If there’s one thing people get right about being a college student, it’s that you’re going to be busy all the time. Whether you’re attending your fourth class of the day, heading to an executive board meeting for your campus club, or getting primped for your Friday night out with your girl gang, it always feels like there’s somewhere to be. As the #girlboss you are, you can probably juggle all of these activities and events — but why not do it all in style? Nothing says effortless, trendy style like a chic pair of glasses and sunglasses.

For all your college needs, Zenni Optical has your back for the latest prescription glasses, sunglasses, and even blue light-filtering glasses. Zenni has the right pair of glasses for any college occasion, including classic looks, fun and bold accent frames, and everything in between. Plus, Zenni glasses are super affordable, especially for a college girl on a budget (#thestruggleisreal). Here are the best glasses to rock for whatever affair this school year calls for.

For the lecture hall

@ugoomero in Style 2018223

Let’s face it — unless you’re sitting in the very front of a lecture hall, it can be hard to see everything that’s going on in class. Especially for those of us who need prescription glasses, those massive lecture halls can make it difficult to see the professor’s board or slideshow. Luckily, Zenni has the cutest prescription glasses, made perfect for those with near or far-sighted vision. We LOVE these millennial pink Candy Eyeglasses (so on-trend) for a stylish touch to some necessary prescription glasses.

For tailgate season

@meganzietez in Style 2023030

Get gameday ready with some super bold sunnies! There’s no better event than a football tailgate or game to try a new trend, and that’s no exception for eyewear. With tons of colors, sizes and styles, Zenni has a ton of options for the most fashion-forward sunglasses. These slightly heart-shaped glasses are ultra-unique and are sure to pair perfectly with any game day outfit.

For those late-night study sessions in the library

@madamandrews​ in Style 7811123

When the homework assignments, group projects and midterm exams are all-too-overwhelming, it’s time to hit the library. But before straining your eyes by starting at a computer for a few consecutive hours or during an all-nighter (no shame, we’ve all been there), make sure you’re wearing the right glasses to keep your eyes protected. Zenni’s UV+ Blue Blockers lenses are perfect for any college student who’s constantly studying and working on their laptop — they protect from high-energy visible blue lights that can cause tired eyes, headaches and blurred vision. These aviator style glasses with UV+ Blue Blocker are perfect for a studious yet stylish look, and will keep you on top of your game during your study sesh!

For a night out with the squad

@bellabucchiotti in Style 237430

Take your nighttime outfit to the next level with some fashion-forward frames! Try some cat-eye sunglasses for your next happy hour to look stunning during that sunset #goldenhour, or a pair of fun, colorful glasses during a night out on the college town. No matter what look you’re going for when you’re destressing during the weekend, Zenni has a huge selection of chic frames that are the perfect accessory for any after-class affair.

For slaying your internship

@aprilmaywebb in Style 206825

Every #girlboss needs a pair of stylish glasses to rock during her internship. Try a go-to pair of round eyeglasses with a tortoiseshell pattern for a sophisticated style. Or, if you’re looking to channel some classic vibes, try a pair of round wire glasses with UV+ Blue Blocker lenses while working on your latest assignments.

Whether you’re working hard to ace your next exam or hanging out with your squad, there’s a pair of glasses from Zenni Optical for any occasion during college. Become a #Zennista and try out a new pair of glasses or sunglasses — you won’t regret reaching for the most stylish accessory of the season!

I Did A Thing is our weekly advice column where the Her Campus editorial team helps you out when you ruin your own life (hey, we've been there). Email advice@hercampus.com for any and everything you need help with. We’ll answer you (anonymously!) on hercampus.com so we can all learn, together. We’ve got your back.

@honestlyjusthelp: I think my friend might be in an unhealthy relationship. How can I know for sure? I don't want to lose her as a friend, but I'm also really worried about her. I've tried to bring it up casually, but she just gets mad. What can I do to help support her?

@onelovefoundation: It’s difficult to know what to do when you suspect your friend is in an unhealthy relationship. You may want to help, but be afraid of pushing them away or worse, losing them as a friend altogether. And while we don’t know what is triggering your concern for your friend, we believe that when something feels off it usually means something is off. That said, there are few subtle and not so subtle signs your friend’s relationship is unhealthy.

Does your friend feel like they have to check-in with their S.O. throughout the day? And are they given the third degree when they miss a call or text from bae? Since unhealthy relationships are rooted in power and control, unhealthy partners may demand 24/7 access to their S.O. through text and calls. Also, does your friend feel like they need to walk on eggshells around their partner to keep them from getting angry or upset? Feeling like your relationship is full of ups and downs is a big indicator that emotions are not dealt with in a calm, healthy way. Does their partner get jealous easily or possessive of your friend?  If so, these may be subtle signs that their relationship is unhealthy.

Another warning sign that their relationship is unhealthy is if your friend indicates that their partner is pushing the pace of the relationship. Intensity is one of the earliest signs of an unhealthy relationship and can be really difficult to spot. Since unhealthy partners know the sooner you commit the harder it is to walk way, they will use manipulation tactics like grandiose gestures (a, la the Notebook) to win over their partner’s trust and affection. 

When it comes to unhealthy behaviors, we’ve barely scratched the surface so keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list of all the warning signs. To learn more about the 10 signs of an unhealthy relationship, visit joinonelove.org.

If you are truly concerned that your friend’s relationship is unhealthy, the most impactful thing you can do is start a conversation. You may feel nervous, especially if your friend gets defensive whenever you bring up their S.O., but these tips will help facilitate an open and honest conversation between you and a friend:

• Start with an Affirmation: We recommend starting this conversation with an affirmative statement like, “You’re always so fun to be around. I’ve missed you!” Once your friend feels comfortable, you can begin calmly voicing your concern for your friend.
• Avoid being Accusatory: If you know your friend’s relationship is unhealthy, it’s okay to be angry at the situation, but getting angry with them will not solve the problem. The next time your friend interrupts you to answer an urgent text from their S.O. try saying this “I’ve noticed you’re always on your phone. Is there anything going on that you want to talk about?” Instead of, “Stop answering that. Just tell them you’re busy.”
• Be Supportive: Listen to your friend and let them open up about the situation on their own terms. Don’t be forceful with the conversation and remind them that you want to help.
• Focus on the Behavior: Instead of labeling their partner as “abusive” or “bad,” focus on the unhealthy behaviors you’ve seen and provide your friend with a safe space to talk about it. Sometimes, our instinct is to immediately label the relationship as abusive to drive home the severity of the situation. This instinct, however, can cause your friend to retreat and shut down. Instead, focus on the specific behaviors you’re seeing and how that behavior makes them feel. For example, saying something like “It seems like your partner wants to know where you are a lot and is always texting and calling – how does that make you feel?” pinpoints the specific behavior and gets your friend to think about how it makes them feel. This is one of the first steps in getting your friend to understand what is and is not an appropriate behavior in a relationship. 
• Allow Them to Make their Own Decision: Maintain a calm demeanor when speaking with your friend and be open to what they are most comfortable with. The goal is to help them understand for themselves that something is off in their relationship. The last thing you want to do is tell them to “just break up!” Relationship abuse is very complex, and the most dangerous time is actually during and after a breakup. Also, your friend is already dealing with a controlling and manipulative partner and the last thing that they need is for you to mimic those behaviors by forcefully telling them what to do.

Lastly, the most important thing you can do to support a friend is to have more conversation with your them in the future. Ultimately, you don’t need your friend to admit they are in an unhealthy relationship. Your role as a friend is to let them know you care and are available to help whenever they need to talk. If your friend is in immediate danger, you should alert authorities (i.e., campus safety or 911) right away. 

If you or a friend are in an abusive relationship, please contact the National Domestic Violence hotline at 1-800-799-7233 to get advice.

Check out more advice from @helpmehc. We've got your back.

Ever wish you could just plop down, pop in a VHS tape (remember what those are?) of your favorite Disney movie, and just lose yourself in yet ANOTHER rendition of “Hakuna Matata” or “Under the Sea”? If you’ve never gotten over the classics of your childhood — and let’s be real, who has — Disney’s new ‘90s nostalgia line has got the perfect throwbacks for you.

The Oh My Disney ‘90s Flashback Collection combines your love of the old and the new, featuring innovative pieces such as VHS purse clutches and silly novelty cups. Not only will this collection be the center of huge conversation pieces, but you’ll also get to model your childhood favorites on the daily. We can hear our bank accounts depleting already.

If you want to fulfill your beating nostalgic heart, our favorite pieces of the collection include this badass Snow Whitecross body bag, an understated Alice in Wonderlandcharm necklace, and this sweet embroidered denim jacket featuring Aladdin’s genie.

However, the Oh My Disney line supplies more than just unique fashion statements. You’ll literally remember what it feels like to grow up in the late ‘90s and early 2000s with the line’s range of journals, ballpoint pens, and even a metal lunchbox! Who said college is too old to have a lunchbox?

Shop the new collection here — and don’t be surprised if you feel yourself humming along to “Be Your Guest” along the way.

At some point or another, most of us have felt average in high school. Whether your wardrobe lacked the latest winter trends or your chemistry grade pulled down your GPA more than you anticipated, you’ve probably experienced the universal sluggish feeling. When college application season rolls around, it’s almost impossible not to feel subpar as your classmates compare test scores and count off the number of awards they’ve received. You might even question sending your applications to more selective schools because you’re convinced admission officers would just toss it in the rejection pile. If this how you feel, here are several ways to make your application stand out from the rest.

1. Turn your application into a story

While the analogy may be cliché, comparing life to a book with many chapters is true. High school isn’t just one chapter of your life; it contains good and bad experiences that shape your perspectives of things from love to work ethic. Admission officers are interested in how you’ve changed as a person throughout high school. Ashley Olszanski, a sophomore at the University of Vermont, believes that you can reveal more about yourself through the power of creative storytelling.

“Personally, I used my college application essay to tell a story,” she says. “Instead of listing positive aspects about yourself, pick a time in your life that you can make into a story and within that story, highlight the qualities that make you the perfect applicant.”

Your story can also stretch beyond the essay. Look at your application as a whole. Are your activities and leadership roles linear? Do your classes increase in rigor? Do your grades stay consistent or improve? If you answered no to any of these questions, take advantage of the additional writing space at the end of the application. Your explanation can help connect the dots of an incomplete picture, one that if completed, can work in your favor.

2. Convey who you are beyond your resume

Have you ever thought about how strange the college application process is? Strangers read about you on paper and decide your future based on how well you present yourself in less than a dozen pages. Without the essays, you’re literally a series of grades and achievements. This is why it’s crucial that you use the essays to communicate what makes you tick. Peter Van Buskirk, author, speaker and consultant of Best College Fit, stresses the importance of not letting your resume define you.

“So often students applying to college know themselves by their resumes: the activities they been involved in, the places they’ve been, the people they know, the positions they’ve held and their score history,” he says. “It’s a very visible reminder of who they are to the world. Schools want to know about the person behind the numbers, behind the data. Who is the invisible person?”

With a long list of extracurriculars, a perfect GPA and dozens of volunteer experiences, you’re more than qualified to attend most colleges, but showing who you are takes more effort on paper. Take the time to do this because it’ll be worth it.

3. Add a little bit of humor

You don’t have to be a professional comedian to include humor in your college application. There are many opportunities to make the reader chuckle or even just smile at your words. If you’re a sarcastic person or have a dry sense of humor, show that in your essays. Write about the time you took 25 four-year-olds fishing by yourself or what you learned from accidentally shaving off your eyebrows. Even a serious writing prompt can be answered in a lighthearted way. Amy Ma, a freshman at Stanford University, says, “I wrote in my essay that one of the reasons I wanted to go to Stanford was because I wanted to be like Gabriella from High School Musical. I guess they thought it was funny!”

If you’re afraid your humor will fall flat, have multiple people read your essay or personal statement. Watch their reactions and tweak your writing based on the positivity of the reactions. Just know that everyone has a different sense of humor, so not everyone might enjoy your jokes (including the admissions officer). Sometimes written humor doesn’t have the same effect as spoken humor. One specific case is dark, conversational humor that’s more of an acquired taste for some people. Make sure you’re completely confident before you submit your application

Related: 5 Things That Don’t Matter on Your College Applications 

4. Be honest with your achievements

Let’s face it. It’s very tempting and easy to exaggerate on your college application, especially if it’s something as trivial as how many people were competing for a certain award that you won. While an admissions officer may not be able to fact-check everything you put on your resume, it’s assumed you’re being truthful. Min Son, a sophomore at Ursinus College, learned from personal experience that honesty stands out on an application.

“When I was applying to college, I only thought about impressing whoever was going to look at my applications. Being the first chair in an orchestra or winning a debate trophy as a sophomore wasn’t as important as I thought,” she says. “I realized that people who stand out don’t exaggerate. They take their life experiences to show who they have become, focusing on the process rather than the result.”

While Min’s achievements are admirable, she believes that writing about the hours of practice to become the first chair or the struggles of winning the debate trophy would’ve benefitted her more in the long run. High school is a journey and colleges are interested in hearing about how you’ve been shaped by your achievements, not just the achievements themselves.

5. Focus on what you’ll bring to campus

Although many colleges don’t use quotas to fill spots in their new incoming class, they do look for students that will bring something new. Maybe they want a stronger theater culture or a greater diversity of intramural sports. If you’ve got a passion for something unusual, chances are the admission officers will like that. Even if you don’t believe it, your mad juggling skills make the campus melting pot more diverse.

Rachna Shah, a freshman at Dartmouth College, says, “One of the most important things to understand in your college application is that colleges are trying to see what you’re going to do in the future, both on campus and beyond. What’s unique about you? Whether it be an extracurricular or a personal trait or a hobby, it’s sure to make you shine.”

If you can’t keep track of how many schools you’re applying to, think about narrowing down that list. For each school, consider how your passion will impact student culture. Bringing something completely new to campus will ultimately help a college’s image and your chances of acceptance.

The college application process is one of self-growth and discovery. While you may feel defined by ordinary test scores and activities, you’re more than a list of items admissions officers use to compare you to other applicants. By showing them the unique qualities you’ll bring to their campus, your application will definitely have a better chance of being placed at the top of the acceptance pile.  

If you haven't seen To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, stop reading this right now, log onto Netflix, and watch this adorable rom-com. 

While co-stars Lana Condor and Noah Centineo were the ship of 2018, Lana is happily taken and honestly, I’m not too upset about it because her boyfriend IRL is just as adorable as Peter Kavinsky.  According to Just Jared Jr., in an interview with Rollercoaster magazine, Lana confessed that, much like her character, Lara Jean Covey, she is a “hopeless romantic” and has been writing love letters since she was a kid. 

“I was the girl in middle school who would write those little letters, like ‘Do you like me? Do you not like me? Check yes or no!’” Lana told Rollercoaster.

Now, the 21-year-old actress says she writes love letters to her boyfriend of three years, Anthony De La Torre, and he writes them back. "He even draws pictures on the front. I would say he’s more romantic than I am!”  

Lana is living out my romantic fantasy, and it gets even better. According to an interview Lana did with Us Weekly in August, Anthony has been writing her letters since they first started dating! “I keep them all. We try to keep the spark alive," she said. 

Aren’t they so cute? And our girl seems to be incredibly happy. 

“I still feel like it’s our first date, but also like we are old and we’ve been together forever and ever,” Lana said in an interview with Cosmopolitan. “Yeah, it’s been three years and it’s been wonderful”. 

And who is this mysterious and gorgeous man that Lana has been head-over-heels for? Well, I’ve got the answers for you! Anthony is a singer, songwriter, and actor. He joined the acting world back in 2015 playing Anthony Del Rey in Nickelodeon’s 100 Things To Do Before High School. Then in 2017, he got his big break in the role as young Jack Sparrow in Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales (Look it up, his resemblance to Johnny Depp is uncanny). He is also a musician and is the front-runner for his alternative band The Fell.

Whitewashing has always been a problem in Hollywood, and unfortunately, it looks like there’s some filmmakers who still haven’t learned their lesson.

Case in point: The Curse of La Llorona, a horror film set to come out next year.

Based on the story of La Llorona, or “The Weeping Woman” from Aztec culture in Mexico, the film features the eponymous character as a horrifying spirit who takes child sacrifices. Twitter user @philsposts explained in a thread the tale of La Llorona in the original stories, which were often used as bedtime stories for Latinx children, as pointed out by @besitoshes on Twitter.

But though so many people are familiar with the story of La Llorona, there’s been pushback from Latinx Twitter for apparent whitewashing evident in the trailer. One of the main qualms regards lead actress Linda Cardellini, who is of European, non-Hispanic descent, playing a character called Anna Garcia, suggesting that the film might be trying to pass Cardellini off as Latinx. The film also seems to be told through the lens of Cardellini’s character, which is problematic considering they are appropriating a part of Latinx culture to focus on a white woman’s story.

People also had issues with the mispronunciation of Spanish words and phrases in the film.

Of course, trailers don’t always tell the whole story, but it’s worthwhile to look into the criticisms that The Curse of La Llorona is facing. It’ll be interesting to see if anybody involved in the making of the film, especially Cardellini and director James Wan will respond to the backlash.

An eight-year-old girl in Sweden was on a family vacation when she found what turned out to be a 1,500-year-old sword, she wrote in a story for The Guardian.

The girl, Saga, said she found the ancient object when she was searching the bottom of the lake for stones to skip.

“One end had a point, and the other had a handle, so I pointed it up to the sky, put my other hand on my hip and called out, ‘Daddy, I’ve found a sword!’” she said.

Her father initially thought it was just an odd stick, the BBC reported. After he and a friend looked at it a bit closer, however, he realized it was no ordinary branch.

According to a press release from Jönköping County Museum, the family contacted archeologist Annie Rosén to share the news. The museum placed the sword in a conservator and returned to search the lake for any other relics. They found a 1,500-year-old brooch and a coin from the 18th century, Saga said.

When she returned to school, Saga’s class threw a party to celebrate her “sensational” find, she told The Guardian. While she was happy to share her little piece of history with others at the museum, she was sad to have lost it, so her family started a fundraiser to pay for a replica.

The internet has now deemed Saga the Queen of Sweden, since King Arthur was said to have been given a prophetic sword by a woman in a lake. Saga said she has bigger dreams, though, like being a vet or an actor in Paris.

“It feels like that lake might be a little bit magic. On that day I felt a little bit magic, too,” she said.

We may not all be iconic enough to find an ancient sword in a lake, but maybe we can take Saga’s lead anyway, and try to find the magic in everyday life. After all, neither Queen Saga nor King Arthur lived their lives expecting to find those legendary swords. Maybe the magic is in the serendipity.

Cardi B is originally from New York City, and it looks like she’s decided to show some love to her hometown this chilly season. According to AP News, Cardi handed out free winter coats near Marlboro houses in Brooklyn to help residents, especially children, combat the cold weather.

The rapper is originally from the Bronx, not Brooklyn, but she also grew up in public housing, Fox 5 NY reports, so the event must have been especially poignant for her.

Cardi wanted the event to be all about the children, which could be an effect of the recent birth of her daughter Kulture with Offset. Many kids who seemed to be fans of Cardi were present, as evidenced in a video shared by reporter Stacey Delikat.

Unfortunately, Fox 5 NY reports that Cardi was three hours late to the event, meaning that the people who showed up to receive coats were left to stand shivering in the cold in the meantime. As Delikat’s video shows, the children grew restless, asking where Cardi was until she showed up.

No official comment was made by Cardi about her lateness (though late or not, Cardi's charitable gesture does not go unnoticed), but she did say that she wants to set an example for kids in the future.

“It's important because we got to set an example for the kids in the future,” she said. "Sometimes people think we just be doing the messed up things but we really care for our kids, our community.”

#NotMyPresident Donald Trump has again shown just how little concern he has for others’ well-being, telling TIME magazine that the death of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi is “very sad.”

According to TIME, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo insists on waiting for the Saudis to finish and publicize a full investigation before the U.S. decides “how or if” to respond. In addition to Pompeo’s hesitance to intervene, Trump has emphasized the need for caution due to the multi-billion-dollar weapons deal between Saudi Arabia and the U.S.

“I don’t like the concept of stopping an investment of $110 billion into the United States,” Trump said, according to Newsweek.

However, Newsweek says this figure isn’t correct, as it includes payment for weapons that Saudi Arabia hasn’t yet signed any contracts for. Since Trump declared the $110 billion “landmark deal” in 2017, only $4 billion worth of deals have been announced, and many of them won’t be completed any time soon.

Clearly, Trump only cares about due process when it benefits him, like when he’s trying to prove that his Supreme Court nominee didn’t assault someone. After all, we still haven’t forgotten the full-page ads he took out demanding the death penalty for the innocent and later-exonerated Central Park Five.

But particularly telling, after this response (or lacktherof) is Trump's record for appearing to make light of (if not support) violence against journalists (particularly those who print stories he doesn't like.) 

Shortly after pushing for patience with Saudi Arabia, Trump praised Montana Congressman Greg Gianforte for body slamming a reporter last year, the BBC reports.

At a rally in Gianforte’s home state, Trump joked “By the way, never wrestle him,” after the congressman introduced him.

“Any guy that can do a body slam, he’s my guy,” Trump added as the crowd cheered. To the crowd’s delight, he even mimicked the infamous move.

Trump displays a worrying lack of empathy, not only for the press, but for anyone who doesn’t fit his description of a good, upstanding citizen. This is a dangerous trait in anyone, but especially in a man whose position of power allows him to make decisions that impact millions of people. Now, more than ever, we’ve got to band together and choose compassion, since apparently the president won’t.

With Halloween approaching, you’re probably spending most of your time watching ‘Hocus Pocus’ on a loop, making pumpkin spice-flavored everything and maniacally pinning the most epic Halloween costumes you can find. If you’re in a relationship, you’ve probably also had to consider whether you and your SO should attend the festivities dressed as Peanut Butter and Jelly, Morticia and Gomez Adams, Thelma and Louise or Poussey and Taystie. Before you break out the DIY supplies, consider these five reasons to skip the matching costumes this year.

1. You can’t agree on an idea

This is the ultimate deal breaker because you can’t exactly match with someone else if you both go dressed as completely incompatible characters. It’d be like bookworm Rory Gilmore going out for a night on the town with daredevil Deadpool—it’s just not a good idea and, honestly, is a telltale sign of poor planning and even worse foresight. Chelsea Jackson, a junior at Iowa State University, says that she and her ex-SO decided against matching costumes because they had different tastes. “I’m always extra with my Halloween costumes and he was very low key, like putting on his Wal-Mart vest and going as a Wal-Mart employee type of low key,” she explains. “It just wouldn’t have been fun to try to get him to sit still for an hour of makeup to turn him into a merman to match my mermaid costume.”

Of course, not being able to agree on a couples costume doesn’t mean that your relationship is destined to fail but it’s a good indication that you should both opt for solo alternatives. It’s not worth the fight or the miserable night one of you is bound to have in a costume that you despise.

2. You (or your SO) just aren’t into it

Halloween is cool—just ask Marnie Piper—and that pretty clearly means that you should have fun with it! If one of you isn’t enthused about the idea of matching costumes, the whole experience could be a nightmare. Certified counselor and relationship coach Jonathan Bennett says, “Couples costumes can be cute. But, too often, one partner does the planning and is excited about the choice, while the other goes along with it and is neutral or secretly miserable.” Half the fun of matching costumes is that you both get to come up with it and work on it together. Bennett warns, “Unless you and your partner can both be excited about the costumes and fully on board with it, just go with your individual choices.” 

3. You’re already going as part of a group costume with your platonic friends

Sometimes when you’re in a relationship, especially a new one, it can be easy to neglect friends and life responsibilities that aren’t directly related to your SO. You’re happy and possibly in love and it’s okay if you want the whole world to know it. Still, Halloween is a good excuse to reunite with those friends who’ve always been there for you—through your old and new relationships, the good, the bad and even the ugly cry. What better way to show them you still care to be a part of the squad than to plan the best group costume of all time? Elaine Thompson, a home and lifestyle expert at JustEnergy.com, says, “My boyfriend and I are not trying to match our costumes this year [even though it’s] our first Halloween together. He and his guy friends have plans for a group costume and I have one in mind for myself. Zero matching going on here!”

If your SO truly cares about your relationship, they’ll understand the need to make time for your friends. They should do the same, too!

4. You want to assert your independence

Even if you’re not going as a group, planning a costume just for yourself is still a good way to reaffirm your personal identity outside of your relationship.  Try not to forget who you are and what makes you happy. Thompson says, “I think when you’re in a relationship, there are a lot of things that you compromise on to share with the other person, but that shouldn’t lead to surrendering your own identity.” For her and her boyfriend, skipping the matching costumes was never really a point of discussion. “We both value our independence and have our own styles,” she adds. If you’ve had an idea for a costume for a few months now and it doesn’t require a partner, don’t feel bad about going for it anyway.

5. You don’t want to annoy your single friends

There’s nothing a single friend finds more nauseating than the PDA-heavy couple that shows up as Cinderella and Prince Charming (although, they’d probably be more accepting of Pam and Jim). Everyone’s here to have a good time and no one wants to have their nose rubbed in their singlehood. If you have a friend who’s still getting over a breakup or who hashtags every social media post with #foreveralone, you might want to consider his or her feelings before making a grand, arm-in-arm entrance with the firefighter to your Dalmatian.

Related: The 11 Costumes You'll See at a College Halloween Party

When you’re in a relationship, there can be a lot of pressure to dress up in the cutest matching costumes with your SO (#doitforthegram), but that doesn’t mean you have to if you don’t want to. Your relationship is more important than the Instagram likes and if it’s simply not your or your SO’s cup of tea, that’s okay. Bennett says the important thing is to “be honest with your boyfriend or girlfriend and respect their opinions. You don’t need to prove anything about your relationship by choosing a couples costume.”

Even if the idea of matching costumes really excites you, it might not have the same effect on the other person. Kayleen Parra-Padron, a junior at Florida International University, and her boyfriend dress up in matching costumes every year. She says that after being Snow White for 18 straight years before meeting her boyfriend, she’d never go solo again. But even she admits, “If my boyfriend ever wants to dress up as something different, I wouldn't mind. I'd be offended AF, but I'd understand.”  

Choosing a Halloween costume should never come between you and your SO. Don’t be afraid to go solo this year!

It's only been a week since Ariana Grande and Pete Davidson called off their engagement and split up (even though it feels like years have passed), but the two may not be done forever. 

"It's over for now but in a few days it wouldn’t be shocking to see them all over each other again," a source told PEOPLE, adding that both Ariana and Pete are "very unpredictable. 

As for right now, Ariana's "staying strong and focusing on work," the source said. Last Tuesday, she performed "The Wizard and I" during the taping of Wicked's 15th-anniversary special, set to air on NBC later this month.

Returning to the stage wasn't particularly easy for Ariana, though. Before the performance, she wrote on Instagram, "Can't believe I almost let my anxiety ruin this for me today!! Not today satan! Not tomorrow or the next day either not no more u can suck my big green d*ck. finna sing my heart out and be a big walking vessel of love bye."

In addition to the breakup, Ariana's also still dealing with the death of her ex-boyfriend, rapper Mac Miller, who died in September of a suspected overdose. 

"Ariana’s been through a lot and emotionally things have been so up and down for her this year," the source told PEOPLE, adding that the called-off engagement has “been really hard for both of them."

But according to E! News, Ariana has a huge support system. "They want what's best for her and to do what she feels is best for herself," the source said. 

As for Pete, he recently canceled a scheduled performance at Temple University citing "personal reasons." He's also taking time away from work before Saturday Night Live returns on November 3.

Hopefully the two end up doing what's best for themselves, even if it means moving on. 

If you need further proof we're living in the age of ridiculous food — from made-for-Instagram foods like donut ice cream sandwiches to pizza flavored ice cream — may we present rotisserie chicken candy canes.

Archie McPhee, the same company that brought us mac and cheese candy canes, recently released the chicken treats. If you weren't already grossed out (or enticed, we're not judging), check out the company website's description: "Forget the turkey, start a new Christmas tradition, Rotisserie Chicken Candy Canes! Not only does this set of six candy canes have the same color scheme as crispy chicken skin,​ ​but also the same savory flavor with sweet mixed in. Seriously, these taste like rotisserie chicken. (Really,​ ​the​y ​d​o​!) Each candy cane is 5-1/4" tall with roasted chicken-colored yellow and brown stripes."

Yes, the candy canes are even the same color as chicken.

If you want to try the treats, you better act fast. According to Archie McPhee's website, the candy canes are extremely popular. Customers are limited to a maximum of five boxes.

If rotisserie chicken isn't your thing, perhaps clams, bacon, or pickles are. Archie McPhee has candy canes in all of these flavors. 

You graduate from college, emotions are running high, and now you’re on the search for a roommate to help you transition into the next chapter of your life. Talk about stressful, right? Sure, many people will live with their college friends or choose to move back home for a while. Parents can make great roommates when you’re trying to pay off your student loans—thanks for the free meals mom! It can be overwhelming to know where to start your roommate search, so we’ve asked a few graduates who have successfully been through the process already to share their advice.

Check Craigslist

At this point, you can pretty much find anything you need on Craigslist, even potential roommates. Desiree Bourque, a recent graduate of the University of Southern Maine, has used Craigslist more than once to find a roommate. “It’s easy to post a description of the type of roommate you want, including cleanliness, lifestyle and other key components for living with someone,” she says. “People would message me, replying to the ad, and say why they’re a good fit. From there, I’d meet with a couple different people and choose a roommate based on who is the most compatible. It’s always worked great.” Craigslist may not be the first place you think to search for an apartment roomie, but it’s worth a shot.

Samantha Burke, a graduate of Siena College, agrees Craigslist can work in your favor. “As sketchy as some listings are, I found [my roommate] on Craigslist,” she says. “I moved from Atlanta to Boston and wasn't able to meet in person, both to meet her and see the apartment, so I FaceTimed with my now roommate and she showed me around! Almost a year later I'm confident she's definitely not a serial killer.” It’s a must to either meet your potential roommate in person, safely, or at the very least FaceTime them so you know it’s for real.

Join Facebook groups

Facebook has the perfect combination of relatable memes, current news articles and even potential roommates. Mara Hyman, a graduate of the University of Southern California, recommends using these groups to your advantage. “I think that Facebook groups are the way to go when it comes to finding an apartment and also a roommate after college! In large cities, you're likely to find housing groups for that specific area that are geared towards 20-somethings who might also be new to the area. This is how I found my current roommates!” Living in a new place can be intimidating, so finding roommates who are familiar with the surroundings can make your transition a little easier.

Mara further explains, “Similarly, college alumni groups or groups for your specific graduation class can be helpful for scoping out other alums moving to the same city. If you're joining a large company with a recent grad/new hire training program, you will likely find a Facebook group where you can connect with other new hires in the same situation.” You’ll see fellow college classmates posting about vacant rooms in their apartments and even find ones in the same boat as you are. Be open to new people and remember your roommate does not have to be your best friend.

Alaina Leary, Emerson College ‘17, says there are also identity-specific groups that can also be found on Facebook. “I’m in a couple of LGBTQ+ Boston housing Facebook groups. I didn’t meet a roommate there, but I see postings all the time!” she says. “For safety or comfort, these kinds of groups could be useful whether someone’s looking for another POC to live with or someone else who works in nursing.” Living with people you can identify with or relate to might make your apartment feel a little more like home. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there so you find exactly what you are looking for.

Related: 5 Tips for Actually Making Friends in a New City

Utilize online services

There is an endless amount of websites and apps to help you find the perfect roommate. Knowing which ones to trust can be challenging, but they can also work great when it comes down to compatibility. Bianca Lapensee, a graduate of Bishop’s University, used roommates.com to find her roommate. “You enter the city you wish to live in, answer questions about yourself and what you look for in a roommate and then the site will send you matches based on your responses,” she explains. It sounds a lot like online dating, which may steer you away from this option, but Bianca happily found a great roommate. “It works both ways too,” she says. “If you’re looking to fill a spot at your apartment or searching for a room to move into.”

Ask your fellow friends which sites they may have used, or post a status on Facebook asking for suggestions. You want to make sure you’re being cautious about the information you’re putting out there, so be smart about which sites you use!

Go old school and post flyers

You know how you see people posting flyers in movies about their lost pets or the occasional yard sale ad on neon paper posted on a telephone pole in your hometown? Well, some people are still using flyers to find their roommates, and it’s working. Olivia Hennedy, a graduate of Bishop’s University, shares how her good friend went about his roommate search. “He posted flyers in some of his favorite local spots with basic information about his apartment and the type of roommate he was looking for,” she explained. “He figured the type of roommate he wants would enjoy hanging out in the same places as him, like his favorite bar or coffee shop, and sure enough he had some inquiries and chose one who is now his best friend after a couple years of living together.” If you have a favorite spot you like to hangout in, post a flyer!

Keep in mind this type of advertising doesn’t work if you’re moving far away. But if you’re staying local, it might be exactly what you need to narrow down your roomie search. And who knows, you could even gain a new friend out of it.

Reach out to friends of friends

Word of mouth is probably one of the best ways to find a roommate you’ll feel comfortable living with. If your close friends have different life plans than you at the moment, ask them if their other friends may be a good roommate fit for you.

Tell people you’re looking for a roommate and soon enough you’ll find someone who will have a person in mind for you. It’s a matter of making it known and being willing to meet with various people until you find the perfect fit.

Look on LinkedIn

The same place we share our accomplishments and seek out jobs may also be your solution to finding a roommate, particularly one you have similarities to. This isn’t the type of site you want to post personal ads on, as you want to keep your page looking professional, but join LinkedIn groups that suit your interests. Sororities often have their own groups and as a result are able to post about roommates or vacant rooms they are trying to fill. You may not know the person posting about needing a roommate, but if they are also a “sister” then you may feel more inclined to room with them instead of a stranger.

Searching for a roommate can seem like a daunting task, but don’t let it discourage you. Understand it may take time but trust the right person will come along at the ideal moment. It’s preferable to live with friends, but sometimes that option isn’t available. Whether you’re searching for an apartment, looking for a direct roommate or trying to fill an empty spot in your own home, be smart about who you share information with and be sure to conduct interviews before you agree to live with someone. Be honest about your living expectations and everything else should fall into place. Cheers!

Harvard wants to admit their donor's children. [BuzzFeed]

The new Gen-Z trend is skipping college. [Vice]

Abortion by mail is now a thing. [Cosmopolitan]

Astrology is hard, even if it's fake. [The New York Times]

The "going out top" you need. [The Cut]

Why you should close the door before you go to bed. [Women's Health]

These pumpkin carvings are insane. [MTV]

I ate only pizza for a week. [Spoon University]

An oral history of the first Harry Potter Quidditch match. [Entertainment Weekly]

Epic road trips to take in the U.S. [Elite Daily]

The Trump administration, in a move that would substantially decrease transgender rights, might narrow the definition of gender. According to a new report from The New York Times, the Department of Health and Human Services is contemplating to define gender on a biological base determined by the genitals a person has at birth. 

The New York Times obtained a draft memo from the Department of Health and Human Services, and it aimed to include a legal definition of sex to Title IX, which is a federal civil rights law prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs that receive federal funding. In the department’s memo, they argued that government agencies’ needed to uniformly define a person’s sex “on a biological basis that is clear, grounded in science, objective and administrable.” 

It basically means that, under the department's definition of gender, sex would be unchangeable, determined at birth, and limited to male or female. 

“Sex means a person’s status as male or female based on immutable biological traits identifiable by or before birth,” the memo said, according to The New York Times. “The sex listed on a person’s birth certificate, as originally issued, shall constitute definitive proof of a person’s sex unless rebutted by reliable genetic evidence.” 

The narrow definitions would roll back on essential protections for those who identify as transgender, especially in schools where locker rooms and bathrooms leaves them often the most vulnerable. As the New York Times points out, the administration also stands to “eradicate federal recognition” of an already marginalized population. About 1.4 million people identify as transgender in the U.S., according to the Times. 

The Trump administration has previously tried to stop transgender protections laws put in place during the Obama-Era. Back in May, the Justice Department rolled back on an Obama-Era rule that protected transgender inmates. Under Trump, the Bureau of Prisons policy now bases housing and bathroom assignments on biological sex.

Everyone knows that you’re supposed to be drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day. It’s been engrained in our heads since kindergarten, but that doesn’t mean we’ve always followed the rule. Here’s how you can change that, and in-turn, stay hydrated.

1. Get a HydraTrak water bottle

The Planet Zak water bottle serves as a visual representation of how much water you’ve been drinking that day. The bottle has eight bands on it to represent the eight cups you should be drinking per day. When you gulp down one cup, move one band up to show that you’ve finished it. You’ll find yourself motivated to move eight bands by the end of the day.

2. Set alarms

This is a noisier option, but it works! Set eight alarms, spaced out evenly throughout your day, and drink a cup of water whenever they ring. It’s a great, constant reminder to drink water! Depending on when you wake up and when you go to sleep, place alarms for even increments throughout your day. If you space it out evenly, you should be ready and thirsty for the next alarm to come!

3. Infuse it with fruit

If plain water sounds boring to you, there’s ways you can make it taste delicious. By infusing water with combinations of fruits, veggies and herbs, you can make it taste just as good as sugary drinks! Classic combinations include: strawberry with basil, lemon with mint and watermelon with cucumber.

4. Carry water EVERYWHERE

If you always have water to drink, you’ll drink it! “I always carry around a big water cup with me and I drink a ton of water subconsciously! There are tons of cute patterns you can choose from,” says Rachel Petty, a recent graduate from James Madison University, “After getting into the habit, I can’t imagine not doing it.” Carrying around water in a cute bottle is key to having enough water around to drink throughout the day.

5. Download an app

Your phone is always on you and is a great way to remind yourself to rehydrate throughout the day. Install apps like Daily Water and Waterlogged to set reminders and track water intake. Daily Water allows you to set your own goal and plan your own “drinking schedule” with reminders. Waterlogged lets you take a photo of the water you are drinking and automatically logs in the right amount for you.

6. Set quotas

Typically, people eat three meals a day and a few snacks here and there. Use this pattern to plan your water drinking accordingly! Drink two glasses per meal and one glass per snack. This way, you will total up eight or more cups of water per day. 

7. Cut out sugary drinks

If you get rid of soda and other unhealthy drinks, you will be drinking much more water. Plus, you’ll  be a lot healthier too. By ditching these unhealthy drinks, water will become the only drink you need!

Related: Is Diet Soda The Villain, Scapegoat, or Neither?

8. Whiteboard reminder

Megan Scavo, a junior at the University of Central Florida, uses a whiteboard to remind her to drink water daily: “Putting a whiteboard on your fridge and writing a reminder to have a glass of water before breakfast is a method I use. I used to never drink water, and this helps a lot.” If you don’t have a whiteboard, you can also easily use post-its around your house to constantly remind you to hydrate.

Using these eight easy tips, you’ll be hydrated AF in no time!

Rihanna is one of the latest celebrities to show support for Colin Kaepernick. According to Us Weekly, Rihanna declined the NFL’s offer to headline the Super Bowl LIII halftime show in support of Kaepernick. 

“They offered it to her, but she said no because of the kneeling controversy. She doesn’t agree with the NFL’s stance,” an insider told US Weekly.

Starting back in 2016, Kaepernick protested racial inequality and police brutality by kneeling in the middle of the National Anthem. His actions sparked intense controversy, including from President Trump who said that Kaepernick should have been suspended from playing in the league in 2017. The former San Francisco 49ers quarterback hasn’t play since the controversy. He filed grievance against the NFL and claims they colluded him to keep him from returning to the field. Kaepernik has also continued his activism and recently starred in a Nike’s ad campaign. 

The NFL has since announced that Maroon 5 will perform in the 2019 game. Cardi B might also make an appearance for “Girl Like You,” according to W Magazine. 

Many took to Twitter to support Rihanna and even followed her lead in rejecting the Super Bowl. Amy Schumer posted on Instagram Friday that she won’t be doing Super Bowl ads this year in support of Kaepernick, and she also urged Maroon 5 to drop out. 

President Trump confirmed on Saturday that the United States will withdraw from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty with Russia, a landmark deal signed between the U.S. and Russia more than 30 years ago. 

Trump accused Moscow of having violated the agreement for years. Trump also said he didn’t know why former President Barack Obama hadn’t negotiated or withdrawn from the agreement, but that he wasn’t going to let Russia “go out and do weapons and we’re not allowed to,” CNN reports. 

“We’re the ones that have stayed in the agreement and we’ve honored the agreement,” Trump told reporters, following a campaign rally in Nevada, CNN reports. “But Russia has not, unfortunately, honored the agreement. So we’re going to terminate the agreement. We’re gonna pull out.” 

After years of negotiation, former President Ronald Reagan and former USSR President Mikhail Gorbachev signed the 1987 pact. The Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty prohibits both Russia and the U.S. from possessing or producing “ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges of between 500 and 5,500 kilometers, their launchers and associated support structures and support equipment,” according to the State Department. 

Critics fear that withdrawing from the agreement would lead to a renewed arms races, and that it would allow the US to do more to counter China. Just to note, China is not part of the current nuclear treaty with Russia. 

BuzzFeed News reports that Trump specifically mention China in his statement. 

“If Russia’s doing it and China’s doing it and we’re adhering to the agreement, that’s unacceptable,” Trump said. 

Trump isn’t the first U.S. president to claim that Russia is violating the treaty terms. Obama alleged that Russia had tested a ground-launched cruise missile in 2014, which violated the treaty, according to NPR. Obama didn’t withdraw the U.S. from the treaty because of concerns raised by European allies. According to the New York Times, they feared it would result in a similar Cold War-like nuclear arms race.

“This would be a very dangerous step that, I’m sure, not only will not be comprehended by the international community but will provoke serious condemnation,” Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said, according to BBC. The minister also said that if the U.S. continued to behave “clumsily and crudely” and backed out of international agreements, “then we will have no choice but to undertake retaliatory measures, including involving military technology.” 

BBC reports that Ryabkov doesn’t “want to get to this stage.” 

White House national security adviser John Bolton will be in Russia next week to further discuss the withdrawal with Russian President Vladimir Putin. 

When we were in middle school, everyone had oily skin. Like pimples and periods, a greasy face was a rite of passage; we had to endure it in order to truly understand womanhood. But what about those of us that are still plagued by oil slicks on our foreheads well after we finished high school? Well first of all, thank the beauty gods that “dewy” skin is in, but sometimes we just want to feel matte for once. Therefore, we rounded up the best beauty products from the bottom up for those days that our skin feels greasier than the Exxon Valdez oil spill.

Masks

Not only do face masks make us feel incredible, but if you’re using the right one, it can really nourish your skin.

LUSH Cosmetic Warrior Fresh Face Mask- $9.95

This fresh mask from Lush includes tea tree oil and garlic as two of its main ingredients, which are both great cleansers. It also contains egg whites, to moisturizes and tighten, and honey, which acts as a soother. Yeah, we know. It doesn't smell the best (we've tried it), but your skin will thank you for all of those fresh and natural active ingredients.

Freeman Beauty Cleansing Clay Mask- $6.99

Charcoal is a fan-favorite when it comes to clearing up skin and drawing out oil without leaving us dry and flaky. "I got a Freeman charcoal mask in the Her Campus Survival Kit and it made my skin feel so detoxified and glowy," says Leah, a senior at Temple University. Plus, you just can't beat the price of it.

Boots Botanics Ionic Clay Mask Shine Away- $16.99

This mask has a negative electrical charge that acts like a magnet to get the oil and impurities out of your pores. In addition to the cool science behind it, this mask also spreads on evenly and doesn’t take forever to dry, making it perfect for busy college students.

Face Washes

The next step is face wash. The key is to be gentle on your skin – excess exfoliation can cause irritation and more oil. Stripping your face of its natural oils isn’t healthy. You should love your oily skin (we know, it’s hard) because it does have benefits, like a stronger defense system. But, if you want to keep it at bay, washing with the right cleanser is a must.

CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser- $10.98

CeraVe uses ceramides, which are lipids (aka oils) found naturally in our skin. Without ceramides, you’re left with dry and irritated skin. "I love CeraVe," says Sarah, a sophomore at Montgomery County Community College. "There aren't super complicated ingredients in it, and it prevents breakouts like crazy!" This gentle cleanser removes any makeup or dirt leftover on your skin and leaves it feeling super clean.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Facial Cleanser- $7.19

This classic cleanser includes salicylic acid – a favorite among acne-sufferers because it helps to unclog pores – to treat any breakouts your excess oil is causing you. The fresh grapefruit scent makes us feel even more clean and refreshed long after we’re finished washing our face.

Avène Cleansing Foam- $20 

This foaming cleanser is so gentle, it’s like a cloud. Avène uses thermal spring water to infuse your skin with trace minerals that most cleansers don’t provide, plus zinc, which helps to mattify.

Related: 8 Ways to Get Rid of Acne, from Gentle & Natural to Aggressive

Moisturizers

One of the biggest skincare myths is that you shouldn’t moisturize oily skin. If you don’t moisturize, your skin will produce excess oil to make up for what it’s not getting from a lotion. If you choose the right moisturizer, you’ll produce less oil and won’t have to sacrifice soft skin.

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizer- $28

Clinique has been around forever, and for good reason. This moisturizer absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave an oily residue behind. "I grew up with my mom using Clinique, and now I use it," says Megan, a junior at Temple University. "Their Dramatically Different skincare line is the best because I have super sensitive and acne-prone skin and it's not too heavy." Since this is a gel, it's not going to feel as thick as a typical moisturizer, which is perfect for the ladies with oily skin.

Avène Clean-Ac Hydrating Cream- $21

Like the foaming cleanser, this Avène product also uses thermal spring water. This cream is ultra-hydrating without leaving us looking shiny. And you only need a tiny dollop to moisturize your whole face.

Origins GinZing Energy-Boosting Gel Moisturizer- $29.50

Two of the active ingredients in this face cream are ginseng and coffee, which energize the skin and make it glow (not shine –– GLOW). Plus, the lightweight formula is perfect for oily skin and won’t feel heavy.

Foundations

And last but not least, we have some great foundations to really complete your shine-free look. Contrary to popular belief, gals with oilier skin can still use liquid foundation – you just need one that mattifies. Powder is also an option, but no matter what you choose, make sure 'matte' is somewhere on the label. If you need extra coverage, we recommend using both a liquid and a powder and finishing it with a setting spray or powder.

BareMinerals Loose Powder Matte Foundation- $29

BareMinerals is a great makeup brand for any type of skin because all of the ingredients are completely natural. We especially love the matte formula for shinier skin because you don't need to use a lot for great coverage. With this powder, you can decide how much coverage you want. Plus, it minimizes the appearance of pores and pimples – major bonus.

L’Oreal Infallible Pro-Matte 24HR Foundation- $12.99

L'OReal's matte liquid foundation is one of the best drugstore makeup finds because its lightweight texture feels like a luxury brand on your skin. "L'OReal's Infallible foundation is my go-to, especially since I'm a broke college student," says Ericka, a freshman at Temple University. "It stays on throughout my long days and doesn't leave me looking shiny or ghastly by the time I get home." This foundation is largely water-based, so it won't clog your pores with thick ingredients. 

Make Up For Ever Mat Velvet + Mattifying Foundation- $43

Though it’s a bit more expensive than some of the other mattifying beauty products on the market, this one will last all day. From class, to your internship, to the bar, this product will stay matte without getting cakey or letting shine come through.

Oily skin isn’t always fun, but don’t forget that it has some benefits too. With the help of the right products, you’ll stay hydrated and fresh, while keeping the greasiness at bay. Get glowing, girl!

Name: Cayla O’Connell Davis

Job Title & Description: Founder and CEO at Knickey

College & Major: Boston University, BS in Communications / Parsons The New School for Design, MA in Fashion Studies

Website: knickey.com

Twitter: @knickeyofficial

Instagram: @knickeyofficial

Most of us wear underwear. If you don't, that's alright too. But for anyone who does, it's safe to say that you probably have a favorite pair. You know: The one that just makes you feel confident in being, well, you. While you might have put your passion for panties and their related ilk into crafting the ~perf~ undies wishlist at all your favorite retailers, some entrepreneurs have kicked their passion for undies up a notch. Founder and CEO of  Knickery, Cayla O'Connell Davis transmuted her passion to create a company that curates organic cotton underwear that's made for women by women. (So, we don't have to deal with those oddly placed elastic bands that seem to disregard all basic understanding of human anatomy. You know what we're talking about.)

Beyond talking about her company, which will officially launch later this autumn, Cayla O'Connell Davis has some powerful advice for nurturing your biggest ventures (whether those ventures are professional, personal, or a culmination of the two). 

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

Cayla O’Connell Davis: As the founder of a startup, there really is no such thing as a typical day. I try to maintain some semblance of structure to maintain stability in a routine, but my current job entails everything from high-level strategic decision-making, to nitty-gritty administrative work. Without the luxury to delegate too much, I have the opportunity to work on every aspect of building a brand and business from the ground up - I’m really in the trenches day-to-day, which is exciting and fulfilling. There is never a dull moment!

HC: What is the best part of your job?

Cayla: Having creative freedom and agency is definitely empowering [also equally daunting at times!]. But I think that the most rewarding part of my job is realizing a vision alongside incredibly talented people.

HC: What was your first entry-level job in your field and how did you get it?

Cayla: I got a design internship at an established fashion label while I was in college. The woman who hired me called the night before I started to say that she had been fired, and I wouldn’t need to come in the next day. I showed up anyway, figuring that there would be a lot more work to do in light of her absence, and I ended up working for them for two years between semesters and had a job offer before I finished sophomore year.

HC: What words of wisdom (well-known quotes, an anecdote from your boss) do you find most valuable?

Cayla: “If you have an apple and I have an apple and we exchange these apples then you and I will still each have one apple. But if you have an idea and I have an idea and we exchange these ideas, then each of us will have two ideas.” I have always found this George Bernard Shaw impactful. It speaks to the power of knowledge, the value of information, and the possibility in collaboration.

HC: What has been the most surreal moment of your career thus far?

Cayla: Anytime I see a product that I developed, designed, conceptualized or contributed to in some way out in the world … it is such a great feeling, it never gets old.

HC: What do you look for when considering hiring someone?

Cayla: Hunger, hustle and good grammar.

HC: What advice would you give to a 20-something with similar aspirations?

Cayla: Advocate for yourself. If you don’t, who will? Similarly, don’t undervalue yourself. I put off starting a business until I felt ready or prepared to do it, but the truth is, there really is no good time to take a risk or dive-in head first on a venture. If you wait until you ‘feel ready’ you will never start.

HC: What's the one thing that's stood out to you the most in a resume?

Cayla: A value for ethical business practices. While this most immediately aligned with Knickey’s core tenets, the applicant stood out to me as someone seeking more than just a salary, but importantly, meaning and belief in their job. It is amazing to see talented applicants who recognize that business for good is simply, just good business.