We get it. You’ve seen the movies and watched the reality TV. You know that gay men make the best shopping partners, are incredible at design and will be there to say “GIRL” to you when you’re making poor choices. What else could you possibly want in a friend?

We all know that girl who purposefully seeks out a gay best friend, and although she means well, this is probably not the best way to choose friends. Maybe she’s watched too much Say Yes to the Dress, but whatever the reason, she needs a talking to, and soon. Here are the three most basic reasons why you shouldn’t go looking for a GBF—and how to tell if your queer friendships are real.

1. It’s tokenizing

For those of us who do not identify with any minority group, tokenization may be a new concept. Tokenizing someone is, in essence, reducing them to a single part of their personality and using that as a representative for an entire group. In this way, “my friend Brian who rows crew and is close with his younger sister and also happens to be gay” becomes “my gay friend Brian.”

Karin Wetzler, MD, a pediatrician who is working to integrate LGBTQ+ friendly policies and procedures into her practice in Cincinnati, Ohio, speaks to the difficulties she sees queer youth encounter. “It’s difficult when a child is coming to terms with a single part of their identity, and is then reduced to it,” Wetzler says. “Instead of questioning one aspect of themselves, they end up questioning the validity of everything they thought they were.”

Overlooking so much of someone’s identity is not only harmful to the person, it also sabotages a friendship! Why would you want to have “a gay friend” when you can have a friend who is gay, but who is also so much more?

2. It perpetuates stereotypes

Yes, some gay men enjoy shopping. Yes, some gay men enjoy interior design. Yes, some gay men will support you through your poor life choices—but so will some straight men, and women of all sexualities and your elderly grandmother who has nothing else to do with her spare time. There are few things more irritating than being caught up in misconceptions about a group you belong to. 

“It irritates me when people constantly highlight my friend’s sexuality, because in my mind that’s something neutral,” says Yana Dessev, a sophomore at Tulane University. “There’s so much more to her than who she dates and loves, and it’s frustrating because I think people forget that besides being queer she’s also an amazing person.”

Seeking out a GBF in the hopes that they’ll fulfill some sort of absurd stereotype is like going on Tinder dates hoping to meet your prince (or princess) charming. There’s a chance it will happen, but we all know the road to a quality relationship of any nature isn’t as simple as swiping right—or in this case, searching for companions who fit a certain label.

3. It’s not how true friendships are formed

Friends, true friends, are made in the most serendipitous ways. From accidental run-ins to being matched as college roommates to meeting through mutual friends, it’s rare that friendships are planned, and even rarer that real friendships are sought out specifically. You may have one particularly athletic friend and another friend with beautiful red hair, but you probably didn’t decide one day that your circle of friends needed an auburn tinge, or that you felt like having someone to support at sports matches.

Colin*, a sophomore at Tulane University, says, “I’ve never once had a meaningful friendship with someone who wanted to be my friend only when they found out about my sexuality.” (If you think you might have trouble handling a friend coming out to you, check out our handy dandy guide!)

The reason why friends are friends is because they click, in some way, through some magical force we can all only guess at (which may or may not be aided by a little wine), not because one person wanted to have a friend who fit a label or checked off a box.

Seeking out a GBF not only makes you "the worst," but also deprives the queer community of one more awesome ally! So don’t waste both your own time and the time and feelings of others by seeking out a real connection based on a false presumption! Instead, connect with the people you’re naturally drawn to, and let their entire identities, not just one facet of them, make your world a better and brighter place.

*Name has been changed.

Wednesday night marked the second GOP presidential debate, held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California. Rest assured, the candidates were not afraid to yell at each other about both personal and policy-related issues. During the three-hour-long CNN program, the presidential hopefuls navigated their way through tough questions, ranging from federal support of Planned Parenthood to Secret Service codenames and which woman they would like to see on the $10 bill. Whether you missed the debate or just want to relive it, here are its top 5 moments.

​1. Carly Fiorina told off Trump for his sexist comments

In a Rolling Stone interview, Donald Trump seriously insulted fellow GOP candidate Carly Fiorina. "Look at that face!" Trump said in the article.  "Would anyone vote for that?" Jake Tapper, the debate moderator and CNN’s chief Washington correspondent, decided to make things interesting by asking Trump about that comment. Trump asserted that he meant something else entirely. 

Fiorina was not so quick to forgive. "I think women all over this country heard very clearly what Mr. Trump said," Fiorina said, causing the audience to erupt in applause. Trump had no other response than, "I think she has a beautiful face, and she is a beautiful woman." Carly didn't seem to buy his answer - can't say we blame her!

2. Jeb Bush admitted to smoking marijuana

When Tanner brought up the topic of medical marijuana and drug control policy, Jeb Bush took the honest route.

"Forty years ago I smoked marijuana, and I admit. I'm sure that other people might have done it and may not want to say it in front of 25 million people. My mom's not happy that I just did," Bush said. The audience laughed, and so did we (we appreciate the honesty, Jeb).

On the more serious side of drug policy, Fiorina also brought up a sad and touching personal story. She is a strong supporter of drug control, and mentioned having lost a son to drug addiction. It was one of the rare moments in the debate where none of the other cadidates interrupted or chimed in. 

3. Donald Trump refused to apologize to Jeb Bush's wife

Trump's presidential candidacy became infamous with his controversial comments on immigration. Trump wanted stricter restrictions on immigration, but his outspoken offensive language toward immigrants made his opinions unpopular to many. Among those insulted by Trump was Jeb Bush, whose wife was born in Mexico and immigrated to the U.S. Trump said in July, "If my wife were from Mexico, I think I would have a soft spot for people from Mexico."

During the debate, Bush brought up the subject, asking Trump for an apology. Although Trump said, "I have to tell you, I hear phenomenal things. I hear your wife is a lovely woman." When Bush asked once again for an apology, Trump unsurprisingly refused. "I won't do that because I said nothing wrong, but I do hear she's a lovely woman."

4. Planned Parenthood issues and images took center stage

Planned Parenthood is a federally-funded agency that executes abortions, distributes birth control, and provides a knowledge base for woman about safe sex and controlling when they choose to become mothers. However, many of the GOP candidates want to defund, and in some cases shut down, the organization. Governor John Kasich of Ohio asserted that a complete shut down of Planned Parenthood would be unnecessary. However, others -- like Senator Ted Cruz, Governor Chris Christie, Fiorina, and Mike Huckabee -- said they would shut down the organization. Most of the candidates maintained the typically Republican pro-life view. 

Ted Cruz brought up videos released of Planned Parenthood, which were supposed to show the organization doing many illegal practices. However, the videos were proven to be edited, and therefore unreliable. The talk of pro-life policies began a passionate debate on federal funding of any and all abortions.

5. We can't forget about Senator Lindsey Graham rocking the "Kid's Table" debate

Before the main debate of the top 11 GOP presidential candidates, there was an undercard debate of the four lowest polling candidates. This included George Pataki, Rick Santorum, Governor Bobby Jindal and Senator Lindsey Graham. 

Lindsey Graham decided to have some fun with the debate, standing out from his opponents. When asked about the first thing he would do as president, Graham said, "We're going to drink more." Graham also went on to call Donald Trump a "cartoon character," and call out Senator Ted Cruz for wanting to abolish Obamacare (which President Obama would probably veto quickly).

What were your favorite moments from the GOP debate?  

If you’ve been on social media in the past week, you’ve probably heard the story about Ahmed Mohamed. On Monday, the high school freshman was arrested at MacArthur High School. The cause for his arrest was a briefcase containing a homemade clock that he brought to impress his teachers. Instead of praising the student, teachers reported his “suspicious” briefcase, believing it to be a bomb, and eventually brought police to campus to arrest him.

The story has blown up over social media, trending the hashtag #IStandWithAhmed. One of the contributors to this trend was none other than POTUS himself, Barack Obama. On Wednesday, Obama tweeted his support for the young student, and invited him to the White House next month for Astronomy night, which allows students to talk to government scientists and NASA astronauts.

Hillary also gave Ahmed a shout-out on Twitter:

The support for Ahmed amongst the tech community has been overwhelming, to say the least. Mark Zuckerberg encouraged Ahmed to continue inventing, writing in a Facebook post that “the future belongs to people like Ahmed.”

#IStandWithAhmed was tweeted by bigwig tech companies like Google, Twitter, and Box, all of them offering the opportunity to visit their companies and consider an internship with them.

The highlight of all this media attention came on Wednesday, during an interview with MSNBC’s Chris Hayes. MIT astrophysicist Chanda Prescod-Weinstein was brought on the show as a surprise guest, and praised Ahmed for his work. Ahmed has called MIT his dream school, and meeting Prescod-Weinstein was the icing on the cake. She praised his work, calling him her “ideal student," and claimed that “a creative, independent thinker like [Ahmed]” is the exact student that top-tier schools like MIT and Harvard look for. Chanda extended an offer for Ahmed to visit the school, and even tried to convince the teen to consider the mathematical side of physics.

As social media users and a bunch of top-tier officials continue to bombard Ahmed with support, it appears that the student has a bright future ahead of him. Now he has to make a very important decision: which prestigious tech company or school should he visit first?

Sometimes college is hard. Between exams, roommate squabbles and finding enough caffeine to function on three hours of sleep, we’re familiar with riding the struggle bus pretty much daily. With our crazy lives, we all need some pick-me-ups, right? Good thing we’re pros at making ourselves feel better.

1.  “Pizza covers almost all the food groups, so it’s basically healthy.”

2. “I’ll never be able to wear sweatpants to a real job, so might as well do it now!”

3. “I went to the gym earlier this month so I can skip today and watch Netflix instead.”

4.  “1 hour of studying = 2 Starbucks visits.”

5.  “As a growing young adult, sleeping is more important than my 8 a.m. class.”

6. “The meatloaf in the dining hall is concerning… better go to Chipotle, just to be safe.”

7.  “When else can I get $3 cocktails on a Tuesday night without being judged? #yolo.”

8. “Eating a salad for lunch balances out my late-night French fries.”

9. “It is way too nice out to be stuck in class. Staying inside on this beautiful day would be a sin.”

10. “I actually took notes today, so do I really need to read the textbook?”

11. “Taking advantage of sales at the mall really just makes me economically savvy.”

12. “After graduation, I’ll probably never see my friends again. Better hang out with them 24/7 while I can!”

13. “Why bother doing laundry now when I’m going home in three weeks? Thanks, Mom!”

14. “I went to two of my classes today, so I deserve a three-hour nap.”

15. “Responsible decision-making is for the real world. Not college.”

If you watched last night's GOP debate, you know there were some awesome moments. If you didn't—don't worry—Her Campus has you covered. Between Donald Trump's insults and the above-average number of high fives that took place, we're here to provide you with all the highlights.

1. Donald Trump and Ben Carson shared a high five

2. Trump made all of the faces when Jeb Bush said he shouldn't have the nuclear codes

3. Carly Fiorina stood up for herself

4. Mike Huckabee defended Kim Davis

5. Carly Fiorina said she didn't need a woman on the ten dollar bill

6. Marco Rubio said that"America is not a planet"

7. There was another very intense high five, this time between Trump and Bush

Who do you think won the debate, collegiettes?

After the incredible arrival of Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte, you didn’t think that the Fall season could get any better food-wise, did you? Well, it was just announced that there is a new and even more delicious way to eat Nutella. Yes, believe the impossible.

According to Cosmopolitan, Italian artist Paolo Ulian has created the “finger biscuit”, perfectly shaped to fit your finger and deliciously edible enough to dip into Nutella and consume in one bite. While it is not yet confirmed exactly what the “finger biscuit” is made of, it might be better than trying to lick every last drop off your spoon.

Unfortunately, there has been no announcement of when the “finger biscuit” will make its official debut in stores. But Design Taxi reports that the finger-shaped cookie was first introduced at an exhibition in 2004, and was obtained in 2006 by the Italian confection manufacturer Ferrero.

The cookie has already found some fans on Facebook, so you may want to start stocking up on Nutella… just to be safe.

Yesterday, Kanye West debuted his second collection at fashion week, presenting the latest looks at a last-minute show that brought everyone from the Kardashians (obvious) to Lorde to Anna Wintour to the front row. We don't know about you, but the collection is hardly distinguishable from his last one—models took to the runway in rows, dressed in nudes from light to dark. What does it take to book a gig in Kanye's show? The Mirror reported that Kanye made each of the models sign a non-disclosure agreement that prohibits them from speaking to anybody about the collection, him, Kim or the rest of the Kardashian family. Pretty standard... but it doesn't end there. Dare to break the contract? You'll owe Kanye a whopping $10 million.

Reportedly, the contract caused some big-name models to drop out of his show, and we don't blame them—imagine being sued $10 million for talking about the clothes you wore during a fashion show!

When my friend Andrea and I found out that Oddball Comedy and Curiosity Festival—headlined by Aziz Ansari and Amy Schumer—was coming to Massachusetts, we knew we just had to go. She’s a die-hard Parks and Recreation fan and becoming best friends with Amy Schumer is definitely one of my top life goals, so we snatched up tickets, hopped on the train to venture an hour away from campus and (obviously) dropped $20 each on chicken fingers and lemon icees before finally settling into our seats for what was sure to be the best night of our young lives.

...And yeah, it totally was. One of opening acts pointed out that in today’s world, we need comedy more than ever. I think we all expected to have a night of comedy and laughter that would take us out of our own little worlds and away from our problems, and that’s pretty much what happened. But at the same time, both Aziz and Amy tackled important issues of today both beautifully and hilariously.

Only Aziz Ansari could touch upon issues like race, police brutality and the double standards for men and women in the corporate world with both sensitivity and a sense of humor. He acknowledged the lack of diversity in television as well as the every racism that still occurs in our world every day. Of course, he wasn't all serious—a few stories about his girlfriend (I wonder if she knows how much she's mentioned during his routines?!), his parents and his undying love for bacon were also highlights of the night.

But it was Amy in particular who hit on a lot of points relevant to any young woman about to enter the professional world. “‘Is right now an exciting time for women in Hollywood?’” she said early on in her routine, recalling being asked that very question in an interview after the release of her megahit movie, Trainwreck. “Um… no.” She cited the strict rules women in show business are required to follow in order to be presented a certain way. With Trainwreck being her movie debut, Schumer was catapulted into this world of dietary guidelines, scrutinizing paparazzi and objectification for the first time at the age of 34.

Sound cynical? She has a right to be. She remembered the young actress who played the younger version of herself in Trainwreck approaching her at the film’s premiere and saying her agent said she wouldn’t get any more roles because her cheeks were too round. Though Amy’s commentary was hilarious, it was sad at the same time—if Amy is affected by these harsh standards at 34, how are they influencing younger women and girls?

But of course, there are plenty of (major) upsides to becoming a Hollywood star, like becoming best friends with Jennifer Lawrence—who has declared that she and Schumer are “creatively made for each other.” Oh, did we mention the two are writing a movie together? Schumer described her relationship with Lawrence as like “being friends with the best-looking possible version of yourself.” Her self-deprecating sense of humor is probably just one of the reasons the two get along so well!

An Amy and Aziz comedy show would be remiss without a few sexual innuendos and a little hard liquor—the festival is called Oddball, after all. But for all of that, you’ll have to go and see the show yourself. It’s highly recommended!

So you’ve exchanged numbers, you’ve chatted a few times in person and now you’re ready to take it to the next level with your crush. The only problem: You’re sitting alone in your room.

Getting your crush’s attention can be difficult, especially over text. Once you press send, all that’s left to do is wait and wonder whether you were funny enough, flirty enough and cool enough to get the response you want. Don’t stress over it! By getting creative with just a few simple templates, you can become a texting pro. Here are some great texts that are sure to capture your crush’s interest.

1. “Hey, I just heard Lauren’s having a party in her dorm tonight. Wanna meet there?”

Carole Lieberman, M.D., psychiatrist and author of Bad Girls: Why Men Love Them & How Good Girls Can Learn Their Secrets, recommends this approach because you show your crush that you’re thinking of him, but the pressure’s off. “This works because it's a spontaneous and very nonthreatening invitation,” Lieberman says. “There are going to be lots of people. It's not you making the party in order to catch him, and it will be fun.”

Emmett McKinney, a junior from Vanderbilt University, agrees that a party invitation is a great way to start things off. “This one would get my attention because of the social event involved,” Emmett says. “It's easier to feel comfortable with other people around — and you can bring a wingman if you need it.”

Not only is this convo starter comfortable for your crush, but it lets you off the hook, too. “If he shows, great,” Lieberman says. “If not, you'll meet someone else.”

2. “One more calc problem and I might go insane! Distract me? :)”

Feeling bold? This ultra-flirty text will grab your crush’s attention without a doubt. Arden Leigh, author of The New Rules of Attraction: How to Get Him, Keep Him, and Make Him Beg for More, says that this tactic is effective because it gives your crush a playful problem to solve. “Many men are wired to find solutions, and so this is a cute and casual way to tap into that,” Leigh says.

It’s key to keep this text flirty but simple so that you don’t seem like you’re trying too hard. “This one is more overtly flirty, and it grabs my attention because it's more suggestive,” Emmett says.

Plus, when used sparingly, emoticons add a great flirty twist to your message.

“Smiley faces in combination with something flirty?” Kevin Davis, a senior at Vanderbilt University says. “I’m interested for sure.”

3. “Guess what just came on TV? A Mad Men marathon! I know it’s your fave. I’m gonna make some popcorn, watch it and chill.”

If you’re hoping for a more intimate but still laid-back encounter, this first text might be the one for you. Here, you give him a few options. You two can discuss the episode and text about what he’s currently doing, or you might even end up watching the show together. “This gives him an opportunity to suggest that you come over and watch it with him, or to ask if he can come watch it with you and share your popcorn,” Lieberman says.

Kevin adds that finding a common interest is always a good move. “Any girl that knows what I want to watch is definitely chill, so I'm headed over,” he says.

4. “Hey! How’d the Ultimate Frisbee tournament go last weekend?”

This text lets your crush know that you took the time to remember his other commitments and that you’re interested in his life. “It's always good to show you were paying attention to something he mentioned enough to follow up and ask him about it, especially if it's something important to him,” Leigh says.

Kevin echoes Leigh’s view and says that showing interest in his favorite sports wins any collegiette major points in his book. 

Although this conversation likely won’t end in the two of you meeting up immediately, you may get an invitation to his next game. If not, it’s still great because you’re not asking a yes-or-no question, so you can start a longer conversation if he seems interested.

Asking your crush a personal question might also be a positive way to move from a casual hook-up tosomething more. “If sparks have been flying when you see her out, this text shows that she's interested in more than just casual make-outs,” Emmett says.

5. “Imagine Dragons just came on my Spotify radio… thought of you :)”

Maybe you’re not sure what you crush has been up to lately, but you do know that your crush has awesome taste in music. This simple text gives you another chance to let your crush know that you’re paying attention to his interests and that he’s on your mind.

Leigh says to make sure that you’re listening to a band that the two of you have spent at least some time talking about. Otherwise, this text could come off as too direct, Emmett warns.

Still, Kevin says that this approach is definitely cute. “What would be even better would be if the band were coming to town,” he says. Check out some upcoming concerts in your town, and you could transform this text into an amazing night out!

No matter which approach you decide to take when texting your crush, be confident and fun. And when in doubt, send your text for a reason. “It's best if the conversation starts organically, meaning that a real reason has come up to contact the guy at that very moment,” Lieberman says. Now, go ahead and press send!

Clueless is arguably one of the most iconic films of all time. The only thing more memorable than the amazing fashion is the talented cast. From Cher to Tai, each leading lady is lovable in her own way. Take our quiz to find out which female character from Clueless you're most like.

Most collegiettes know the feeling: You sit down to take a test and you feel a few butterflies in the pit of your stomach. You go over definitions and formulas in your head one last time, take a deep breath and pick up your pencil with a steady hand.

But what if that’s not what happens? What if you sit down to take a test and your mind suddenly goes blank, your stomach twists itself into knots and you start to feel faint?

Sound familiar? If so, you’re experiencing test anxiety, a very real type of anxiety that sets in before a test or exam. “Everyone becomes anxious before an exam,” says Dr. Roy Stefanik, a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the Georgetown University School of Medicine. “Some degree of anxiety helps in preparation and focus, but too much anxiety can cause poor outcomes.”

Test anxiety affects more college students than you might expect, but it’s not talked about very often. If you think you may suffer from test anxiety, you’re not alone, and we’re here to help you understand it and kick it to the curb so you can feel calm and confident for your next big test.

What causes test anxiety

Test anxiety has many potential causes, and understanding what triggers your anxiety can help you determine the best way to tackle it. It’s important to keep in mind thatanxiety can often be passed down from your parents, according to Dr. Stefanik: “Anxiety often has a genetic component, particularly in the offspring of anxious mothers.” If your siblings or parents struggle with test or performance anxiety, that could explain why you do, too.

If you’re the type of person who has a fear of failure and needs to excel at everything, test anxiety could be a result of your fear of not doing well. “Although obsessiveness can improve test scores, it can wreak havoc on one's emotional state, and a fear of failure (with either real or imagined consequences) can contribute to test anxiety,” Dr. Stefanik says.

If your train of thought before a test is something along the lines of, “If I don’t do well on this test, then my overall grade will probably drop a letter grade, and then that will knock my GPA down, and then I won’t be in the range of ideal candidates for my dream graduate school and I’ll end up living at home with my parents forever,” then you might have a fear of failure, which will cause you to be incredibly anxious about any exams or performance tests.

Similarly, a traumatic test-taking experience from the past, like bombing a calculus midterm or having a panic attack before the SAT, can leave a bad taste in your mouth and give you major anxiety about all future tests, says Dr. Stefanik, “particularly if the person bombing the test relies heavily on her academic performance as a measure of her self-worth.” Test anxiety can be your brain’s way of avoiding any more trauma by simply shutting down when faced with a similar situation.

The final common reason for test anxiety is unpreparedness. If you know you should have stayed in last night and studied but you went out anyway, you’re bound to have more than your usual amount of anxiety when you sit down to take your test the next day. Feeling underprepared happens to most collegiettes at one point or another, but if you feel that way before every test, your study skills (or lack thereof) might be to blame.

Signs and symptoms

Before we get into exactly what the signs of test anxiety are, it’s important to realize that there is a difference between the usual pre-test jitters most collegiettes experience and actual crippling test anxiety.

“Although there is no formal DSM [Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders] diagnosis of test anxiety, it is a very real phenomenon,” Dr. Stefanik says. “When you have excessive uneasiness, worry, fear or apprehension about the outcome of an exam to the point that it hinders your performance or impairs the quality of your life, it becomes a problem.”

You may have test anxiety if your nervousness about an upcoming test keeps you from sleeping at night, affects your appetite or keeps you from enjoying activities you usually love. It’s normal to have a bit of trouble falling asleep the night before a midterm, but if you consistently struggle to fall asleep for several nights before a standard test, there’s probably a bigger problem at hand.

While there is no official diagnosis for test anxiety, your doctor or college counselor will be able to determine whether you suffer from test anxiety based on your symptoms. The telltale sign is “blanking out” during a test. It’s like everything you knew disappeared from your brain, and you can’t recall a single flash card or key term. This feeling of “blanking out” is one of the most common signs of test anxiety and often the most upsetting for collegiettes.

In addition to “blanking out,” physical symptoms of test anxiety can include headache, nausea, stomachache, excessive sweating, rapid heartbeat and light-headedness. It’s one thing to feel butterflies before an exam, but if you’re doubled over or you feel like you might pass out, it’s probably something more serious.

Mental or emotional symptoms like excessive anger, fear, helplessness or negative thoughts can all suggest serious anxiety associated with test taking. You may even experience panic attacks, which can show up out of nowhere and make you feel an intense fear or discomfort.

“Panic is a sense of impending doom, like something bad is going to happen out of nowhere,” Dr. Stefanik says. “Along with terrible emotional feelings, the physical aspects can be terrifying, including chest pain, shortness of breath, numbness, tingling, nausea or light-headedness.”

Some girls get panic attacks during particularly stressful situations, but if you experience these attacks before every test or exam, they’re almost certainly related to test anxiety.

How to cope

Any sort of anxiety is debilitating, but anxiety surrounding a heavily weighted test can be crippling. Luckily, there are a number of proven ways to ease your level of anxiety considerably, which means less stress and more success!

1. Eat and drink healthily

With all the studying you’ll be doing, it’s important to stay healthy and keep your body (and your brain) fueled!

Before you study, stop by the dining hall for a low-fat, high-protein snack, like Greek yogurt, grilled chicken or part-skim mozzarella cheese. These snacks will give you energy and keep you focused without causing you to crash later on.

It’s also important to stay hydrated to keep you healthy and avoid fatigue, so aim to drink eight to 10 eight-ounce glasses of water a day. You can use this CamelBak calculator to determine how much water is right for your frame and lifestyle.

2. Get enough sleep

Once you’re fueled and hydrated, it’s time to tackle your sleeping habits! “Although it's tempting to stay up and cram the night before an important exam, I find it much easier to relax during a test when I've had a full night's sleep the night before,” says Brianna, a freshman at Indiana University. “Look over [the] material, but know when it's time to call it a night!”

According to Dr. Stefanik, you should aim to get eight hours of sleep a night, particularly before a test. Plus, pulling an all-nighter is bound to leave you exhausted the next morning, and you’re more likely to reach for coffee or Red Bull, which Dr. Stefanik cautions against. “Avoid caffeinated drinks – they can worsen anxiety!” he says.

If you follow your study schedule, you shouldn’t be cramming the night before your test and you can get a good night’s sleep.

3. Exercise

If you don’t already, it’s a good idea to incorporate some light exercise into your daily routine to give your mind a chance to focus on something other than schoolwork. Dr. Stefanik recommends yoga to help ease anxiety.

Working out also increases endorphins, making you happier and less stressed. The next time you hit a study wall, head outside for a quick jog or a brisk walk to mix up your surroundings and take your mind off of the things that are stressing you out.

4. Visit your counseling center

While you obviously need to keep your body healthy, it’s just as important (if not more important!) to keep your mind healthy. If you suffer from test anxiety, it’s a good idea to visit your school’s counseling center to talk to someone.

College counselors can help you create a study schedule or plan of action for your next big test and may even help you receive extra time on your test if he or she feels as though you would benefit from it. Most college counselors can meet with you as often as you want, whether that’s once a week or just before midterms or finals.

If you consult with your counselor and find that you still experience test anxiety regularly, you might want to consider anti-anxiety medications. “If necessary, medications can be helpful,” Dr. Stefanik says. “[For example], there are beta blockers, which are used to treat blood pressure and reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety.” Of course, talk with your doctor before starting any medications!

5. Study smart

To give yourself plenty of time to prepare, go through your class syllabus and add the dates of any important tests or exams to your planner ahead of time. You should aim to start preparing for a test at least a week in advance, but the more time you have to study, the better. You may find it helpful to make study materials, like note cards and study guides, two weeks before an exam and then spend the week before the test actually studying to reduce last-minute stress.

When it comes to study skills, experiment with a few different techniques to find out what works for you. Try color-coding your notes or making flash cards, or try reading your notes out loud or have a friend quiz you with your flash cards so that you can hear the material out loud. Alternatively, try going through your notes and highlighting the important material and then creating a condensed study guide. Having one or two pages of crucial study material is much less daunting than flipping through 20 pages of scribbled notes!

6. Practice

As important as it is to study, the best way to prepare is to practice! Create your own practice test by finding unassigned questions in a textbook, or look online for questions related to your study material. Professors will often provide a practice test or a link to past tests online, so take advantage of those.

If possible, Dr. Stefanik recommends “taking the test in the same room as the real one, with the same time constraints.” Simulate the test environment by turning off your phone and isolating yourself in your classroom or in the library, and give yourself only the amount of time you will be allotted during the actual test. Don’t pause to look at your phone or check Facebook, and try to treat the test like the real thing!

7. Keep calm the day of the test

Before you get out of bed on the day of your test, try to breathe deeply and relax your body to set the tone for the day. Try guided meditation apps, like the Simply Being app. It’s only $0.99 and it offers a guided meditation for anywhere from five to 20 minutes. You can choose to meditate with a soothing voice and relaxing music or the sounds of the ocean, rain or a stream.

As difficult as it might be, don’t talk about the exam with anyone else before you take it (try headphones on the walk to the exam). If you run into a classmate who says he or she isn’t worried at all, you might start to feel insecure or stupid (obviously not true!), while talking to a classmate who is freaking out will only reinforce your fears about the test. Either way, talking to your classmates will only stress you out, so don’t do it!

It’s a good idea to take this quiet time before the exam to give yourself a little confidence boost by being optimistic. “In the third grade, my teacher had all of us write down [encouraging thoughts] before a test,” says Anais, a junior at the Savannah College of Art and Design. “It sounds pretty simple, but positivity can help influence how well you take tests.”

You might feel silly, but actually writing out encouraging thoughts, like, “You got this!” or, “I’m super nervous, but I studied as much as possible, and that’s the best I can do!” can help flush out feelings of anxiousness before a test to help you be able to focus on the material in front of you.

8. Don’t forget to breathe!

When you get to the classroom or lecture hall, remember to breathe. Anxiety often causes our breathing to become more rapid and more shallow, meaning our lungs aren’t taking in as much air as they should. To combat this, Dr. Stefanik recommends breathing with your diaphragm. Close your eyes and place one hand on your stomach and one on your chest and take five slow, deep breaths, breathing through your stomach and keeping the hand on your chest as still as possible. Do this before you sit down to study and right before you take your exam to center yourself.

9. Treat yourself after the test

Take a deep breath and give yourself a pat on the back, because you did it! Treat yourself, whether that means buying yourself a decadent Starbucks latte, getting a manicure or even just having a sweatpants-and-Netflix night with your roomie.

As stressful as college tests and exams can be, a little nervousness can actually be motivational if it’s kept at a reasonable level. If you prep for your next exam by staying healthy, developing good study habits and having a game plan for the day of the test, you’ll feel like the confident and in-control collegiette you know (and we know!) you are. 

As we've all heard by now, One Direction has decided to take a break from touring and being a band for a while (*sob*). With all that's happened, like Zayn's departure and Louis being a dad-to-be, it only makes sense that the boys need some time off.

The boys said that it has always been their plan to take a break, but their fans are worried about how that break will end. "People think being a pop star is glamorous, but it's exhausting and disorienting at their level," Radio 1's Nick Grimshaw told The Guardian. "They don't see the world—they just do press in different cities. They're men now, and need to experience some actual life."

Do you think the boys need some time to themselves, collegiettes? Will their "break" just be a break?

You guys, this is NOT a drill: WE HAVE A NEW BEYONCÉ SONG.

Okay, well, sort of. Naughty Boy (yes, the very one who was in the middle of all that Zayn Malik drama) just released "Runnin' (Lose It All)" featuring our girl Bey and Arrow Benjamin. It's been close to a year since we've been graced with new music from the Queen, so we'll take it—she does sing for most of it, so it's basically a new Beyoncé song.  

Beyoncé enters the track around 25 seconds in (you know, in case you want to skip straight to it)—the song starts out as a slow, emotional ballad as Bey croons, "These four lonely walls have changed the way I feel/ The way I feel/ I'm standing still/ And nothing else matters now, you are not here/ So where are you?/ I've been calling you/ I'm missing you." Though we could listen to that soulful voice for eternity, the beat picks up halfway through and gets even catchier. We're totally hooked—give the full song a listen, below!

It’s no secret that the fashion event of the year is always full of surprises—from Kanye’s controversial last-minute show to Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson (a.k.a Zoolander and Hansel) walking the runway at Valentino last season, fashion month is never short on the unexpected. So far, this season has been no exception. Our favorite surprise so far? One Project Runway designer’s plus size collection.

Yeah, you read that right! One of the six finalist collections shown at Project Runway’s NYFW show was designed exclusively for plus size women and modeled by plus size models on the catwalk. The catch? The Project Runway finalist responsible for the applause-inducing collection is actually still unknown. Because some of the show’s episodes haven’t aired yet, the collections at the runway show are shown anonymously to prevent spoilers about which contestants made it to the final round—and we, along with the rest of the fashion industry, are kind of dying to know which designer pulled off the killer collection.

The line featured gorgeous feminine frocks in look-at-me candy hues—think bright pink, deep turquoise, and even a look that featured a blue bandeau layered under a sheer pink lace dress. Pieces like a crop top and high-waisted skirt set and a romper with a cutout midriff were totally va-va-voom on the models’ curves. Oh, and can we talk about those Lana Del Rey-esque flower crowns? The entire collection not only added some body diversity to the runway, but it totally slayed while doing so.

In an industry that is making a slow move towards becoming more accepting of all body types, we’re super excited to see this step in the right direction—and we’re hoping that this is the push other NYFW designers need to start showing more diverse and inclusive collections next season! 

As busy college students, finding the time for proper nutrition can seem overwhelming. The health food trends that circulate magazines, blogs and even medical settings are constantly changing and it’s hard to know what kind of diet will keep you nourished and satisfied without leaving you broke or chained to the kitchen. However, when you break food down to the simplest, most nutrient-dense ingredients, healthy eating can finally become an easy task no matter how much school, work or everyday life gets in the way.

One of the easiest ways to gain the biggest health punch with the least amount of effort is to consistently incorporate “superfoods” into your diet. “A ‘superfood’ is a marketing term used to label a food that is packed with vitamins and minerals,” says Jennifer Calo, a dietitian with Compass Nutrition. Faye Mitchell, a dietitian and editor-in-chief of the online nutrition guide, Foodie on Campus, adds that superfoods achieve their label by “improving your health and lowering your risk of disease.” Stocking up on these ingredients will ensure that a healthy meal or snack is always within reach, all the while alleviating chaotic, puzzled trips to the grocery store We’ve gathered the ten superfoods every college girl should try to stock up on and an explanation of exactly why they are just so “super.”

1. Avocadoes

There are more reasons than ever to eat your beloved avocado toast. “Avocados are a wonderful source of monounsaturated fatty acids, potassium, lutein and fiber,” says Calo. While avocado is often lauded for the healthy fat that lends its buttery texture, you may not know that those oils actually help with vitamin absorption. Calo notes that these fat soluble vitamins include vitamin A, vitamin D and vitamin K. Use avocado in place of oils, butters or fatty spreads, like mayonnaise, to instantly make your diet more superfood accessible.

2. Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes are an essential superfood to keep on hand, especially since they are cheap, easy to make and taste far more delicious than a plain potato. Mitchell explains that sweet potatoes are high in fiber to help keep you full and keep blood sugar levels in check. She attests to their status as a superfood since “they can decrease chances of diabetes and increase memory.” Not to mention, they could lower your risk for cancer. “Rinse them, pierce them with a fork, microwave on high for eight to 10 minutes and top with Greek yogurt,” suggests Mitchell.

3. Berries

Berries in general provide loads of nutritional value, but certain varieties in particular earn their superfood title. Calo says raspberries are “the best choice for a fruit when trying to lose weight,” given their eight grams of fiber and only 60 calories with each serving. Vitamins and antioxidants are also beneficial products of berries. Blueberries in particular “contain the antioxidant anthocyanins, which decreases inflammation in the body and can even prevent arthritis,” says Calo. Top some yogurt with a handful of juicy berries, or if you're feeling adventurous, try some exotic, antioxidant-packed acai berries in your very own acai smoothie bowl.

4. Oats

While humble and in need of a little added pizazz, oats are nutrient powerhouses with high levels of fiber and protein. “Oats are whole grains and contain both insoluble and soluble fiber for healthy digestion,” says Mitchell. They will keep you full, protect your heart and help to prevent high blood pressure. Oats are also extremely versatile and can be incorporated into breakfast cereals with other superfoods (hello, blueberry oatmeal!) or baked into sweet treats for nutrition you won’t even detect. Mitchell also suggests buying unsweetened packets of instant oatmeal and adding your own natural sweetness to avoid the sugary, processed variations.

5. Spinach

Like all of its cousins in the leafy green family (we’re looking at you, kale), spinach has a great reputation among health critics. As one of the first so-called “superfoods” though, spinach deserves some special attention. Calo says that spinach is rich in potassium and magnesium, which can help reduce blood pressure, preserve bone mineral density and prevent kidney stones. In addition, one cup of spinach provides 60 percent of our required vitamin A, a nutrient Calo points out as essential for tissue growth. “Spinach is also a great source of iron,” she adds, “especially for vegetarians.” So toss it in a salad, wilt it over pasta or blend it up in a smoothie for an easy boost.

6. Salmon

Salmon is one protein that you may overlook when you take your weekly spin around the grocery store, but it’s definitely one to start including in your meal plan. “The American Heart Association recommends consumption of fatty fish two times a week for increased omega-3 fatty acids,” says Calo. Mitchell adds that salmon is a great source of protein, and provides the omega-3s we need for heart health, brain health and focus. Perhaps a salmon dinner is in order before that next math exam! It’s an easy protein to cook, and tastes delicious grilled or baked until flaky. Even if cooking salmon isn’t practical in your dorm set-up, Mitchell encourages you to order salmon when you treat yourself to a dinner out, or when parents want to spoil you on their next visit!

7. Cacao

If you have a chocolate craving you just can’t shake, you may be thrilled to find out that you can satisfy your desire while still getting major nutrition. Cacao is simply the unprocessed version of cocoa, and while cocoa offers some of the same benefits, try using the superfood counterpart in its place. Cacao is a great source of the antioxidant flavonoids which Calo says, “can decrease production of LDL, ‘bad cholesterol’.” She also points out that those flavonoids can also aid in cancer prevention and in decreasing inflammation in the body.

8. Seeds

Like nuts, seeds offer a big nutrition punch in even small amounts. Chia seeds, hemp seeds, flax seeds and pumpkin seeds are some of the varieties you might stock for uses ranging from tasty snacks, creamy breakfast puddings or crunchy salad toppings. Calo approves of their healthy fat content, and notes that “we need about 30 percent of our daily calories from healthy fats.” Each kind of seed offers its own unique “superpower,” so experiment with a variety for a diet abundant in nutrients. “Chia seeds are a complete protein,” says Mitchell, which means that they contain all of the essential amino acids your body needs. She also adds that nearly all seed varieties reduce inflammation. Seeds are great to include in homemade granola and trail mix, or can simply be sprinkled on top of oatmeal or yogurt for added crunch.

9. Yogurt

You have probably already heard about the magical power of yogurt, but there really is sound evidence behind the health craze. It “improves digestion because it contains probiotics, which boost our immune system,” says Calo. “We know that a healthy gut helps manage food cravings. It is also the perfect snack due to a combination of protein and carbohydrates.” Don’t go running to the nearest fro-yo store just yet though. Calo points out that many yogurt products are filled with sugar, and some can be highly processed. “I would only recommend plain Greek yogurt, such as Fage total, which contains 20 grams of protein and less than 10 grams of sugar,” she says. You can then add your own, natural sweetness with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey to satisfy a sugar craving.

10. Nuts

Mitchell praises all types of nuts as being the perfect food for busy college students. They are filled with healthy fat and protein, which she says is one nutrient young adults are often lacking in their diet. Nuts should be eaten in small portions, meaning that they are cost effective and provide good nutrition density for every serving. “Stock up on nut butters with no added sugars or salt,” Mitchell suggests. Then you can always have a snack on hand, like apple and peanut butter, almond butter toast or even a protein rich smoothie that includes a dollop of your favorite nut butter.

When you’re looking to stock up on nutritious foods to keep you healthy and strong through the school year, give special attention to these mighty superfoods. With just a couple added ingredients, you can take your diet from minimal to mighty.  

While we're trying to keep up with classes and have a social life, us collegiettes also have to determine what we're going to do with the rest of our lives. We're worrying about which major will make be the most lucrative (to pay off those loans!), but we also want field of study that we genuinely like. Unfortunately, it seems that even will all that planning, women, specifically those who attend Ivy Leagues, still fall short compared to men when it comes to yearly earnings.

According to the Huffington Post, the gap between genders on the pay scale is still as problematic as ever, as shown by the US Department of Education’s data, which tracked the income of those who took out federal student loans and enrolled in 2000 or 2001. Ten years after graduating, male Harvard graduates make approximately $53,600 more than female Harvard grads per year. The New York Times also reported that the widest gap between men and women grads was $58,100 per year at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and a chart they made shows huge differences at many top schools.

Choice of major seems to affect the pay gap. “Women overwhelmingly choose humanities and social sciences. Men choose engineering and computer science. The men are getting the big bucks,” Linda Babcock, an economics professor at Carnegie Mellon University, told the Huffington Post. “But that’s not necessarily because of inherent interest in the topics.” After 10 years CMU female grads earn about $76,000, while males earn a whopping $108,000. 

When men and women study in the same field, the gender pay gap is cut by half, but nonetheless still exists, Amelia Haviland, one of Babcock’s colleagues at Carnegie Mellon, told the Huffington Post. Even with more women than men declaring math as their major, women often end up becoming teachers, resulting in a lower salary than men, who become actuaries. The cause for the gap after graduating is also attributed to maternity leave, as starting a family isn’t exactly cheap.

Pretty disturbing that this gender gap is still so large, even at the highest levels of education. But it makes sense when you think about the tiny number of female CEOs, or books like Lean In that give advice in the hopes that it will get more women into top positions. This new data just shows that college women still have a lot to fight for!

Studying abroad is an amazing experience – which is something you’ve probably been told by anyone who’s studied abroad. But, like any other experience, your time abroad will be what you make of it. While there are tons of opportunities to make your time abroad an amazing experience, there are also opportunities for it to go awry, and you may not realize it until the deed has been done. Lucky for you, we’ve gathered advice from collegiettes who have studied abroad to help you make the most of your time and avoid the common pitfalls. Here are the nine most common study abroad mistakes to avoid!

1. Not budgeting your money

Everyone knows that studying abroad can be expensive, but there are always ways to save. Budgeting your money before you even get to your destination is the first step to avoiding spending too much.

“One of my biggest regrets was not budgeting myself from the beginning,” says Carolyn Mullen, a senior at Saint Joseph’s University, who studied abroad in Italy. “I was so excited when I got to Rome that I didn’t even think about my spending!”

Start off on the right foot by creating a budget for yourself. Set aside a certain amount per week for groceries, travel expenses and fun things. Starting from the beginning will allow you to disperse your budget, making sure that you don’t run out halfway through the semester!

“I wish I spent less money on shopping and more on experiences,” says Emily Smoot, a junior at Clemson University who studied in London. It’s inevitable that your budget will be drained, but at least make sure the money is going where you want it to go. Cute shops and department stores are tempting, but think about the regrets you’ll have when you arrive home with an extra suitcase but not many memorable experiences. Cut your budget down on the shopping expenses and allot yourself a little more for travels and experiences.

2. Not traveling enough

Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so make sure you take advantage of the opportunities! If you’re in a European country, consider jetting away to London or Paris – cities that aren’t too far away – for a weekend while you have the chance. If you don’t take advantage of the cheap and easy travel, you might end up regretting it when you return home and are itching to leave. Living in a different country isn’t only an opportunity to experience one culture, but also an opportunity to visit several.

“Even though my budget didn’t [always] allow for it, I wish I had traveled a bit more,” Emily says.

You often don’t get the chance to jet away when we’re at home, so make sure you don’t regret missing out on the unique opportunity. We know traveling is expensive, but there are ways around the hefty costs. Spend less money on going out and save up for a weekend trip. Plan early and take advantage of budget airlines, buses and trains. Stay in hostels instead of checking yourself into a hotel. There are tons of ways to cut down on travel expenses, so don’t let the big numbers get you down!

3. Not meeting new people

When you’re getting ready to go abroad, it’s hard to keep from dreaming of all the charming foreign friends you’re going to meet – but unfortunately that’s not always how it goes. A lot of study abroad programs group Americans and other international students together, so it can be hard to branch out. Keeping to yourself and your group of friends can hinder your experience, so be sure to make an effort to socialize with the locals!

Elise Chaffiotte, a senior at the University of Scranton who studied in Florence for a month, says that she traveled around with a group of girls from school, and as a result, ended up spending most of her time with them. “Having them as a safety net, I didn’t really branch out to become friends with the locals,” she says.

There’s nothing wrong with sharing your study abroad experience with friends from home, but try to take advantage of the situation and befriend locals and other international students. “I met and became friends with students from other U.S. schools, [and] even though I was with mostly Americans, I feel like I really submerged myself into Italian culture,” Elise says.

Try to branch out by putting yourself out there, remaining open-minded and immersing yourself in the culture!

4. Not immersing yourself in the culture

Speaking of which – not immersing yourself in the culture of your study abroad country is another pitfall to avoid. It’s easy to slip into habits from home and end up locking yourself in your room with snacks and a good rom-com, so try to avoid that at all costs. You only have a small amount of time in this country, so do your best to take advantage of what it has to offer!

Elise points out that immersing yourself in the culture is a really important aspect of studying abroad. “Waking up to go to the morning market, going to the local bars and eating the cuisine of the area – it's best to participate in local activities as if you actually lived there,” she says.

Elise says that even though she wasn’t fluent in Italian, she still tried to speak the language. “Even if you only speak at a beginner level, you should still try to speak their language,” she says. “You’re in their county, so it is best to try!”

Immerse yourself in your new country’s culture by checking out local events, eating the signature foods and trying your hand at speaking the language.

5. Not taking risks

Studying abroad is an experience you only have once, so do your best to make the most of it! It’s a time to explore new places and experience things you might not have a chance to in your home country. In reality, what you’ll probably regret most are the things you didn’t do – so take risks!

“I made the best of my experience by embracing new things,” Elise says. “Instead of second-guessing myself and turning down opportunities, I said yes.”

If you’re offered an opportunity to travel to a nearby city or even just go out for drinks with the locals, say yes! You’re more likely to regret the opportunities that you didn’t take than the ones that you did. “Take advantage of every and any opportunity you get,” Elise says. “[After all], you're only abroad for so long!”

6. Not exploring your host city

While you should consider how easy it might be to jet off to another city for the weekend, it’s also a good idea to get to know your new home. It’s not every day that you’ll be able to pick up your life and move yourself to a new city, so make sure to explore your temporary home while you can.

A number of collegiettes who studied abroad regret not spending their time exploring their new city. “I wish I had found little hole-in-the-wall random stores and coffee shops,” Emily says. “Just by walking along streets [I could have wandered] into whatever I came to.”

Semesters abroad are notoriously easy in the academic department (though not for everyone!), so take advantage of your free time between school and travels to get to know your new town. Take walks, look up hidden gems and explore the nooks and crannies of your city.

7. Partying too much

A younger drinking age and plethora of bars and clubs can be tempting to incoming Americans, but make sure you’re not spending too much time at the pub! Not only can partying drain your wallet and hinder your health, but it can have a negative impact on your whole experience. Emily says she wishes she had “gone out more during the day and a little less at night.” Sure, exploring your city’s nightlife is an important part of your experience, but make sure it’s not taking up all of your nights!

If you want to get your party fix, invite friends to your apartment for drinks and snacks to save time and money. Going out once in a while won’t hurt, but try not to make a habit out of it!

8. Taking class too seriously

Now don’t get us wrong, class is a very important aspect of studying abroad (hence the “studying” part of the phrase), but keep in mind that academics aren’t the only reason why you’re there. You’re much more likely to look back on your travels and new friends rather than the essays you turned in! It’s important to be a part of your school and observe how education varies in different cultures, but don’t stress too much about classwork.

Emily’s advice for future study abroad students is to not worry so much about school. “I know that sounds crazy, but a huge part of the study abroad experience is meeting new people, trying new things and visiting new places,” she says. While you should no doubt be doing your work and attending exams, don’t be afraid to prioritize new experiences.

“The whole experience is completely eye-opening and exciting, [and] you don’t want to miss out on something that’s probably a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Emily says.

9. Putting your health on the backburner

Luxurious flights? New destinations? Sounds like a vacation, right? Wrong! Studying abroad can feel like a getaway at times, but you shouldn’t always treat it like a holiday. Make sure you keep up with your healthy habits and workout regimen. “It [might] feel like a vacation, but it’s still important to work out,” Carolyn says. “Even just a walk or run around the city [can burn off a few extra calories]!”

It’s easy to develop new habits in a new location, so make sure those habits are positive (like eating healthy and working out regularly) rather than negative (like eating gelato and hitting the pub every day). Go out on exploratory walks, join a gym or go for a quick run in the local park to work off those extra calories. You won’t regret it when you return home in tip-top shape!

With that said, it’s time to have a fulfilling study abroad experience! This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so take advantage of it and try not to suffer the common pitfalls. Follow these collegiettes’ advice for a satisfying and regret-free study abroad experience!

As young women planning out our paths to career superstardom, it's always important to look at how our role models got to where they are today. The amazing ladies of Fortune's Most Powerful Women of 2015 list didn't all get their power from the same school. They include influential women from all different diciplines -- like Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook; Kathleen Kennedy, president of Lucasfilm; and Marianne Lake, CFO of J.P. Morgan Chase --  and it may be surprising that only nine out of the 50 women graduated from Ivy League schools. But one entry on the list won't surprise you at all -- #51, Taylor Swift, became successful without even attaining a degree.

Thirty-two percent of these women went to public colleges, and 36 percent went to private schools. Six of the women even got their undergraduate degrees abroad, in countries such as India, South Africa and the United Kingdom. Thinking about more school after undergrad? Over half of the women have graduate degrees, but only one woman on the list, Irene Rosenfeld (#9), has a doctorate.

The full list of where this year's Most Powerful Women went to college can be found here.

Pretty cool to see how these incredible women got to where they are. What does this data mean to you, collegiettes?

After the debut of the Brownie Batter Oreos that made us fall in love (again) with cookie dough, Oreo is at it again! But this time, our new love affair will be entirely tropical.

Seventeen reports that the new Oreo flavor is Toasted Coconut! The flavor was first spotted at the grocery store Meijer and has been receiving rave reviews. The filling is sandwiched in between two vanilla cookies and apparently tastes of pure coconut. It's even got mini coconut flakes in it to further prove its delicious authenticity.

While the cookies are part of the limited edition lineup, it’s still safe to say that we will take whatever limited amount of the tropics we can get before winter approaches—and who knows what Oreo flavor will be snowing down on us then?

Ellie Goulding has been on everything from our party playlists (remember her collab with Calvin Harris?) to our collection of ~*LoVe~ songs (you know, "Love Me Like You Do"). Needless to say, we're obsessed with everything she does so when she released her new single "On My Mind" yesterday, we sort of freaked.

Though early rumors suggested the song might be about her alleged ex Ed Sheeran, but Ellie Goulding was quick to shut those down. She told Elle UK that she and Ed were never even an item to begin with (though she did admit to going on a few dates with Niall at one point!), and she recently gave an interview to MTV News addressing the question as to whether or not the lyrics in "On My Mind" have anything to do with Ed Sheeran's "Don't."

"On My Mind" will be featured on her third studio album Delirium, which is slated to be released in early November—and we can't wait. If Halcyon and Lights are any indication of Ellie's success, we already know Delirium will be a hit!