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5 Mistakes You’re Making on LinkedIn (& How to Fix Them)

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With more than 277 million users worldwide and 94 percent of job recruiters looking for potential hires on the site, it’s no surprise that collegiettes are hopping onto LinkedIn every day. However, anyone who’s ever tried to create a profile on this site knows how confusing and stressful it can be. It seems too time-consuming to properly communicate your accomplishments, work experience and personality all on a single page. Is there something crucial your profile might be missing? Or are you just doing it all wrong?

Don’t fear! Her Campus talked to several career experts about the biggest mistakes they see first-time LinkedIn users (especially college students) make, so you’ll be a recruiter’s dream—and the LinkedIn envy of your friends—in no time!

Mistake #1: Not having a profile picture (or using the wrong one)

Not having a profile picture is a huge mistake when it comes to LinkedIn; including one will make it seven times more likely that someone will view your profile (and that someone could be a job recruiter or hiring manager!).

However, one issue that our career experts talked about across the board was how many college students had the wrong type of profile photo. Donna Schilder, a leadership, career and business coach, points out that LinkedIn isn’t Instagram. “I've seen people put vacation pictures, funny pictures and even pictures of themselves in a bikini on LinkedIn,” she says. “You will not get hired if you do this!”

Mary Jeanne Vincent, a career expert and strategist, also points out another gigantic profile picture no-no: selfies! Throwing up a peace sign and duck face won’t get you any closer to landing that dream job or making awesome connections.

How to fix it

Schilder has several pieces of advice for having a classy and appropriate photo. “Your picture should be a professional portrait, taken by a professional photographer,” she says. “The picture should focus on your face and it should not have a distracting background. No furniture, curtains or trees coming out of your head!” Schilder also recommends having a neutral background or one that contrasts with your hair color (for example, a blue background for blondes).

Additionally, Schilder recommends styling your hair in a professional way (a clean ponytail or a half-up, half-down updo usually looks good!) and also wearing something business-oriented, like a suit.

Mistake #2: Leaving your headline as “Student at X University”

As a college student, you probably don’t have an impressive title for your headline, such as, “Editor-in-Chief of Important Publication,” but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for just saying that you’re a student!

“Your LinkedIn headline is a great opportunity to get creative,” says Rita Friedman, a certified career coach. “It is how you're choosing to represent yourself in the online professional networking arena, and it is going to be your first impression on a prospective employer.” Despite how short it is, your headline is a huge part of your profile, so it shouldn’t be neglected!

How to fix it

There are a couple of different ways to make your headline stand out among the rest. First, do some research on the language your specific industry uses so your headline targets key words and phrases. You can do this research by looking through dozens of LinkedIn profiles. What have successful people in your future career field tried? What are your peers doing?

Next, it’s time to think of an eye-catching headline. “Using a general phrase, such as, ‘Seeking new opportunity,’ does absolutely nothing to help the optimization of a LinkedIn profile,” says Lisa Rangel, a job search consultant and author of 99 Free Job Search Tips from an Executive Recruiter. “Use a specific phrase to come up in the search results of recruiters, such as ‘Digital Marketing Intern (Rutgers Grad) Seeking Entry-Level Digital Agency Account Manager Position.’” This phrase stays within LinkedIn’s 120-character headline limit but also says a lot about you.

Friedman also cautions collegiettes not to put too many different professions into their headlines either. “Too often, I see college students trying to cram too many ideas into this one line,” she says. “I've seen countless headlines like ‘Expert in Theater, Market Research, Animal Welfare, Social Justice, Economics, Physics and Architecture.’” Writing too many things can be as detrimental as writing too few, so focus on a particular industry or two related fields and stick with those!

Mistake #3: Listing the tasks you completed instead of the contributions you made

If you already have a LinkedIn profile, take a look at how you describe your work at particular jobs and companies. If all you originally wrote down were tasks that you completed (e.g. “Wrote out company spreadsheets” or “Worked on social media”), you may not be effectively showing people who view your profile what you have to offer. As a college student, you may not be sure just how much you affected a company (especially if you were there for a short period of time), which can make it hard to create a profile that showcases your talents.

How to fix it

Kathy Caprino, founder of Ellia Communications and author of Breakdown, Breakthrough, recommends being more thoughtful about your time at an organization. “LinkedIn is where you can shine, so don't just list tasks and functions you've performed,” she says. “List accomplishments, achievements, problems you've solved, new solutions you've created. In short, write about how you've impacted the organizations you've been a part of.”

Instead of just mentioning that you worked on a company’s social media accounts, get more concrete and specific with your accomplishments! Did you help the organization gain 2,000 new Twitter followers and 1,500 Facebook likes? These are important things to include in your description of your time at a company that could help you in the long run! Don’t be afraid to stand out and show what you’re capable of on your LinkedIn profile; you never know who could be looking at it.

Mistake #4: Only connecting with your classmates.

Trying to branch out professionally can be an intimidating task, and it’s tempting to take the easy road and only connect with your college classmates on LinkedIn. But don’t fear the large number of professionals on LinkedIn; you need to expand your network!

How to fix it

Lucky for you, LinkedIn provides users with plenty of opportunities to get more involved with the rest of the community. “LinkedIn is an amazing, powerful tool to connect, so there's no excuse for you to have only 20 connections,” Caprino says. “Build an amazing, mutually beneficial support network of people you like, respect, admire and enjoy by endorsing, connecting, sharing your insights through the groups you join and answering questions. Get out there!”

Are you interested in a particular industry? Odds are, there’s a LinkedIn group of like-minded individuals who enjoy sharing the latest industry news and discussing the field. You can do a search on LinkedIn to find these groups. Some require you to ask for permission to join, and others are open for anyone to participate in. Once you join a group, take note of the dynamic. Are people posting and sharing articles? Is the group more about its members giving opinions and thoughts? Feel free to get involved in these conversations!

If there’s a professional in particular whom you’ve really hit it off with, feel free to send her a message asking her about her career or the similar interests you two have. It could lead to a long-term correspondence, phone call or meetup for coffee. It might feel creepy to send a connection request to someone you don’t know, so sending a message lessens that tension and gives you a way to connect with someone in a more meaningful way than just having them be an “official” LinkedIn connection.

Mistake #5: Not taking the time to complete your profile.

How many LinkedIn profiles have you clicked on just to find that the user only entered where they went to school and the titles of the last two companies they worked at?

Dan Schawbel, a career expert and author of Promote Yourself: The New Rules For Career Success, sees this issue all the time. “When I speak to colleges, only about 25 percent of students are even on LinkedIn,” he says. “The ones that are using it aren't completing their profiles, so they aren't equipped to get jobs.”

Schawbel explains that recruiters and other professionals pass over these incomplete profiles to look at ones that are more filled out and promising, so if all that’s on your profile is where you go to college and the name of one summer job you had, you could be missing out on great opportunities!

How to fix it

Schawbel has a few suggestions for what your profile should include at the very least. “I recommend that students use a photo, a headline that positions them relative to their specialty skills and a summary that captures what they have studied and their major accomplishments,” he says. “Then, they should join professional groups.” These groups are a great place for networking and learning about industry news.

Be warned: Completing a LinkedIn profile and making sure it has all the bells and whistles (and no typos!) takes a lot of time, so you won’t be able to finish everything in 20 minutes. Set aside time to really think about what you’re putting into your profile and how you’re describing yourself and your accomplishments. Doing so will pay off in the long run!

Want to avoid rookie LinkedIn mistakes? Take HC’s awesome advice and you’ll be a total LinkedIn master in no time. Make your profile as professional, thorough and personable as possible, and soon you’ll be on the path to making fabulous connections and getting great offers.


Which Kardashian Wore it Best?

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When Kim Kardashian debuted her Draco Malfoy-inspired 'do during Paris Fashion Week, we all kind of lost it... even the real Malfoy had something to say about it:


 

So apparently Kanye has a Draco fetish....#muse

A photo posted by Tom Felton (@t22felton) on

Since Kim traded in her signature dark locks for an icy platinum, we've been wondering if the rest of the Kardashian ladies will follow suit. Will the of-the-moment look land Kendall more editorials? Is Kylie too cool to go blonde? Will Kris, who's been accused of stealing her daughters' style, give it a shot?

As it turns out, Kourtney is wondering the same thing, and has graced us with a photo of the entire fam sporting Kim's new look:


 

Do blondes have more fun?!

A photo posted by Kourtney Kardashian (@kourtneykardash) on

We have to say, they all look amazing in platinum blonde (yes, even Kris)... but the real question is, who wore it best? 

Links We Love 3.15.15

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Vintage shots of our favorite popstar: Britney! [PopSugar]

Hysteria and teenage girls. [The Hairpin]

Alternative uses for vodka that are almost as good as drinking it. [Spoon University]

Boost your self-esteem in the next 24 hours. [YourTango]

7 great conversation starters. [The Muse]

Why do tampons still exist? [Motherboard]

Perfect St. Patrick's Day cocktails. [Bustle]

More ways to wear your basic white tee. [Refinery29]

Uh oh! These are the signs to guys that you're cheating on them. [Ask Men]

Which 'Real Housewives'villian are you? [BuzzFeed]

 

 

Sephora's Pocket Contour App Just Made Our Lives Easier

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Contouring is easier said than done—with all the tutorials out there, you'd think that by now, we'd all have it down. But how many of you have actually given it a shot, only to end up looking your cheekbones are in all the wrong places and color that makes you look more like a clown than Kim K? Fortunately, Sephora understands our struggle, so they've launched a new app, Pocket Contour, to make sure you actually get it done right.

1. Get started

 

There are four different face shapes the app will help you contour: oval, square, round and heart. 

2. Provide a picture

Next, you need to take a picture. I made sure to take a picture in some good lighting and without any makeup at all. The app analyzes your face and tells you what shape you are and why. If you don't agree, you can still go back and select the face shape you feel fits you best! After clicking through, you are free to choose between 1 of 3 mediums (powder, cream, and stick) and the tutorial will walk you through how to contour using your products of choice.

3. Go through the tutorial

There are five easy steps to contouring, according to Sephora. Prep, highlight, contour, blend, and finish. As soon as you start, the app will show you exactly where to complete each step.

4. Shop

After going through the tutorial, you'll be directed to a semi-personalized website where you'll find product recommendations based on your skin tone. Further down on the page, there are video tutorials on each of the face shapes and one for your skin tone. Even further, they break down the contouring kits by the medium, so if you went with powder in the tutorial but you feel as if you want a cream, you know where to begin. Last but not least, they also include the proper type of brushes you need for your contouring journey.

If you've ever experienced any contouring struggles, give Pocket Contour a shot—and let us know what you think!

3 Cute Outfits You Can Wear on St. Patty's Day

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Let's face it, dressing for holidays can get cheesy pretty quickly. There's no need to sacrifice your fashion sense this St. Patty's Day, because we've got you covered from class until you paint the town green on Tuesday night.

1. Class 


Class
 

A green army-inspired jacket like this one from American Eagle ($90) can transform pretty much any of your basic class outfits into a subtly festive look. We'd wear it with a classic LWD, a set of layered necklaces, a tote, and booties.

2. After School Special


Hangin' Out
 

Charlotte russe romper
charlotterusse.com

 

 

Aéropostale sandals
aeropostale.com

 

 

Witchery wayfare
$54 - witchery.com.au

 

 

 

This romper from Charlotte Russe ($25) is playful and on-trend. Wear it to take advantage of the spring weather with strappy sandals, sunnies, and a hippy headband.

3. On the Town


Going out
 

 

Green a line skirt
yesstyle.com

 

 

 

Warehouse leather crossbody handbag
$52 - warehouse.co.uk

 

 

 

Yellow gold bangle bracelet
$10 - newlook.com

 

 

Set ring
lulus.com

 

 

By Malene Birger bracelet
$120 - nelly.com

 

 

The sillouette of this houndstooth skirt is super in right now. Sport it with your favorite white crop top, statement necklace, arm-party of bangles, and cut-out booties ($24) and you'll have the luck of the Irish on your side.

What will you wear this St. Patty's Day, collegiettes?

5 Conversations You Need to Have Before Sex

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Let’s talk about sex. Not all collegiettes are necessarily doing it, but for those who are, you have to be responsible for your own sexual health.

Not everything about sex is actually sexy. Some conversations with a new partner can be awkward to bring up, but if you’re going to be intimate with someone, you need to be able to talk openly. Before jumping in the sack with your crush, you should discuss these important topics.

1. Define your expectations

Make sure you and your partner know what exactly adding sex to the relationship will mean for you and what the expectations you have about it are. Patrick Wanis, a human behavior and relationship expert, says that “it’s better to have this conversation before you have sex, or one of you may end up emotionally devastated if you thought it was something the other didn’t.”

Don’t rush into anything you aren’t ready for, and know what you want to get out of it. “Both people have to be really honest and understand that sex will change the relationship,” Wanis says. “You both need to agree on the meaning that you are going to give the sexual relationship.”

If having sex means you’re in love with this person and this is your way of expressing it, make sure your partner knows that. If it’s just sex and you aren’t looking for a commitment from it, be sure to make that clear. Be open about your expectations and what sex will mean for you in the relationship.

2. Talk about getting tested

Although this isn’t the sexiest conversation, it’s definitely an important one to have. Ask your partner if he or she has gotten tested in the last six months and if he or she knows of any STD or STIs that they may have.

“It’s always an awkward thing to ask, but I never have sex with someone unless I know they have been tested and are clean,” says Lucy*, a student at the University of North Georgia. “No guy has ever been weird or offended by it. They know I’m just looking out for my health and they’re usually glad I bring it up so they don’t have to.”

It’s better to be safe than sorry, so don’t be afraid to bring testing up. However, be sure to remember that even if you do have the conversation, there’s always a chance your partner isn’t being truthful or has something without knowing it.  Make sure you trust your partner and that you both have been tested recently.

3. Talk about contraception

On the same note, unless you’re down to have this guy’s baby or want to risk getting an STD or STI, you need to discuss what form of contraception you will be using. “While it may seem obvious, it has to be one of the key topics to discuss,” Wanis says. “Some people like to take a risk or chance and use no protection at all, but it is very important.” 

Let him know if you are on the pill or if there’s another form of birth control that you use. Discuss using condoms and make sure one of you has them.   

4. DTR: Are you exclusive?

College dating can be confusing, and it’s easy to get caught up in relationships that have no clear definition. Maybe you want to only have sex in a committed relationship, or maybe you don’t want the relationship to be anything serious. Regardless of how you feel, you should make sure you and your partner are on the same page about it.

Wanis notes it’s important that you specifically discuss what sort of commitment sex will add to a relationship. “It’s important to be on the same page about your relationship before taking it to the next step,” he says. “Both partners have to agree on what the sexual relationship is going to be, and each partner should have an understanding of what the other person wants.”

Make sure you both know if you’re exclusive or not. If you aren’t, define what the relationship is. Are you friends with benefits, or something else? You don’t want to think you’re exclusive and then hear around campus that your partner was with someone else, or vice versa—thinking you’re not exclusive when your partner thought otherwise can be messy, too.

5. Define your boundaries

Some people like chocolate ice cream and some like vanilla. Your partner may be into or ready for some things that you aren’t ready for. It’s also common that your definition of sex is different than your partner’s. He or she may think that oral sex is no big deal, while you may think differently. Some people only consider penetrative sex as sex, and others consider anal and oral as equal to penetrative sex. That’s why it’s important to discuss the things you and your partner are willing to do so you aren’t taken by surprise by something you may not be comfortable with.

“It’s important that both partners are telling the truth,” Wanis says. “Radical honesty is key.”

Make sure you’re very clear with your boundaries in all aspects. “I've always been completely open about it with my partners,” says Emily*, a student at the Community College of Philadelphia. “When I'm ready, I'll tell them that I'm okay with things going further. That way, it's crystal clear and there can't be any confusion.”

If your partner starts to do or suggests you something you’re not comfortable with, voice your concerns to him or her. Speaking up is the only way your partner will know what you do and don’t want. Be sure to explain your discomfort about it afterwards so there won’t be any confusion in the future.

Take control of your sexual health and make sure you’re communicating with your partner. Sometimes we rush into things after a drunken frat party or night out at the bar, but it’s important to keep yourself safe. Remember to discuss these topics before taking the next step!

*Names have been changed.

5 Pairs of Mirrored Sunglasses You Need this Spring Break

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After a long hard winter, it looks like things are beginning to turn around. With the warmer weather it looks as though spring (and spring break!) is on its way. So, we’ve helped you prepare for the season with five of the cutest mirrored sunglasses we could find. So, whether you consider yourself an aviator girl or stick to a strict rule of cat eye sunnies, we’ve got mirrored sunnies in evert style. Check them out below!

1. Ray-Ban Mirrored Clubmaster Sunglasses, Urban Outfitters, $160

Ran-Bans seem to be every college girl's go-to sunglasses—but most seem to only have the aviators. Try switching things up this spring break with these cool blue mirrored clubmasters. We're also obsessing over the chic tortoise shell frames. 

2. Maya Daisy White Sunglasses, Pixie Market, $16

Have fun people watching with these green mirrored flower sunnies. Not only are they perfect for the beach but they also mimic the blooming flowers you'll start seeing on your break. 

3. CRAP Eyeware 'No Wave' 45 mm Sunglasses, Nordstrom, $56

Put an interesting twist on your standard wayfarer with these geometric sunglasses from Nordstrom. The simple black design will allow these sunglasses to match all the activities you have planned for this spring break. 

4. ASOS Round Sunglasses, ASOS, $18

Whether you're hopping on a jet to an exotic island or simply staying at home, these chunky framed sunnies can keep you company no matter where you are. The versatile, tortoise shell frame will give all your outfits a unique look. 

5. Mink Pink Up and Away Pink Sunglasses, Pixie Market, $52

Clear frames have been a big hit for the last couple of seasons. What's even better than the clear frames are the cat eye accent seen on these sunnies. It provides the perfect amount of sass to all your outfits. 

What sunglasses will you be wearing this spring break, collegiettes? 

11 Times Cats Knew Our Inner Thoughts

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Cats: They're the betches of the animal world, and at the end of the day, they just get us. They can be cute and fun, but they value their sleep and personal space, just like us. Here are 11 times that cats just totally understood our inner thoughts.

1. I'm drunk and tired and I genuinely don't know if I can stand up straight... Nope I cannot stand up straight. I'm just gonna chill here for a sec... Go on without me.

2. I'm sorry, who was that beautiful man that just walked by and where is he going because that's where I'm going.

Don't mind if I do.

3. I'm not in the mood. Seriously, do not talk to me. Why are you talking to me?

You know what, don't even look at me. Move along.

4. Can you please for the love of god stop being so basic and get your sh*t together?

5. It's too early. How did I get stuck with the room that the sun shines in straight into my eyes so obnoxiously early?

You'll have to physically remove me from this bed.

6. "Just try it," they said. "It'll be fine," they said. Yeah, well look how that turned out...

7. I hate the gym, but I love pizza. This is the price I must pay. This is the burden I must bear.

Pizza, my love, I'm doing this for you.

8. *To basically any cute boy* Love me. Please.

9. Did I seriously send him that text last night? Excuse me while I curl up in a ball and die.

10. Why did I think it'd be a good idea to put off studying until the night before the exam?

At one point did the thought run through my head: Sure, I can cover an entire's semester worth of reading that I never did in one night... ?

11. Sometimes I just sit alone and think, "What am I doing with my life?"

Don't worry - you aren't the only kitty asking herself that question.


Her Story: I Was In a Bodybuilding Competition

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If I told you that I'm five feet tall, in a sorority and a lover of nail art, would it surprise you if I also told you that I've taken part in a bodybuilding competition?

Like so many women in today's society, I've struggled with my weight for as long as I can remember. By the time I got to college, I had already tried Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers, The Special K Diet, crazy soup diets... you name the diet, I’ve probably tried it. More notably, I also failed each once of them; every time I started a new one, I’d lose a few pounds… and gain it all back a few weeks later.

After finishing up my freshman year at the University of Central Florida, I decided I was ready to make a real change. My sister, a personal trainer who’d participated in bodybuilding competitions, opened my eyes to a new side of fitness. I started working with one of her friends, a coach specializing in bodybuilding contest training. Over the course of four months, I dropped nearly thirty pounds by adhering to a strict meal plan in conjunction with weight training and cardio.

When I starting seeing changes in my body and strength that came along with improvements in the gym, I started itching to compete in bodybuilding. You might be wondering why, with the assumption that bodybuilding is a sport exclusively for jacked meatheads on steroids. But that couldn't be farther from the truth.

Though bodybuilding is a sport perceived to be more appropriate for men, there are five categories that exist for women to compete in (at least in the National Physique Committee, the largest amateur bodybuilding organization in the U.S.). Women can compete in one of the following divisions:

Bikini: Competitors are judged on balance and shape, and overall physical appearance including complexion, skin tone, poise and presentation.

Figure: Competitors are judged on overall muscle tone with shapely lines, overall firmness and lack of excessive leanness.

Fitness: Competitors are judged on their degree of athleticism including firmness, symmetry, proportion, and overall physical appearance. Competitors must also perform a two-minute choreographed routine displaying strength, flexibility, and creativity.

Physique: Competitors should display a toned, athletic physique showcasing femininity, muscle tone, and beauty/flow of physique. Competitors also perform a 90-second routine displaying particular mandatory poses.

Bodybuilding: Competitors are judged based on the NPC “total package,” which is a balance of size, symmetry and muscularity.

I competed in the fitness division on May 24, 2014 at the Jay Cutler Classic after a twenty-week prep filled with careful food manipulation and intense training in the gym. Fitness works a little differently than the other divisions because there are two segments to judging: posing and the routine. The routine is two minutes long, high-energy, strength-based and includes four mandatory moves: push up, high kick, straddle hold, and side split. The routine can really be anything you want it to be, but many competitors choose a theme to base their routine around (for music, costume, etc.). As an everyday yogi and someone with tons of performance background, fitness seemed like a perfect fit for me, because I already had the flexibility and ability to be comfortable on stage for the routine portion. Plus, it’s actually a ton of fun—my theme was Little Red Riding Hood!

Making time to prepare during a typically busy college schedule turned out to be easier than I thought. Of course, there were days when I had no desire to go to the gym, and passing up dessert with my friends sometimes tested my strength—but it soon became routine. I went to the gym at the same time each day, as if it were another class; it became a regular part of my schedule. Sunday became my day to cook all of my food in bulk, and throughout the week, I’d bring meals to campus with me.

Hearing the phrase “female bodybuilder,” or telling people you’re training for a bodybuilding competition, may have many raising an eyebrow. After all, the image that comes to mind is that of tanned, oiled-up guys in Speedos—but the definition of bodybuilding is simply “the practice of strengthening and enlarging the muscles of the body through exercise.” Many women fear the thought of building muscle—but women cannot get “bulky” strictly from lifting weights. We just don’t have the necessary hormones to do so. Take a look at elite female athletes, such as Ronda Rousey, a UFC fighter and one of the best in her sport. That’s someone who spends her entire life in the gym and she is nowhere near “bulky” (especially if you compare her to men in the same sport), so the average woman really has no reason to worry.

Throughout my training, I am lucky to say that I experienced very little gender discrimination—but it does exist. I always got a few looks when I was the only girl in a weight room full of guys, and there was the occasional man who would make a comment like, “Damn girl, I don’t want to mess with you,” as if he were shocked that a woman could be strong. Having that strength, though, is when I feel my best and most beautiful self: when I’m in the weight room shoulder pressing just as much as (or maybe more than) the guy next to me.

Though the day-to-day discrimination was subtle, one of the biggest downfalls in the world of female bodybuilding is the way in which it sexualizes women. Just take a look at the popular Instagram hashtags #fitspiration, #fitfam and #igfitness—you’ll see nearly naked girls, posed in seductive ways displaying their rock-hard abs and perfectly shaped glutes. When you’ve got a body that you’ve worked so hard for, you of course want to show it off—but a woman’s strength shouldn’t be about sex appeal.

As of now, I don’t have any future plans to compete in another show. For now, I’m soaking up my last semester in college, developing my business Fit University, eating delicious and nutritious food—and I’m still lifting multiple days a week. Health and fitness will always be a main priority in my life because of the way the results make me feel: happy, energized and motivated. My experience in bodybuilding showed me that strength is the key to loving myself and my body. I once turned to diet and fitness for the sake of weight loss. Now, I’ll take strong over skinny any day. 

Do you have a story to share? Submit your story to Her Story!

8 Ways to Pamper Yourself in the Morning

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Daylight savings has really cramped our style—we've hardly had time to get dressed, let alone put on mascara. But now that we've survived a whole week of it, our schedule is finally starting to make the transition. To make getting up earlier in the mornings totally worth it, we've put together a list of nine ways you can pamper yourself in the AM.

1. Face mask

Origins GinZing Refreshing Face Mask, $25, origins.com

This mask is a complete wake-up call for your skin, which is exactly what we want early in the morning. While the caffeine from coffee beans energize your face, you can sip your latte and check off your daily caffeine fix.

2. Hair mask

 

OGX Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil Treatment, $7.99, ulta.com

Before your shower, slather on a hair mask, and trust us, you'll be left with soft, shiny hair for the rest of the day. Just leave in for 15 minutes and shampoo and condition as usual. 

3. Hot rollers

Ever wonder just how the Victoria's Secret models achieve such voluminous, curly locks? The secret: rollers! Whether you use hot rollers or simply pin freshly curled or blow-dried hair with clips, setting your hair in this shape means bouncy curls all day. Sign us up. 

4. Blowout

TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray, $5.49, ulta.com

As nice as they are, we all know blowouts take a substantial amount of time—it's a bit of an arm workout, right? An extra hour in the morning could mean you can finally give your hair a little at-home salon treatment! Just don't forget the heat protectant spray.

5. Green juice/smoothie

According to dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, M.D., starting off your morning with a green juice (or smoothie) can help boost your skin from within for a healthy glow. If Rosie Huntington-Whiteley gets her glow from kale juices, we might as well give it a shot, too.

6. Buff your skin

Anatomicals The Buff Stuff Body Scrub, $9.99, ulta.com

Find a way to stay in the shower for another ten minutes in the morning, because you're going to want it. Take this time to use a loofah or a body scrub to buff away dead skin cells and reveal soft, smooth skin. We recommend this Anatomicals scrub; the citrus smell is the perfect morning scent to invigorate your senses.

7. Eye mask

Klorane Smoothing and Relaxing Patches, $21, dermstore.com

In a perfect world, under-eye bags wouldn't exist (and every college lecture would be required to provide us with puppies and kittens... but that's a proposal for another time). Until that happens, these 10 to 15 minute eye masks will tide us over and magically make our eye bags disappear. Now, where's our kitten?

8. Perfect makeup

We admit to falling back on the tinted moisturizer-and-mascara makeup routine when we're pressed to get out the door, but on occasion, we like to bust out our lipstick, too. Problem is, who has time to apply slowly and line the edge of your lips with concealer for a perfect red lip? Get up a few minutes earlier in the mornings this week—it'll make all the difference!

Are you convinced enough to set your alarm for earlier tomorrow morning, collegiettes?

Ask a Collegiette: Will I Fit in at College?

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Are you a smart and savvy pre-collegiette looking for answers to some of your most personal questions about college? You know, the ones about boys, classes, roommates and parties that your school’s guidance office can’t help you with? Jen is here to answer those questions! Whatever your concern, she’ll do her best to help you so you can make sure you don’t just survive college, but rock it!

What if I don’t fit in with anyone at college? – Julianna

Julianna,

Since many college campuses are filled with thousands of students, you will most definitely find at least one person who will understand and appreciate all of your quirks and interests! There’s no need to worry about not fitting in with anyone, since everyone is arriving on campus for a fresh start, a chance to discover new interests and an opportunity to make new friends.

College isn’t like high school in terms of cliques, although some cliques will still exist. Thankfully, they aren’t as easy to map out like Janis Ian did for Cady Heron in Mean Girls. This is probably a relief for you to hear, since it’s most likely different than what you’re used to from your high school years!

As I mentioned, everyone comes to college for a fresh start and a chance to discover new hobbies while finding him- or herself before starting a career. Everyone, including you, will eventually find their niche soon enough. The first people you meet on campus might not be your best friends for life, but soon enough you’ll find out who is a true friend.

It’s fairly easy to make friends on campus, since you’re constantly in community with others because of dining halls, dorms and classes, so putting yourself out there and being friendly will help you to gain friends with ease. Start by joining a club or organization on-campus that advocates for something you care about or does something you find interesting. You could join an a capella group à la Pitch Perfect, volunteer once a week for a cause you’re passionate about or sit with someone new in the dining hall to get the ball rolling. College, just like every social environment, will have a group of people who won’t appreciate your personality to the fullest, but I have no doubt that you will find a solid group of friends who you will fit in with. The process of finding true, awesome friends whom you genuinely love spending time with might take a few months, but don’t lose hope!

Continue to be true to yourself so you can make true friends who will love all of your quirks instead of just worrying about fitting in. Freshman social anxiety is totally normal, but if you find that by the end of the semester you’re not happy with your campus or the social scene, you could consider transferring as well for a change of scenery. Before you make any major moves like that, be sure to chat with your R.A. or a counselor on campus – it might be that you just need someone to talk to to help you navigate those rough patches before settling in the way you’ve always wanted to!

Remember to stay true to yourself, and from there you’ll attract others who will want to spend time with you in between classes and on the weekends. Whenever you do find yourself getting discouraged if everything isn’t moving as fast as you want it to, don’t forget Kevin G’s golden advice from Mean Girls– “Don’t let the haters stop you from doing your thang!” Have fun!

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The 30 Best Chick Flicks Of All Time

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It's the age-old dilemma: You're curled up on the couch with some friends for a fun girls night in. With popcorn in hand and blankets galore, there's only one issue- What movie do you watch? We guarantee you that you won't face this problem again once you check out this list of the 30 best chick flicks. Enjoy!

1. The Notebook (2004)

How can you not love this heartwarming, sappy tearjerker? The Notebook is a classic love story that's bound to make you laugh, cry, and wish you had a Noah of your own.

2. Clueless (1995)

Clueless is a classic 90's chick flick. As if we didn't love the 90's enough, Alicia Silverstone is hilarious in this movie. Clueless is a perfect go-to movie for your next girls night in.

3. Mean Girls (2004)

This movie put an entirely new meaning to what it means to be from Africa. Girls quote this movie on the daily. How could you not? The plot is irresistible to make fun of and laugh about.

4. Romy and Michele's High School Reunion (1997)

As if Lisa Kudrow isn't funny enough as Pheobe in Friends, Romy and Michele's High School Reunion is a hilarious tale of the shenanigans that go on when two high school best friends attend their reunion. It's definitely a must-see and a great way to laugh about your future and what your high school reunion might be like!

5. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

This movie puts a whole new spin on Shakespeare. Set in a modern day high school, this twisted love story is too irresistable to ignore.

6. Miss Congeniality (2000)

Miss Congeniality brought a whole new meaning to kicking butt. How many women do you know who can go undercover as an FBI agent at a pageant? Exactly.

7. Sweet Home Alabama (2002)

As a southerner, this writer can't help but adore the charm in this movie. Plus, it's fun hearing Reese Witherspoon with a thick accent. What's not to love?

8. The Lucky One (2012)

Zac Efron is all grown up in this romantic chick flick and fate brings him to the woman who kept him going during his time in the war. This movie is romantic and absolutely irresistable. The plot is an interesting twist on a love story, making it different than most romantic movies.

9. The Holiday (2006)

With an awesome cast, The Holiday never fails to disappoint. Two women on opposite sides of the world switch lives (houses and all!) for a few week and the swap results in awesome adventures and even better love interests.

10. Valentine's Day (2010)

Talk about good timing! With Valentine's Day coming up in a few months, this is the perfect chick flick for you to convince your man to watch. Valentine's Day follows several awesomely adorable love stories. It's a great movie that's guarenteed to make you swoon.

11. No Strings Attached (2011)

No Strings Attached is a classic tale about what happens when friends with benefits turn into something more. Plus, how can you resist Ashton Kutcher and Natalie Portman? Talk about a dynamic duo!

12. Friends with Benefits (2011)

Like No Strings Attached, Friends With Benefits is a pretty self-explanatory title. That said, the plot is anything but average. Several adorable scenes make Mila Kunis and Justin Timberlake an hilarious romantic comedy team!

13. The Parent Trap (1998)

This might be a twist, but how many guys do you know who love The Parent Trap? Before Lindsay Lohan went a bit downhill, she was an adorable redhead. This movie is a classic and fun for any night in.

14. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003)

A magazine lover, I have always loved this movie.  Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey are rock stars in this movie. I can quote it from beginning to end, and I’m still not sick of it.

15. Sex and the City (2008)

Sex and the City is a classic chick flick, especially for Big Apple lovers and city-goers like myself. Carrie Bradshaw has been my role model for as long as I can remember and this movie is way too fun to not see.

16. 27 Dresses (2008)

First of all, we all wish we had 27 dresses in our closet. That said, this movie gives the word “bridesmaid” a whole new hilariously horrendous meaning.

17. Gone With the Wind (1939)

"You should be kissed, and often, and by someone who knows how."Swoon.

18. A Walk to Remember (2002)

I bawled like a baby the first time I saw this... and the second time. A Walk to Remember is one of the most romantic movies I have ever seen. This is a must-see.

19. Crazy, Stupid Love (2011)

Crazy, Stupid Love is crazy awesome. First of all, Ryan Gossling is irresistible. With Ryan’s looks and Steve Carell’s humor, this movie is a perfect chick flick for a night in with the girls.

20. He’s Just Not that Into You (2009)

Most of us have either heard this line or have had to say it to a friend. Either way, this movie is a classic and it’s so fun to follow all of the stories from the beginning of relationships to a marriage.

21. When Harry Met Sally (1989)

When Harry Met Sally is a classic friendship-turned-relationship story. It is a must-see flick for everyone.

22. The Ugly Truth (2009)

Gerard Butler and Katherine Heigl are hilarious together in this movie about the realities of men’s thoughts on relationships.

23. Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)

Audrey Hepburn is a goddess. If you haven't seen it, this classic chick flick must be on your bucket list.

24. Sixteen Candles (1984)

This movie has all of the flair of a classic love story with a great sense of humor. It’s a perfect chick flick and a great rendition of those awkward teenage years.

25. Sleepless in Seattle (1993)

How could you go wrong with Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks? This romantic comedy has everything you could possibly ask for.

26. Dirty Dancing (1987)

Patrick Swayze is incredible... and so is the music. Dirty Dancing always guarantees a fun night.

27. Bridesmaids (2011) 

This modern comedy will have you rolling on the floor laughing. Every scene is hilarious and this movie is a definite go-to movie for a girls night in.

28. Pretty Woman (1990)

Julie Roberts’ interesting career makes this movie hilarious and romantic. It’s a must see for every girl. Plus, who doesn’t love a good 90’s movie?

29. Titanic (1997)

Titanic is possibly one of the saddest and most romantic movies of all time. Crawl up with a blanket and a snack to this one, but don’t forget your Kleenex. It’s bound to make you cry.

30. Legally Blonde (2001)

The epitome of a wonderful chick flick. From Elle Wood’s sorority house scene to the video that got her into Harvard, Legally Blonde definitely deserves its spot on this list.

 

16 Reasons Why Pizza is Better Than Boys

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1. Calling for pizza at 2 a.m. is not a ridiculous request.

2. You can’t get in trouble for keeping pizzas in your freezer.

3. Your friends and family already approve of pizza.

4. You can dress up a pizza however you’d like.

5. Pizza will respect your decision to stay single and keep you company with no expectations of romantic involvement.

6. Every pizza can pull off being “cheesy.”

7. Pizza can be at your door in 30 minutes or less.

8. A surprise visit from pizza is always welcome.

9. You don’t mind claiming leftover pizza.

10. Pizza will always be there for you in your time of need.

11. You never have to settle with pizza — you can order exactly what you want, when you want it.

12. Even when pizza’s not hot, it’s desirable.

13. A date with pizza is never awkward.

14. Pizza knows how to be sweet in a subtle way.

15. You will not regret mixing pizza and alcohol.

16. With pizza, the only baby you need to worry about is a food baby.

When boys are rude and annoying, it's nice to know there's a partner out there that will never abandon us. Pizza, we love you. 

 

Win a $1,000 Shopping Spree at boohoo.com!

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We’ve partnered with Seventeen to bring you a massive shopping spree to upgrade your entire wardrobe this spring! We’re giving away a $1,000 shopping spree to fashion retailer boohoo.com, where you’ll find thousands of pieces to refresh your look from head to toe. Up to 100 new items—ranging from dresses to shoes to bags and more—are added to the site daily, which means shopping at boohoo is kind of like having unlimited access to all of the season’s top trends.

Start making room in your closet, because you’re going to need it. Enter now for a chance to win a $1,000 gift card at boohoo.com!

Fill out my online form.

How to Pay Off Your Student Loans

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If you graduated recently, chances are you’ve started, or will soon start, paying back those loans that helped you finance the best four years of your life. Even if you’re in the midst of a grace period (which is usually between six and nine months), that time passes quickly and before you know it, you’ve got to start making monthly payments. Some days it can seem daunting, but you don’t need to have aced Econ 101 to successfully manage your loans. Just follow these tips to knock those debts out without losing your mind!

1. Know your options

Before you start handing over the minimum payment each month, do your research to see if that’s the best payment option for you. You may qualify for one of the following that will reduce your payments or even cancel your debt.

Cancellation or deference

Every type of loan is different but some federal loans, such as the Perkins loan, may qualify for cancellation if you work certain jobs such as teacher, nurse, or librarian. If you’re going back to grad school you can often defer your payments until you’re done with your second degree. No matter what your career/life path is, be sure to call your lender and see if you qualify for any sort of cancellation or deference.

Consolidation

If you have multiple federal loans, you can consolidate them, making repayment easier. This basically means that all your loans will be added up, and the interest rates averaged out, so that you only have one payment due each month. One thing to watch out for is that consolidating can end your grace period immediately, so don’t do this if one or more of your loans is not yet in repayment.

Lower payments

If you have dependents, or a very low salary, it may be beneficial for you to sign up for an income-based payment plan. This option is available on federal loans, allowing you to pay a reasonable portion of your salary each month for up to 25 years (at which point, any remaining debt is forgiven). Studentaid.ed.gov is a great resource for figuring out which repayment plan is best for you. Another way to lower your payment is by refinancing in hopes of getting a better interest rate. Most of us applied for loans before we had built up any credit, which means that we may now be eligible for better rates. Many private lenders offer this option (it is not yet available on federal loans) so check with your lender to see if you qualify. However, be aware that these new rates will not be fixed, and unlike federal loan interest rates, they could go up without warning.

Communication

Talking to your lender is always a great option, and being honest with them about your other financial responsibilities and how this particular loan fits into that can result in a fairer repayment plan. “Because I have loans from multiple lenders, the original repayment plans wanted me to pay far too much on each loan individually,” says Alexandra Patterson, who graduated with her Master of Science in Library Science from UNC-Chapel Hill in 2014. “By being upfront with the lenders about my other financial responsibilities, we were able to come up with a more reasonable repayment plan.” Additionally, it may be a good idea to negotiate your payments sooner rather than later, so you know how much to budget for loans each month.

2. Make your payments

Now that you’ve figured out which payment plan is best for you, it’s time to start paying. This might be the scariest part, but it doesn’t have to be bad!

Start paying now

Even if your first payment is not yet due, starting to pay your loans immediately is beneficial. During your grace period, if all you can spare at the end of the month is $10, put those dollars toward your loans. This will help you later if you refinance, by giving you a lower monthly payment.

Pay more

Try to pay more than the minimum amount each month so you can be debt-free sooner than the typical 10-year repayment period. Paying more than required can also be handy if you fall on hard times later on. For example, if your minimum payment is $100 a month, but one month you apply $1,000 toward the loan, you’ve technically paid for ten months so your next payment isn’t due until much later. However, if you keep paying at least $100 a month after that point, you’ll be ahead of your payments and have a ten-month grace period if you do encounter tough times. Most importantly though, paying more now means that you will be paying less interest on your loans in the long run. The difference can be thousands of dollars, so remember that if it seems like those extra $100 won’t make a dent… or if you feel they would be better served “investing” in your closet. Alexandra follows this logic and generally pays $50 to $75 more than her minimum payment each month. “It seems like a lot each time I do it, but I like knowing that I will have my loan paid off a little sooner,” she says.

Focus on one loan at a time

One strategy recommended by experts is “rolling” the debt “snow ball,” which can be helpful if you have multiple loans and don’t, or can’t, consolidate. What this means is that you pay only the minimum on all your loans, including non-student loans such as car loans, except for one. You then throw all of your remaining available funds towards that one loan, paying more than the minimum each month, until you pay it off completely. When you finish paying that loan (hooray for you!), you immediately transfer all available funds to another loan, while keeping the others at their minimum payment. Some people recommend starting with the debt that has the lowest dollar amount, so it’ll get paid off quickly. Others recommend starting with the loan that has the highest interest rate, so you pay less interest overall. Either way, it can be a good strategy to aggressively pay off at least one loan at a time. This is just one method however, so do some research and find the one that works best for you!

3. Make the process even easier to manage

Now that you know how to repay your loans, here are some tips to make your life, and your payments, a lot easier.

Tax refunds

Perhaps the only fun part of paying back student loans is the tax refund at the end of the year—which can reimburse up to $2,500 of the interest paid on your loans. When you’re living frugally to pay off loans more quickly, it can be tempting to spend your tax refund on a much-needed vacation or a pair of shoes you thought you’d never be able to afford, but it’s a good idea to use your refund check towards your loans because the more you pay now, the less you’ll have to pay overall. “Sure it would be nice to use my tax refund check for something more fun but every dollar I can put towards my loans means less I have to pay later,” says Alexandra.

Automatic payments

Setting up a payment to be automatically taken out of your bank account at a certain time is a great way to make paying loans a little less painful. This auto-debit monthly payment is Senior Vice President & Publisher of edvisors.com Mark Kantrowitz’s, number one piece of advice for recent graduates repaying college loans. “Not only will you be less likely to be late with a payment, but most lenders will reduce your interest rate by 0.25 percent or 0.50 percent,” he says. To do this while “rolling the snowball,” use automatic payments for all loans but the one you choose to focus on; instead, pay as much as possible toward that one first.

Budgeting

Budgeting is important no matter what, but especially when you have to pay back debt. It’s crucial that you have enough to pay your loans, thereby avoiding default, while also being able to pay other expenses like your rent and bills. This might mean you have to turn down some fun outings and say no to shopping sprees, but it is important to start your adult life on the right financial foot. It may also be wise to evaluate the amount you’re paying in certain areas of life, like food and rent, to see if there’s anywhere you can cut back, making your loan payments fit into your budget. Finally, budgeting can help you determine how much you can afford to be automatically taken out of your account, or help you find extra money to put towards your loans. It can be hard to know where to start when setting a budget, but there are free apps like Mint and Google Doc templates to help you to set your budget.

The most important thing you can do for your loans is to pay them. Treat them as your number one financial responsibility and think of the fun you’ll have with that extra money when you’re done!


How She Got There: Jennifer Welker, Founder & CEO of Golden Thread Jewelry

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Name: Jennifer Welker
Age: 31 
Job Title and Description: CEO & Founder of Golden Thread Jewelry
College Name/Major: University of Texas/Nursing
Website: GoldenThreadShop.com
Twitter Handle: @goldenthreadinc

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

Jennifer Welker: My day starts super early with two small children! We are up and off to the races: Getting ready, making breakfast for the kiddos, packing up for the day, dressing the kids and off to school. I head into the office after that for meetings, calls, decisions and e-mails… if business is running as usual, it's lunch with girls at the office.

After spending some time at the office, I head over to pick up the kids from school and then we’ll go on a walk, maybe have a play date and just spend some “mommy” time with them.

Then, I’ll start cooking, planning or ordering dinner. I can’t wait for my husband, Ellis, to get home from work—we talk about our day and share the big moments with each other, make decisions and talk about the kids. We put the kids to bed around 7 p.m. and that gives Ellis and I a few hours to be alone and catch up. Some nights we like to go out and be social… other nights we love vegging on the couch! It's a whirlwind day, but so much fun. I love it! 

What is the best part of your job?

JW: My absolute favorite part of the job is designing and creating new pieces. I love that I can see my creativity come alive—it’s truly the most exhilarating part of my job!

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

JW: My collection, Golden Thread, is actually my first foray into the fashion and jewelry-making world! Prior to starting my business I was a neonatal nurse, but I tapped into my type-A high-energy, adrenaline-junkie-ICU-nurse-personality to help me forward into launching my dream and my business. It was intimidating starting my own line and taking the leap from one career to the next, especially as I’m not classically trained in business. 

What is one thing you wish you knew about your industry when you first started out that you know now?  

JW: I wish I knew the vendors/suppliers we use and love now, four years in! We went through a lot of headaches finding the right suppliers and manufactures. It was a lot of trial and error, which is part of running a business. I’d love to have skipped over those parts, but hindsight is always 20/20.

Who is one person who changed your professional life for the better?

JW: My husband, Ellis, definitely changed my professional life for the better. He has his MBA and he made the perfect mentor for me, day in and day out, when launching my business. Not a day goes by that I don’t run most business and financial decisions by him. I’m so grateful to have him and his help, wisdom, advice and knowledge.

What words of wisdom do you find most valuable? 


JW: Growing up, my mom used to tell me I could do anything I set my mind to. I never really believed that was true until launching my business and seeing what came from my passion, hard work and perseverance. Norman Vincent Peal’s famous quote, “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars” could not be more inspiring or true to me. My personal goal is to always aim high.

What is one mistake you made along the way and what did you learn from it?  


JW: I had to learn the hard way to narrow down and filter the opinions I got and listened to along the way. Just like when you become a mom for the first time, everyone is trying to tell you what to do, how to do it, what you are doing wrong and offering their personal advice… it is the same in business. Everyone wants to give you his or her two cents. While this is incredibly flattering and humbling, as a business owner, I should have listened to my own instinct a little more and let the masses persuade me less. 

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

JW: I always admired the Middleton style, so I took a risk and sent Pippa Middleton one of the monogrammed pendant necklaces. I knew there was a 99 percent chance she wouldn’t even receive it, but there was the one percent chance she may. I saw her in the necklace and I couldn’t believe it. It turned out that there were several photos of Pippa wearing the necklace because she wears it so often. That photo of Pippa carrying a cup of coffee became an integral part of my advertising campaign. 

What do you look for when considering hiring someone? 


JW: The quality I look for when hiring is a strong work ethic. I believe you can be taught anything in this world, but if you don't know how to work hard or have the motivation to do so, I can't help you. We have a ton of fun at Golden Thread, but we sure work our butts off! A strong work ethic always pays off in the end, and I hope that my hard work comes off as an example to all of my employees. 


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

JW: I would advise up-and-coming designers to really believe that they can do anything! This is not just a lucky fairytale, and it doesn’t come easily so don’t be easily discouraged. If you love something and are passionate about it, you will never work a day in your life. It sounds cheesy, but if you put your mind to it you can do whatever you want. Have a thick skin; don’t let any of the “no’s” or negativity stick to you. Know that behind a successful business, as many times as we’ve heard “yes,” we’ve heard “no” about 100 times more!

Knowing what’s truly important and where your priorities lie allows you to take risks and not be disappointed or upset if they don’t work out. Pick your head up, dust yourself off and start again. Be persistent, stay positive and don’t be afraid to take a risk. 

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Starling Glow's New Song is the Love Anthem You've Been Waiting For

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Starling Glow, a Los Angeles-based band fronted by the talented Liz Hill, has come onto our radar as the next big thing. With recent hits in the past year including "We Are Infinite" (which hit the Billboard charts!) and "Ignite," this band is certainly one to watch—and Her Campus has scored the exclusive release of their newest single, "Caution Tape."

With an addicting pop-rock vibe that will have you listening to the anthem on repeat, it's a powerful song that Liz thinks will speak to collegiettes everywhere.

"Caution Tape carries so much significance for me because it's not a love song in the conventional sense," she says. "The lyrics speak to anyone who has come to rescue you despite your best efforts to push them away. I feel that both the message and the melody are powerful, and I hope they resonate with everyone who listens to the track."

Whether you're trying to get through the rest of midterms, need something to help you survive a long flight to your spring break destination or are looking for a song that finally says something real about relationships, you're going to want to give "Caution Tape" a listen—check out the exclusive release of this single, below!

This is Not a Drill: Kate Middleton is Hiring!

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When you think of a dream job, it probably doesn't entail cleaning someone's house, polishing their silverware, shopping for groceries and helping prep meals. But what if we told your employer would be the British royal family, more specifically, William and Kate? We bet you'd sign up in a heartbeat! Well, now you can... sort of. That's right, the royal couple is looking to hire someone who will look after their sprawling Norfolk country home. 

According to People, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge placed the ad earlier this month in the prominent British women's magazine, The Lady (also known as the publication for "elegant women with elegant minds"). It specifies the responsibilities of the job, which include all of your typical housework, though how typical can it be when you're cleaning the royals' floors and dishes?! But aside from maintaining the household, the role entails "assisting with childcare and caring for dogs."READ: assisting with childcare, aka Prince George and likely his soon-to-be brother or sister

It's also fair to mention that the job position may involve "maintaining the homeowners' clothing." In other words, the upkeep of Kate's arsenal of gorgeous coats, dresses and let's not forget, intricate fascinators... count us in! You don't even have to ask us if we'd clean spit-up off George's overalls or individually hand pick lint off of Kate's peacoat because the answer is always yes (though Kate would never have lint on her coat anyway because she's Kate Middleton).

Though the ad seems quite ordinary, we're guessing the couple won't be hiring just anybody. It doesn't specify whether you need to have completed formal butler training (if that exists) or be a top-notch chef, but we're guessing creds like those will definitely help. And considering that the ad says "discretion and loyalty is paramount," they won't be hiring any gossipmongers who would do something like post selfies with George on Instagram. So if you're a senior looking for a job and you're the type who does not get starstruck, what are you waiting for? Start crafting the perfect cover letter! 

10 Things Girls Should Never Have to Justify

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There seems to be an unwritten rule somewhere that says every aspect of a woman’s life is subject to commentary from any person within a 200-mile radius. However, when it comes to things like your dating life (or any of your feelings, for that matter), one thing stands true: what’s yours is yours, and no one else’s.

Sorry we’re not sorry.

1. Eating Junk Food

Who ever said you needed to have a bad day or a breakup to make out with a giant piece of pizza or dominate an entire pint of ice cream? Don’t worry; Cosmo and SHAPE Magazine have plenty of thigh-busting, arm-shrinking workouts to make up for it. Junk food was made for a reason, and someone’s gotta eat it. So in that case, we volunteer as tribute.

2. How Active (or Inactive) Our Sex Lives Are

Society has formed this stigma around sex for college-aged women: either you’re having too much of it, or you're not having enough. The fact of the matter is that this stigma has turned sex into something women feel ashamed of.  Nothing ruins a great thing more than someone telling you how to do it and when to do it, especially sex. Why don’t we start focusing more on making it safe and exciting instead of degrading women for having (or not having) it?

3. How Much (or How Little) We Are Eating

It’s the classic “I haven’t eaten since, like, 8 a.m., so I'm starving,” or “I ate a really, really big lunch.” You know what, girls? Don’t ever feel like you owe anyone an explanation about what you are (or aren’t) putting in your mouth. Your eating habits are yours and yours only, so you go on and eat (or don’t eat) that giant sandwich and feel no shame.

4. Our Relationship Statuses

If we’re single, we’re trained to think there is something inherently wrong with us. If we’re in a relationship, were trained to think we are boring, tied-down creatures with owners who have a leash. So there’s really no winning with this one. If anyone asks you why you’re in a relationship or why you’re still single, you have full permission by Gretchen Weiners' Rules of Feminism to roll your eyes and walk away.

5. Wearing Leggings and Drinking Starbucks

Let’s just put this whole “White Girl” thing to bed. Whether girls are white, black, Hispanic, purple or polka-dotted, has it ever crossed people’s minds that maybe we wear leggings with UGG boots because they're comfy and that we drink Starbucks because it’s really, really good? If we're going to pay $5 for a cup of coffee, we're going to enjoy it, and we’re going to be cozy as sh*t while we do so.

6. Being a Boss

Let’s clear something up right now: being a boss does not in any way make you bossy (or a b*tch, for that matter). It simply means you know what you want, how you want it and how you’re going to get it, and there's nothing wrong with that. Contrary to popular belief, being a woman who takes her job seriously and expects people to pull their own weight is not a crime.

7. Being Emotional

Women have been brainwashed into believing that having feelings somehow categorizes us into the “crazy and overemotional” category deep in the pits of womanly hell. If you are feeling sad, happy or angry, there's obviously a reason why you're having that reaction. Even if it is just your period, let it out, girl. Let. It. Out.

8. Our Taste in Guys

We're finally getting to the age where “swag” and “sick game” no longer fall on our list of what we look for in a guy, and that’s okay. You don’t ever owe anyone an explanation as to why you find someone attractive, and anyone who makes you feel like you do isn't worth your time.

9. Our Political Views

We're still young, and (whether we believe it or not) we're very naïve. Meeting someone who knows every true and unbiased fact about politics is a very rare occasion. That being said, don’t ever let someone make you feel like your views are wrong, because they aren’t. That’s the beauty about politics - there is no right or wrong side. It’s all about what you believe, and that’s something that nobody can ever take away from you.

10. Our Weight

Whether it’s a thyroid problem, a digestive issue, a fast metabolism or just a flat-out pure love for food, it doesn’t matter. A woman should never have to justify her weight. Period. Last time we checked, whether you're fat, skinny, chunky or somewhere in the middle, our graves are all the same size.

Is This the End for 'Fashion Police'?

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Many rumors have been flying around about what E! is going to do with Fashion Police. After Joan Rivers passed away it seemed no one could replace her hilarious and harsh sense of humor. As it turns out, Kathy Griffin was up for the challenge and signed on for the new season. After Giuliana Rancic's controversial comments about Zendaya, Fashion Police has gotten a lot of backlash about being too harsh on celebrities and commenting not only on their outfits, but bashing their physical appearances, too. In the midst of the controversy, Kelly Osbourne (who has been a part of the show from the start), decided to quit altogether. 

In a similar move, Kathy Griffin released a statement that she was leaving the show as well, and for a pretty good reason. As she explained to the Chicago Sun Times, "There is a chasm of difference between making a joke about Miley Cyrus wearing duct tape over her nipples out in public (which I think is totally fair game) and simply looking at a photo of her on a red carpet and saying she is ugly or a bad singer or pathetic or something like that.” Celebs like Lena Dunham have praised Griffin for stepping up and refusing to continue to be a part of a show that tears others down. So what does the future hold for Fashion Police? It's all up in the air right now, although E! claims the show will go on. We're not sure anyone will truly want to join the cast, and honestly canceling the show may be the best option. It's important to celebrate the unique styles of individuals, not publicly ridicule them on television. The show is scheduled to return on March 30th, so it looks like we'll just have to wait and see.

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