themed parties—Fitzgerald heavily criticizes the hedonism of his characters and their obsession with wealth and pleasure.

4. Tender is the Night (1934)

As Fitzgerald’s last completed novel, which was written while Fitzgerald was struggling financially and dealing with his alcoholism, Tender is the Night deals with darker themes, but is also regarded as one of his best works. The ethics are murky with this one; the novel centers on the marriage between Dick and Nicole, a psychiatrist and his patient. The book includes heavy subjects like affair, murder and alcoholism (sensing a theme yet?), and Dick is a bleak reflection of Fitzgerald’s own unhappiness.

Fitzgerald’s novels are all rather pessimistic, but they do say a lot about American culture, greed and selfishness during the 1920s. His contribution to American literature cannot be understated. Happy birthday, F. Scott Fitzgerald!

Today, people around the country that wish to support Brett Kavanaugh’s accusers and victims and survivors of sexual assault everywhere, walked out of their office, home or wherever they were at 1p.m. in solidarity.

Time’s Up, the legal defense fund for women that have faced sexual harassment, posted a Facebook event page titled “National Walk Out: Support Dr. Blasey Ford and Deborah Ramirez.” As of press time, the event had 19,000 people going and 25,000 interested. This event called for the national support of Christine Blasey Ford and Deborah Ramirez in the allegations against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, as Cosmo notes.

The event encouraged participants to wear black and post to their social accounts with hashtag #BelieveSurvivors. The walkout lasted from 1 p.m EST until 2 pm EST. If you participated or were interested in walking out, check out these other people that shared their messages of solidarity and support: 

This walk-out serves as yet another moment for real conversations about the realities of sexual assault and rape culture in the United States (and all over the world.) 

This event also came after President Donald Trump tweeted out a defense of Kavanaugh, naming Blasey Ford and wholly misrepresenting the facts about why victims and survivors don't always come forward about their experiences or press charges — which led to another devastating hashtag campaign #WhyIDidntReport, where survivors and victims of assault shared the reasons they didn't report their assaults. 

Again: According to the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), only 310 out of every 1,000 sexual assaults are reported to the police and about six perpetrators out of every 1,000 assaults actually serve jail time. So statistically there's a whole mess of intersecting reasons that make reporting a sexual assault more complicated and difficult than another kind of crime. So it's absolutely important that we make sure victims and survivors are heard and believed during this large-scale national conversation and beyond. 

Did you participate in a walk-out on your campus? Want to tell us all about your experience? Email Sources@hercampus.com and let us know how you're feeling. 

We always love a good nostalgic, 90’s themed style piece, and Fossil is upping the game with their new mood watch collection in collaboration with our celeb crush KJ Apa plus the beautiful Mandy Moore. Remember the days when bracelets, necklaces, and rings changed color depending on your mood? Fossil innovates that trend by merging it into their signature watch style. The VP of Fossil said in a statement that the watch captures six moods and has six colors: black for anxious or excitable, blue-green for relaxed and calm, dark blue for happy and love, green for sensitive, amber green for troubled or uneasy, and amber for when you are feeling nervous or tense.

Fossil’s newest watch, complete with their signature color-changing dial, is set on a simple case and classic leather band so the face of the watch can shine. We’re all about celebrating authenticity, and Fossil is bringing that to life with this campaign. Collabing with Mandy Moore — one of the stars of the most heartfelt show on television — promotes being genuine and real, even when on screen. Like Moore’s work on-screen, Fossil’s new line is unique, emotional, and limited edition. This watch is a collector’s item and only 854 of these watches will be produced.

Of course we all know and love the CW’s “Riverdale” star KJ Apa, and he’s a perfect fit for the campaign. His character on the show, Archie Andrews, is an all-American boy in a town that feels nostalgic, and he strives to do the right thing, be creative, and embrace all sides of himself from musician to football star, and from loyal friend to defender of justice. His fun-loving demeanor and down-to-earth personality are things we all love about him, and part of why he’s always going to be our celeb crush.

If you love KJ Apa like we do, check out Fossil’s newest watch which is retailing for $115! Available in both a men's and women's version, everyone can achieve style icon status just like our two favorite celebs highlighted in this campaign. Embrace expressing yourself and accepting your authentic, real emotions as they come, and be bold in your choices! Wear your heart on your sleeve (or your stylish watch) just like Mandy Moore and KJ Apa. 

Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein is reportedly considering resigning (or anticipating being fired) from his position on Monday, according to CNBC. Reports of Rosenstein’s resignation first broke a week after The New York Times reported that Rosenstein was considering implementing the 25th Amendment to impeach President Trump. The Times also reported that Rosenstein discussed wearing a wire during meetings with President Trump.

Rosenstein has denied the reports, claiming the comments were meant as sarcasm. However, sources close to the White House say that Rosenstein was heading to the White House this morning expecting to be fired. Rosenstein’s rumored resignation is in lieu of an assumed firing by President Trump.

The Department of Justice’s second in command, Rosenstein is known for appointing Special Counsel Robert Mueller to investigate Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. Rosenstein has ignored Trump’s repeated criticisms of Mueller throughout the investigation, leading Trump to attack Rosenstein in a heated Twitter rant.

Rosenstein has also previously come under fire by President Trump for ordering the raid on Michael Cohen’s home and workplace—an order that was also in regards to the Russia probe. Cohen, Trump’s former attorney, has already pleaded guilty to crimes such as tax evasion and reportedly is talking to Mueller in regards to Trump’s potential collusion with Russian officials.   

Reports of Rosenstein’s resignation or firing has left people questioning the future of the Russia investigation, worried that the U.S. Solicitor General Noel Francisco, who will oversee the Russia investigation in Rosenstein’s absence, will fire Mueller. U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has already excused himself from the case. 

Though a registered Republican, Rosenstein has received bipartisan support in his oversight of the ongoing Russia investigation. His potential resignation or firing will create opportunities for President Trump to stonewall the Mueller probe.

Conflicting reports have stated that it is unclear whether Trump will accept Rosenstein’s resignation or if he will outright fire him. Politicians across the aisle are imploring the White House and Rosenstein to keep his position.

The President and Rosenstein will reportedly meet Thursday to further discuss the position of Deputy Attorney General.

If you're anything like me (a romantic that is living in the United States), you probably woke up on May 19 this year at six in the morning, just to watch the beautiful royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Love was in the air that day. Now, five months since the big day, the love is still going strong. 

In a clip from HBO’s upcoming documentary, Queen of the World, shared by People, cameramen capture the exact moment the Duchess of Sussex was reunited with her gorgeous wedding gown. While admiring the 16-foot silk tulle veil, Meghan revealed that her something blue was stitched into it—and its significance is quite beautiful. “Somewhere in here there’s a piece of blue fabric that’s stitched,” she remarked sweetly. “It’s fabric from the dress that I wore on our first date."

I think I’ve just died because of how cute that is. 

Meghan and Harry met back in 2016, after being set up on a blind date by a mutual friend. “The only thing that I asked was, ‘is he nice?’” Markle explained in an interview with BBC. “Cause if he wasn’t kind, it just didn’t seem like it would make sense.” Lucky for us, the two hit it off and by December of 2017 were engaged. 

HBO’s new documentary about the Royal Family premieres on October 1.

Now that the fall semester is coming in at full force, it’s time to buckle down and slay the semester. Whether you’re starting your very first semester in college or returning back for your last as a senior, college can feel overwhelming AF. Keeping that GPA high, holding leadership positions in campus organizations, and attempting to maintain a social life are some serious feats.

When dealing with all that’s on your plate, you’ll want every resource you can get your hands on to make your semester way more manageable. That’s why we’ve got you covered with a handful of seriously life-changing tips and resources. Give these college life hacks a try — they’ll keep your fall semester running smoothly, allowing you to shine as the #girlboss that you are.

1. Have an emergency primp kit

Being on-the-go looks a little different for everyone — maybe you love to dress up for the day or maybe you’re completely content with keeping it casual. Whatever your style is for the day, you never know when you’ll need to get glam in a pinch. Grab your fave makeup or travel bag that’s small enough to fit in a backpack or purse and fill it on up with a few essentials that give you a little extra boost.

For kicking it up a notch on the eyes, keep the BUXOM Cosmetics Big Tease™ Plumping Mascara at hand. You’ll attain longer lashes and a noticeable plump — just the right touch for a flirty look. It’s especially key for long-day-wear with a smudge-proof and flake resistant formula that’s sure to keep you looking on point during a long day on campus.

To make sure you’re smelling fresh throughout the day or for a quick touch-up before a dinner date in the evening, have Katy Perry’s Indi Fragrance tucked in your emergency kit. A swift spritz of the perfume — filled with notes like white tea, oriental plum, white cedar wood and vanilla — will give you a beautiful scent for whatever your day may bring you.

2. Make your dream room a reality

Coming home after a long day on campus to your apartment or dorm room is probably the best feeling ever. What’s even better is coming home to a room with that perfect ambiance. To achieve that charming, relaxing atmosphere, don’t be afraid to bring your Pinterest-perfect room to life.

Dive into one of those DIY projects you’ve always been dying to try using one of Krazy Glue’s All Purpose Singles. Each single has just the perfect amount of Krazy Glue product for any at-home craft or project involving metal, plastic, glass, wood or nearly any other surface you’re working with.

For attaining that peaceful ambiance, nothing is more essential than a warm, refreshing aroma. Bath & Body Works’ Wallflowers Fragrance Diffusers work in dispersing a delightful scent throughout the day. Many Wallflowers also serve as an around-the-clock nightlight and as a decorative statement piece (what a win-win). These plug-ins are especially essential for college dorms and apartments that don’t allow you to burn your own candles or incense. Plus, if you’re feeling especially festive, try the Caramel Pumpkin Swirl or the Sweet Cinnamon Pumpkin fragrance to get you in that ~fall mood~.

3. Keep snacks on deck

It’s no secret that snacks are the ultimate life-savers during your college years. Stocking up on healthy, natural snacks instead of artificial, sugar-filled ones are key for having energy all day and avoiding a mid-day crash (yes, you can cut out those all-too-tempting naps). Organic GōL Bars are the best pick-me-ups, with our favorite flavors being the Chocolate Sea Salt and the Maple Sea Salt GōL Bars. Each gluten-free bar is packed with grass-fed whole milk protein and real organic foods to keep you sustained and satisfied for that busy day of back-to-back classes and meetings.

On top of snacks, you’ll want to be more than prepared for keeping your fave condiments at hand. Whether you’re stopping by the local convenience store for an on-the-go meal, or struggling with bland and boring dining hall food, spice things up by keeping Frank’s RedHot on you. Keeping hot sauce in your bag like Beyoncé will make it super convenient to give any packed or bought lunch that flavor and heat you crave.

4. Take time to treat yourself

The pressures of excelling in classes, running student organization meetings, and staying on top of your social game can be too real sometimes. That’s why our number one college life hack for the semester is to do what you need to do to be the best you. Whether that’s relaxing at home in a bubble bath or trying out a new face mask, giving yourself some well-deserved r&r is the absolute best way to recharge yourself for a busy day or week ahead.

For a luxurious at-home treat, we love using the Skintimate 2-in-1 Shave Cream & Skin Conditioner. From Coconut Silk to Delicate Water Lily, Skintimate has an amazing formula that’s packed with shea butter and soy protein, giving you pampered, healthy-feeling legs.

Take a moment to treat your face right with Garnier’s Micellar Cleansing Water All-In-1 Waterproof. It cleanses any dirt or debris, removes your toughest waterproof makeup from the day, and even refreshes for a clean, healthy feeling. Nothing feels better than ending your night with a fresh face!

Lastly, if you’re looking to keep that summer glow going all throughout your fall semester, try out the Sublime Bronze Hydrating Self-Tanning Milk by L’Oréal Paris. For a mega-moisturizing, streak-free tan, apply this self-tanning milk a few times a week to keep it feeling like summer well into the fall months.

5. Be set for self-defense

As the saying goes, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Don’t forget to keep yourself safe with the right self-defense tools by your side. SABRE's personal alarm, coming in both a key ring and clip version, is a top pick for keeping you safe. With a 120dB alarm that’s easy to access and activate and can be heard from up to 600 feet away, SABRE’s got you covered with an alarm that’s simple and effective. Another way to keep safe on campus is with SABRE’s line of peppers sprays. SABRE’s pepper spray is the #1 brand trusted by police and consumers worldwide. Each canister has up to a 10-foot range and contains 25 bursts (up to 5x more than other brands), providing you safety at a distance and protection against multiple threats.

Additionally, we all know that the party scene in college gets a notorious reputation for creating an atmosphere of danger. If you choose to go to parties or bars, be sure to keep the convenient drink test kit by SABRE with you. It tests for popular “date rape drugs” like GHB and Ketamine in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and serves as a reminder to stay vigilant.

It’s official: fall semester is in full swing! Whether you’re looking forward to reuniting with your college BFFs or you’re pumped to begin making memories during your very first year, the new semester is always exciting. But, it also has a special way of throwing all the stress and chaos in your direction. No need to worry, though — Her Campus has your back with all the must-have life hack products you’ll need for taking your fall semester by storm.

From L’Oréal Paris and Buxom Cosmetics, to Bath & Body Works and Garnier, we’ve paired up with all your fave brands to give our luckiest reader an all-essential life hacks kit to keep you on your game even when you’re at your busiest. Here are all the life hack gifts you’ll get:

• Buxom Cosmetics’ Big Tease™ Plumping Mascara
• Katy Perry’s Indi Fragrance
• Krazy Glue’s All-Purpose Singles
• Bath & Body Works’ Wallflowers Fragrance Refills
• Organic GōL Bars in Chocolate Sea Salt & Maple Sea Salt flavors
• Frank’s RedHot
• SABRE’s Personal Alarm with Clip and LED Light
• Skintimate’s 2-in-1 Shave Cream & Skin Conditioner
• L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Hydrating Self-Tanning Milk
• Garnier’s Micellar Cleansing Water All-In-1 Waterproof

Dying to try the products from our college life hacks kit? Enter below to win!

Life Hack Your Way Through Fall Semester With These Products

Michelle Obama is a master of many things, and now we can add wedding officiator to that list, according to People.

On Saturday, a couple from Chicago was quite literally blessed with the presence of the former first lady. To say I’m jealous is an understatement. Besides the fact that she was there, she also helped to wed them. Who else can say that they got married at the hands of one of the finest women this country has seen? Put that on your LinkedIn.

The lucky couple, Stephanie Rivkin and Joel Sircus, met in high school and had their wedding ceremony in Chicago. Rivkin’s mom and dad had the hook up for this unbelievable wedding gift. Robert S. Rivkin is the deputy mayor of Chicago, The New York Times reports, and Stephanie’s mother was the Director of President’s Commission on White House Fellowships during Obama’s time in office, according to People. 

Screenshot of video via TMZ

The couple’s New York Times wedding announcement, however, reports that the wedding was officiated by “Robert M. Dresser, a friend of the couple who became a Universal Life minister for the event.” 

News got out about Obama’s reported appearance when an overly eager wedding guest posted a Instagram video of the former first lady at the wedding altar with the couple. TMZ first reported the-now deleted Instagram story, which shows Obama reciting vows into a microphone and handing it over to Rivkin to repeat the vows.

The post read: “Holy Moly,” with a heart emoji. “That moment when Michelle Obama officiated at your (cousin’s) wedding!”

The alleged clip showed the former first lady wearing a black, long-sleeve dress. It’s unclear if she also attended the reception. 

Either way, Michelle Obama was definitely there and that’s enough to make me wish I was there, too.

Dr. Christine Blasey Ford, the woman that has accused Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her at a party when they were both in high school, told a top Republican senator that she is prepared to recount her story to lawmakers, despite concerns for her safety.

“While I am frightened, please know, my fear will not hold me back from testifying and you will be provided with answers to all of your questions. I ask for fair and respectful treatment,” the 51-year-old California professor wrote in a letter sent Saturday to Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley. The letter was made public on Monday, according to The Hill.

Since Ford sent the letter to Grassley on Saturday, the two sides have agreed that Ford would testify on Thursday. Ford’s lawyers have requested that there be limited media presence at the hearing, security for Ford and lengthy breaks during the hearing.

Ford, who came forward earlier this month to allege that Kavanaugh pinned her down and groped her at a high school party in 1982, explained in her letter to Grassley that she felt hesitant to share her story, but ultimately did so out of civic duty.

via Greg Nash - The Hill

“Mr. Kavanaugh’s actions, while many years ago, were serious and have had a lasting impact on my life,” Ford wrote to Grassley. “I thought that knowledge of his actions could be useful for you and those in charge of choosing among the various candidates. My original intent was first and foremost to be a helpful citizen – in a confidential way that would minimize collateral damage to all families and friends involved.”

Ford added that her motivation for coming forward was “to tell the truth about what Mr. Kavanaugh and his friend Mark Judge did to me.”

The California professor had initially sent the allegations to Rep. Anna Eshoo in July, and later sent a letter further detailing the allegations to Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee. While Ford asked that her identity be kept private, she ultimately revealed her identity in a Washington Post story last week.

According to The Hill, Ford also noted that since coming forward with her story, she has received numerous death threats and other unwanted attention.

“While the nationwide outpouring of love has been heartwarming, I am spending considerable time managing death threats, avoiding people following me on freeways, and disconcerting media intrusion, including swarms of vans at my home and unauthorized persons entering my classroom and medical settings where I work,” Ford wrote in her letter to Grassley.

Grassley responded to Ford in a letter released on Monday, writing that he was “committed to fair and respectful treatment of [Ford], as [she’s] requested.”

In a handwritten note at the end of the letter, Grassley added, “PS: I look forward to your testimony.”

In his letter, Grassley suggested that he should have received Ford’s letter regarding her concerns about Kavanaugh when it was first sent to Feinstein, Politico reports.

“I take letters from individuals seriously and over a long period of time have demonstrated a commitment to handling personal or sensitive information in a confidential manner,” Grassley wrote.

Grassley added that he has made a “sincere and thorough” effort to look into Ford’s allegations since they were made public.

“The arrangements made to re-open and continue the confirmation hearing on Thursday will allow you to testify and also will allow the nominee to address the allegations made against him,” Grassley wrote. “Both of you deserve a credible and fair process in a secure and professional setting.”

Senate Democrats have since called for the hearing to be postponed since a new allegation against Kavanaugh has come to light.

On Sunday, the New Yorker detailed an allegation from Deborah Ramirez, who alleges that Kavanaugh exposed himself to her and thrust his genitals in her face at a college party in the 1980s.

Kavanaugh has since denied that allegation, calling the latest allegation a part of a series of “smears” against him.

“I will not be intimidated into withdrawing from this process. The coordinated effort to destroy my good name will not drive me out. The vile threats of violence against my family will not drive me out. The last-minute character assassination will not succeed,” Kavanaugh said in a statement.

Good morning, Her Campus! With a break-neck news cycle, there is no possible way for you to stay on top of every story that comes across your feeds—we’re all only human, after all.

But, life comes at you fast. So grab a cup of coffee and settle in for this quick and dirty guide to stories you might’ve been sleeping on (like, literally. It’s early.)

Brett Kavanaugh Says He’s “Not Going Anywhere” in an Interview with Fox News

In an interview with Fox News on Monday, Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh says he is “not going anywhere” despite the sexual assault allegations that plague and threaten his Supreme Court confirmation.

“I’m not going to let false accusations drive us out of this process and we’re looking for a fair process where I can be heard and defend my integrity my lifelong record. My lifelong record of promoting dignity and equality for women starting with the women who knew me when I was 14 years old. I’m not going anywhere,” Kavanaugh said in his interview with Fox News’ Martha MacCallum, with his wife, Ashley Kavanaugh, by his side.

“I am a good person. I have led a good life. I tried to do a lot of good for a lot of people. I am not perfect. None of us is perfect. I am not perfect, but I’ve never, never done anything like this,” Kavanaugh later said.

Kavanaugh told MacCallum that President Donald Trump called him on Monday to tell him that he is standing his nominee, CNN reports.

“I know he's gonna stand by me,” Kavanaugh said. “He called me this afternoon and said he's standing by me.”

His nomination has spiraled into a public affair after Dr. Christine Blasey Ford came forward earlier this month to allege that Kavanaugh pinned her down and groped her at a high school party in 1982. On Sunday, the New Yorker detailed an allegation from another woman, Deborah Ramirez, who alleged that Kavanaugh exposed himself and thrust his genitals in her face at a college party in the 1980s.

When asked about Ford’s allegations, Kavanaugh said, “The truth is I've never sexually assaulted anyone in high school or otherwise. I am not questioning, and have not questioned, that perhaps Dr. Ford at some point in her life was sexually assaulted by someone in some place.” He added that he “may have met” Ford, adding that she “was not a friend, not someone I knew.”

When asked about Ramirez’s accusations, Kavanaugh said, “If such a thing had happened, it would have been the talk of campus.”

Kavanaugh has insisted that he is not “going to let false accusations” force him to drop out of his nomination.

“I want a fair process where I can defend my integrity,” he said. “I know I'm telling the truth. I know my lifelong record. I'm not going to let false accusations drive me out of this process. I have faith in God and I have faith in the fairness of the American people.”

In the interview, Kavanaugh insisted that during the years in question he was a virgin; although, neither of the allegations accuse Kavanaugh of nonconsensual intercourse.

Kavanaugh’s wife also spoke during the interview, saying that she believed that they were in the right.

“This process is incredibly difficult, harder than we imagined, and we imagined it might be hard, but at the end of the day, our faith is strong, and we know that we're on the right path,” she said.

President Trump is Preparing for Second Summit With Kim Jong Un

During a meeting with South Korean President Moon Jae-in on Monday, President Donald Trump said he is preparing for his second summit with Kim Jong Un.

Critics have warned against having another summit with the North Korean leader since the country has taken no significant steps towards dismantling its nuclear arsenal.

According to ABC News, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo defended the potential meeting as something of “enormous value” but only “if we can continue to make progress and have conversations.”

Trump said the meeting would take place “in the not too distant future,” adding that it would not take place in Singapore a “location to be determined.” He said that Kim had shown “tremendous enthusiasm ... toward making a deal” and called his relationship with Kim “very good. In fact, in some ways it's extraordinary.”

“We are in no rush. There's no hurry. ... We've made more progress than anybody's made ever, frankly, with regard to North Korea,” Trump said.

Pompeo said on Monday that he will be heading to Pyongyang soon for conversations to determine if the two sides are on the same page, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley told ABC News on Sunday.

Kim still remains committed to denuclearization, according to Moon, who said he would debrief Trump on his own meetings with Kim.

Moon continued to flatter Trump, telling him through a translator, “Chairman Kim also repeatedly conveyed his unwavering trust and expectations for you, while expressing his hope to meet you soon to swiftly complete a denuclearization process with you because you are indeed the only person who can solve this problem.”

Moon’s meetings last week in Pyongyang resulted in a joint declaration that Kim and Moon signed, with both leaders committing to shutting down a missile-engine test site with inspectors present at the site. The joint resolution also offered to take other steps towards denuclearization, but only if the United States takes “corresponding measures.”

President Trump Won't Support Puerto Rican Statehood Bid As Long As San Juan Mayor Stays

President Donald Trump said Sunday that he would not support a Puerto Rican statehood bid if San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulín Cruz continued to hold office in the U.S. territory.

During an interview on Geraldo Rivera’s radio show, Trump called Yulín Cruz “grossly incompetent” and a “horror show” who could completely stand in the way of Puerto Rico being granted statehood.

“I will tell you this, with the mayor of San Juan as bad as she is and as incompetent as she is, Puerto Rico shouldn’t be talking about statehood until they get some people that really know what they’re doing,” Trump told Rivera.

“When you do have good leadership, that certainly could be something they talk about,” the president continued. “But with people like that involved in Puerto Rico, I would be an absolute no.”

Yulín Cruz, who has been a vocal critic of Trump, fired back at the president on Twitter on Monday, saying that she felt he attacked her for “telling the truth.” She added that most Puerto Ricans aren’t in favor of statehood anyway, The Huffington Post reports.

Earlier this month, Puerto Rican Gov. Ricardo Rosselló reiterated his call for statehood while addressing the aftermath of recent hurricanes that impacted the U.S. territory.

“We are second-class U.S. citizens,” Rosselló told CBS News. “We live in a colonial territory. It is time to eliminate that. I implore all of the elected officials, particularly now with midterm elections, to have a firm stance: You’re either for colonial territories or against it. You’re either for giving equal rights to the U.S. citizens that live in Puerto Rico or you’re against it.”

Since hurricanes Irma and Maria ravaged Puerto Rico last year, Trump and Yulín Cruz have repeatedly shared hostile words over the federal government’s response to the hurricanes, HuffPost reports. Trump downplayed the severity of the damage caused by the hurricanes, and Yulín Cruz consistently pleaded with the government to send more aid to the U.S. territory.

Trump has insisted that the federal government’s response to the hurricanes has been “under-appreciated” and was an “unsung success.”

“The truth is you have incompetent leadership and the mayor of San Juan is a grossly incompetent person,” Trump said on Sunday. “I love the people of Puerto Rico. And I did a great job. I got things to Puerto Rico that nobody could have gotten. ... And instead of getting thank you, we got nothing but bad publicity.”

What to look out for…

“This is Us” season three premieres tonight, Tuesday, Sept. 25 on NBC!

This article has been syndicated from Kelsey Barnes, an InfluenceHer Collective Member. Read the full post here. 

My first brush with self-tanning came freshman year of high school: I was entering a ballroom dancing competition, and it was stressed that a deep tan was essential for looking the part. Since that time, I have used self-tanner throughout my figure skating career, as an Ice Girl for the NHL, as a blogger, and as a general pale girl who wants to have a year-round summer glow.

I’ve literally tried them all – liquids, sprays, professional airbrushing, booths, towelettes. You name it. I’ve tried it. Through all these years of self-tanning, I’ve learned quite a few lessons. I’ve also learned the types of tanning that I think work best, which is why below I’m breaking down some of my favorite methods of self-tanning and tips and tricks that I’ve learned along the way.

General self-tanning tips

The number of times I’ve had streaky legs or orange palms from self-tanning is too high to even count. And to be honest, even the best of us screw up our self-tanner from time to time. The tips below are ones I have learned along the way and will help you keep the number of weird self-tanner accidents to a minimum.

• Take your time – I can’t stress this enough. Whenever I rush through putting my self-tanner on something ends up going wrong.
• Exfoliate before your first tan and between the next one – This tip can feel like an unnecessary extra step, but tanner tends to fade in weird splotchy ways. Even if you don’t see it yet, once you apply your next self-tan, you’ll start to see areas fade under your new tan. Not a good look. Plus, tanner realllly sticks to dry skin, so it’s best to get rid of as much of it as possible before tanning.
• Moisturizer is your BFF – Both when applying your tan to keep certain areas from getting too dark and after to maintain your glow. Avoid any lotions that are super heavy, as these can break down your tan. Go for a light moisturizer after tanning to get the best results.
• Don’t forget your hands, feet and face – Nothing is worse than seeing someone with a glowing tan and a white face or hands. I usually mix lotion with tanner to make it less potent for the backs of my hands. Do this after washing them, so your palms aren’t orange. If you’re worried about breakouts on your face, there are many self-tanner versions just for that. Although, honestly I sometimes find that self-tanner helps stop my breakouts.
• Be aware that it’s a learning process – Like any skill, you won’t master it the first time. So don’t give up if you end up with orange palms or streaks your first couple of times. Over time, you’ll learn what works for you so you have the best tan possible!

Professional airbrushing

This method definitely has the best results and takes the least amount of effort on your end. Unfortunately, it can be quite expensive. Depending on your location they can run close to $100 a tan. I recommend this method for special events like prom, weddings, or an important vacation.

A professional who knows what they’re doing can control the depth of the tan and ensure there are no streaks. Feel free to go in wearing whatever makes you comfortable. You will have to be undressed in front of the person doing your tan, but you can undress to the level you want. Just remember that whatever you wear will be covered in tanner (I recommend a dark swimsuit or pair of underwear) and will leave “tan lines.”

Make sure to wear loose dark clothing when you leave to ensure that it doesn’t rub off or stain. As with all self-tanning, make sure not to shower for at least 4-6 hours (yes, you will smell, but it’ll be worth it).

Spray booths

I love using the spray booths. They’re much more affordable than the airbrushing, but a lot easier than putting a lotion on yourself. Always make sure to slather your palms and the bottoms of your feet in barrier cream before stepping in the booth. Make sure to be careful because it will be slippery, but this will keep the bottoms of your feet from ending up a dirty brown.

Follow the instructions inside for the poses, but avoid letting your palms point straight at the spray jets. Even with the barrier cream, they’ll end up orange if you do this. I also like to pop my booty and flex my hamstrings when getting my back sprayed. Otherwise, you’ll end up with white spots under your butt. Not very cute in a swimsuit!

At-home liquids, mousses, sprays, & towelettes

These are some of the most affordable options. The self tanner you buy can range from the more expensive St. Tropez to my personal drugstore favorite, L’Oreal Sublime Bronze. I like to use self-tanner weekly, so I tend to gravitate towards the cheaper versions.

While doing your tanner at home is the most affordable, it is also the most at-risk for mistakes. This is where I really stress taking your time. Just the other day, I rushed through putting my tanner on and ended up with a lot of white spots I had missed. Moisturizer is your best friend for these methods. Rub it into your knees, ankles, and elbows before you start. The tanner will stick to any dry skin like crazy. I like to slather lotion on my palms and wrists before I begin. Often I also wash my hands and reapply lotion to my palms halfway through applying my tanner. This helps minimize the risk of orange palms.

Read the full post here. 

Dressing up for Halloween is undoubtedly fun, but doing so can take a lot of effort. If you’re feeling lazy this year, don’t let it stop you from going out and having a great night! There are plenty of costumes that require nothing more than things you can find around your dorm, sorority house or apartment. Get ready to dig through your closets because we’ve got some of the best (and easiest!) costumes right here.

1. Miley Cyrus

While many people have dressed up as the twerk-crazy Miley Cyrus, it’s super easy to wear one of her everyday outfits as a costume.

No matter what she’s wearing, it’s always full of color. Simply open up your closet, look for your brightest top and pair it with a non-matching skirt. Or head over to Goodwill and start hunting for '80s-inspired jackets, dresses, etc. Add a pair of sneakers and some crazy accessories, and you’re done! Don’t forget to stick your tongue out all night, too.

2. Tourist

With Hawaiian-themed parties always happening, you or one of your friends is bound to have a button up flower shirt. If not, these are easily found at Goodwill or other thrift shops!

You’ll also need any combination of the following: a fanny pack, sunglasses, a visor, a map tucked into your waist and an old camera around your neck. By no means do you need all of these accessories, but if you can round up most of them by digging around your house, go for it!

3. Barden Bella

Did somebody say Pitch Perfect? This costume is super easy to piece together, and everyone will know what you’re referencing!

For this outfit, grab a navy-colored fitted jacket or blazer and a white collared shirt to wear underneath. You’ll also need a navy skirt. The outfit is, of course, incomplete without the signature scarf tied around your neck, so grab a yellow or blue one. Wear any pair of short heels and your hair in a bun, and you’re officially a Bella.

4. Runaway bride

This costume is almost too easy to put together, and you’ll be comfortable all night.

Find your favorite little white dress for the focus piece. You probably won't have a veil, but if you really want one, they’re cheap and easy to make. Throw on your sneakers, and for those ladies looking to go the extra distance, you can make a marathon bib with paper and markers. That’s pretty much it for this costume!

5. Mary Poppins

If you thought the runaway bride costume sounded easy, you’re going to love this one. Everything you need to be Mary Poppins can definitely be found somewhere among your belongings.

For starters, you’ll need to pull your hair up—whether or not you want to add a black hat is up to you. Wear a crisp, white button-up, a black skirt and black tights. To make your costume a little more unique, you could add the red bow tie. You’re going to need Ms. Poppins' black umbrella and carry-all tote regardless, though!

6. Lorde

Due to her distinct, goth look, Lorde is the perfect simple Halloween costume. This one is especially fun because you can get creative with it!

If there’s one part of Lorde's look you'll never see her without, it’s her dark lipstick. A maroon or wine colored shade is spot-on. She almost always wears black, so choose from an LBD or another dark outfit. Curl your hair to get that wild look, throw on some chunky black boots and voilà!

7. Risky Business

Who would’ve thought that Tom Cruise dancing in his underwear would become such a long-lasting collegiette costume tradition?

Throw on a white button-up shirt that’s long enough to wear without pants. Be sure to have spandex or athletic shorts on underneath, though. Forget shoes—all you need are some mid-calf socks. Add in a pair of black sunglasses and get ready to slide into whatever party you’re going to.

8. “A” from Pretty Little Liars

While you might be mistaken for a burglar, there’s no better way to pay tribute to one of the greatest shows ever.

Black pants, a black hoodie, black gloves—that’s pretty much it. However, since we now know that (spoiler alert) CeCe is A, you can add little twists to make this costume more fun. For example, if you don’t already have blonde hair, use a wig! Curl your hair and add some red lipstick, too. To make this costume even more distinctive, you could use red masking tape and put an “A” on your back!

9. Flower child

We know you have a flower headband somewhere, so break it out and get ready to embrace your inner hippie!

Though you can wear pretty much anything from places like Urban Outfitters, try to find something in your closet that’s full of fringe or decked out in flowers. A dress is ideal, but you could also wear printed flared pants or jeans. Your look won’t be complete without you throwing out a peace sign, so be sure to do so!

Just when you thought you were going to stay in and watch scary movies while your friends had fun without you, you’ve been saved. These costumes require hardly any effort but are still super cute. Happy hunting!

The highly-anticipated, 2018 midterm elections are just around the corner, and so many college students are eligible to vote this year. There is just a slight problem. We don’t exactly, as a demo, have the best record for showing up for the midterms. 

According to an analysis done by Tufts University, only 18 percent of college students voted in the 2014 midterm elections. Since the last midterm elections, almost 15 million millennials between the ages of 18 and 21 have become eligible to vote, the New York Times reports. Meaning more people have the chance for their voices to be heard, and possibly to change our political landscape. But even though young, college students make up the majority of voting-eligible adults, we aren’t expected to cast many votes in November. 

It’s a high-stakes midterm election in 2018 (as Trump wasn’t in office four years ago). His controversial-administration has increased students desire to vote and vote on a number of policies that affect there day-to-day lives. 

"We have seen a lot of tight races decided by a small difference of votes. This 2018 midterm election is especially important because the youth mobilization is motivated to impact politics now more than ever due to the current political climate. They want to elect the change they want and to bring in elected officials who truly support their concerns.” 

“College students are large in numbers and have the capacity to change the political landscape toward an orientation of needs they care about and are affected by,” said Lynette Quintero, board chair of the Student Advisory Board of the Campus Vote Project, which is part of the Fair Elections Center. “We have seen a lot of tight races decided by a small difference of votes. This 2018 midterm election is especially important because the youth mobilization is motivated to impact politics now more than ever due to the current political climate. They want to elect the change they want and to bring in elected officials who truly support their concerns.” 

It’s this desire for change that many colleges and universities are targeting and trying to encourage college students to vote this semester. And many are getting creative and using their institutional power to make voting much more accessible for college students. 

“When I first started doing this work, a lot of campuses were hesitant to do things around elections because they thought that was inherently partisan. But we think and do a lot of work with campuses that do a great job in helping prepare their students to get registered, understand what’s on the ballot, and how to actually access it in a nonpartisan way,” said Mike Burns, national director for Campus Vote Project. The CVP works with many colleges and universities in reducing the barriers that stop many students from voting. College students face a number of hurdles when attempting to register and vote. A lot of the times students lack information about voter registration rules and deadlines, are confused about where to vote, don’t have transportation to the polls, and new laws limit their access to the polls. 

“A huge part of this is that they think there are more barriers to voting. They are registering and voting for the first time, which means that they are new to the process,” said national program director for the Campus Vote Project, Debi Lombardi.

It’s understandable as to why students may be confused by the process. For many, it’s their first time, often outside of their home state, and or without much guidance. They don’t sometimes have the information they need to feel confident in their vote. 

Most likely the biggest barrier for college student though is how every state has their own deadlines, rules and regulations for registering, identification and voting. Difference in laws can really impact student voter turnout, according to Mike Burns.

"A huge part of this is that they think there are more barriers to voting. They are registering and voting for the first time, which means that they are new to the process."

According to Michigan state coordinator for CVP Rihan Issa, Michigan state voting laws is a prime example for inconvenient regulations for students. The state does not have online registration, which is often the easiest way for college students to vote. Students are, instead, required to fill out a form and send it to their county clerk. 

“It’s just there are so many extra steps that as a student, when your eighteen and you’re still fresh in college. You are still trying to get used to your new place, new ropes, and even just one thing that adds a barrier you’re like ‘ oh I’ll think about it later’ or ‘I’ll worry about it later.’ I think it adds an extra step that they don’t feel like is necessary,” Issa said. 

There are voter verification laws in Michigan so that if you are voting for the first time in the state you have to vote in person the first day. This is especially hard for students who decide to register and vote in their hometown as they are less likely to go and vote than they are in the town of their college. Elections also happen on a Tuesday, so not a lot off students are able to access transportation to get home and vote. 

Michigan, similar to states like Wisconsin, Texas and Tennessee, also have strict voter identification requirements. If you change your address, you have to make your Michigan license and voter registration address the same. According to Issa, some students are hesitant to change their address for fear of messing with their loans or taxes. 

Despite these barriers, it is important that students understand the tremendous impact their state and local offices have on their day-to-day lives. College students tend to favor Democrats. According to a Pew Research Center poll, 58 percent of students between the age of 18 to 25 identify as Democrats. 

“There are more offices on the ballot usually in the midterm years than their are in presidential years and that has a great impact  on folks across a range of issues. So if there is something folks are passionate about, there’s probably something on the ballot this year that has direct impact on that [individual],” said Burns. “It’s just helping them understand both the process for being able to get registered to vote and also helping them draw connections and understand the impact these different offices have on those issues that they’re passionate about.” 

Simply put it’s your chance to be heard and have power in politics on a number of issues you care about. Let's say you are a pre-med major: You might connect with the need for better access to health care, of if you are an environmental science major, you might connect with climate change issues. There are so many issues at stake such as gun reform, health care, student loan policy, criminal justice reform, immigration, women and reproductive rights. Pretty much anything you can think of is on the ballot this midterm election. Your vote has the opportunity to decide the direction our country is going in on these important issues. But it is just one part of a larger solution. 

Northwestern University’s Center for Civic engagement launched the initiative NU Votes in 2011, which aimed to increase voter registration and participation. According to Tuft University’s National Study of Learning, Voting and Engagement (NSLVE), it is one of the most successful institutions in the country at upping voter registration. A first of its kind, the data from the study can be used by administrators to breakdown the number of students who register and actually vote. Colleges like Northwestern can use this information to see how best to engage students in the process of voting. The school has registered more than 90 percent of its student body to vote. According to Northwestern Now, NU Votes incorporates voter registration into the process of move-in day. Students are able to stop at one of five booths that are across campus to talk with the programs representatives about signing up. 

Mike Burns of CVP said that college administrators need to figure out what is the best possible way to register students to vote, whether that be setting up tables or incorporating registration into student activities like orientation events. It’s about taking the existing systems within the school that have the opportunity to insert voter registration, and making it work. 

West Michigan University actually goes into where students are at most for registration—in the classroom.  UCLA consolidated polling to one, centralized on-campus location instead of five, so that it is easier for students to know where to vote. 

“We know that many students will be able to vote for the first time when they arrive at UCLA, and we want to inspire a lifelong commitment to voting and civic engagement,” said Chancellor Gene Block in the press release. “College is a time and place where many young people first get involved in causes that matter to them, and it is our responsibility to facilitate engagement with those causes and the electoral process in particular.”

UCLA will also be introducing a new feature that will make it easier for students to register to vote. The MyUCLA student portal will autofill a California voter registration with student’s name and information that will then be sent to the California secretary of state’s office. It’s the first campus in the nation to provide an accessible option for students, according to the press release.

It’s not just college administrators who are taking the lead in changing voter registration. Student government on campus leads a large part of the initiative to motivate students to register to vote. Clubs, sports teams and Greek life add another level of voter encouragement. According to Rihan Issa, Michigan State University teamed up with athletes to make “What’s Your Game Plan?” videos to help students think about what they are going to do on voting day, and help them see what the process looks like. 

“We strongly believe it’s not an end all solution,” said Rihan Issa. We strongly believe its not just one group who does it all. We don’t believe you have one person who does it all, and they try to convince everyone. It really is as collaborative as possible.” 

Whether or not you follow politics, it affects you. Whether or not you vote in the midterms, it still affects you. Even though we aren’t voting for a president this time around, your vote in November is still important. Because in a lot of ways, your vote counts more. Your vote impacts more. 

You can learn more about voter registration deadlines, where to register, ID requirements, and more at campusvoteproject.org. 

Anti-Kavanaugh protesters met Sen. Ted Cruz at Fiola, a restaurant near the Capitol Building, during dinner with his wife demanding answers about his view on Kavanuagh. According to CNN, the couple decided to leave as the harassment intensified. 

Videos of incident surfaced on left-wing Twitter. In the video reviewed by CNN, a woman can be heard saying to Cruz, “I'm a constituent. Love to know what your vote is going to be tonight. I know that you're very close friends with Mr. Kavanaugh. And do you believe survivors, sir?” The protesters followed Cruz to his table chanting “We believe survivors!” until the couple left the restaurant. Videos show the crowds cheering as Cruz left. 

Rep. Maxine Waters encouraged constituents to confront their representatives in public spaces back in June, according to CNN, people have taken that advice seriously. Sen. Mitch McConnell and White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders have both left or been kicked out of restaurants this year. 

Cruz’s opponent in this year’s heated Senate race in Texas, Beto O’Rourke, took to Twitter in defense of the incumbent. O’Rourke called for respect for Cruz and his wife.

During a recent debate with O’Rourke, Cruz commented on Ford’s allegations against Kavanaugh and their affect on the nomination process. According to The New York Times, Cruz said that Ford’s allegations “deserve to be treated with respect” and that they “absolutely” could lead to opposition against Kavanaugh’s confirmation. 

First, Christine Blasey Ford came forward with her story of Brett Kavanaugh’s sexual misconduct during high school. Deborah Ramirez added to the dialogue with her own allegations during Kavanaugh’s college years. Now, Kavanaugh’s Yale roommate has come forward with more information about Kavanaugh’s college years —and the fact that he believes Ramirez.

The roommate, identified as James Roche on Twitter and by Axios, said in the statement, "Based on my time with Debbie, I believe her to be unusually honest and straightforward and I cannot imagine her making this up. Based on my time with Brett, I believe that he and his social circle were capable of the actions that Debbie described.”

The full statement details Kavanaugh’s “notably heavy drinker, even by the standards of the time.” Roche admits that he did not witness the incident cited by Ramirez, but believes it added up with the Kavanaugh he got to know as Yale. Roche noticed the Kavanagh became “aggressive and belligerent” when he drank, which he often did “excessively” to the point of becoming “incoherently drunk.”

Ramirez detailed her experience to The New Yorker, and it is graphic. After meeting with a lawyer and going over her memories of the incident, she shared that “Kavanaugh had exposed himself at a drunken dormitory party, thrust his penis in her face, and caused her to touch it without her consent as she pushed him away.”

Kavanaugh denoted the allegation in a statement, and a White House spokesperson said that the claim “is denied by all who were said to be present and is wholly inconsistent with what many women and men who knew Judge Kavanaugh at the time in college say.” Ramirez has identified other students at the party, but she requested that The New Yorker not name them and they have not come forward. 

“I have shared this information with a small number of reporters who reached out to me directly because Debbie has a right to be heard and I believe her,” said Roche, “I will not be granting any more interview or answering any more questions at this time.”

Because of the accusations, the Senate Judiciary Committee postponed the vote on Kavanaugh’s nomination, and Ford is set to have a public hearing on Thursday, September 27, according to The Hill.

Ah, yes, football season. Whether you're an avid football fan or just an enthusiastic college student, college game days are THE best. But let's be real: my favorite part about game day fashion, as many of you may relate to, is getting the chance to ~stunt~ in school spirit. Whether you typically go for an oversized jersey with distressed boyfriend jeans or an on-trend playsuit that matches your school's colors, game day fashion is so much fun. As much as I love those two options, I whole-heartedly believe that the most underrated fashion staple is a game day dress. It can be dressed up or down in an infinite amount of ways, depending on your mood or your style aesthetic. Plus, dresses can be unbelievably comfy to wear, especially when it gets hot during those afternoon football games (helloooo, cool breeze).

Fortunately, I found the PERFECT essential dresses to create a top-notch tailgate look. Jane Hudson's school-spirited dresses are more than just that perfect fashion staple you need in your closet — they're super high-quality pieces and ultra comfortable, perfect for those long days of college football festivities. Here's how I styled a few of their must-have dresses for all the future football games and tailgates to come this semester!

First, I tried out the Jennings Swing Dress in Black & White, a style of dress I swear by for when I'm feeling lazy AF and don't feel like wearing pants (#relatable). But this dress exudes anything but lazy girl vibes — it makes you look very much put together, with or without additional accessories. Plus, the soft fabric definitely adds an extra layer of comfort that really can't compare to a traditional pair of denim shorts or a jersey tee. 

Honestly, I loved just how ~flowy~ this dress is. Since fall is starting to settle in, I paired it with a light denim jacket for when I get chilly. While the faded denim jacket gives it a little bit of an edgier vibe, I'd also go for a soft, fuzzy sweater if I wanted to go for a slightly more feminine touch. If you'd want to make more of a bold fashion statement (and who doesn't want to on game day), I totally recommend adding a colorful, statement leather jacket that matches your school colors. This dress plus a leather jacket would def equal a match made in heaven. For shoes, I decided to dress it up with some black Chelsea heeled boots. Looking for something a little more casual chic on the feet? Add some classic white sneakers for an athletic flair.

Want to win this adorable Jennings Swing Dress from Jane Hudson? Enter to win our giveaway here at @HerCampusStyle!

Next, I tried the Blake Front-Knot Dress in Heather Grey, and wow this dress is EVERYTHING. The front-knot is so on-trend and definitely adds a little more of a flirty feeling. I decided to style this look with a pop-of-color purse (a perfect moment to add in a school-spirited color or a clear bag for the football stadium). If you'd prefer to go without the tied knot look, you can also untie it for an effortless style that covers your midriff. Either way, this dress gives a carefree vibe, all while maintaining a high level of fashion. Plus, I was unbelievably comfortable in this tri-blend fabric material (like, pajama comfy). To complete the effortlessly stylish outfit, I decided to add a pair of black studded platform slip-ons. For an ultra classy touch, I would add some heeled mules and a statement necklace to take it to that next level. 

Lastly, I styled the Betty T-Shirt Dress in Maroon & White (can you tell I like stripes???). Unlike any ordinary t-shirt dress, this dress curves and forms with your natural body shape, creating a flattering fit. This material also has a little more stretch to it than the other dresses because of it's form-fitting style, officially making it my go-to for long football games where I just want to feel comfy TBH. I decided to dress up this look with a preppier feel, pairing it with these traditional black mules and a black and white accent crossbody purse. This look was SO classy yet playful, which I realized is totally going to be my new game day aesthetic. For a colder game day, I'd probably add an oversized college logo crewneck sweatshirt — it would play it down a bit, all while keeping chic comfort in mind.

Want to upgrade your college football fashion style? Get all the fashion staples you'll need to create your next iconic game day look from Jane Hudson. Use code 'HERCAMPUS' on Jane Hudson's online store for 20% off your entire order through October 31st, 2018!

Bill Cosby, previously known as "America's Dad", saw his day in court today, Tuesday, September 25, ending in a sentence of three to ten years in prison on the charges against Andrea Constand. Here is what you need to know about the first major celebrity conviction for the #MeToo movement.

Cosby was sentenced today with Judge Steven T. O'Neill presiding over his case. O'Neill decided to merge all three counts of drugging and sexually assaulting Andrea Constand 14 years ago due to the event taking place at one time. This dropped his sentence from a maximum of 30 years to 10. CNN has reported that Judge O’Neill has denied Cosby bail.

A psychologist from Pennsylvania’s Sexual Offenders Assessment Board asserted in court on Monday that Cosby should be categorized as a “sexually violent predator” due to an analysis of his behavior over the past 30 years. This is believed to be due to a personality disorder which urges him to sexually assault nonconsenting partners. Today, the judge favored this analysis, causing Cosby to be required to have routine counseling for the rest of his life, and to give monthly reports to police.

Mr. Cosby’s lawyer, Joseph P. Green, argued in his defense that due to Cosby’s old age at 81 and his legal blindness, he is no risk and would be unable to offend again,according to The New York Times. The source reported that Green argued, “How’s he going to meet these people? There is no reasonable prospect that an 81-year-old blind man is likely to reoffend.” Cosby's defense was hoping for a conviction of house arrest, stating that these hindrances would not allow him to be a danger to society. The psychologist strongly opposed these claims, believing that his disorder has not gone away with age.

According to ABC 7, Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele believed that “to say that he's too old to do that - to say that he should get a pass, because it's taken this long to catch up to what he's done? What they're asking for is a 'get out of jail free' card.” Steele implored that Cosby receive a sentence of maximum confinement to pay for the pain he has caused.

Upon his conviction, Andrea Constand presented a victim impact statement, writing, “Bill Cosby took my beautiful, healthy young spirit and crushed it. He robbed me of my health and vitality, my open nature, and my trust in myself and others...Now, more than 60 other women have self-identified as sexual assault victims of Bill Cosby. We may never know the full extent of his double life as a sexual predator but his decades-long reign of terror as a serial rapist is over.”

Cosby’s wife was not present on Monday or Tuesday, and it is uncertain if she will be on Tuesday. The New York Times reports that Bill Cosby chose not to speak at his sentencing or show any sign of remorse due to already announcing his defense will be making an appeal. 

Over 60 women that have accused him of sexual assault will finally see Cosby behind bars. Judge O’Neill sent him out of court in handcuffs stating that, “Mr. Cosby this has all circled back to you. The day has come, the time has come."

The Senate Judiciary Committee will vote on Brett Kavanaugh’s nomination to the Supreme Court on Friday, less than 24 hours after Kavanaugh and Dr. Christine Blasey Ford testify regarding Ford’s accusations that Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her nearly 30 years ago.

In a statement, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley’s spokesman, Taylor Foy, said committee rules require that such votes be posted three days in advance.

“An executive business meeting is being noticed tonight in the event that a majority of the members are prepared to hold one on Friday,” Foy said.

Following the announcement, Grassley tweeted, stressing that this was a potential meeting that could be further delayed, but added that the vote could still take place on Friday if the vote was so desired.

“Judic Cmte noticed POTENTIAL exec mtg for Friday. Still taking this 1 step at a time. After hrg Dr Ford & Judge Kavanaugh's testimony- if we're ready to vote, we will vote. If we aren't ready, we won't. Cmte rules normally require 3 days notice so we're following regular order,” Grassley wrote.

Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the committee’s top Democrat, issued a statement, saying it’s clear that “Republicans don't want this to be a fair process.”

“For Republicans to schedule a Friday vote on Brett Kavanaugh today, two days before Dr. Blasey Ford has had a chance to tell her story, is outrageous,” Feinstein said. “First Republicans demanded Dr. Blasey Ford testify immediately. Now Republicans don’t even need to hear her before they move ahead with a vote.”

According to Politico, Senate Republicans hired a female attorney to conduct Ford’s questioning at the hearing regarding her sexual assault allegations on Thursday, but the senators are declining to release the attorney’s name at this time.

Grassley told Politico on Tuesday that “we aren't announcing the name for her safety.” When asked if the senators have received any sort of indication of threats towards the attorney that they are bringing on for the hearing, Grassley said, “I don’t know, but I guess we’re just being cautious.”

As the committee announced that they are pressing ahead with a vote on Kavanaugh’s nomination, Deborah Ramirez’s attorney charged that Republican “have refused to meet all scheduled appointments” to discuss her allegation against Kavanaugh. In a New Yorker report released on Sunday, Ramirez accused Kavanaugh of exposing himself and thrusting his genitals in her face at a college party in the 1980s.

“Ms. Ramirez is ready to swear to the FBI under penalty of perjury. Why won’t the Senate Judiciary Committee welcome that?” Ramirez’s attorney, John Clune, tweeted on Tuesday.

President Donald Trump has continued to stand by his Supreme Court nominee, and sought to discredit Ramirez on Tuesday, mocking her claims, CNN reports.

The White House has tried to shift the blame for this recent debacle onto Democrats. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders singled out Feinstein, blaming the top Judiciary Committee Democrat for creating this controversy.

“I find that to be disgraceful and disgusting, and she certainly needs to shoulder a lot of the blame for what’s going on right now,” Sanders said.

Despite Trump’s comments about Ramirez, Sanders said the White House is open to Ramirez testify. Senate Republicans, however, have said that they will determine the witnesses and have repeatedly said that they would limit it to Ford and Kavanaugh.

Feinstein and other Democrats have called on the White House to allow the FBI to investigate Ford’s allegations, but the Trump administration has refused agree to it, according to Politico.

“The best way the process is fair and gets to the truth in a respectful manner is an FBI background check investigation,” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said. “If you want the truth, you ask for an FBI background check investigation. If you’re afraid of the truth, you avoid an FBI background investigation.”

The FBI has said that it has completed its background investigation on Kavanaugh and has no further role in this nomination argument.