He lives in Texas; your roots are in Chicago. Summer is coming up quick, and you’re stressing about the future of your relationship. Should you break up, or try to tough it out long distance? One thing you know for sure — it’s time to have “the talk.” Here’s how to approach it.

Decide what you want

Evaluate your feelings about the relationship. Are you serious about it? Is he serious about it? Do you feel that a summer apart from each other is doable, or is your gut telling you that it won’t work?

“First and foremost, it's important to know how you feel and what you want,” says Suzanne Oshima, matchmaker and dating coach at Dream Bachelor & Bachelorette. “Do you want to date other people over the summer, or do you want to remain monogamous?”

It helps to write out your feelings in a notebook or journal. As corny as it sounds, listing the pros and cons of staying together or breaking up will help you sort out your thoughts (trust us!). It’s important that you figure out where you stand before having this discussion.

Find a quiet place to have the talk

It’s definitely not a good idea to have a talk this serious over text message or Facebook chat. Intimacy expert and author Allana Pratt says, “You can do this face-to-face. Strength is found in vulnerability. People you've dated and cared for deserve more than an email or text.”

So find a quiet place where the two of you can go, like a low-key restaurant (not the school cafeteria, where you’re totally interruption-prone!) or a bench on campus during evening hours. It’s important that you’re both comfortable, so find a spot that works well for the two of you to talk for any length of time.

Spill your guts

Don’t hold back any of your feelings — now’s the time to spill everything. You’d regret bottling any of your thoughts or emotions inside later on. 

“Don't be afraid to put it right on the table,” says matchmaker and author Marla Martenson. “You will feel so much better once the topic is on the table and you know what's going on.”

So get a head start by discussing your feelings from the get-go. No need for mind games; he wants to know what you’re thinking!

Pratt says, “If you'd love staying together, be courageous and tell [him] it would make you super happy to stay together over the summer. He may or may not agree, yet at least you were bold, authentic and open.”

On the other hand, if you’re ready to cut ties, break the news gently. “If you'd love to be single, then tell the truth,” Pratt says. “[Say],‘I have completely enjoyed our time together. I've taken time to really think about this, and right now, my heart wants to be free, to be single. I don't want to be in the way of you finding a perfect match because I want you to be happy. You're so amazing, so the kindest thing for me to do to step aside. Thank you for everything we've shared.’”

Listen to what he has to say

It can be incredibly difficult for guys to discuss their feelings, but it’s important that he opens up to you.

“When he shares his feelings with you, it's important to not be judgmental, otherwise he will shut down,” Oshima says. “Remember, it's just important to listen to what he's saying and then ask more in-depth questions without making him feel like you're interrogating him. Just remember it's a conversation between you two. It's not about what you want; it's about what you both want and coming to a solution based on your conversation.”

It’s important to make him feel comfortable. Think about your body language — are you relaxed, or sitting with your arms crossed? Are you sitting far apart in a standoffish way, or are you sitting close to him? Look him in the eyes and let him know that it’s okay and important for him to tell you exactly how he’s feeling. You value his opinions (especially on a topic like this!), so allowing him to tell you everything is essential. And when he does tell you what he’s thinking, make sure to listen carefully to every word.

Leave on good terms

Whether you decide to break up or give a temporary LDR a shot, you’ll want to leave on good terms with him. After all, you may see him on campus again next year, or maybe he’s friends with your friends. Either way, there’s no point in making it messy.

If you do decide to stick together over the summer months, awesome! Make sure he knows you’re totally ready to put in the effort required of a long-distance partnership. Start planning when you’ll have Skype or FaceTime dates, or plan a good time for either of you to take a trip to the other’s hometown.

But if you decide to let each other go, make sure you part on decent terms. No name-calling; no hurtful bashing. Be mature, and as Pratt said, thank him for everything. You’ll feel proud of your grown-up behavior.

Whatever the fate of your relationship, you’ll be glad you handled the situation in an adult-like manner. Having a discussion in person is vital for good communication in a romantic relationship. And remember to have a blast this summer, with or without your guy!

After tons of anti-street harassment signs started appearing all over New York City, Buzz60 reporter Patrick Jones decided to interview random New Yorkers on the street, asking how they felt about the city's new "No Catcalling" campaign. Though most of the people Jones interviewed understood that the video Jones was recording was meant to show how negative street harassment is, one interviewee seemed to be an avid supporter of catcalling and actually started catcalling somebody mid-video.

The catcaller shows Jones how he prefers to catcall women, typically with whistles and kissing noises. Jones then pointedly asks the man how he would call a dog, and the man shrugs and unabashedly says he would call a dog in the same way.

When the catcaller realizes that the video Jones is shooting is saying that street harassment is a negative thing, he shakes his head and continues to support his behavior, ending his argument with a demonstration of his catcalling. Jones, shocked to the point of amusement, ends his interview with this man on an apt note.

Dear catcallers: let us walk the streets in peace! When has whistling and making kissing noises at a woman ever gotten you a date?

Picture your teenage self again—walking those high school halls full of gossip, cliques and the longing of wanting to fit in. If we only knew then what we know now! Sure, we’re only in our 20s, and there’s a long road full of mistakes, regrets and lessons ahead of us. But let’s face it: as young as we are, we’re still wise enough to know a thing or two we had no idea about at age 16. If we could go back in time and slap some sense into our younger, misguided selves, here are 15 things we’d be sure to say:

1. This phase where you’re into bad boys won’t last

They're SO not worth the trouble. 

2. Everyone doesn’t have to like you

Brush it off and keep it moving. 

3. Keep your frenemy radar on at all times

Forget frenemies. You can do better.

4. Always stand up for yourself

Because when you do, they'll be sorry they ever crossed you.

5. This is NOT the worst breakup you’ll ever go through and you WILL love again

Five years later you'll be in your 20s and still won't know what love is! 

6. That acne will clear, and when it does my friend…

#nuffsaid

7. That popular girl won’t seem so flawless in a couple of years

Sometimes those Regina Georges peak in high school... Look forward to evening the playing field without stooping to their level.

8. Dial down the drama, please

Maybe don't spill all your feelings on Facebook? Maybe? Just a suggestion.

9. You will prove all of your bullies and haters wrong. Just wait for it!

Use their snide remarks and dirty stares as fuel for your success. 

10. Say thank you to your parents more often, because one day, you will think of them as your best friends 

Scary, right? Deny it now, but it will happen! 

11. You think you’re a trendsetter now, but boy, do you have a lot to learn

Don't worry, we'll get there.

12. You don’t need a boyfriend right now

Who needs the drama when you could be maxing and relaxing. 

13. Sometimes things don’t go your way, but your life will go on

No need to dwell on the things you can't control.

14. EVERYONE has insecurities, not just you

See? Even Demi hurts sometimes! 

15. Be confident and love yourself always, no matter what!

I woke up like 'dis!

There’s a new reason to wear red lipstick, and it has nothing to do with style. The #RedMyLips campaign has turned red lips into a symbol of solidarity with victims of sexual assault. For Sexual Assault Awareness Month this April, the campaign is urging social media users to show their support by sharing pictures of themselves rocking red lipstick, with the hashtag #RedMyLips.

Danielle Tansino founded the #RedMyLips campaign after falling victim to sexual assault in 2011. According to campaign’s website, Tansino, who was 29 at the time, was raped by a childhood friend of her then housemate. When she tried to press charges, a female district attorney told her that they would not prosecute because “Jurors don’t like girls who drink.”

“In this moment, she realized it was not ‘the system’ that fails victims of sexual violence…we ALL do. We ARE the system,” reads her website.

Victims are often blamed for their own sexual assaults. Tansino’s fundraising page reads, “Given its connection with vibrant sexuality and attraction, red lipstick seems a fitting weapon with which to combat these dangerous myths and victim-blaming attitudes.”

The #RedMyLips campaign is growing quickly. There are more than 26,000 posts with the hashtag on Instagram right now, followed by thousands of other posts on Facebook and Twitter. Participants are posting their stories, acting in solidarity with victims, or simply showing how awesome red lips can be—and how they definitely don't imply “yes.”

Red My Lips is an international nonprofit organization that stands together with victims of sexual assault and their allies. Their mission is “to transform our culture of sexual violence by educating, inspiring, and mobilizing a global community to red their lips, raise their voices, and create real change.”

This article has been syndicated to Her Campus from Sarah Laughed by Sarah Laughed, a Her Campus Blogger Network member. Read the full posts here.

Finals—every college student’s least favorite time of year. You stop sleeping, you stop showering and your social life completely flies out the window, right? Wrong! Actually, taking care of yourself and reducing stress during finals is one of the best ways to make sure you’ll do well and get through the process in one piece. Here are my top ten tips for staying calm and managing stress during finals season.

1. Have an effective study strategy. 

You wouldn’t go into war without a battle plan, so don’t go into finals without a study strategy. Planning exactly what you’re going to review and when is so helpful in keeping you accountable, making your study habits effective and making sure you don’t stress too much. To find out how, check out this post I wrote on making a strategy for finals!

2. Set aside downtime and make sure you stick to it!

Just as important as making time to study is making time to relax. It’s been proven that taking a break from working helps improve concentration and sustain energy. You’re at your best when you make time to have fun, spend time with friends and live a balanced life. Schedule some time every day to relax and take a mental break. You’ll return to your work refreshed and better equipped to focus.

3. Get enough sleep.

Sleep is so important. While pulling an all-nighter may seem like the perfect way to finish a paper on time, skipping a night of sleep actually makes it harder to concentrate, multitask, and remember information. In fact, sleep is known to consolidate memory, so skip the all-nighter and keep your normal sleep hours. It will help you feel calmer, remember more, and do better on your exams.

4. Remember to laugh.

During your downtime, try to spend some time with a few friends—and laugh! Laughter boosts your endorphins and even curbs stress hormones, making it a great way to keep stress at bay when you need a break.

5. Don't abuse caffeine.

Drinking too much caffeine can lead to headaches, upset stomach, and increased anxiety – not what you want during finals season! Instead of abusing your favorite caffeinated drinks to stay up late or to focus, try for just one pick-me-up caffeinated drink throughout the day as a reward or incentive for hard work.

Read the full post on Sarah Laughed here.

This article has been syndicated to Her Campus from Organized Charm by Kirstin Horton, a Her Campus Blogger Network member. Read the full post here.

I recently received a reader request for a post on how to beat procrastination. As soon as I read it, I thought, "you and me both, sister!" Even my kindergarteners are prone to procrastination every time they hear the phrase "clean up time!" 

So, how can we beat it? First of all, it is important for us to realize that our procrastination usually comes straight out of fear. Fear of failing, or of being below standard, in some cases, even fear of finishing. 

What have I been procrastinating about lately? Um, that would be job searching. It is truly the most discouraging, am I right?

I mean, I like positive results right away! Don’t you? And job searching means a LOT of hoping and a lot trying and a lot of waiting. BORRR-IIING. 

So, instead of job searching every day, I settle for pinning a bunch of articles on how to job search every day (I like to think that at least I'm helping others who may not have been able to find these articles through their own Google searching). Basically the same thing, right? I love how Pinterest makes me feel productive while actually doing nothing. 

But with teacher hiring season just around the corner for me (and Finals Week just around the corner for you) we can’t afford to sit around pinning articles on how to interview and how to study. 

It’s time to actually get out there and do it!

1. Just get started

The good news is, research shows that starting is usually the hardest part! So just do that! Jump straight in on that project that looks so daunting! 

Once you get past that initial fear of how big and impossible-looking it seems, you’ll gain a clearer perspective! Who knows? Maybe you'll even get into the flow of working and you'll enjoy it! 

2. Set a small goal

Maybe I can send one email to a potential school today. Maybe you could read five pages in that textbook you hate. When we look at it as just a teeny, harmless little task, it’s a lot less intimidating to take a step in the right direction! 

Read the full post on Organized Charm here.

Makeup can be a girl's best friend. Unfortunately, cosmetics can also run up a long bill if you’re not careful. So what’s a collegiette to do when she wants quality products at a budget price? Well, it's a good thing even top makeup artists opt for the most affordable finds. Get ready to hit up your local drugstore!

1. Covergirl LashBlast Mascara in Very Black ($8.99)

Carla Gonzalez, the beauty wiz behind Kerry Washington and Rashida Jones relies on Covergirl’s line of mascara for her clients. LashBlast mascara in Very Black is highly pigmented, so your lashes are sure to stand out from your average black mascara.

2. Revlon Color Burst Matte Balm ($9)

These chubby lip balms are easy to apply and add a lot of color to the lips, according to Emma Stone’s makeup artist, Rachel Goodman. You can find these soft, buttery balms in six playful shades.

3. TONI&GUY Sea Salt Texturizing Spray ($10.79)

Ever wonder how Zoe Saldana and Ellen Page get those “I woke up like this” tousled waves? Their hair stylist, Aviva Perea, uses a sea salt spray to create a loose, wavy texture. Go easy though; salt spray can dry out your hair!

4. Simple Skincare Cleansing Facial Wipes ($6)

In the morning, you want your makeup to stay put. By the end of the day, you want to scrub it all down the drain. Jessica Pare and Kieran Shipka’s makeup artist, Kirin Bhatty, recommends makeup remover wipes from Simple to leave your skin feeling fresh and renewed.

This article has been syndicated to Her Campus from It’s a Bug’s Life by Kendra Stricklin, a Her Campus Blogger Network member. Read the full post here.

Finals week officially kicks off tomorrow for me, and I don't know about you, but I always struggle to decide what to wear during the whole week! I never know if I should go for a more put-together look, or just all-out sweats and a sweatshirt. That usually ends badly, though, because after the test is done I feel super self-conscious about looking like I just rolled out of bed (even though I probably did)! To avoid all of those situations, I put together a couple of comfy-chic outfits that are perfect for finals week!

(Notice the "coffee addict" mug...that is what I am, especially during finals week!)

The Surprise Back

I'm calling this outfit the "Surprise Back" because it looks like a normal, comfortable outfit, but the back of the sweater has this really cool rib cage-inspired cut!

Sweater: Nordstrom
Yoga Pants: Lululemon
Shoes: Macy's
Crop Top: Forever 21

I put on a pretty rose-patterned crop top underneath the sweater so it would show through and look really gorgeous!

I think this outfit is so cute, and you can definitely get away with wearing yoga pants. They are just as comfortable as sweatpants, and this pair is especially great because they're high-waisted so they look even better with the crop top!

Read the full post on It’s a Bug’s Life here.

What’s even more of a struggle than dressing for your first job or internship? Dressing for your first job or internship where you’ll be working in an office with a casual dress code. Especially if you’re working for a smaller company or a startup, tons of offices have completely dropped the “business” in “business casual”—which can make it pretty tough to walk the line between professional and overdressed. Luckily, we’ve laid out four ideas—and why they work—to get you started!

1. Back to basics

 

H M black short sleeve top
$11 - hm.com
 

 

Zara blue jean jacket
zara.com
 

 

Topshop shorts
topshop.com
 

 

Topshop leather sandals
topshop.com
 

 

Zara pearl bracelet
zara.com
 

 

Your best casual office outfit might already be in your closet! Basic staples like a denim jacket and striped tee keep the look easygoing and cool and are elevated by fashion forward pieces like cropped faux leather culottes; which are perfect for those hot summer days ahead!

2. Cotton candy hues

 

Uniqlo long sleeve t shirt
uniqlo.com
 

 

Zara motorcycle jacket
zara.com
 

 

Topshop pleated skirt
topshop.com
 

 

Topshop sneaker
topshop.com
 

 

River Island chain necklace
$38 - riverisland.com
 

 

Just because your office has a casual dress code doesn’t mean you have to forgo your favorite skirts and dresses in order to fit in! It’s easy to make a pleated mini skirt look dressed down when paired with those printed slip-on sneakers you normally reserve for off-duty looks! Topping off the look with a leather jacket toughens up your pastel hues!

3. Fun florals

 

Boohoo floral print dress
boohoo.com
 

 

Topshop gray jacket
$98 - topshop.com
 

 

ASOS genuine leather shoes
asos.com
 

 

Structured tote bag
$62 - theiconic.com.au
 

 

Wanderlust Co gold tone necklace
revolveclothing.com
 

 

The casual office’s version of the blazer? The sleeveless blazer. With all the professional vibes of a blazer but the effortless sleeveless silhouette, it’s a must-have piece for a casual workplace. Contrast its structured shape with a laid-back floral shift and chunky wooden platforms for a look that is easygoing, but still totally pulled together.

4. White jeans

 

J Crew blue top
jcrew.com
 

 

Chicnova Fashion vintage sweater
chicnova.com
 

 

Topshop jeans
topshop.com
 

 

Forever 21 vegan shoes
forever21.com
 

 

H M black tote bag
$23 - hm.com
 

 

With the casual, relaxed look of denim in a slightly more dressed up shade, white jeans are your new best friend! They’re the perfect piece to throw on since they can be worn with anything, but we love them topped off with easy layers, like a chambray shirt and a patterned sweater.

What other tips and tricks do you use to stay chic at your casual office, collegiettes?

This article has been syndicated to Her Campus from JessFitnessBarbie by Jessica Koper, a Her Campus Blogger Network member. Read the full post here.

As we all know (and dread), final exam season is upon us. Finals are stressful enough as it is, the last thing you need to worry about is study snacks. But don't worry, I've got you covered with some delicious healthy snacks that are super fun (and very Instagram-worthy—during a study break, of course)! Eating healthy micronutrient-filled foods will keep you feeling full longer, provide energy, as well as give you a little brain power boost (and we can all use that around this time of year). I kept all of these pretty simple with a fun twist because let's face it, we don't have hours to spend in the kitchen cooking up fancy dishes! It's like adding those perfect statement accessories to your basic LBD!

1. Dressed Up Oats

My favorite toppings include apples, bananas, raisins, nuts and peanut butter.

2. Cucumber Sandwiches

Try this with lean turkey breast, cheddar cheese and hummus... delish!

3. Topped Rice Cakes

You can pretty much top these with anything from cream cheese and ham to peanut butter, banana. My personal fave is honey and cinnamon.

4. Zucchini Pizza Bites

Slice zucchini, top with tomato sauce, cheese and anything else your heart desires for a healthy and delicious guilt-free spin on pizza.

5. Avocado and Egg On Toast

Protein packed and delicious! You really can't go wrong with this one. I love to substitute eggs for egg whites and sprinkle some fresh ground pepper on top as well.

Read the full post on JessFitnessBarbie here.

From killer sunburns to sometimes resembling a vampire, the life of a fair-skinned girl isn't easy. Here are the 11 worst things about being naturally pale.

1. Being mistaken for a Twilight cast member.

2. Going to the beach feels more like a war with the sun than a vacation. 

3. Listening to your friends go on about how they can't wait to tan this summer and being like, 

4. You've tried every self-tanner on the market and have been unable to find one that doesn't make you look like an Oompa Loompa.

5. When you blush, everybody knows it and proceeds to call you on it... which only makes you blush harder.

6. Wearing 100+ SPF sunscreen (yes, it exists) and STILL getting burned.

7. Working out turns you so red and blotchy that people actually ask if you're okay.

8. Bikini-shopping as a pale girl? 100 times worse.

9. Trying to take a selfie with the flash on, only to look like you have no face.

10. Wearing dark lipstick - expectation:

11. Reality: 

I still remember the day like it was yesterday. I had missed the bus and was running late for school, so my mom decided to drive me there. As we drove down the road that December morning, our car slid on ice. We ended up crashing into a tree, and the next thing I remember is waking up in the back of an ambulance.

The accident happened when I was 15. I’m 21 now, and that day still haunts me every moment of my life.

The impact of the crash ended up turning the car on its side and left our car totaled. The crash left me with two broken wrists and injuries to my back and neck, and my mom was lucky enough to only sprain an ankle. However, the physical pain I had in no way compares to the emotional pain the accident has left me with.

After a month of recovery at home, I returned to school. That day, I experienced my first panic attack. I was walking down the hallway at school, and all of a sudden my heart started racing. I instantly fell to the ground in fear. It felt like electricity was running through my body, and I was gasping for air. I yelled for help, and a group of people started to surround me. I honestly thought I was going to die. 

I was a sophomore in high school when all of this happened. Before then, I never even knew what a panic attack was. But after that day, I started having panic attacks almost every day. I didn’t know exactly what was going on with me until my school nurse recommended I see a psychologist.

The psychologist diagnosed me with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Initially, I was shocked—I thought only soldiers were diagnosed with PTSD, but it can actually affect anyone who has suffered a traumatic experience. I continued to see a psychologist for a while, but I never really got any better. I’ve had a history of mental illness (for more than three years, I struggled with an eating disorder, but was thankfully able to recover from it after seeking treatment when I was 14), yet this felt unlike anything I had ever experienced before.

Before the crash, I was an outspoken and outgoing person. Afterwards, I became quiet and reserved. I was dealing with a lot emotionally and I didn’t know how to express myself or whom I could turn to. Most of my friends from before the crash didn’t understand why I was suddenly acting so differently. Students at school started to bully me because of my dramatic change. Most people didn’t know what was going on with me and thought I was weird. Almost all of the people who I was friends with prior to the accident stopped talking to me. I felt alone when I was in need of a friend the most. Ever since then, I’ve been scared to open up to people. I was lucky enough to have a few true friends who were there for me when I needed them. From them I learned the real meaning of friendship. 

After I graduated from high school, I enrolled at my dream college, the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, to study fashion design. I thought this was going to be the fresh start that I needed, but my PTSD got even worse when I got to college. My anxiety and depression started to overpower me more than before. For the first time ever, I was alone in a completely different state hours away from my native Maryland. My anxiety was so high that doing everyday things became impossible. I couldn’t even do homework, and I barely got any sleep. My anxiety had me constantly on edge. I rarely ate and ended up losing a lot of weight. I had to drop two classes, and I started to go home every single weekend because I felt so alone at college. I would cry every night because I thought I wouldn’t be able to make it to the end of the semester.

At the end of the semester, I realized I couldn’t go on like this. I ended up dropping out of my dream college after just one semester. I went back home, having no idea what I was going to do for the rest of my life. I was at my lowest point, and my anxiety was at its highest. I stopped taking care of myself. I rarely showered or even brushed my hair or teeth. All I would do is cry in bed all day.

I realized that I had to get help. I started seeing a psychiatrist and a psychologist. I begin to go to therapy once a week and take three different types of medications to help with my anxiety and depression. With the psychiatrist and psychologist’s help, I started to feel better. I ended up enrolling at American University in Washington, D.C., the following semester. During the time that my PTSD was at its worst, I turned to writing and journaling to help express myself. This led me to pursue a major in journalism. Writing became therapeutic for me.

Things have started to get better, but some days are tougher then others. Balancing classes, an internship and work is hard to do with my anxiety. I rarely speak up in class because I’m too afraid. Doing homework and studying is difficult because I have trouble concentrating and sitting still. My PTSD has me constantly paranoid and scared that something bad is going to happen to me. There are some days that I’m too afraid to even walk across campus because I fear that everyone can see right through me. When I’m feeling anxious, my mind races. My body may feel exhausted, but on the inside I’m constantly on edge.

Driving or riding in a car is still extremely difficult for me because I’m always afraid that I’m going to get into another car accident. I have flashbacks even now to that day. After the accident, I couldn’t even ride in a car without crying. My friends would want to hang out, but I’d make excuses, too embarrassed to tell my friends that the real reason I wouldn’t go out was because I was afraid to drive. Slowly, I have forced myself to start driving again. Before, I couldn’t even drive down the street, and now I have started to push myself to drive more frequently.

Everyone who knows me thinks that I’m just extremely shy. People who don’t know me think I’m conceited because I rarely talk. I wish I had the courage to speak up and tell people, “I’m not shy, and I’m definitely not conceited!” It’s hard to explain to people why I am the way I am because I’m afraid that most people won’t understand, and because of this I usually feel alone.

One time I was talking to a friend about my struggle with my anxiety and depression, and he told me, “You know, you can control that.” I chose not to respond to him, but his comment still upset me. I have tried everything to help with my anxiety and depression: yoga, volunteering and even joining different clubs at school. For me, healing has not been an overnight process; it’s a daily struggle. Most of my friends who know about my PTSD are understanding of my illness.  I have other friends who I’ve known for years whom I’ve still not been able to be open to. I’m afraid to open up to them because of my fear of rejection and because I don’t want anyone to feel sorry for me.

A mental illness isn’t something that you can just fix with a Band-Aid.  Just because you can’t see a mental illness doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist and doesn’t hurt. The best way to explain having a mental illness is that it’s like having something weighing you down, and as much as you try, you can’t shake it off.

As much I try to forget that day, I can’t. I have scars on my arms from several surgeries that remind me of that December day. Every year on the anniversary of my accident, I thank God that I’m alive. Although I have struggled to heal after my accident, I remain thankful that I was given a second chance at life. I recently started volunteering with the National Eating Disorders Association to raise awareness for the cause and to help plan a walk in my area to raise donations. I realized that I was given a second chance at life so I can help others who are going through similar experiences like me.

I’m 21, and I’m tired of feeling like I’m missing out on life. PTSD isn’t about what’s wrong with me, but about what happened to me. I’m tired of letting one moment control my entire life. I am more than just a mental illness. My mental illness is a part of my life, but it does not define me. I have dreams and goals, and I can’t let one moment keep weighing me down. If I keep living in fear and holding on to what hurts, I’m actually not living at all. I’m trying every day to appreciate my second chance, and I’m working on living life to the fullest.

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

There are two distinct types of people in this world: those who like mornings and those who do not. Some people love to rise and shine, and others cherish the late-night hours. Early birds and night owls are as opposite as day and night (literally), so they experience life a little differently as well.

Early birds: You wake up just to see the sunrise. What a glorious start to your day! 

Night owls: If you’re watching the sunrise, it means you pulled an all-nighter. Again.

Early birds: 7 a.m. yoga? Count us in!

Night owls: Thank goodness the gym stays open until midnight because there’s no chance you’re hitting it before 7 p.m.

Early birds: You only need one alarm to wake up in the morning, if you haven't already woken up naturally.

Night owls: You set at least seven alarms, all of which wake up your roomie, who eventually wakes you up. She's not pleased.

Early birds: You live for the smell of coffee and a good breakfast in the morning.

Night owls: You know what always tastes better at 2 a.m.? French fries. Good thing you know a place open 24/7!

Early birds: Even though you’re up early, sometimes you feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day!

Night owls: So what if the day ends? That’s what ALL night is for. SO much time for activities.

Early birds: Kelly and Michael are basically your besties since you see them every morning.

Night owls: Two words: Jimmy Fallon.

Early birds: On the weekends, you rather go to brunch than the bars.

Night owls: Waking up before noon on a Saturday is a sin, especially when you’re out until 3 a.m. the night before.

Early birds: You know what they say: The early bird always catches the worm!

Night owls: Who cares about worms? Late night pizza > everything.

This article has been syndicated to Her Campus from Undergraduate Style by Alex Welch, a Her Campus Blogger Network member. Read the full post here. 

I'm sure if you are in school, you are all too aware of how finals can sneak up on you. One minute, you're relaxing on spring break, and the next, it's dead week and you have a million projects to finish and exams to study for on top of that.

I've found that during the weeks leading up to finals, I see a lot more yoga pants, sweatshirts, and straight-up pajamas on campus. Who wants to spend a bunch of time thinking up outfits when there's so much work to be done?

Well, never fear, because I've created three outfits that are super-comfy and perfect for a day filled with studying. These formulas are no-effort-necessary: Just pick a piece that fits in the category and you're good to go! They're just as easy as throwing on sweats, but you'll feel cute all day instead of falling asleep since you're wearing pajamas.

Formula One: Blouse + Leggings + Comfy Sandals

I think these comfy outfits are all about balance. Pick one piece that's traditionally considered "comfy" (in this case, leggings) and then add some more dressed-up pieces. For me, that was this peasant blouse—not super fancy, but nice—accessorized with a simple pendant and my Jacks. Here are some ways you could change up this look:

• To transition from day to night and take this look to the next level, try adding wedge sandals instead of flat ones!
• Instead of my pendant necklace, mix it up by stacking a few tiny, delicate necklaces or going with a big statement piece.
• I often stick to black leggings, but you could also try them in a bright color or a fun print!

Read the full post on Undergraduate Style here. 

After countless applications, emails and interviews, it may seem like the universe is against you in your never-ending search for a job. Instead of feeling down and depressed, keep your hopes up and stay motivated! Whether you’re a recent graduate looking for a full-time job or an undergraduate in need of some extra cash, the only way to land your dream job is to keep on applying. Here are a few tricks to relax and de-stress just in time for your next interview!

1. Create a vision board

Sometimes it can be difficult to concentrate on your future without a firm grasp of what you really want. Looking at specific photos and images can help you visualize your future, making it easier to focus.

To build a vision board, gather a bunch of pictures, magazine cutouts or inspirational quotes and put them together in one big collage. These can include photos of short- or long-term goals, but the key is to get really specific! For example, if you want to be a lawyer, you’ll want to find photos of courtrooms, law books and lawyers who inspire you. Your vision board can incorporate the amount of money you want to earn, the location you want to work in or even the people you want to work with—it’s totally up to you! After purchasing a poster board from any craft store, take a look at websites such as Pinterest, where you can find images that cater to your interests.

Haley Jo Lewis, a junior at Seattle University, says focusing on specific criteria gives her a confidence boost when job searching. “You spend so much time at work, so putting a lot of time into thinking about what you want your job to look like is important,” she says. “By narrowing my search based on specifics like hours, qualities in coworkers, distance from my house and pay rate, searching for a job becomes much easier.”

Once you’ve finished your masterpiece, top it off with tons of glitter and be sure to hang it on a wall you see every day for constant motivation!

2. Set aside specific times for job searching

Instead of constantly worrying about job applications, set aside some time to work on them and don’t worry about them the rest of the time. This is an effective way to help your mind relax so you can do your best work during those allotted time slots. “I spend about two hours a day focusing on my job search, and then I close my computer and forget about it,” says Lauryn Higgins, a senior at Mars Hill University. “Focusing on it and stressing on it all day has only led to extreme fatigue and unnecessary stress.”

You might want to apply to jobs for an hour or so each day, or maybe you’d prefer to work on them for a few hours Monday through Wednesday and keep the rest of the week free.

Another option is to set an application quota for yourself. Send out two or three per day, as long as you stick to your schedule and take breaks often. Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a licensed clinical psychologist and professor of psychology, recommends taking breaks and getting out of the house (and out of your sweatpants!) at least once a day to keep you cleaned up and presentable. “Breaks are like a rest for your psyche,” she says. “They allow you to re-render your mindset and bring a fresh and more hopeful perspective.”

3. Talk to a mentor

Talking to someone with experience in your field is a great way to get inspired. A mentor can be anyone you look up to—someone with whom you’ve worked in the past, a professor or even a family member.

Talking to your mentor can help you in so many ways. He or she can offer you tips and advice and really boost your confidence. Your mentor might also be able to offer personal anecdotes about his or her job-searching experience to help you prepare for yours. If you’re having trouble with a particular aspect of the job-searching process (maybe you get nervous during interviews or aren’t sure when to follow up afterwards), it’s a good idea to have a list of questions to ask your mentor about it.

Taylor Zepeda, a junior at the University of California, San Diego, says she found her mentor through the career services center at her school. They meet at her office and discuss the areas that Taylor would like to work on professionally. Taylor’s mentor gives her advice on dressing for interviews and even helps to edit her resume. “She always has such high spirits and her enthusiasm and passion for her students helps to keep me positive and excited about finding jobs!” Taylor says.

4. Take advantage of career services at your school

The career services department at your school offers tons of resources to help you prepare you for the job search that you probably didn’t even know existed, such as workshops, job fairs and mock interviews. You should definitely attend as many events as you can, because your school’s career advisers really know what they’re talking about—and the more knowledge you gain, the more confident you’ll be!

Career services advisers can also help you write cover letters and build or spice up your resume. If your interviewing skills need polishing, a mock interview is the perfect way to calm your nerves. Practice makes perfect!

Amanda Corrado, a junior at the University of Pittsburgh, says, “This semester I've done mock interviews with our career department and have had my resume looked over several times, so all of the preparations like these really keep me thinking I can land the job!”

5. Watch motivational videos

Sometimes a pep talk or motivational lecture is just the thing you need. Luckily, YouTube has motivational videos on demand whenever you’re in need of a pick-me-up. You can also check out TED, a nonprofit organization devoted to spreading ideas, which features inspirational “TED Talks.” Upworthy posts inspirational videos of everyday people and their real-life experiences.

Another must-see video is The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch (also available in book form), who was a professor at Carnegie Mellon University. After being diagnosed with cancer, Randy recorded his last lecture, where he shared his personal stories of overcoming obstacles and moving on.

6. Pursue something else you love

While looking for a job, it’s important to also take time for other things you love. Maybe you like to write poetry, make music or direct short films—whatever it is, pour your heart into it.

Dr. Ramani says that if you take time to do something else you love, “you will maintain your sense of purpose, have something to do and feel a sense of accomplishment.” So while the job search may be bringing your spirits down, doing fun things you love will definitely give you a boost. Engaging in an activity you enjoy will not only make you happier, but may even attract new opportunities and ease the challenge of not finding a job. Your hobbies, interests or volunteer work could make you a more interesting job candidate!

While the job search may seem like it’s never going to end, it’s important to relax and stay motivated. Remember that positive energy is key when preparing for interviews! Good luck, collegiettes!

The wandering mind has a bad reputation. Many people compare it to an unhappy mind. Others say that mind-wandering hurts productivity. Professors would definitely prefer you to focus more on the lectures than the doodle you’re furiously scribbling at.

However, daydreaming may not be the worst thing for your mind.

Everyone has trouble paying attention. In a study done at the University of California at Santa Barbara, students attempting to read the beginning of Tolstoy’s War and Peace for 45 minutes caught themselves zoning out an average of 5.4 times. Even when trying hard to focus, our minds are practically programmed to wander.

Now, some experts are saying that it’s okay to let the mind wander on.

According to an article on NYMag.com, “In adapting to a complex world, we need to escape the here and now, and consider possible futures, mull over past mistakes, understand how other people’s mind work.” In essence, mind-wandering is the powerhouse of creativity. When the mind wanders, wider regions of the brain are active than when the mind focuses. These regions are referred to the “default-mode network.” The default-mode network covers the “default” areas your brain activates when the mind is not focusing on something.

This idle state of mind has been connected to an increase in creativity. In a study, participants performed better with the task of inventing new uses for normal objects after taking a mindless break, as opposed to a break that required focus. In order to spark inspiration, experts recommend watching a light T.V. show (Netflix anyone?) or even knitting.

In his book The Wandering Mind: What the Brain Does When You’re Not Looking, Michael C. Corballis writes, “However self-evidently counterproductive zoning out may be in many situations, there are certainly situations where it may be useful.”

So, if you’re trying to solve a problem, take a break and let your mind wander. The answer could come to you when you stop focusing so hard.

Although we’re excited it’s finally spring, there are a couple downsides to the season—namely, spring cleaning. But de-cluttering your place doesn’t have to be all that bad! There are always fun alternatives to those pesky chores. Try our seven tips for making spring cleaning fun!

1. Challenge your friends

Turn your dreaded chore into a fun competition! Challenge your friends to a clean-off. Measure your success by how many items you throw out, how many clothes you donate or how fast you can strip your place down. Loser buys dinner!

2. Reward yourself

Don’t forget to treat yourself after your cleaning is done! Motivate yourself to get your work done by having a reward set for when you’ve finished. Tell yourself you can’t go out until you’ve organized your closet or cleaned your kitchen.

Sara, a senior at Assumption College, says that she gets through spring cleaning by setting a certain reward for each chore. “I always say that I can go shopping once I get rid of a bunch of old clothes and donate them,” she says, adding, “I figure if I make room in my closet, I have to fill the space!”

Set a goal and have a reward laid out for when you’ve achieved it. Or, better yet, set intervals and reward yourself for each step of the way. For example, treat yourself to a snack after throwing out 10 items of clothing or take a Netflix break when you’re done cleaning the bathroom! Setting mini rewards will help you make it through each step of the process.

3. Sell your stuff

What’s better motivation for collegiettes than straight cash? If you’re a pack rat, it can be hard to bring yourself to get rid of your belongings. Reward yourself for minimalizing by selling your clothes. Take them to a secondhand store or use an online consignment shop!

“One of my favorite ways to get rid of clothes and make a little extra cash is with thredUp,” says Christine, a sophomore at the College of Charleston. thredUp is an online consignment shop that will send you a free envelope and bag in the mail, which you fill up with clothing and ship off (they cover shipping!). “You earn cash for every item they accept meeting their high-quality standards,” says Christine; it’s a convenient way to clean out your closet while also making an extra buck.

4. Donate

If you can afford to skip the cash, consider donating your old stuff instead! Find your nearest donation center or Goodwill and head over with a bag from your freshly cleaned closet.

Alexis, a senior at William Patterson University, recommends looking for a local donation center specifically benefitting women. Christine opts for the donation option on thredUp. “You can also choose to donate that money to a charity,” she explains, “so it's a really nice way to give back and clean up your closet!”

5. Redecorate

The best thing about spring cleaning is the finished result, when your desk is de-cluttered, your windows are shiny and your floor is spotless. So what better time than now to redecorate?

“One thing that my mother and I love to do as a reward after we are done spring cleaning is being able to re-decorate the house using the space that was originally cluttered with things we didn't need!” says Kristen, a freshman at the University of Georgia. Take advantage of the new space and switch it up! Rearrange furniture, hang up seasonal decorations or add new pieces!

6. Turn it into a DIY project

Just because the old clothes you have don’t fit or aren’t in style doesn’t mean you have to get rid of them. Turn your old ragged jeans into your next DIY project! There are tons of ways to repurpose clothes—whether it’s to enhance other items of clothing or create something totally new!

Even if you’re not into the idea of cutting up old clothes, there are tons of opportunities for DIY and upcycling projects! Take a furniture piece you don’t like and change it up. While sanding and painting might seem intimidating, there are lots of easy ways to upgrade furniture. A quick Pinterest search should spark some ideas!

7. Multi-task

Cleaning doesn’t have to be all one-dimensional—have a little fun with it! Try multi-tasking while you clean to keep it interesting and get things done at the same time. Need to catch up on your favorite TV show? Have Netflix playing while you empty your closet. Can’t focus on a show while you’re busy cleaning? Try listening to your favorite playlist or even a podcast!

Spring cleaning doesn’t have to always be a total drag! With a little motivation and some music, it can actually be a fun time—we promise.

Graduation is supposed to be your day to shine. After all, you have lived through four years of exams, papers and very little sleep. But among a sea of your fellow graduates (all in the same outfit no less), it’s hard to stand out in the crowd. You deserve your time in the spotlight, so we’ve rounded up 6 ways for you to make your mark on graduation day.

1. Jewelry

Wouldn’t these BaubleBar Tassel earrings ($32) fit into the graduation theme perfectly? If these feel a little too on-the-nose for you, accent your drab cap and gown with some dangly gems or a meaningful bracelet.

2. Cords

Cords offer a pop of color but also hint at your long list of accomplishments. You can pick this Elle Woods-worthy pink cord up in the Her Campus Shop ($6).

3. Dress

You may not be able to see what you’re wearing underneath your gown during the ceremony, but you’ll love showcasing a cute dress at the after-party. A classic white with interesting details—like this ModCloth number ($127.99)—will work for dinner with your family or one last night out with your besties.

4. Clutch

Here’s one you may not have thought of yet. You’re going to need a place to store your lip gloss, tissues, phone, and maybe a little snack during the sure-to-be-lengthy ceremony. Make it count with a cool clutch from Rebecca Minkoff ($125) that you’ll use for years to come.

5. Shoes

Your shoes are pretty much the only part of your outfit that will let you express your personal style when your stroll across the stage to grab your diploma. These colorful statement heels from Nasty Gal ($150) look innocent enough for the ceremony, but the gladiator-style buckles will up the chic factor when you lose the gown later.

6. Cap décor

If your school will allow it, decorating your cap is a fun—and cheap—way to personalize your look. Added bonus: your parents will be able to spot you all the way from the audience.

How will you stand out at graduation, collegiettes?

Adjusting to the working world is tough. Jobs are stressful, bosses can be difficult, and cubicles can get pretty lonely. But there is one thing, or rather one person, proven to ease the pain of the workweek grind. That person is your work BFF, and she is basically responsible for getting you through each day.

1. She helps you keep up-to-date on all the office drama

Daily gossip sessions at the coffee cart are your most important meetings (your Outlook calendar will prove it). Who’s been promoted, who’s been let go, and who got in trouble for texting are always among the talking points (i.e. everything you’re not supposed to discuss at work, #oops).

2. You have someone to cover for you when you call in “sick”

Whether you’re actually bedridden with the stomach flu, or taking a much-needed mental health day to bond with your couch and Netflix account, your work bestie is there to catch you up as soon as you’re back in the office. She’ll also be sure to fill you in on any gossip you missed while you were out (see #1).

3. Business trips feel like a vacation

You can hit the hotel pool in between meetings, or squeeze in some sightseeing (read: shopping) when you get free time.

4. You get to instant message all day long

You can regress to your 7^th grade AIM-obsessed self as you furiously type back and forth. And don’t you dare go into a meeting without telling her, she’ll PING you repeatedly until you’re back. What else are friends for?

5. She helps you decide what to get for lunch

As any working girl knows, choosing what to eat for lunch is one of the most important decisions you’ll make all day. Your work BFF becomes your permanent lunch buddy. Whether she’s helping you follow through with your commitment to bringing lunch from home, or convincing you to ditch the salad for a slice of pizza, you’ll thank her in the long run.

6. You can ask each other the stupid questions you’re too embarrassed to ask anyone else

Like how to use the phone or the copy machine. Seriously, why so many buttons?!

7. She really understands what you’re going through each day

She can be there for you in ways your other friends can’t. She listens to you vent at the end of a bad day and actually gets why you’re upset. She celebrates your work successes (no matter how small) and she’s genuinely excited for you and your accomplishments.

8.You have a wing woman at office happy hours

You also have someone to make sure you don’t get too drunk and start twerking with the CEO. That’s not to say that getting appropriately buzzed with your work bestie (on your company’s dime) isn’t the best thing ever.

9.She gives you honest, realistic career advice

Whether you need help asking for a raise, deciding to switch teams, or choosing an outfit for your presentation, there’s one person you ask. Not only does she know the company and the industry, but she also knows you.

10. Having to work on your birthday isn’t so bad

She will make sure that the rest of the team knows it’s your birthday by sending obnoxious mass emails and decorating your desk area with signs and desserts

11. She sees you before your morning coffee and still loves you

Your work BFF has the extreme pleasure of interacting with you every day before 9 a.m. She also sees you in your work clothes and doesn’t make fun of you for looking like Hillary Clinton or a Banana Republic model.

Yup, she’s basically the best person ever. She’s like your corporate soul mate, and you are so lucky to have found each other.

Name: Jackie Augustus
Age: 20 
College Name/Major: Arizona State University/Mass Communication and Media Studies
Job Title:Associate Marketing Manager at SB Projects
Website:scooterbraun.com
Twitter Handle: @JackieAugustus

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

Jackie Augustus: As the Associate Digital Marketing Manager at SB Projects, it’s my responsibility to oversee all social media and digital strategy across our 18 artists. This ranges from coordinating social posts with the artists, to creating and executing digital activations, to advising on digital rollout for a single, album or tour. There’s no such thing as a typical day in this position… or industry, rather. My job varies day to day. Some days I get brought into a tech pitch, some days I’m helping strategize around a potential TV show. That’s what I love about it.  

What is the best part of your job?

JA: I love that it’s unpredictable. I’m the type of person who gets bored easily if I’m doing the same thing every day. This job, on the other hand, is constantly changing and evolving. Sure, for the most part I have the same projects overall that I’m focused on, but in each project we’re constantly moving from single promo, to album release, to tour, and then from out of nowhere I’ll get thrown a fun TV or tech project to help with on the side. It keeps me on my toes.

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

JA: This is actually my first full-time job in the field. Prior to this, I worked as an independent contractor part-time for a music marketing company running a few social media accounts for them remotely while I was completing my freshman year of college at Hawaii Pacific University. Oddly enough, I got the job because one of the company’s owners reached out to me via direct message on a Justin Bieber fan account (@BieberArmy) that I own.

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

JA: As a fan, you never really get to see the behind-the-scenes work that goes into an artist. It’s definitely been interesting for me to learn the ins and outs of this industry by just living it every day and learning from the incredible people I have the opportunity to work with here at SB Projects on a daily basis. One thing you don’t necessarily see as an outsider to the industry is all of the hard work and preparation that goes into building a new artist. They don’t just pop out of nowhere and become famous with a hit song on the radio. It takes time, sometimes years, and there’s a lot of strategic planning that goes into it.

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

JA: This guy named Scooter Braun… ever heard of him? I started a fan account for Justin Bieber with my best friend back in 2009 (I was 14) when Justin Bieber was quickly ramping up. Scooter would send us exclusives to post and invite us to events, which helped grow our Twitter account to over one million followers.

It was in 2012, when I was cheerleading at Hawaii Pacific University and completing my freshman year of college, that Scooter offered me a job after I graduated college. Unfortunately, our cheer team got cut and I had plans to move to Nashville to finish school and find a job there. When I told Scooter I was moving, he offered me a full-time position in Los Angeles and told me I could take the job now and finish school in the process. A week later, I drove from Pennsylvania to California to start working for SB Projects and have been here for the past two years.

What words of wisdom do you find most valuable?

JA: My favorite quote that Scooter says all the time is, “It’s better to ask for forgiveness than permission.” Another favorite value of the company that I live by is, “Do cool sh*t.” We like to push the limits over here.

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

JA: For the first year and a half that I worked here, I didn’t let my phone leave my side. I woke up in the middle of the night for any text or email that came through. I was so worried that I needed to respond right away that I never really made time to have a personal life. I’ve since learned that it’s important to find a healthy balance between your professional and personal life… and that it’s okay to sleep!

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

JA: Sometimes I don’t even believe that my job is real… and that I’m only 20 years old. The whole thing is pretty surreal. One of my favorite moments thus far though has to be the release of Ariana Grande’s debut album this past year. It was the first major debut album release I was heavily involved in, so it was like Christmas morning on release day to finally see it come to life after months and months of marketing and preparation.  

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

JA: Know that you’re never too young to accomplish your dreams. If you’re passionate about something and believe in it, go for it. Don’t take no for an answer. Prove you’re more than capable even when some may doubt you.