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8 Things Strong Couples Say to Each Other

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We’ve all seen the crazy passionate declarations of love in movies à la When Harry Met Sally, but (luckily!) healthy relationships aren’t all about fiery monologues. So how do strong couples communicate IRL? Believe it or not, sometimes the simplest of words can go a much longer way than a bed of rose petals. Collegiettes shared the sweet little things they say to their SOs on the reg, and experts explained why you should totally add these to your #relationshipgoals.

1. “Thank you.”

So maybe you say “thank you” to the cashier who gives you your change or the stranger who holds the door for you. But these words can have so much more meaning when you say them (with real gratitude!) to your SO.

When you’ve been with someone for a while, it’s easy to forget to appreciate the little things you do for each other. “Gratitude and common courtesy often become victims of familiarity,” says Lesli Doares, a licensed marriage and family therapist. “Making the effort to be appreciative shows that you are not taking each other for granted and that you are noticing the positive things your partner does for you.”

Kasia Jaworski, a senior at Villanova University, and her ex-boyfriend were in a relationship for three years. “We would thank each other often,” Kasia says. “I think it's important to show appreciation in a strong relationship. I would always thank him if he took me out to dinner, or he would shoot me a sweet ‘thank you’ text if I called him when he was having a bad day.”

Being in a committed relationship takes a lot of work, compromise and selflessness, so it’s important that both of you remind yourselves and each other how grateful you are.

That said, it’s normal to get stuck in a rut sometimes and forget how happy you are with your SO, which is why “you have to keep the spark alive,” says Fran Greene, a relationship coach and author of The Flirting Bible. “Once you take each other for granted, it says ‘I don’t care about you,’” she explains. “I think the best relationships treat each other like they did in the early stages of dating.”

2. “I’m proud of you.”

Another perfect way to show your partner your appreciation is to recognize his or her accomplishments. You’re a couple, but above all, you’re two awesome individuals working towards your respective aspirations. Remembering that shows how much you respect each other in all your differences and is a crucial aspect of any relationship.

“Expressing pride in your partner means that you see them as a capable, independent person,” Doares says. “It lets them know that you support them in their goals and achievements and that you notice when they [achieve them].”

Caroline Pirozzolo, a freshman at Ithaca College, and her boyfriend, who are in a long-distance relationship, say “I’m proud of you” to each other all the time. “It's simple, but it can be nice to feel supported and loved, even when your SO is far away,” Caroline says. Add it to your relationship vocabulary, and you’ll feel much closer every time you say it.

3. “Good morning” and “good night.”

Although it can seem as commonplace as “thank you,” taking the time to let your SO know you’re thinking about him or her when you wake up and go to bed goes a long way. For Doares, it goes even further than that. “How you greet each other in the morning, how you leave each other, what you do when you come back together and how you say good night are four of the most important things you can do to keep your relationship strong,” she says. “Making time to do this is showing that your relationship and connection are a priority.” Yes, even if it’s just a text.

“My boyfriend and I always text each other good morning and good night along with an ‘I love you,’” says Alexandra Blessing, a junior at Millersville University. “It might seem insignificant, but it's our way of saying we care about one another.”

Just like with “I love you,” you can get super creative with your “good night” texts, using nicknames, emoji, and mentioning all the little things that make your relationship special. Trust us, it’s worth the extra minute out of your day!

4. “We’re a team.”

For a relationship to work, it is so, so crucial for both partners to be equal and respectful of each other. But can you be an item and still pursue your personal goals? Of course! “’Being a team’ doesn’t mean ‘inseparable’ or ‘dependent,’” Doares says. “It means two people working together for common goals. Strong couples make use of each other’s strengths to make their relationship better. They don’t compete with each other as much as they compete for each other.”

Kasia says this mentality played a big role in her relationship. “[My boyfriend and I] would also refer to each other as a ‘team’ or ‘partners,’” she explains. “It implies equality and very high mutual respect.”

Being “in it together” means that you want the same things out of your relationship and are both working towards these goals, but it also means that you support each other’s personal development. It’s all about finding the perfect balance.

5. “You’re amazing.”

Everyone loves compliments, but receiving them from your SO can mean that much more. In Kasia and her ex’s “good night” texts, “[they] made it a point to say what [they] loved about each other specifically - things about [their] personalities, strengths, things like that,” she says.

Although compliments are always appreciated, try to make them about every aspect of your partner. This shows him or her how well-rounded you know he or she is, and how amazing he or she is on so many levels. “Strong couples compliment each other often,” Greene says. “They compliment different dimensions of each other - attractiveness, personality and intelligence. There is no formula for it, but it has to be all of them. A good relationship means that your partner loves you physically, emotionally and mentally.”

In college, we all get a little insecure at times, so “you have to be your partner’s biggest cheerleader, especially in public,” Greene says. “Just be singing their praise.” Show your SO how proud you are of your partner – and mean it!

6. “I feel hurt when…”

Couples fight; this is hardly breaking news. When you’re angry, it can be really difficult to contain your emotions, but yelling is always counterproductive. “When [my boyfriend and I] argue, which is rare, we never yell, because it makes the other person uncomfortable,” says Sarah Beth Kaye, a senior at Rutgers University. “Instead, we say phrases like, ‘I am upset because you are doing XYZ,’ or, ‘I wish you wouldn't do XYZ because it makes me mad. Here's why...’ By rationally talking about what makes us annoyed or upset, we have been able to work through any issues we have and find a good compromise.”

Greene thinks that Sarah Beth and her boyfriend’s strategy is ideal, and her advice is to focus on the one thing that’s upsetting you right now (without blaming your SO or putting him or her down) and to offer a specific solution to the problem.

In short, strong couples call each other out when one of them has crossed a line, but each partner tries to pinpoint what it is exactly that’s upsetting them and works towards a solution. This is why starting with “I feel hurt” is a good way to bring up an issue; it takes the blame out of the discussion, instead focusing on how you feel in response to a specific behavior.

7. “I’m here for you.”

Sometimes, things go wrong. It’s in those difficult times that your relationship really gets put to the test. Your partner needs to be your rock, your shoulder to cry on, while also understanding that he or she can’t be your priority right now. It’s easy to be there for someone on happy days, but it’s a different story when things fall apart.

Your partner needs to know that you are there for him or her. “It’s saying that I’m going to stand by you, stick with you even though this is a horrible time for you,” Greene says. “I know that our relationship can’t be the number one priority during this time and I’m going to do the best that I can because I’m invested enough.”

Although we hope nothing bad happens to you or your partner, “sometimes crises make a couple so much stronger,” Greene says. “It’s also a wonderful way for them to see how they deal with adversity. It’s easy to have a relationship when it’s all fun and games.” Having a caring and understanding partner can be the silver lining to an otherwise painful situation.

8. “Have fun!”

You should definitely cherish the time you spend with your SO, but all “strong couples respect each other’s independence,” Greene says. You should take me-time and time with your friends and encourage your partner to do the same. Spend time with each other’s friends as well - be sure to mix it up!

“There’s no formula, but it’s about trusting and respecting that somebody can have a full life,” Greene says. Say things like, “Have a really good time,” “Have fun with your friends!” or, “Hope your night is awesome; I can’t wait to hear about it!”

Let each other have lives outside of your relationship; this will only make you closer!

 

It can be difficult to express how you’re feeling, especially when you’re sad or angry. Hopefully the things strong couples say to each other will give you an idea of how to build a lasting relationship, whether it’s right now or in the future - #relationshipgoals!


What Your Chipotle Order Says About You

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We're big fans of getting our palms and birth charts read, playing M.A.S.H. and opening up fortune cookies to learn more about ourselves and our future. Now we can gain even more insight on who we are through something tasty and unique: our Chipotle orders! What does your order say about you? Here's what we think:

Tacos with a side of chips and guac

You definitely kept what you learned in kindergarten with you all these years, because you know that sharing is caring. You're willing to go halfsies on this meal with your best friend or SO, and you don't mind getting your hands dirty in the name of Mexican food.

Burrito bowl with brown rice, black beans, fajita veggies, pico de gallo, corn salsa, guac and lettuce

You're a vegan, but you hate tofu. 

Burrito with white rice, barbacoa, hot salsa and everything else

You're a tomboy with a hearty appetite and a fast metabolism. You're definitely not picky, and you go after what you want. You can handle a little spice, and you like it when life has a little kick to it, just to keep you on your toes.

The kids' menu

You love to play with your food, and you haven't let college take the child out of you. Plus, you just love the tiny bag of chips because it's too cute.

Burrito bowl with chicken and steak, fajita veggies, black and pinto beans, corn salsa, pico de gallo, medium salsa, sour cream, cheese, guacamole, lettuce, tortilla and hot salsa on the side

You have your priorities straight, and you don't do things unless you go all the way. You take Chipotle, amongst other things, very seriously. And you like to get your money's worth.

Salad

You're watching what you eat. You may be a bit of an over-analyst. You're very detail oriented, and like that tangy dressing, you like your life to have a little zing to it so that you're always be prepared for any challenge life may throw you.

There you have it! Through our skills in reading salsa and beans, we've outlined your personality as explained by your Chipotle order. And if you didn't learn something new about yourself, we at least got you really excited to go get yourself a burrito, right? 

Links We Love 6.7.15

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How to love your body this summer—after eating like a collegiette all year long. [Spoon University]

Behind the scenes of Colorado's $700 million pot business. [Wired]

This tiny food looks so good! [BuzzFeed]

Who is more likely to cheat in a relationship? [Newser]

The decline of the American music festival. [The Washington Post]

The lies parents tell their kids. [Grown & Flown]

What is it like to work for Square? [I Want Her Job]

Your college crew will be your crew forever. [Your Tango]

An oral history of the movie Clueless. [The Telegraph]

The world's smallest penguins take a swim. [Upworthy]

 

Victoria's Secret is Being Sued for Its Employment Practices

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Despite what its runway shows might suggest, Victoria’s Secret is no angel... at least not in the eyes of its employees. Buzzfeed News reports that the company is currently being sued by former employee Mayra Casas, who is none too pleased with the company’s work shift scheduling practices.

Like many other employees working for companies that force their laborers to be available to work shifts they often don’t end up being needed for, Casas felt stuck. When on-call workers don’t end up working, they aren’t compensated for the time, even when they don’t find out whether they’re needed until the last minute. Thus, these retail workers are left with large chunks of time for which they can’t schedule other jobs, school, or personal time—and also aren’t guaranteed a paycheck. Seems pretty unfair, especially for parents who have to schedule daycare, or employees with long commutes. It’s especially bad because, according to the complaint, workers at Victoria’s Secret may end up working only 10 hours in a five day period, even though they’ve been assigned 30 or more. This sporadic work schedule isn’t only inconvenient—it makes it much less certain that employees can earn the income they need, or accurately predict how much they will make in a month. It’s basically one big scheduling and budgeting nightmare.

VS isn’t the only retailer being investigated. In New York, the attorney general’s office has requested information about scheduling practices from a handful of other retailers, including J. Crew, Bath & Body Works, and Urban Outfitters. Though on-call employees are great assets for companies (and save them tons of money), this action may mark the beginning in a shift of how much control employers have over their employee’s time.

4 Foolproof Ways to Dress Up Your Denim Shorts

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What’s not to love about denim shorts? They’re super comfy, casual, pair with all of your favorite tops for an easy summer outfit—basically, they’re a summer outfit staple. As much as we love them, it can be challenging to style them in a way that reads more “polished” rather than “lazy day at the beach.” The trick is all in the details—to dress them up, try adding one piece, like a blazer or heels, that elevates the entire look—and can make even ripped denim look perfectly polished!

1. A little lace


Dressing Up Jean Shorts 1
 

Adding a bit of feminine lace to any look can dress it up in an instant—and this rule definitely holds true for jean shorts too! To keep it subtle, a classic button down shirt with a peekaboo lace bra works perfectly. Layered necklaces add a bit more luxe on top, while flat strappy sandals keep you from looking like you tried too hard!

2. Just add heels


Dressing Up Jean Shorts 2
 

The fastest way to make those cutoffs look a little more sophisticated? A killer pair of heels, of course! Here, less is definitely more. To make the look work, a streamlined ankle strap heel in a bright color is the way to go. A blousy cami adds to the dressy vibes, without being too buttoned-up for summer!

3. Top it off


Dressing Up Jean Shorts 3
 

 

Topshop blazer
nordstrom.com

 

 

 

Miss Selfridge black shoes
missselfridge.com

 

 

 

Any outfit featuring jean shorts can be instantly elevated by a blazer! The contrast of structure in the blazer paired with laid-back jean shorts is super chic. Any color works, but we love the pop of blush pink in this look!

4. Tuck in a blouse


Dressing Up Jean Shorts 4
 

Baby doll top
pixiemarket.com

 

 

High-waisted jean shorts
$14 - yoins.com

 

 

H&M espadrilles shoes
$23 - hm.com

 

 

 

Ultimately, for a simple outfit, just try tucking in a blouse to your favorite pair of shorts! The dressier look of the blouse and the tucked-in silhouette look way more fashion forward than just a basic tee. Leopard print flats and an elegant necklace pull the look together.

How do you wear your denim shorts in the summer, collegiettes?

What Your Favorite Taylor Swift Song Says About You

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Taylor Swift’s mega popularity can be partly attributed to the fact that she just gets us. She always writes her songs about what she knows, and her honest ability to make her life relate to ours is what keeps us coming back for more. Without further ado, we’re breaking down what your favorite Taylor Swift song says about you, below!

1. “Love Story”

You watch way too many rom coms. You’re most likely a sucker for anything cheesy and romantic. And while Shakespeare die-hards may object to Taylor changing the ending of Romeo & Juliet, you couldn’t be happier the two found their happily ever after.

2. “I Knew You Were Trouble”

You’ve been burned by a bad boy. You should’ve known better, but you don’t really care. You know that every girl needs to experience this at least once in her lifetime. But you won’t fall for the tortured type again.

3. “Blank Space”

You avidly follow T. Swift’s dating exploits in the tabloids. You can’t wait for the next guy she chooses to jaunt around town with, because you’ll definitely be along for the ride. And when she drops a new single, you can bet you’ll pick apart every lyric to find out who she’s singing about.

4. “Teardrops on My Guitar”

You’re an original Swiftie. You’ve loved Taylor ever since her sweet teenage country days and have never looked back.

5. “Style”

You’re a little bit hipster but still get down to some Taylor Swift. This song is Taylor’s attempt to make quirky seem mainstream. She may not be as obscure as some of your other favorites, but you can’t help but love her, right?

6. “Dear John”

You still hate John Mayer. Sure, he’s supposedly a newer, better version of himself ever since he took that extended hiatus to Montana. But you’ll never forget how he treated 19-year-old T.

7. “22”

You’re not yet 22. Why do we say this? Because anyone who is 22 knows that your last exciting birthday is clearly your 21st. From there, things pretty much go downhill fast.

8. “Bad Blood”

You’re obviously in an ongoing feud with your (former) bestie. We’ve all been the victim of toxic friendships—even Taylor! But you’ve still got a super hot posse of supermodels and actresses by your side, so.

9. “You Belong With Me”

Your crush clearly doesn’t notice what a catch you are. No matter how hard you try, he’s interested in someone else, and you’ve had just about enough.

10. “Shake It Off”

You couldn’t care less what the haters have to say. We think this one is pretty self-explanatory.

11. “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together”

You have no regrets about breaking up with your ex. He was just the worst, and you know you’re much better off without him. Even if he is still trying to convince you he’s the one.

12. “Back to December”

You’re totally Team Jacob! R.Pattz was no match to Taylor Lautner’s tanned skin and sweet smile. Bad move, Bella.

13. “Mean”

You’ve been bullied, and you’re stronger for it. You have tough skin and know how to deal with the mean girls life sometimes throws at you.

14. “Begin Again”

You know it’s never too late when it comes to love. In other words, there’s a lot of fish in the sea.

15. “Mine”

You believe in soul mates. You may or may not have carefully mapped out how to make this dream story into a reality.

What do you think your favorite Taylor Swift song says about you, collegiettes?

What Really Happens When You Hook Up With a Friend

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Your friend is awesome: He’s super sweet, he loves the same music you do and he always knows how to make you laugh. You spend so much time together, so you get the “are you two dating?” question at least once a week. And while you usually laugh it off, lately you’ve been feeling more than platonic toward him. You love being his friend, but now you’re questioning if you want to take it further than that.

Once you’ve realized that you’re physically attracted to your friend, there’s always the question if you should actually hook up with him or not. And if you do hook up, then you have to deal with the “what now?”

We asked collegiettes and the experts about what it’s really like to hook up with a friend, what to consider beforehand and how to deal afterwards.

What to consider before you hook up

Before the actual hook-up happens, there are a couple important things to consider. Clearly you care about the friendship, so you need to think about how much you’re willing to risk when exploring a new dimension of your relationship. Dr. Geoffrey Greif, a professor at the University of Maryland and author of Buddy System: Understanding Male Friendships, says that most romantic couples start as friends first, but it’s always important to think about how hooking up might negatively affect your friendship.

“[Hooking up] can be a natural progression to a long-term relationship, but it can also be the basis for misunderstandings and a lost friendship,” Greif says. “Are [you] willing to risk what will most likely be a profound shift in the relationship?”

Additionally, dating coach Sandra Fidelis says, “If it’s a friendship you don’t want to lose, take into consideration whether you’d be willing not to have it [if] after the hook-up things became weird.”

Pros and cons

To help you decide if hooking up with your friend is the best idea or not, consider these pros and cons!

1. Pro: Your friendship could become a relationship

Hooking up with a friend could confirm if you both actually want to become more than friends, something that you may have only realized because you did hook up.

“[After hooking up with my friend,] we were both open and our friendship was strong enough to recognize there was something more between us,” says Sara, a freshman from UNC-Chapel Hill. “We started dating after that.”

Because you’re already friends, you have a good foundation for a relationship and it could be an easy transition. According to Gabby*, a senior at the University of Delaware, hooking up with a friend might not be a bad idea if you see there’s potential for a relationship. “[When I hooked up with my friend,] it was awkward the next morning,” she says. “But then we talked about it, texted more and eventually started dating.”

2. Con: Your friend group will find out (whether you like it or not)

If you and your friend are in the same friend group, you might try to keep it a secret if it was a one-time deal and you want to move past it. Too bad word travels fast.

“I think [my] biggest problem was that literally everyone in [my] friend group found out about it,” says Clare*, a sophomore from Indiana University, of her friend hook-up. “Every once and a while it will come up and our friends make jokes about it.”

Whether your friends are weird because the dynamic of your group changed or they just want to push your buttons, be prepared to get the side comment or blatant joke about it. So much for keeping it on the DL.

3. Pro: It can be a fun, laughable memory…

If you’re not necessarily looking for a relationship afterwards, the hook-up can still be a good experience, whether it happens once or multiple times. “I’m more comfortable with someone I know than [hooking up with] someone I don't know at all,” says Kim*, a sophomore from St. Joseph’s University. “It almost feels safer.”

There’s also a distinct possibility that because you’re good friends, you can openly talk about what happened and have it not be weird. Clare says that despite hooking up with her close friend a few times, they were able to laugh it off because of their strong friendship. “I knew I could totally trust him because I knew him as [a] friend first,” she says. “Plus, I didn’t have to worry about him being a total jerk about it afterwards.”

Keith*, a senior at Villanova University, says, “It’s fun and convenient. [We] just kind of laughed about it … and then hooked up more after that.”

Whether you laugh it off or casually hook up more, there’s always the chance that you and your friend are totally cool with each other post-hook-up.

4. Con: …Or totally awkward

However, it could end up being totally awkward, even if you try to make it as non-awkward as possible.

“I tried to act normal, but he acted really awkward about it,” says Katie*, a senior from Gettysburg College of a former hook-up. “I regret hooking up with him now because we are not nearly as close as we were before we hooked up.”

You could have to deal with anything from forced conversations to complete silence. “[After hooking up with my friend], I didn’t see him or hear from him until I saw him the next week at the bar, and he completely ignored me,” says Steph*, a senior at Notre Dame University. “He acted like I wasn’t even there. It was pretty devastating to me because I feel like he completely disregarded the fact that we were friends and that we could continue being friends without the weirdness.”

While you may wish there was a contract stating that you can’t be awkward with each other post-hook-up, unfortunately, it can happen.

5. Con: Ultimately, it could hurt or end your friendship

Additionally, it can become a sticky situation if you’re not on the same page post-hook-up. “After ending a hook-up, it can be difficult to maintain a friendship, especially if someone becomes emotionally involved,” says Ryan, a sophomore from the University of Connecticut. “I’ve found it a lot harder to work at continuing the friendship, especially when it became more than a casual thing [usually on the girl’s end].”

There’s also a good possibility that your relationship will change, sometimes for the worse. “[My friend] and I hooked up regularly, so it was chill for a bit,” says Ralph*, a senior from Syracuse University. “Then it blew up. Now we only argue when we talk.”

The worst-case scenario is that a hook-up ends a friendship. “I tried dating a friend last year [after hooking up with him], and it got pretty messy,” says Isabella, a junior at the University of California, Los Angeles. “I had feelings for him and still do when I see him, but being with him didn’t feel right. We broke it off … and we drifted apart naturally. Although we say we’re friends, we rarely hang out.”

While it’s important to be aware some of the negative consequences of hooking up with a friend, you can’t worry about everything that could go wrong. Ultimately, you do have some control of the outcome and how you handle it. 

How to deal

Whether the aftermath is positive or negative, communication after hooking up with a friend is key. Whether the experience was good or bad, you have to talk the next day.

“It’s good to set expectations [the day after] so both parties are aware of what to expect after getting physical [and moving forward],” Fidelis says. This means discussing if you want to tell your other friends, if it was a one-time thing or if you have feelings for each other.

It might be uncomfortable to have a conversation the morning after (especially if you both want to pretend it didn’t happen), but it’s better than leaving it hanging and it getting worse later on. By being honest right away, you can avoid that awkward “well, what now” period.

Because he’s your friend, talking about hooking up should be easier than if you were having the same conversation with a stranger. Use the fact that you know each other well to navigate the aftermath as smoothly as possible.

Whether you’ve thought about hooking up with your friend for a while or it spontaneously happens one night, there’s a lot that can happen when you take that next step. By weighing the pros and cons beforehand and knowing what to expect afterwards, you can successfully handle a friend hook-up, no matter how it turns out!

*Names have been changed.

17 Celebrity Instagrams That Have Us Stoked For Summer

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Since it's basically summertime 24/7 for most celebrities, their Instagram accounts are already full of luxurious posts that make us crave those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer. Between relaxing poolside shots, delicious looking drinks and super fun vacation pictures, the photos are enough to make us drool. Here are a few of the posts we're most jealous of. (AKA, the ones we could stare at for hours while wishing we were them.)

1. In case you were wondering if there's anything Beyoncé CAN'T do, she just made a tree look glamorous.


 

Lei'd in Hawaii

A video posted by Beyoncé (@beyonce) on

Apr 16, 2015 at 11:18am PDT


2. Miley rocks a Jamaican swim suit and makes us wish we were in that pool instead of at our internships.


 

Fuck yeah

A photo posted by Miley Cyrus (@mileycyrus) on

Apr 20, 2015 at 3:50pm PDT


3. We're not sure what we want more: Kendall's jewelry or the Jeep she's riding in.


 

A photo posted by Kendall Jenner (@kendalljenner) on

Apr 10, 2015 at 3:44pm PDT


4. Kylie may be showing off her hot bod, but our eyes are on the background scenery. When is it our turn to lay by a pool in Palm Springs??


 

A photo posted by Kylizzle (@kyliejenner) on

5. Taylor's on the beach, but you better believe her red lipstick will remain on point. 


 

"She's always wearing, like, a 1950's bathing suit."

A photo posted by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift) on

Jan 23, 2015 at 6:22pm PST


6. Wanted: Demi's swimsuit, Demi's dog, Demi.


 

A photo posted by Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) on

7. Points to Selena for the body confidence that we should ALL have when hitting the pool this summer.


 

I love being happy with me yall #theresmoretolove

A photo posted by Selena Gomez (@selenagomez) on

Apr 16, 2015 at 5:39pm PDT


8. Is it just us, or does Justin actually look cute (and like less of a tool) when he's playing with Mason Disick?


 

Mason is cool as a fan

A photo posted by Justin Bieber (@justinbieber) on

Mar 27, 2015 at 11:01pm PDT


9. Brit's summery Insta makes us all want to drive with the top down. You know, now that we can do so without snow getting inside our cars.


 

Girls roll up, windows roll down, eyes on us, jaws on the ground

A photo posted by Britney Spears (@britneyspears) on

Apr 9, 2015 at 10:51am PDT


10. Things that are too cute in this picture: Mindy's swimsuit, Mindy.



11. Um, we hope we look as cute and fabulous as Reese when we're 39. 


 

Um... Miami te amo! #HotPursuit

A photo posted by Reese Witherspoon (@reesewitherspoon) on

Apr 20, 2015 at 9:34am PDT


12. Jessica Alba's daughters have a more glamorous life than us but we're only crying a little bit.


 

Livin on the edge #springbreak

A photo posted by Jessica Alba (@jessicaalba) on

Mar 26, 2015 at 8:22am PDT


13. Gisele reminds us of one of the best parts of summer: floating in the middle of the pool for hours on end because you have nothing else to do.



14. We're dying to recreate Blake's perfect pink look. If only we had the ring from Ryan to match, you know?



15. Life goal: Join in on Posh's family hike.


 

Fun Sunday hiking in LA! Xvb

A photo posted by Victoria Beckham (@victoriabeckham) on

Apr 19, 2015 at 2:46pm PDT


16. Oh, what we would give to be next to Zefron in this picture.


17. Everything about Gigi's Insta screams summer. We can hardly wait!




Picking Professors: What to Keep in Mind

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Ah, professors. You see them every day, even on the days you don’t want to. They can be funny or strict, boring or brilliant. Sometimes we forget they’re real people, and the fate of your grade is literally in their hands. Love them or hate them, we all have to have them.

Any collegiette will tell you that a professor can either make or break your classroom experience. Luckily for you, there are dozens of websites designed to help you avoid Dr. Lectures-a-Lot so you can take Professor Total-Hottie. Based on real collegiettes’ advice, here’s your go-to guide to professor rating websites, how to use them and things to consider when choosing your classes!

Where to find professor ratings

Just like you can Facebook stalk your random roomie (don’t lie; we’ve all done it!), there are dozens of websites where you can get lowdown on your profs. Most sites give you an overall rating for professors, but some include real students’ comments, “hotness” scales and even past syllabi. Here are some of the most popular sites and all their helpful features.

Rate My Professors

Rate My Professors boasts that it’s the largest destination for professor ratings with over 14 million opinions on professors in North America and the UK. All professors are categorized by school and department, and students can rate them on a scale of one to five on the following qualities: helpfulness, clarity and easiness. Those scores are averaged to get the professors “overall quality” score. There is also an option to rate attractiveness, depicted by a little red chili pepper!

Additionally, students can leave comments to explain their ratings and submit grades they received. There’s also an option for professors to respond. Some profs thank their students for their high praise, while others break down their grading system to explain why their class isn’t an easy A. Newer features allow students to “like” or “dislike” the helpfulness of a rating and provide descriptor tags so it’s easier to compare professors across the board.

“I use RateMyProfessors.com religiously!” says Summer Ford, a junior at Boston University. “What I like most is when students give a general outline of the coursework. It really helps you get an idea of the workload. It’s definitely a useful site!”

MyEdu

MyEdu has countless tools to help you succeed in college, one of which is professor ratings. To access professor ratings, students have to create a personal profile based on their school and major. Then the site allows you to create a schedule with your specific registered classes so all your information is in one spot.

Similar to other professor rating websites, profs are broken down by department and classes they teach. Each class has a short description, including any prerequisites and dates that classes were held during the most recent semester. You can access info like the percent of students who dropped the class, the average GPA/grades received and old syllabi. Instead of scales to measure helpfulness or easiness, students write short paragraphs about their experience, and other users can “like” the post if they find it useful. If the professor teaches other classes, MyEdu has links to those specific class reviews as well.

“I've always used MyEdu.com,” says Jasmin Escher, a junior at the University of Texas at Austin. “What I also find to be tremendously helpful is pulling up old course syllabi to see how heavy the workload of the class is. You can more easily decide which classes will fit best into your schedule!”

Koofers

Similar to MyEdu, Koofers has more than just professor ratings. Students can access Test Banks, which include practice exams and study guides. You can also create your class schedule and find jobs and internships.

Students rate professors by writing short descriptions of what their class is like. What makes this website different is that it provides the average GPA for the class, plus information about tests, quizzes, projects and extra credit. Students can rank how hard exams are, how often professors give pop quizzes or not and how much they curve their grades! Users can rank how useful each post is, and then the site highlights the most helpful reviews so you’re not searching through pointless comments.

“I use Koofers to find out specific information about a class,” says Krista Jacobs, a sophomore at Saint Joseph’s University. “It’s helpful to know what kinds of assignments I can expect in the class or if homework will be graded. That information makes it different from other rating websites.”

Things to keep in mind when using these sites

Now that you know where to go, it’s time to start your professor-rating research. While these sites are meant to guide you to the best of the best, there are some important things to keep in mind before you decide on your professors. Collegiettes weighed in so you can have the best classroom experience possible!

Using the difficulty scale

Let’s be real, when you see that low grade on the difficulty scale paired with comments that promise you, “this will be the easiest prof you’ll ever have,” you’re tempted to take the class. But taking a class that you can apparently breeze through may not be in your best interests.

“Classes aren’t supposed to be easy; they’re supposed to challenge us to think and learn,” says Sarah Desiderio, a senior at Pennsylvania State University. “So many students bash profs because it wasn’t an ‘easy A.’ Don’t shy away from a class you want because the ratings say it won’t be a cakewalk.”

Iris Goldsztajn, a junior at the University of California, Los Angeles, reminds us that difficulty is also a personal assessment; something that might be hard for one person could be extremely easy for another. Additionally, taking a less difficult class just because it’s easy, not because you’re interested in it, can actually be detrimental to your grade. “There might be a class that everyone says is a piece of cake, but if you’re not interested in it, it might be really difficult,” Iris says. “For instance, I once took ‘the easiest science requirement ever,’ but I was so bored in the class and I ended up with a B-, the lowest grade I’ve received in college.”

If a class seems interesting, don’t discount it because the professor might be ranked as difficult. Amy Way, an assistant professor in Villanova University’s communication department, encourages students to take a risk on courses that sound interesting. “Just take a chance and go for the ride,” she suggests. “Trust that the college you’ve selected has put a great deal of effort into hiring smart and talented individuals that you’ll learn something from. Yes, it might be difficult, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get something out of the course.”

However, there are some warning signs you should be aware of to avoid a difficult professor. Elizabeth Deuel, a senior at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, says there are a few things you should take seriously. “I look for comments about their grading style, how they engage students and if they are respectful,” Elizabeth says. “If a teacher seems to get a lot of feedback about being a overly hard or unfair grader, I won't take their class, because I hate having to fight with teachers over grades.”

That being said, don’t just drop a difficult professor without really doing your research. You may have to work a little harder for an A, but if the prof is respectful and fair, you might actually gain a lot from his or her class!   

Students’ comments

One of the best things about these websites is real feedback from past students. Comments can give you insight into why professors got their ratings as well as give you advice for how to succeed in their classes.

“I take into consideration how many recommendations the professor has and read through the reviews to see what tips previous students give,” Jasmin says. “Your best bet is to consult the sites as a starting point to get a feel for the class, and then try to reach out to friends at the university to get their personal opinion.”

Keep in mind that most comments come from students who either love or hate the class, rarely those who are neutral. “People are more motivated to leave a comment if they’ve had an exceptionally good or extremely bad experience,” Way says. “So you’re just getting anecdotes from those on the extremes and not hearing from other students.” 

While comments can be extremely helpful (especially if you don’t know anyone at your college whom you can talk to), be sure to consider where the comments are coming from. Don’t get caught up in the extremes or overdramatic reviews. Instead, search for the ones that seem like a realistic portrayal of the professor, and then make your decision!

Reviews from students in that major

One of the best ways to determine if you want to take a class with a certain professor is to look for reviews from students in a specific major. There are some general core classes that every student has to take, so consider who is writing the comments, because that might give the review a positive or negative twist.

“If it’s a class everyone has to take, chances are some people are going hate the class topic and rate the professor poorly regardless of teaching skills,” Krista says. “But if communication majors are rating communication professors harshly, you know their reviews are based on teaching style, not the topic. They hold more weight.”  

If an engineer is taking an English class, chances are she’s not going to enjoy the required reading as much as English majors. When looking for reviews of her previous English professor, Krista found a student who openly admitted to hating reading. “They rated the professor really harshly because they hated reading,” Krista says. “Just because a student hates a class’s subject doesn’t mean their professor is bad.”

While it may take a little more time to read through all the student ratings, finding one or two reviews from someone in that major can give you a more accurate understanding of what the professor is really like. They’re definitely more helpful than a review from a bitter student who hated the required class!

One of the biggest sources of anxiety for pre-collegiettes is dealing with college classes and professors. No matter where you go to school, you’re going to face a few awesome profs and some not-so-good ones. With professor rating websites, you can prepare yourself when you choose your classes. Keep these tips in mind next time you’re researching a professor so you can have a great first semester!

What to Bring to College: The Best College Packing List EVER

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Click here to download a printable version of this list!

We at HC know there are few things more daunting than packing up your life to move into your (really tiny) dorm or apartment at college, especially if you’re a freshman. What do you need to bring with you? What sounds like a great idea to pack now, but will just end up unused and taking up precious closet space? What if you forget something important (hello, health insurance card) and you can’t get it until Thanksgiving?

Lucky for you, we know exactly what you need to bring to college. Just use this all-inclusive checklist that covers everything from bedding to food to medicine, and you’re guaranteed to not have any of those awful “oh-no-I-forgot-X-important-thing” moments on move-in day.

Click here to download a printable version of this list!

Bedding

  • Bedbug-protecting mattress cover
  • Duvet and duvet cover or comforter set
  • Foam topper
  • Mattress pad
  • Pillowcases
  • Pillows
  • Sleeping bag or air mattress
  • Throw blanket
  • Throw pillows
  • Twin XL bed skirt
  • Twin XL sheet set (and an extra set)

Room

  • Additional seating (beanbag chair, folding chair, comfy chair, etc.)
  • Adhesive hooks and strips (that come off cleanly)
  • Alarm clock
  • Area rug
  • Bed risers
  • Bedside table
  • Bulletin board and/or dry erase board
  • Closet organizer
  • Coffee table
  • Curtain rods (if needed)
  • Curtains
  • Dorm trunk
  • Floor lamp
  • Full-length mirror
  • Futon
  • Hangers
  • Jewelry organizer
  • Jewelry safe
  • Over-the-door storage units
  • Photos
  • Picture frames or photo clips
  • Push pins/magnets/whiteboard markers
  • Shoe rack
  • Skirt hangers
  • Space bags
  • Stepladder
  • Trashcan
  • Underbed storage
  • Wall art (posters, wall decals, etc.)
  • Wonder Hangers

Laundry

  • Bleach
  • Color catchers
  • Drying rack
  • Fabric softener
  • Garment bag
  • Iron
  • Ironing board
  • Laundry detergent
  • Laundry hamper or bag
  • Lingerie bag
  • Lint brush
  • Portable stain remover pen
  • Quarters
  • Sewing kit
  • Stain remover

Food

  • Bottled water
  • Bread
  • Bulk snacks (candy, granola, dried fruit, etc.)
  • Cereal
  • Coffee
  • Coffee creamer
  • Easy Mac
  • Granola bars
  • Instant hot chocolate
  • Instant oatmeal
  • Peanut butter and jelly
  • Popcorn
  • Ramen
  • SK Energy Shots
  • Soup
  • SpaghettiOs
  • Sugar

Kitchen Supplies

  • Blender
  • Bottle opener
  • Broom
  • Can opener
  • Chip clips
  • Coffee maker (if your school allows it)
  • Dish towels
  • Dishes (bowls, plates, cups)
  • Dishwashing soap
  • Disinfecting wipes
  • Duster
  • Dustpan
  • Glass cleaner
  • Hand soap
  • Microwave (if your school allows it)
  • Mini fridge (if your school allows it)
  • Mini vacuum
  • Mugs
  • Oven mitt
  • Paper plates
  • Paper towels
  • Plastic wrap
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Sealable plastic bags
  • Sponges
  • Swiffer
  • Tinfoil
  • Toaster (if your school allows it)
  • Trash bags
  • Travel mug
  • Tupperware
  • Utensils
  • Water boiler
  • Water filter pitcher

Bathroom

  • Air freshener
  • Bath pouf
  • Bath towels
  • Bathrobe
  • Bathroom cleaning supplies (if you need them for your dorm: i.e., drain cleaner, glass cleaner, rubber gloves, shower cleaner, sponges, toilet brush, toilet cleaner)
  • Bathroom rug
  • Hand towels
  • Loofah
  • Scale
  • Shower caddy
  • Shower cap
  • Shower curtain and rings (if needed)
  • Shower mat
  • Shower organizer (if your school allows it)
  • Shower shoes
  • Tumbler/cup
  • Upgraded showerhead (if your school allows it)
  • Washcloths

Toiletries

Products

  • Acne medicine/cream
  • Antibacterial gel
  • Bar soap
  • Body wash
  • Conditioner
  • Deodorant
  • Eye cream
  • Face wash
  • Hair gel
  • Hair mousse
  • Hairspray
  • Lip balm
  • Lotion
  • Makeup
  • Makeup remover
  • Moisturizer
  • Mouthwash
  • Nail polish
  • Nail polish remover
  • Shampoo
  • Shaving Cream
  • Sunscreen
  • Toothpaste
  • Wax

Supplies

  • Blow dryer
  • Bobby pins
  • Comb
  • Contacts, solution, and case
  • Cotton balls
  • Cotton swabs
  • Curling iron
  • Diffusers
  • Eyeglass cleaner
  • Eyeglasses and case
  • Floss
  • Hair clips
  • Hair curlers
  • Hair straightener
  • Hair ties
  • Hairbrush
  • Hand mirror
  • Headbands
  • Nail clippers
  • Nail files
  • Pumice stone
  • Razor
  • Round brush
  • Sunglasses
  • Sweatbands
  • Tampons and pads
  • Tissues
  • Toilet paper
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothbrush holder
  • Tweezers

Clothing

  • Athletic sneakers
  • Bathing suits
  • Belts
  • Bras
  • Casual dresses
  • Casual shoes
  • Costume clothing for theme parties/extracurricular events
  • Dress tape
  • Everyday purse
  • Flats
  • Flip-flops
  • Formal clutch
  • Formal dress
  • Gloves
  • Going-out clothes
  • Going-out purse
  • Gym bag
  • Hats
  • Heels
  • Jeans
  • Jackets
  • Jewelry
  • Leggings
  • Little black dress
  • Long-sleeve shirts
  • Pajamas
  • Pants
  • Pea coat
  • Professional clothing (dress, dress pants, button-down shirts, skirts, blazers, shoes, purse)
  • Rain boots
  • Raincoat
  • Regular boots
  • Scarves
  • Semi-formal dresses
  • Short-sleeve shirts
  • Shorts
  • Skirts
  • Slippers
  • Snow boots
  • Socks
  • Socks for rain boots
  • Spanx
  • Sports bras
  • Sweaters
  • Sweatpants
  • Sweatshirts
  • T-shirts
  • Tank tops
  • Tights
  • Underwear
  • Watch
  • Winter coat
  • Workout clothes
  • Wristlet
  • Yoga pants

Tech

  • Batteries
  • Camera
  • Chargers (phone, laptop, camera, etc.)
  • DVD player
  • DVDs
  • E-reader
  • Ethernet cable
  • Extension cords
  • External hard drive
  • Flash drives
  • HDMI cable
  • Headphones and spare headphones
  • iPod/MP3 player
  • Keyboard
  • Lap desk
  • Laptop
  • Laptop Case
  • Microsoft Office
  • Portable phone charger
  • Printer
  • Printer ink
  • Printer paper
  • Recording device for lectures
  • Router
  • SD card for camera
  • Spare cables
  • Speakers
  • Surge protectors
  • Tablet
  • TV
  • TV stand
  • Video game consoles
  • Video games
  • Wireless mouse

Documents

  • Bank documents
  • Car registration and insurance information
  • Checks
  • Copy of birth certificate
  • Copy of Social Security card
  • Credit card
  • Debit card
  • Driver’s license
  • Emergency contact list
  • Enrollment documents
  • Financial aid documents
  • Health/dental insurance cards
  • Lease (if you have an apartment)
  • Passport
  • Product warranties
  • Renters insurance (if you have an apartment)
  • Student ID

Desk/School Supplies

  • Address book
  • Backpack or tote bag
  • Binder clips
  • Binders
  • Business cards
  • Calculator
  • Calendar
  • Cards/notes to send home
  • Clicker (if you need one for class)
  • Desk chair
  • Desk lamp
  • Desk organizer
  • Envelopes
  • Erasers
  • File folder for important documents
  • Folders
  • Glue
  • Highlighters
  • Hole punch
  • Index cards
  • Journal
  • Laptop fan/stand
  • Leisure books (one or two)
  • Letter opener
  • Notebook paper
  • Notebooks
  • Notepads
  • Paper clips
  • Pencil case
  • Pencil sharpener
  • Pencils
  • Pens/colored pens
  • Planner
  • Portfolio/portfolio case for interviews
  • Post-it notes
  • Rubber bands
  • Ruler
  • Scissors
  • Stamps
  • Staple remover
  • Stapler
  • Staples
  • Tape
  • Textbooks
  • Three-hole punch
  • Wite-Out

Medical

  • Allergy medicine
  • Aloe lotion
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Bandages
  • Birth control
  • Blister bandages
  • Cold and flu medicine
  • Condoms
  • Cortisone cream
  • Decongestant
  • Eye drops
  • First aid kit
  • Hot and cold packs
  • Humidifier
  • Insect repellent
  • Multivitamins
  • Over-the-counter pain medication
  • Prescription medicine
  • Prescription refill information
  • Retainer/mouth guard
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Supplements (iron pills, etc.)
  • Thermometer
  • Thermometer covers
  • Throat drops/lozenges
  • Throat spray
  • Upset stomach medication
  • Vaseline

Misc.

  • Art supplies
  • Beach towel
  • Bike
  • Bike helmet
  • Bike lock
  • Board games
  • Duct tape
  • Earplugs
  • Fan
  • Flashlight
  • Lightbulbs
  • Luggage tags
  • Musical instruments
  • Pepper spray (if legal in your state)
  • Playing cards
  • Religious materials
  • Safety pins
  • Safety whistle
  • Sleep mask
  • Sports equipment
  • Suitcase
  • Tool kit
  • Travel bags/travel organizer for toiletries
  • Umbrella
  • Vacuum
  • Weekend bag
  • Yoga mat

Click here to download a printable version of this list!

9 Healthy Road Trip Snacks

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It’s time to pack up the car and head off onto the open road with your girls for a summer adventure! A road trip is a great way to explore a new city and spend time with some close friends or become closer to new friends.

When it comes to eating healthy on the road, your best plan is to be proactive. Make sure you plan out your meals and snacks as best as you can before you leave, just as you’d prepare for your lodging, other expenses or your perfect road trip playlist.

Before you crank up the tunes and put the pedal to the metal, pack up some of these healthy and delicious snacks to stay fueled (pun intended) and focused for the fabulous journey ahead of you. Loading up on junk food will only make you feel lethargic and unenergetic for your trip, so pick these snacks instead! Some of them require refrigeration, so bring along a small cooler with you.

1. Trail Mix

Store-bought trail mix can be loaded with extra fat, sugar and calories compared to any DIY trail mix. Making your own trail mix is a great healthy summer treat compared to buying store-bought trail mix, and it’s super fun to make your own mix anyway.

Here’s a simple trail mix recipe to take with you on your trip:

  • Unsalted almonds
  • Unsalted sunflower seeds
  • Dark chocolate chips
  • Raisins
  • Dried cranberries

For a single serving of trail mix, add ¼ cup total of the nuts and seeds, and then a handful of each of the other ingredients. Having a DIY snack night the day before you leave can also be a great bonding activity for you and your friends before your trip!

2. Greek Yogurt

Make sure you don’t leave without packing a few cups of low-fat yogurt into your cooler! The calcium D in yogurt is essential for your health, as are the natural probiotics in yogurt. Look for the “live and active cultures” label on your yogurt, since this certifies that there are natural probiotics in your yogurt that will help to keep your digestive system running smoothly. Plus, yogurt can keep your blood pressure from climbing up too high—as if we needed another excuse to dip our spoons into strawberry goodness.

Pack Greek yogurt for a protein-packed healthy snack. Chobani plain Greek yogurt contains 13 grams of protein, compared to 5 grams of protein in regular yogurt like Yoplait.

When it comes to froyo, there’s nothing like taking a trip to Pinkberry over the summer, but doing so regularly isn’t the best idea for your health. The toppings are often high in calories and sugar, so even though you think you’re doing yourself a favor by choosing yogurt instead of ice cream, the turnover isn’t much different. If you’re totally craving froyo during your trip, then indulge and say #YOLO, but try to only visit one or two places instead of every one you find.

3. Low-Fat Cheese Sticks

For another low-calorie and calcium-filled snack, reach for some string cheese. It’s the perfect finger food that comes with awesome health benefits.

Research has shown that eating cheese can help to combat uncomfortable PMS symptoms because of its high calcium content. Cheese also contains zinc and biotin, which are essential for tissue repair and healthy hair.

Keep in mind not to eat too much string cheese though, as it can be high in saturated fat and sodium. Stick with no more than one stick per day to reap the benefits without consequence. To make this snack more filling, pair it with some whole-wheat crackers.

4. Whole-Wheat Crackers

While you enjoy your cheese stick, you can pair it with a handful of whole-wheat crackers. The good-for-you carbohydrates will keep you feeling energized and not too full. The crackers are also low in calories compared to other crunchy and greasy snacks like potato chips. Some reputable brands with amazing whole-wheat crackers are Kashi, Carr’s and Back to Nature.

One of the keys to not going overboard with crackers is to keep portion sizes in mind. “It’s so easy to just bring a box of crackers out for everyone to share and to end up eating way too much,” says Megan Dobinson, a junior at Messiah College.

To prevent overeating, check the portion sizes on the box of crackers and measure out portions of crackers into plastic bags before you head out on your trip. A standard serving size is about six crackers, but depending on the brand of crackers you buy, the serving suggestion may be different, so just check the label.

5. Whole-Grain Cereal

To avoid stopping at McDonald’s for a McMuffin, load up on whole-grain cereal. It will keep you feeling full for a longer amount of time and is guilt-free. These cereals are often high in protein if you pick the right one, so check the labels to decide. For example, Kashi GOLEAN original cereal contains 13 grams of protein per serving. You can also sprinkle an ounce of dry roasted sunflower seeds onto your cereal for 5 grams of additional protein.

If you’re on a gluten-free diet, look for Corn or Rice Chex cereal, which don’t have gluten but are still delicious and easy to take along with you.

Shelly Marie Redmond, a Louisiana-based registered dietitian, recommends Puffins cereal as well. “It’s high in fiber, yummy and there are plenty of gluten-free choices available,” she says.

6. Fruit

You can never go wrong with loading up on nutrient-rich fresh fruit. We recommend packing pieces of whole fruit like apples, oranges or bananas since they do not require refrigeration. To add some protein, bring along a few to-go packets of nut butter, like Justin’s squeeze packs. This will keep your snack interesting and will provide additional health benefits.

Fresh fruit is a more ideal option compared to dried fruit since it contains less sugar, so opt for fresh fruit whenever possible. However, dried fruit doesn’t need refrigeration, so it can be a good option to take with you on the road depending on which one you take. A smart choice is to pack dried apricots, according to Redmond.

“Dried apricots are high in fiber,” she says, which will help you to stay full for a longer amount of time. Keep in mind that one cup of fresh fruit is equal to half a cup of dried fruit, so keep your portions in check.

If you have access to a small cooler, you can also load up fruit like berries and grapes. Put them into plastic bags or storage containers to pass around and share with your friends.

To avoid a making a mess, try to pack fruits that don’t have extra waste, such as cherry pits or watermelon seeds. For the adventurous who want to bring these types of fruits along, just make sure you have some wet wipes on hand to clean your hands and a plastic bag to put the waste in.

7. Pretzels

Pretzels are a great low-calorie, low-fat snack that requires no extra preparation. One cup of pretzels contains about 170 calories and less than 2 grams of fat. There’s also about 5 grams of protein, too. To prevent bloat, stick with a brand that says “low sodium” or “unsalted” on the bag.

If you’re looking for something to pair your pretzels with, try eating them with one of your cheese sticks or with a piece of whole fruit. You can also dip them in nut butter for some protein.

8. Popcorn

If you’d kill for something crunchy and you’re not up for greasy potato chips, give popcorn a try. You can make your own air-popped popcorn before you leave for a healthy snack. It’s a low-calorie treat and fun to eat!

This great recipe from wikiHow is easy to make before you leave and can easily be taken with you for the beginning portion of your trip.

DIY Popcorn

  • Buy some brown paper bags to place kernels in. Make sure that the bags are microwave safe so that they don’t catch on fire!
  • Pour 1/4 to 1/3 cup of popcorn kernels into a brown paper bag.
  • Fold the bag over twice; do not use staples to seal.
  • Place the bag on its side in the microwave.
  • Cook on high for several minutes and adjust your cooking time based on your microwave.

Avoid buying pre-packaged popcorn that is already pre-processed and buttered. These options are loaded with unnecessary calories that can leave you feeling too full or bloated.

9. Nutrition Bars

To satisfy your craving for something more substantial than a small snack, enjoy a nutrition bar from brands such as LUNA for additional energy that’s still satisfying.

LUNA bars in particular contain a “Core 4” nutrient powerhouse: folic acid, calcium, vitamin D and iron. When combined, these four vitamins and minerals are just what you need to power through the day.

You’ve probably enjoyed one of these yummy bars during the school year in between classes or during finals season, and they are just as delicious and nutritious in the summertime. They’re a great way to get energized on the go so that you’re not tempted to stop by the nearest fast food restaurant for a burger and fries.

While you’re out conquering the open road, make sure you pack a few of these healthy road-trip-friendly snacks to keep you going. Remember, you don’t have to sacrifice good health for taste; it’s possible to have both!

Here's How Guys Handle Street Harassment

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According to a video by comedian and actor Soojeong Son, Drive-by Street Harassment is “the act of whispering offensive statements into the face of a women is alone in public and then walking away before there is time for her to react.” As you can imagine, this is pretty off-putting to most people. To show how women feel when they are harassed, Son decided to conduct a social experiment where she said overly sexual things to men to see their reaction. How did they react? Check out the video below.

Guys apparently LOVE IT! They didn’t find it creepy or offensive, given by their wide grins. "The lesson here," Son's friend, Ginny, says, "is that no one learned anything."

Of course, this doesn’t make street harassment right by any means. These guys may have found it funny, but most people do not. It’s like our mothers always told us: “If you can’t say something nice, then don’t say it at all.” 

4 Reasons Why You Aren’t Seeing Fitness Results Yet

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Summer’s here, which means it’s time to get serious about your fitness routine. Whether you’ve signed up for a 5K race, decided to try out yoga or you’re just looking to get back on track with your health, it’s easy to fall into destructive habits that can take away from your hard work and keep you from getting the results you want.  Luckily, we’ve talked to fitness and nutrition experts alike and pinpointed these common fitness pitfalls as well as what you can do to prevent them.

1. You have a bad diet

You may have heard the saying before—“abs are made in the kitchen.” While the work that you’re putting in at the gym is important, it can all go to waste quickly if you’re not giving your body the fuel it needs to recover. Protein-rich foods and drinks such as yogurt, chocolate milk and bananas make great recovery snacks post-workout. However, as a collegiette it can be hard to bring these healthy foods into your diet when you’re on the go.

“Late-night pizza, dining hall food, drinking alcohol and not exercising are all factors that can contribute to weight gain in college,” says nutritionist and health expert Justine SanFilippo, who stresses the importance of eating healthy and exercising throughout your college years. “Try to only eat treats in moderation, and keep an overall healthy diet. Not only will this maintain your figure and improve your fitness, but it’ll help you do well in classes and prevent health issues in the future.”

However, eating healthier does not mean eating less. “A bad habit I always see amongst young women is skipping breakfast,” says Melanie Ludwig, a personal trainer and health expert. “Breakfast is so important because it kick starts your metabolism and gives you energy for the day, as well as any exercise you may be doing.”

While it may be tempting to reward yourself with a cookie or two after a hard workout, skip the empty calories and opt for a granola or protein bar instead. “I suggest healthy snacks before and after a workout such as a banana or energy bar,” says Ludwig. Your body will thank you! 

2. You’re not getting enough sleep

Between going to class, working, attempting to maintain a social life and everything that comes in between, it’s nearly impossible to get the recommended eight hours of sleep each night as a collegiette. However, hitting the gym and then skipping out on sleep can take a major toll on your body over time. 

“Most people require seven to eight hours of sleep a night which can be challenging in college,” says Ludwig. “If your body and mind are not rested, it is hard to have the energy to focus on a good workout. Not to mention, fatigue is also a risk factor for injury as you can lose your balance or trip and get hurt.”

Whether it means sneaking in a power nap after a run or setting a strict bedtime for yourself, do whatever it takes to make sure you’re getting the necessary ZZZs. If you don’t give your body the time to recover, you can’t expect results in return. 

3. You’re doing the same workout every time

While it’s easy to fall in love with your favorite running trail or group yoga class, it’s important that you make time for a variety of workouts in your schedule. By doing the same workout every day, your body learns to adapt to the physical stress and over time will benefit less and less—to the point where doing the workout isn’t doing anything for you anymore. 

“Doing the same workout every day is a recipe for staleness,” says Ludwig. “I tell my busiest clients to try and move their bodies most days of the week. Strength training is crucial so I recommend focusing on big muscle groups such as your upper body, core, and lower body two to three times a week. Exercises such as push-ups, pull-ups, lunges and squats combine many of these muscle groups so you can do more work in less time.”

To avoid getting stuck in a routine, try working out with your friends or family members. Everyone’s preferences are different, and they may be able to introduce you to a new sport or gym routine that will surprise you. Or, sign up for classes you’ve never tried before; the new exercise will push your limits, and you’ll be able to do so in a guided environment. Being willing to step outside of your comfort zone is the key to getting results!

4. You’re only working one part of your body

You may have heard of spot reduction before, or the idea that you can focus on one part of your body that you where you want to lose weight or strengthen muscles. While the concept sounds ideal in theory, putting so much extra stress on one part of your body can lead to injury in the future. Plus, most spot reduction workouts are just myths. 

“Don’t believe everything you see and read when it comes to exercise,” says Ludwig. Exercise is a science that is always evolving. You were born with certain genetics, and you can shape your body to the best of your genes. However, spot reducing or other “magic pill” exercises just aren’t realistic. 

“Along with spot reduction, many young women are also under the impression that lifting weights will make you bulk up, but this isn’t true,” says SanFillippo. “Lifting weights can give you that toned look that many women want. It’s best to lift weights first, and then follow it with a cardio routine, because this helps your body burn more fat.”

Instead of buying into “fad” workouts like spot reduction, Ludwig recommends setting realistic goals with the SMART goal setting system. “SMART goals are specific, measureable, attainable, realistic, and timely,” she says. “If you miss a workout, cut yourself some slack. Always pick yourself up and keep your eye on your goals. Make your body a well-tuned machine, and your mind will also benefit.” 

Regardless of your workout, make sure you’re paying attention to each part of your body. Lifting weights and using weight machines at the gym is a great way to make sure you’re targeting your lower half, abs, and upper half equally.

Don’t let your precious hours at the gym go to waste! If you’ve been working out regularly for several weeks or months and have yet to see results, take time to evaluate your own fitness routine and look for these common pitfalls that you may be falling into. Knowing your body, paying attention to nutrition as well as exercise and being willing to step outside of your comfort zone are all keys to success when it comes to achieving your goals and getting those results—just in time for summer. Best of luck, collegiettes!  
 

16 Thoughts Every Girl Has While Taking a Selfie

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We're all guilty of the occasionally shameless selfie. And while we try to create a spontaneous glimpse into our everyday life, in reality we spend way too long adjusting ourselves to make sure we get the perfect shot. The “effortless” selfie takes a lot more effort than we like to admit. Here are every girl’s thoughts while taking a selfie.

1. Ew, did I really walk around looking like this today?

2. Since when is my nose so huge?

3. Lighting on my face or from the side or from behind? The possibilities are endless.

4. Okay, the lighting is perfect here, but will people notice the cat poster in the background?

5. Well, if I put my hair up I’m showing off my neck, but having my hair down makes me look somewhat mysterious…

6. Is it overkill to do my hair just for this picture?

7. No. Never. Do it for the selfie.

8. Do I smile? Smirk? Wink? Stay straight-faced?

9. Okay, definitely not straight-faced. I look like I want to kill someone. Struggles of chronic resting bitch face.

10. Hair is the perfect volume, teeth look super white... *takes picture*

11. Ugh, why does it look like I'm about to sneeze? Maybe I should tilt my head a bit... *takes picture*

12. Dear God, it looks like I'm some kind of freak-show contortionist. Natural is probably best. *takes picture*

13. I. Am. A. Creature. Please tell me it's something wrong with my camera, not me.

14. How much of a close-up should this be? Like, cleavage or nah?

15. What filter should I use? Should I even use a filter? Is that trying too hard?

16. *One hour later* Yes, this is perfect!

Caption: "I woke up like this."

10 Movies that Definitely Need Sequels

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Some of the best movies of all time have been released with no sign of a sequel anytime soon. Because we tend to become attached to movie characters, we came up with a list of successful films that are in desperate need of a second run!

1. Forrest Gump

How cool would it be to see how Forrest Jr. turned out after having such an awesome dad?

2. E.T.

Ah, such a classic! Aren't we all wondering what happened to Elliot, and if E.T. ever came back?  

3. Inception

Although we don't need any more of a reason other than the desire to see Leonardo Dicaprio in another movie, having a sequel to Inception would clear up a lot of confusion people had about the final scene!

4. Titanic

Speaking of Leonardo DiCaprio, there was a joke floating around the internet that the beginning of Inception could serve as a continuation of the end of Titanic. You know, the whole Jack floating to the bottom of the ocean, but then waking up years later in a frozen block of ice thing? Eh, it could work!

5. Hancock

Are we the only ones who think Hancock should be an actual superhero with his own movie series? We are hoping that Marvel or DC will pick up on this and create a sequel!

6. Matilda

If you hated Matilda’s parents as much as we did then you’ll understand why she needs a sequel! But only if the gorgeous Ms. Honey is in it.

7. I Am Legend

We all know how great of an actor Will Smith is, which is why a sequel is definitely needed to tell the rest of his story. But maybe this time, continue from the alternate ending version?

8. Avatar

Can you believe it took ten years for Avatar to be created? Good thing those ten years produced an amazing and touching movie about blue human-like creatures having their land almost completely destroyed by actual humans, right? We were all left with one question though: how long will their world be left untouched by other civilizations? 

9. The Iron Giant

Who knew we could feel so deeply about a gigantic robot? Is it just us or have cartoon movies been giving us the feels for quite some time now? Come on, it's been 16 years and we still have no idea if Eli and the giant ever reunited!

10. Who Framed Roger Rabbit?

You didn’t have a childhood if you don’t remember Roger and Jessica Rabbit. They taught us that anything can be loved... even a clumsy rabbit who happens to be framed for murder. 


10 Things Keeping You from Getting a Promotion

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You’ve been at your company for two years and still haven’t gotten a promotion. You complete every project on time, contribute to team meetings and receive positive feedback from your clients. But still, no raise. What’s the deal? Do you argue with your coworkers, show up late several times a week or check your phone during work hours? These little behaviors could be preventing you from moving up the corporate ladder. On the other hand, if you’re doing everything right but still not seeing any rewards, it might be time to look for a new job. Read on to learn 10 reasons why you haven’t been promoted.

1. You come in late and leave early 

Do you show up to work whenever you feel like it and leave early every day? Doing so can make it seem like you aren’t committed to your career (even if you get all your work done!) and that you’d rather be anywhere else but the office. Sure, getting in late can sometimes be out of you control; maybe you got stuck in traffic or had to take your dog to the vet. And there will be days where you'll have to leave early, perhaps for a doctor's appointment or to make it to the airport in time for your flight. But these things don't happen every day; so be sure to be in the office on time each morning, and avoid leaving early. Even if you finish your work early, you shouldn't be rushing out of the office—get a head start on the next day, or even offer to help out on a new project. Making a point to be on time or stay late to finish a project will show that you take your job seriously—and that you deserve a raise.

2. You frequently call in sick

We all get sick sometimes, but calling in at the last minute because of a headache or cramps might not look good. If you do need to call in sick, make sure you follow your company’s protocol and notify your boss as far in advance as possible. Using the “I’m sick” excuse too many times might raise suspicions. Your boss will start to wonder if you are actually sick or if you are just playing hooky. If you do have a medical condition that keeps you out of work many days at a time, make sure you talk with your boss in private and explain what is going on. This way, your absence won’t get in the way of new opportunities at work.

3. You have a negative attitude

Nobody likes a Negative Nancy. Complaining about everything (even subjects that aren’t work-related!) won’t get you what you want, especially not a promotion. Instead of being in a bad mood all day and letting your emotions take over, leave your drama at the door each morning. Whether it’s work or your personal life that’s stressing you out, you have to learn to let it go. Being the office complainer won’t help you reach the top of the management chain, but having an upbeat attitude and positive mind could be beneficial. Need some tips on how to stay in a happy mood? Listen to an inspirational podcast on the way to work, start your day off with your favorite latte or join an exercise class so you have something fun to look forward to after work. Who knows, your boss just might reward you for your positive attitude. 

4. You leave everything to the last minute

You already know that meeting deadlines is essential in the workplace. Your coworkers and clients rely on you to get the job done on time. When you miss your deadlines, you let people down—and you miss your chances of moving up in your company. Not only is it important to meet those deadlines; it’s also vital to manage your time well leading up to the deadline. When you’re scrambling to finish a project (even if you end up getting it in on time!), or are turning everything in at the very last possible second every single time, it can seem like you’re not spending your time wisely. Learn how to prioritize and stay on top of your tasks so you can get everything in on time—and early, whenever possible. If you need a reminder, keep a calendar or list of tasks on your desk to keep track of all your due dates. Try an online tool like Asana or organization app such as PocketLife.Turning in projects in a timely manner is expected if you’re looking to take the next step at work. 

5. You don’t get along with your coworkers

Of course, you already know to be friendly to all your coworkers, to avoid gossip, and to work as a team. But personalities can clash, and if you’re the employee nobody likes, you probably won’t be promoted anytime soon. “Relationships with fellow coworkers are important,” says Mary, a recent grad who works for a catering company in Chicago. “You can do an awesome job, but if people don’t like you, you won’t have any support.” Having camaraderie in the office is a must; if you’re going to be leading the team, you need to be someone everybody enjoys working with. Plus, you want people on your side that will stand up for you when you’re in line for a promotion and help demonstrate your positive contributions to the company. When your coworkers give you praise for your hard work, your boss probably will too. 

6. You keep making the same mistakes

Everybody makes mistakes, but repeating the same ones—even just once!—will not look good during your next review. Ignoring your company’s policies, sending an incomplete document to a client, or speaking out of turn during a meeting will not help you become a boss in the near future. Next time you’re given constructive criticism or corrected for making a mistake, make sure you pay attention and avoid this error in the future. Showing your boss that you can take direction and listen to their feedback will pay off (hopefully with a bigger paycheck!).

7. You text / tweet on the job

Always on your phone at work? It’s time for a change. The group chats and social media updates can wait and life will go on even if you aren’t tweeting every moment of your day. Being glued to your phone might be a sign that you aren’t completely focused on your work; even if your boss is in an office on the other side of the building and isn’t there to see you texting your BFFs, other people in the office do, and their perception of you may reach your boss’s ears. So if you’re looking to advance your career, make sure you stay off your personal phone during work hours. Keep your cell out of sight in a purse or drawer so you don’t get distracted. 

8. You don’t dress professionally 

 We’re not saying you have to wear a suit to work every day, but we do think you should take pride in your appearance. Some offices are more relaxed when it comes to work attire, but even if you're always in a t-shirt and jeans, you should still look clean, well-groomed and overall professional. Dressing sloppy could show a lack of professionalism and prevent you from getting a more senior position. As they say, dress for the job you want!

9. Your company isn’t making money

Maybe it’s not you, it’s them. If your company isn’t profitable, you probably won’t be getting a raise anytime soon. Sit back and look at your work environment. Has anyone been promoted since you’ve been at the company? Is there a process for promotions? If not, this might not be the kind of company you want to work for. 

“There are many things—some within your control and some not—that could prevent you from getting promoted,” says Meryl Weinsaft Cooper,veteran publicist and co-author of Be Your Own Best Publicist: How to Use PR Techniques to Get Noticed, Hired, and Rewarded at Work. “Circumstances and forces outside of your control include your corporate culture or policy (many have stringent timelines and parameters for promotions) or a challenging financial landscape or setbacks at your company (when bad times hit, many companies put freezes on reviews/promotions).” If there’s no room for growth in your current situation, it can be difficult to stay positive and motivated when you go to work each day. It isn’t all about the money, but you do deserve to be rewarded for your hard work.

10. You haven’t asked for one

Sometimes it isn’t your bad work ethic or negative attitude that is stopping you from getting a promotion. It could also be that you haven’t asked for one, and your boss has no idea you aren’t happy in your current position or that you’re ready to take on more. “If your boss doesn’t know you want a promotion, they have no reason to look at you,” says Karli, who recently started a new job at Northwestern University. If you think you deserve a more advanced role, you have to speak up, no matter how awkward it feels. Cooper agrees and says, “It’s important to communicate with your supervisor about your performance—and determine if you are meeting and exceeding expectations. If it is just a matter of not having asked before, be sure to come to that conversation prepared with concrete examples of the contributions you have made and an understanding of what that next position would require.”Being able to meet your company’s objectives and show results will increase your chances of moving ahead in your career.

Follow our advice and learn how to quit the negative work habits that might be preventing you from getting a promotion. You’re a smart, hard working graduette and you deserve it, so show your boss what you’ve got—and start seeing rewards!
 

How She Got There: Zoe Twitt, Founder of Shop Zoe Life

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Name: Zoe Twitt

Age: 32

Job Title and Description: Founder of Shop Zoe Life, an online health and wellness shop and blog. 

College Name/Major: Columbia University/Theater and Creative Writing 

Website: www.shopzoelife.com

Twitter Handle:@shopzoelife

What does your current job entail? 

Zoe Twitt: Working with brands, collaborating with designers and writers and chatting to customers. I research and test every brand thoroughly before deciding to bring them on. Then I whittle the collection down to my favorite bare basics and pick up only those SKUs.  

We design all our website assets and social media posts in-house, so I work with my PR guru and/or designers to create artwork that is in keeping with our objectives.

We run our own blog, also, because we find it helps elevate our SEO rating. I have freelance writers who help with this; I assign the topics and serve as an editor.  The last part of my job is customer service. I do skin consultations via phone and answer emails detailing products that would suit my clients with problem skin. 

Is there such a thing as a typical day? 

ZT: Most days are fairly similar. We have a schedule set for updating the blog, social media, creating forecasts and PR. 

What is the best part of your job?

ZT: Imparting beauty and health wisdom to people who want it and need it. I love it when clients write in to me with their success stories! 

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

ZT: I worked as an intern in the film industry. There were a lot of sleepless nights and a fair amount of grit involved. I found it through friends and I applied, followed up three times and got it. I worked for a European film director who owned an indie film company in Italy but was casting in NYC. 

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

ZT: Trish McEvoy. I had a makeup lesson with her in my early 20s and she was strong, inspiring and impressive. She runs a centi-million dollar business but still finds plenty of time for one-on-one time with her fan base. She's very approachable and modest and dedicated to building her brand from the most trivial tiny details and up.   

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

ZT: Every success has been enjoyed and celebrated from being featured in Vogue to winning awards. I think that it's important to consider it all a journey, and to relish any successes—great and small—along the way. 

What do you look for when considering hiring someone?

ZT: I look for someone tenacious who gets the job done. My ideal candidate is smart, informed, self-motivated and takes initiative. You don't need to know what you're doing, just be motivated enough to figure it out—pick up the phone, ask as many people as necessary, self-inform.

Of course, one must be passionate about the subject matter, too. So, pursue what you love and aggressively make it happen! 

Fill out my online form.
 

7 Problems You Encounter When Wearing a Romper

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Oh, rompers. They’re the perfect alternative to our worn-out sundresses on a hot summer day. The shorter little sister to our other favorite one-piece pal, the jumpsuit, rompers somehow make life seem like it’s about to get much easier. But even though they’re parading around as a friend, every girl knows they come with a whole load of problems, too. Below are 7 issues we’ve encountered while wearing one.

1. You have to completely undress when you go to the bathroom

Part shorts, part dress. Both of those things are easy to pee in. Put them together, and it’s physically impossible to use the bathroom without getting naked first. Add to that the misery of only discovering this once your only option is a public restroom.

2. They border between real outfit and beach cover-up

You know when you’re browsing the women’s section at Target, and you can’t quite tell if you’ve ventured over into swimwear or are still looking at the acceptable adult clothing? Yeah.

3. You risk looking like you’re in a sexy mechanic get-up

The booty shorts and one-piece vibe make this into a (almost) Halloween costume. And not in a good way.

4. The sizing and proportions are ridiculously specific

Long torsos and busty chests, be gone! You’re not welcome here. Just because they have adjustable straps and a bunch of elastic does not mean rompers fit more than one body size.

5. They ride up all day long

Somehow the constant struggle is worse than when you’re wearing plain ‘ole shorts. You’re always scared your butt is about to pop out because face it—no matter what you do it’s going to happen.

6. They’re basically the same style that babies wear, like, 24/7

You know those adorable onesies and jumpers that your cousin’s one-year-old practically lives in? Imagine them in your size, and bingo. You’ve got rompers!

7. You love them too much for any of this to matter

Despite all the things that you know can go wrong, you can’t help but stock up on these man-made miracles.

What struggles have you faced while wearing rompers, collegiettes?

5 Unbeatable Ways to Save Money in College

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College doesn’t come cheap. As collegiettes, we’re so focused on making the most of our four years on campus – balancing our classes and good grades with social lives, extracurriculars and even study abroad experiences. But the last thing we need is to let our college experiences get bogged down by money worries. Every little bit of cash counts, so we’re sharing our favorite money-saving hacks to help you make the most of college (and the real world that comes after)!

1. Choose the right way to pay

Student loans seem scary. When you’re dealing with payment plans, interest rates and other financial jargon you’ve never heard before (and really would rather live without), it can seem impossible to pick a plan that works for you. But that’s the key to saving money!

Make it easy on yourself by creating a smart, easy financial plan. Our favorite go-to is College Ave Student Loans, which was founded to help students pay for school as easily and inexpensively as possible. They give you a ton of loan options and payment plans to choose from so that you’re not borrowing more than you need or paying more than you should down the line.

Plus, you can use yet another money-saving hack: You can start paying off your loan, little by little, while you’re still in school. College Ave Student Loans rewards early payments by reducing your interest charges, which means you get to pay less overall. We’re all about the quick and painless process – it’s short and completely mobile-friendly, so you can apply wherever and whenever works for you! Plus, saving money is an obvious must to make the most of college life. Less spent on loans means more spent on your actual college experience!

2. Cut down on your extra expenses

Admit it: Your daily iced coffee craving (and inability to avoid giving into that craving) is costing you big bucks. Sure, plunking down $3.00 a day might not seem like much. But try adding that up over the course of the year, and you’ve just drank over $1,000 worth of caffeine.

Whatever your small spending habit is – be it coffee runs before your library sessions, ordering sushi to your dorm once a week or shopping to de-stress (true story) – it’s important to tally it up over the course of the year and decide if it’s worth your spending. If you can cut it down by half – only grabbing a coffee every other day, shopping once a month instead of every other week, etc. – you can save majorly big bucks in the long run. Prioritize your spending, people!

3. Use apps to track your expenses

Even if you cut down on your coffee purchases and opt for home-brewed or dining hall offerings, you’re still going to be spending your money somewhere. Download a free app like Mint to track your expenses and build smart budgets for yourself. That way, you won’t find yourself strapped for cash at the end of the month, wondering where it all went!

Take your budgeting hack one step further by looking into smartphone apps that save you money; trust us when we say there are tons of ways to ensure you’re spending smartly, and your phone is one of the best tools to help you do it!

4. Get involved on campus

As we said, you’re already spending a ton of your time in college getting involved in extracurriculars. Why not kill two birds with one stone and let your club events and time on campus actually save you money?

Jen Morgan, a senior at Messiah College, says that this is the key to controlling your spending in college. “Since you probably pay a student activities fee every time you get your tuition bill for the semester, you might as well make the most of it!” she explains. “If you want to save some money, skip the club or bar that night and opt for a free night of fun on-campus. These activities often include movies, parties, dances and other fun events.”

Even if you’re not a member of a specific club, you may still be able to score free food (prepare for a lot of pizza!) at events other clubs are hosting, like panels or get-togethers on campus. Get your daily dose of entertainment and your dinner by getting involved!

5. Make lists (and stick to them)

This goes without saying, but it’s easy to get carried away in college. Everywhere you turn, you’re looking at an opportunity to have fun – or an opportunity to buy something that’ll make your day that much easier (even if that something is an extra bag of Oreos). How are you supposed to hold back when it feels like the world is at your fingertips?

Just remember: lists, lists, lists! “Whether you're headed to the grocery store or on a Target run, make a list of the items you know you need to purchase,” advises Jen. “This will save you time as you shop, and will save you money if you vow to only stick to items on your list.”

Most importantly, don’t let your friends’ spending habits impact your own. Sure, your roomie might be stocking up on a ton of pricey organic foods or buying half of H&M when you were only supposed to be bathing suit-shopping, but that doesn’t mean you have to follow suit to keep up. Keep your list on hand to keep you focused, and save your cash for the stuff that matters.

No matter what your financial situation is like, it’s always important to watch your spending in college so you can have fun without feeling financial guilt. Stay on top of your smart financial plan with College Ave Student Loans, cut your spending on frivolous expenses (bye-bye, daily Frappuccinos) and take advantage of free activities while they last! Now’s your time to shine, so kiss your money worries goodbye!

The Most Damaging Beauty Practices (& What To Do Instead)

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Let’s be real, some of the things we do for beauty are ridiculous. Between our hair, skin and nails, we’re constantly doing something to improve our look, often without considering the consequences. You might have heard that “beauty is pain,” but we shouldn’t damage our bodies for the sake of looking good! Here are six of the most damaging beauty practices we are all guilty of, plus safer alternatives that will have you looking fabulous without hurting your body.

1. Going to tanning salons


While most of us know that indoor tanning is a big no-no, having that bronzed glow all year long is tempting. Even if you have only gone once or twice, the effects of sitting in a tanning bed at all can greatly increase your risk for cancer.

“It’s a risky behavior because the radiation from tanning beds is 20 times more powerful than [that of] the sun,” says Dr. Elizabeth K. Hale, a certified dermatologist and skin cancer expert. “Even if you indoor tan only once, it can increase the risk of melanoma by 20 percent.”

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, UV radiation can cause wrinkles, brown spots and sagging skin. Moreover, regular indoor tanners increase their risk for melanoma by 74 percent compared to those who have never been to a tanning salon, which is pretty scary.

“Melanoma is one of the leading causes of death in young women,” Hale says. “But it’s also completely preventable. And if it’s caught early, it can be cured completely. If you’ve ever been to a tanning salon, make sure you see a dermatologist just to be safe.”

Alternative: Self-tanners

No matter how much we want to be tan, the risk of skin cancer is just not worth it. Skip the indoor tanning and try self-tanners instead. Fortunately, there are a ton of different products to ensure that you won’t look streaky or orange! For a natural, gradual tan, try Jergens Natural Glow Revitalizing Daily Moisturizer ($9.99), or check out Neutrogena Micro-Mist Airbrush Sunless Tan ($11.99) for even coverage all over your body, including your back! Not a fan of the chemical odor? Try Nature’s Gate Glow Lotion ($13.99) which will give you a subtle tint without the fake smell.

Remember to exfoliate first in the shower (it helps avoid streaks) and wait until you’re completely dry before applying a self-tanner. If you’re using a lotion, wash your hands immediately after to avoid orange palms. Most self-tanners build gradually, so to achieve a darker shade, you’ll have to reapply for a couple days. To prolong your color, use a gentle cleanser in the shower and keep your skin moisturized. Keep these tips in mind and you’ll be looking bronzed in no time, without those harmful UV rays!

2. Popping pimples


One of the worst things in the world is waking up to a huge zit on your face. It hurts, looks gross and pretty much sucks all around. It’s natural to want to get that annoyance off our face ASAP, so many of us resort to popping our pimples instead of letting them naturally heal. As rewarding as it is to squeeze all that yucky stuff out, it does more harm than good.

“Popping zits causes inflammation under the skin,” Hale says. “When your skin gets inflamed, it becomes a red mark which tends to stick around longer and is harder to cover up.” Plus, you risk having scars or dark marks on your face, which is clearly something you don’t want.

Alternative: Warm compress or aspirin

Instead of popping your pimples, try applying a warm compress to them. “Warm compresses can speed healing because they increase the blood flow to the pimple,” Hale says. “They will also prevent inflammation.” Simply wet a small washcloth with warm water and then place it in the microwave for about 40 seconds. Hold your compress to your zit until the washcloth starts to cool down, and then wash your face with your normal face cleanser. Don’t forget to moisturize afterwards!

If you have a really stubborn zit, apply products with salicylic acid to dry it out (Almay has a product that conceals AND heals zits!). Don’t have any salicylic acid on hand? Hale suggests making an aspirin paste to reduce the pain and size of your pimple. “Crush up an aspirin and add it to warm water,” she says. “Then apply it to your pimple. The acetylsalicylic acid in the aspirin will help heal your zit.” Make sure you only keep the aspirin paste on for about 15 minutes and apply moisturizer afterwards. And if you find yourself struggling with consistent acne, visit a dermatologist to get a stronger treatment.

Unfortunately we all get zits from time to time, but preventing them can also save you some frustration! Avoid touching your face throughout the day and always take off your makeup before going to bed. Try a gentle cleanser that has benzoyl peroxide in it and always remember to moisturize after washing your face. This should help you avoid those pesky pimples as much as possible!

3. Bleaching your hair


If you want to lighten your hair color, chances are, you’ll have to bleach it first. While getting your hair bleached every once in a while is okay, bleach and hair dye have toxic chemicals in them that can dry out your luscious locks.

Bleaching strips your hair of its natural pigment, which changes the structure of your hair. This can make it more susceptible to damage resulting in coarse texture, dullness and split ends. You never want to weaken your hair because it can take a long time to reverse the effects.

Alternatives: Lightening shampoo or lemon juice

If you’re looking to go just a little lighter with your hair, consider a hair lightening shampoo. John Frieda ($6.99) makes one for blondes that naturally lightens hair without ammonia or peroxide, aka the harsh chemicals that salons use. Its special formula increases blonde hair pigment for subtle highlights and increased shine. You won’t get the dramatic effect that bleaching gives you, but your hair will appear brighter after a couple of uses.

If you have darker hair, try using this simple tip: Simply combine lemon juice and water and brush it through wet or dry hair. Then sit out in the sun for a few hours (don’t forget sunscreen!) to get natural highlights. You should see results after four or five uses. Stuck in rainy weather? You can also apply Sun-In ($4.99) to wet hair and blow it dry. Just remember that a little goes a long way, otherwise your hair might turn out more orange than sun-kissed.

While there are safer alternatives to lightening your hair, sometimes if you want a specific color, bleaching is unavoidable. If you do end up bleaching and dying your hair, make sure you use hair-strengthening shampoo to help restore those locks. “Use products that contain biotin or keratin,” Hale suggests. “It will help strengthen your hair and reverse any damage.” Try OGX’s Full Biotin & Collagen Shampoo to keep your dyed hair looking and feeling healthy.

4. Getting gel manicures


Most of us love to get our nails done, but hate it when they chip… sometimes moments after we’ve stepped out of the salon. That’s probably why gel manicures were invented—they’re a guaranteed way to keep your manicure looking fresh for weeks at a time.

Unfortunately, perfectly kept nails come with some risks. Because gel manicures require drying under a UV light, the possibility of skin cancer becomes a concern. “UV can cause cancer, that’s it,” Hale says. “Most people don’t know that it can be very common on the back of hands and nails. Any UV exposure can put you at risk.”

Besides, constantly having gel manicures inhibits your nails’ ability to breathe. This can lead to damaged or brittle nails, which can take up to three to six months to heal properly. If you do like having your nails done, make sure you wait a week or two between manicures to avoid nail damage. Additionally, never peel off your gel manicure. Always go to a professional to remove it safely.

Alternative: Gel polish

Fortunately for those of us who love long-lasting manicures, nail polish companies have started making gel manicure products that don’t require the harmful UV lights! Application is easy; all you need to do is apply two coats of color and a gel topcoat and you get a perfect mani that lasts two weeks. The best part? You can remove it with regular nail polish remover, no soaking required. Check out Sally Hansen’s Miracle Gel polishes, available at most pharmacies. 


5. Not washing your face day and night

 
It’s 3 a.m. on a Friday and you just got home from the bars. Between recounting the night with your friends and sharing delivery pizza, you totally forget to wash your face before passing out. And then it’s 8 a.m. on Monday morning and you’ve pressed snooze for the third time, making yourself totally late for class. You barely have time to get dressed, let alone wash your face. Sound familiar? It doesn’t matter if you’re coming from a frat party or snoozing before your morning lecture, washing your face feels irrelevant when sleep is your priority.

“Let’s face it, if you’re up late, you’re not going through your full bedtime skin routine,” Hale says. “But not taking off your makeup before bed can cause breakouts and clogged pores.”

Besides, by not removing your mascara or foundation at the end of the day, you risk forming wrinkles and cysts near your eyes. Your skin is exposed to lots of toxins throughout the day; when you don’t wash your face, makeup holds in all the bad stuff you don’t want on your skin.

On the flip side, it’s equally as important to wash your face in the morning. While you can get buildup during the day, your skin still accumulates dirt and bacteria while you sleep, too. If you don’t wash your face in the morning, you also risk oily skin throughout the day, which further adds to the buildup.

Alternative: Place makeup removing wipes by your bed

While you might not have time to fully wash your face with cleanser, cleaning off your face a little bit is better than nothing. “Makeup remover wipes are great because they’re easy,” Hale says. “Plus, keeping them by your bed will remind you to do it before you go to sleep [or when you wake up].”

Most beauty brands make makeup removing wipes. Look for the wipes that are oil-free and that can remove all makeup, including waterproof mascara. Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes are always a good choice, or for more sensitive skin, try Simple’s Cleansing Facial Wipes.

6. Constantly whitening your teeth

 
Who doesn’t want a dazzling white smile? With all the products out there, from whitening strips to mouthwash, it’s easy to get rid of stained teeth without having to go to a professional to achieve a sparkling smile like the all your favorite celebrities.

However, studies show that over-whitening your teeth can have damaging and irreversible effects. According to the Journal of Dental Research, most teeth-whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide. A high concentration of hydrogen peroxide can weaken tooth enamel and cause sensitivity. It can also lead to gum inflammation, which can last a few days.

So if you’re using whitening strips, brushing with whitening toothpaste and then swishing with whitening rinse, you’re definitely overdoing it. Even consistently using whitening strips every week can lead to damage. If you find that your gums are puffy and red or your teeth are overly sensitive to cold foods, definitely lay off of the whitening for a while, as these are signs of irritation and weakened tooth enamel.

Alternative: Baking soda

For a more natural teeth-whitening method, try using a baking soda paste. Combine half a teaspoon of baking soda with half a teaspoon of water and put the mixture on your toothbrush. Brush your teeth as you normally would, then spit out the baking soda paste and rise with mouthwash. Baking soda is safe to use every other day, and in a week or two, you’ll start to notice the results!


We all have our own unique beauty routine, but we don’t always realize that some of our self-care habits have negative effects on our overall health. Looking like an airbrushed model is not worth damaging your hair, skin or nails for, so keep these alternatives in mind and you’ll be healthy and feel pretty!

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