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Are There Too Many Extracurriculars on Your Resume?

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Do you find yourself struggling to balance all of your after school activities? Are you feeling a little overwhelmed––a la Paris Gellar from Gilmore Girls? If you’re having trouble fitting all your credentials on your resume or college application, you may be guilty of overloading your plate. Lucky for you, we’ve consulted with collegiettes and experts to help you narrow down your list and still show your best side!

Limit yourself

While it can be tempting to go over that one-page limit for a resume, it’s important to limit yourself. A college admissions counselor or potential employer should be able to glance over your resume in just a few seconds, so it’s crucial that you don’t overload it with information.

Set yourself a goal for how many activities you’ll include. You should generally stick to three or four positions, especially if you’re planning on going into more detail in your bullet points.

Katherine Burik, bestselling author and career coach at Interview Doctor, says your resume should tell a story. “If you have too much [on your resume], then the reader can’t figure out whether the experience is relevant to the problem that the hiring manager is trying to solve,” says Burik. “The reader becomes overwhelmed and moves on to the next resume that might be easier to read or tells a story that is more in line with the hiring manager’s needs.”

Tailor to the position

When you’ve participated in many activities, you have a lot of options as to what your resume can look like. This is a great advantage to have––it allows you to tailor your resume to each position you’re applying to!

For example, if you’re applying for an internship within your local government, you should showcase your most relevant extracurricular activities, such as student government, on your resume. On the other hand, if you’re applying for a job at a local newspaper, you might want to showcase your role in your school’s yearbook.

Burik says that her daughter participated in many clubs and activities during her time in high school. “When it came time to create her resume, we retained the activities and leadership roles that supported the kind of job she wanted,” she says. They kept the most important roles, like four years on debate team, service projects and leadership roles, but “left off some of the other miscellaneous activities that didn’t help, even though she enjoyed the experiences.”

Knowing the job you’re applying to will definitely help you narrow down your list of activities. Take a good look at the position description and key qualifications that the employer is looking for and compare them to the activities you’ve participated in.

Related: 6 Unique Extracurriculars That Will Make You Stand Out On College Apps

Consider the date of participation

It’s not only important to consider what you participated in, but also to consider when you participated. The dates of your involvement should be stated on your resume for each extracurricular you list.

While most of the activities you participated in throughout high school are relevant, it’s important to pay attention to when you were involved in them. For example, an extracurricular you’ve been involved with for the past three years will stand out more than an extracurricular you participated in for a semester during your freshman year.

While time logged in an activity is certainly something to be considered, sometimes it can be outweighed by other factors. Even if you only participated in student council for a year, the position is extremely relevant, so it might take priority over another activity you spent more time doing. You have to use your judgment to decide on the activities that are the most important.

Consider your role

Equally as important as the organization itself is your role in the organization. Potential employers and college admissions counselors are not only looking at what kinds of activities you participated in, but how you participated. For example, the title of “President” will often hold a lot more value than the title of “member,” especially if there are many other members.

“Leadership roles [on a resume] show me that the student can work well with others and is respected by colleagues,” says Burik. “This person might be easy to work with and have an opinion. If the person had a gazillion activities, I might wonder if he or she would have time for me.”

If you've held any leadership positions in your extracurricular activities, consider adding these to your resume. If you were captain of a sports team, vice president of the math team, or treasurer of student council, don’t be afraid to tack it on to your resume. A top position holds a lot of weight and shows that you can be a leader.

“It is not necessary to tell every single detail of your life [on your resume],” says Burik. “Highlight the items that tell your story and support your claim that you can do what you say you can do, which is what the hiring manager needs.”

While the process of putting all of your activities onto a piece of paper might seem overwhelming, it can be quite simple! Take advantage of your options and tailor your resume to the position you’re applying for. Be sure to keep in mind when and how you participated, and weigh these things against how important the organization might be. Once you’re done, you’ll have it narrowed down so it all fits on your resume!


When They Won't Commit: How to Survive a 'Not-Relationship'

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You’re going on dates, you’re texting 24/7, you’ve met each other’s friends and you’re hooking up on the reg. Relationship perfection, right? Think again. Instead, you’re “taking it slow” and “seeing where it goes.” And don’t you dare even mutter the word “commitment!” If only this wasn’t code for heartbreak. We asked relationship experts for advice on how to deal with this common dating dilemma.

The situation

It’s happened to so many of us—we’re “seeing” someone who refuses to put a label on whatever is going on between us, and dodges the conversation every time we try to bring it up. Sarah*, a senior at the University of Virginia, dealt with this during her sophomore year, when she met a guy in one of her classes. The two were assigned as partners for a project, and after spending a lot of time together and hitting it off, they began to hang out outside of the project. “I was sure he would be my next boyfriend,” Sarah says. “But after about five months of seeing each other, I learned how wrong I was when I asked him where the relationship was going. He told me that he wasn’t looking for anything serious and he wasn’t ready to be committed to anyone.” Ugh, we feel your pain, Sarah. But what can we do not to find ourselves in this situation?

How to avoid it

Know what you want

According to Dr. Wendy Walsh, a clinical psychologist and author of The 30-Day Love Detox, the first step of entering a relationship is to understand what you want out of it and be honest with yourself. If you expect long-term commitment, don’t assume that your partner (or whatever he or she is) is on the same page. You must absolutely communicate it from the start, without fear of “scaring him or her away.”

Of course, a first date is probably not the best time to bring up the fact that you want a relationship, but you should feel comfortable sharing how you feel once you are ready. There are plenty of ways to do this without sounding “crazy.” Try saying something like, “I’m kind of tired of the same old relationship that ends before even becoming a relationship. I’m ready to put my all into something a little bit more meaningful.” If he or she does not want the same thing, it might be disappointing, but at least the relationship will end before you get attached. Although it would be nice, your SO can’t read your mind.

Don’t make it seem like it’s just physical

Another one of Dr. Walsh’s essential dating tips answers a question many of us find ourselves asking: If I have sex with my significant other too soon, will it change the course of the relationship? There are lots of myths out there, like the ridiculous “three-date” rule that makes it seem like we should always have sex on the third date. While it would be nice to have a foolproof timeline to follow, it all depends on the situation.

For Dr. Walsh, for a relationship to be meaningful and lasting, sex should happen when trust is formed. When two people know each other and feel comfortable enough to open up to one another, they are ready to take it to the next level. This creates an intimate bond. If you have sex before you and your partner trust each other, the relationship will seem more physical than emotional and may very well continue down this path.

Derek*, a junior at East Carolina University, confirms that he would get the wrong idea if sex happened too early in the relationship. “If a girl has sex with me on our first date, the likelihood of committing to her is a lot smaller,” Derek says. “I’m not saying that I would think less of her, but it gives me the idea that she wants the relationship to be physical. If I don’t have to wait, it’s not as special.” This circles back to being honest with yourself and your partner: a casual hookup or FWB relationship can be really fun and fulfilling, but if you want more, you need to express it from the start.

When to break things off

But what if you are already in a not-relationship? When it comes to determining whether it’s time to break up, you should trust your intuition. “It's less about how long you have known each other, and more about how much time you have spent getting to know each other,” says Stephan Labossiere, a certified life and relationship coach, public speaker and best-selling author. “It is really hard to quantify that.”

A good rule of thumb is that “when you feel you have allowed this person to learn who you are, then it's time to make a decision,” Labossiere adds. “If the other person isn't ‘ready to commit,’ then you walk away. At this point, the issue is within them, and may simply be an indication that they don't view you as someone they want to ‘take themselves off of the market’ for. So walk away in confidence, and focus on you.” If he or she can’t see how great you are, this relationship isn’t worth your time anyway.

If you're upfront with your “sort of SO” and he or she wants to be with you, the relationship-status change you’ve been waiting for is probably only a matter of time. But if you’re not okay with the relationship continuing without a label, and your SO is showing no sign of wanting to take it any further, it may be time to let go. The emotional torture of staying in a relationship that's going nowhere is NOT worth it. So keep your head high and do what’s best for you, because you can't wait forever.

Ellen DeGeneres Will Receive the People's Choice Humanitarian Award

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It seems like everything Ellen DeGeneres touches turns to gold. While yes, her sense of humor is most likely what crosses your mind when you hear her name, she’s now getting credit for something other than her wit.

Earlier this week, it was revealed that DeGeneres would be this year's recipient of the People’s Choice Favorite Humanitarian Award. The awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday, January 6th, airing at 9 PM on CBS.

According to Huffington Post Entertainment, this award is accompanied by a donation of $200,000 to a fund of DeGeneres’ choice, which in this case, is St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Despite her successful acting and TV career, DeGeneres has certainly made her mark in the world of philanthropy. Her famous talk show, Ellen, has multiple giveaways that nominate “deserving people in need.” Before the end of 2015, she surprised a school in Memphis, TN with $5,000 worth of rain gear, and $50,000 to help fund the education of the students at the school. Along with this, according to Look to the Stars, she supports at least 45 charities including the Humane Society, and strongly advocates for ones with the focus of improving the lives of those impacted by natural disasters. 

She’s made not only her dreams come true, but the dreams of thousands of others possible due to her generous spirit. If you’re interested in learning more about the organizations she supports, check out EllensOrganizations

What to Do If You Find Yourself Unemployed in Your 20s

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Your twenties are confusing enough, with college graduation, career aspirations and a wide-open playing field that forces you to straddle the line between student and adult. Thanks to your four-year degree and repertoire of extracurricular activities, you’ve landed your first (or maybe even second) big girl job and have gained valuable skills and experiences that will follow you for life. You barely remember that period of post-graduation unemployment—those days are history.

Or maybe they're not.

For millennials, joblessness in our twenties is much more common than it was for preceding generations. In fact, data has shown that we’re nearly three times more likely to be unemployed than the rest of the population. Whether unemployment opens new doors for your career success or it completely blindsides you, you will be faced with feelings and challenges that you've likely never experienced.

Fear not, girlfriend, because you are not alone. We’ve compiled bits of wisdom from virtuosos Emily Miethner, President and Founder of FindSpark, a career development community for young creatives, and Vicki Salemi, author of ‘Big Career in the Big City’ and career expert for Monster, to help you land your next big gig.

Related: 6 Ways to Work From Home (& Actually Get Things Done!)

1. Change social profiles to offer an accurate portrayal of your current position

First and foremost, the changes you make to your LinkedIn profile and/or digital portfolio will depend on your future job objectives.

For those who are serious about finding a new job immediately, consider changing your LinkedIn headline to show networks that you are available and ready to become an asset to their team. A simple “Seeking New Opportunities” shows that you are open to new positions without disclosing too much information, and may help job seekers identify you as a potential new hire.

For those who would rather keep their current employment status under wraps, “position yourself as your own company by making your part-time, side passion your current job title,” offers Emily. Whether you’re versed as a freelance writer, blogger, or eBay top seller, nearly every side skill will be transferable in your next position.

Related: 5 Ways to Fight Senioritis & Land a Job After Graduation

2. Hustle your heart out

Create, or build off of a preexisting side project. Endeavors may include a blog, Etsy shop, band or full-blown business, and can be any project that requires your original creativity and demonstrates your dedication to unique objectives that can be transferable throughout the workplace.

“I met a guy at a networking event who was an eBay shop owner for 9 years. He was known for being a consistent top-seller, and always had that strong reputation to follow him,” says Emily. In addition to demonstrating such leadership skills, side businesses can offer a financial cushion for when you don't have a steady paycheck and, even better, an additional source of income when you lock in your next position.  

3. Network smarter, not harder

“It’s just as important to pound the pavement as it is to pound the keyboard,” says Emily. Make sure the time and effort you spend in the digital world is complemented with face-to-face interaction. In fact, offline networking is becoming far too overlooked by our ever-growing screen-savvy generation.

Combat the trap of isolating yourself behind the computer screen by attending events and scheduling informational interviews at least once a week. From formal industry meet-ups and conferences to casual drink-and-draws, make sure you’re giving employers a face and personality to associate with your resume.

But don’t stop there. Continuing connecting with new individuals via LinkedIn and remind them of your introduction. “Never discount people who don’t have something for you presently, because you never know where those connections may take you in the future,” Emily says.

4. Never underestimate the power of pre-existing relationships

Reconnect with people from your past or in your desired career field—whether they are old bosses, colleagues, intern friends or professors—and update them on your current situation. Not only will these individuals be able to offer a recommendation, but they're likely to keep you in mind for upcoming opportunities.

“I spoke with friends at companies I was interested in like TJX, and sought networking opportunities through relationships with my co-workers at my part-time job with Baxter’s Fine Jewelry,” states Marie Audette, collegiette from the University of Rhode Island. “Eventually those conversations and connections helped me land my current job at Hearts on Fire Jewelry in Boston, but without them I wouldn’t have had my first phone interview.” 

Related: How to REALLY Use Social Media to Get Hired

5. Leverage this time to explore personal pursuits

Don’t feel as if your unemployment downtime needs to be entirely focused on your professional pursuits. “When I worked in recruiting, it was refreshing to hear that a candidate pursued a trip overseas, a culinary passion, or anything he or she found enjoyable and now had time to commit [to]," Vicki says.

Take the time to enroll in an online class, such as HTML coding, to further enhance your current skill set or introduce you to something completely new. With sites like Lynda.com, an online education company that offers thousands of video courses in creative, business and software skills, and Coursera, a network of free online courses from 140 institutions throughout the world, a new breadth of education is literally at your fingertips.

6. Keep track of job applications

If Excel isn’t your best friend already, it will be now. Stay on top of all of your search efforts by creating a detailed spreadsheet that notes important application moves and contact methods. “When did you apply, what’s the job title and description, when and how did you follow up, and what was the employer’s response?” Vicki suggests you ask yourself.

The more organized you are, the more streamlined and efficient your job search will be. Not only that, but a record of your experience will enlighten you to an employer’s hiring habits. Although each position has its own unique hiring timeline, an understanding of the entire process can ease potential anxiety and feelings of unsettlement regarding job updates.

7. Spend more time on fewer applications

Truth: it can be scary to limit the number of positions you apply to when you're desperate for a job, but submitting fewer applications does not mean you have a lesser chance of getting hired.

In fact, sending out the same resume and cover letter to countless positions may keep you “busy,” but don’t confuse activity with productivity. Instead, try spending the same amount of time with more focus and take more time to follow up. “Aim for a smaller number of jobs and you’ll get further along,” Emily states.

8. Be honest, but brief about your history with potential employers

“When employers ask about your employment history, add in your unemployment the same way you would any other line item—but be brief,” Vicki advises.

If there is a period of unemployment greater than six months on your resume, simply add one succinct line such as, “Took time off to search for new opportunities” and explain your personal growth endeavors. “One of the first questions a hiring manager will ask is how you spent that time,” Vicki continues. “Employers are typically not so concerned about the gap, but rather how you maximized that time in terms of your professional and personal development.”

9. Be calculated about your next step

On average, it takes a long time to find a new job—typically months—so understand that when you do step foot in the next door, you’ll likely be staying for a while. “I encourage people to not rush into something if they don’t have to, because it’s a shame to get stuck in a role and realize that it’s not good for you,” says Emily.

So how do you explore your options? Take advantage of temporary roles and/or full-time fellowship and rotational programs that expose you to a range of departments.

“FindWorks offers fellowship programs at major companies including L’Oréal, which are full-time, paid experiences,” says Emily. Not only will these experiences expose you to different companies, but also different management structures. “What types of people do you want to be around? What type of work environment do you work best under?” she continues.

Don’t rush through these considerations out of desperation, but rather utilize this time as an opportunity to learn about your working habits and preferences and find an environment that will foster your growth in the workplace.

10. Lastly, be realistic

Keep in mind that most people do not land all the jobs they apply for. “It’s just a shared numbers game,” Emily says. Find reassurance in the fact that once you get known, opportunities will fly. “Think of [professional] bumps as new beginnings,” Vicki adds. “Sometimes it’s very challenging to see the gift and re-direction in the midst of unemployment, but the only way out is through,” so stay persistent with writing the next chapter of your career.

Keep your head up, shoulders back, and expectations high for yourself because the time you spend unemployed is completely what you make of it. Trust that things will fall into place, regardless of how long the process may take.

T.I.’s Fashion Brand Releases Short Film Shedding Light on Violence & Racism

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It’s awesome to see celebrities using their platforms to promote awareness, so we love the message rapper T.I. is sending with his clothing label AKOO. The brand recently released a campaign video for its 11x HUMAN collection, which helps to shed light on violence and racism. 

The video, directed by John Merizalde and narrated by Michael “Killer Mike” Render from Run the Jewels, shows the impact violence and racism has on individuals and communities. It begins by asking questions, such as “If not us, then who? And if not now, when?” It goes on to show a young black man being chased by the police and other striking scenes. The film also focuses on poignant moments between friends and family.

Merizalde told AdWeek, “The campaign pushes a sense of social consciousness and responsibility around issues of racial violence, urging a sense of shared humanity as a way of counteracting increased brutality.” Sabai Burnett, Vice President of Marketing at AKOO, also shared, “Our goal was to be reflective of the violence that we inflict on our own community and not just limit the focus on external factors such as poverty, poor education, and the actions of the police. This films is the crescendo of our artistic viewpoint—heavily graphic and unapologetic.” 

It’s amazing to see a fashion campaign do more than just try to sell clothes. The social justice issues AKOO has tried to highlight in their campaign are ones that need to be discussed more often if we can ever hope to resolve them. We're looking forward to seeing if this campaign inspires more celebrities and fashion brands to use their fame to promote awareness and discourse about such important issues.

40 Nutella Recipes That Will Give You Life

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How to Revive Dull, Dreary Winter Skin

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Does winter have your skin feeling dull and dreary? Put an end to dry, lifeless skin and say hello to the healthy skin you had in sunnier days. We talked to Dr. Tony Nakhla, “America’s Dermatologist,” to find the best treatments and products to make your skin beautiful again. With these tips and tricks, your face and body will be glowing in no time.

1. Exfoliate

Exfoliating your skin is extremely important to get rid of any dead skin you may have. This allows the face to reflect more light, which will make it appear brighter.

Exfoliating means using a wash or peel to scrub away dead skin cells. The best way to exfoliate is to rub your skin in circular motions—always do this before moisturizing!

“Gentle exfoliation should be done nightly with either a warm washcloth or a gentle facial brush,” Dr. Nakhla says. “Stronger exfoliation may be done at a professional's office once a month using stronger agents like chemical peels or microdermabrasion.”

Try using bliss’s That’s Incredi-‘Peel’ ($49 at bliss) for a quick and easy way to renew your skin without irritation. Whether you exfoliate at home or get it done by a dermatologist, your smooth, bright skin will have you looking like a whole new woman.

2. Lock in the moisture

Keeping your skin hydrated is crucial, especially in the cooler months. Moisturize your skin in the morning and at night, and dry, flaky skin will be no more.

“Morning moisturizing should be done with an SPF-containing moisturizer,” Dr. Nakhla says. “Nightly moisturizing should be with a moisturizer rich in antioxidants.” Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer ($14.99 at Aveeno) is perfect to even out your skin tone and texture and create a bright, beautiful look. For extremely dry skin, Aveeno Positively Radiant Intensive Night Cream ($14.99 at Aveeno) works while you’re sleeping to revive dull and dreary skin.

Drinking at least eight cups of water a day and eating a well-balanced diet will also keep your skin glowing and hydrated.

3. Brighten it up

Sometimes it feels like no matter how much you exfoliate and moisturize, winter is still taking a toll on your skin. In this case, using a brightening mask could be your solution. For extra hydration and a smooth, bright result, boscia Bright White Mask ($38 at Sephora) is a good choice.

This treatment’s brightening ingredients soothe and hydrate your skin, leaving you with an even, radiant complexion. Advanced whitening ingredients in the mask brighten your complexion and make your skin appear healthy and soft. Some cream masks wash off after 10-20 minutes, while sheet masks are filled with serum and cut to shape your face for one-time use. Pampering yourself after a long, work-filled week has never been so easy.

4. Fake it till you make it

Without the summer sun and trips to the beach, our skin may be a bit paler than we’d like. To restore the summer glow you had without the dangerous rays of a tanning bed, use a self-tanner like Jergens Natural Glow Healthy Complexion Daily Facial Moisturizer ($9.99 at Ulta) on your face. This will gradually create a natural-looking tan. To make sure your face matches your body, use a body equivalent such as Jergens Natural Glow Revitalizing Daily Moisturizer ($8.09 at Drugstore.com). A little color may be just what you need to brighten up your complexion. You’ll be looking like a beach babe in no time!

5. Cleanse with oil

Washing your face every day is extremely important. During the winter, oil cleansers are super effective because they are gentle and help hydrate your skin. Shiseido Ultimate Cleansing Oil ($25 at Sephora) is a good option. This cleanser can be used on the face and body and removes makeup and other products.

Oil cleansers are great for moisturizing all types of skin; oil dissolves oil. This product will create a whole new you!

6. Use cream-based foundation

Since winter tends to make skin extra dry, ditch your powder foundation for a cream-based one. Powders are more drying and can make your face appear dusty or flaky if your skin isn’t completely hydrated.

“Cream-based foundations may provide better water retention in the skin,” Dr. Nakhla says.

Make Up For Ever HD Invisible Cover Foundation ($43 at Sephora) is the perfect foundation for any skin type or tone. Its liquid formula will cover imperfections while making your skin appear full and hydrated.

Another problem with using last year’s makeup into the winter is that “old makeup may contain bacteria and expired ingredients that should be discarded,” Dr. Nakhla says. So replace your old makeup for an even better and healthier look!

7. Highlighter is your best friend

If you’re looking for a simple makeup trick that will save your lifeless winter skin, you’re in luck. A highlighting blush like the one from NARS in Albatross ($30 at NARS) is the perfect tool to illuminate your skin and create instant radiance. Simply apply the blush to your cheekbones for a light-reflecting glow and dimension. This will complement sparkly eye shadow perfectly for a night out on the town!

With these treatments and products, your skin will be revived and healthy before you know it. Take care of your skin and find the right tools to help you keep your summer glow all year round. Bye-bye, dull and dreary skin! 

What You Need To Know About North Korea's Nuclear Test

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North Korea flexed its nuclear power yesterday by claiming to conduct a nuclear test of a hydrogen bomb, announcing to the world that the autocratic nation isn't messing around. 

"We will not give up a nuclear program as long as the U.S. maintains its stance of aggression," the Korean Central Television announcer stated to cheers from the crowds in Pyongyang.

The real question analysts want to know: Did it really happen? It's difficult to tell behind the closed doors of the state. The reported test time does correlate with a significant "seismic event" detected, however, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, matching a similar one from a 2013 nuclear test. With so much of the North Korean regime dependent on maintaining a facade of strength and invulnerability, the announcement of the new hydrogen bomb could be a hoax intended to stir fear and patriotism in its own citizens. 

North Korea's warlike engagement pattern remains consistent. According to Foreign Affairs,"The 'Pyongyang Playbook' goes as follows: Offer a fake overture of peace; raise the stakes for your foes with a provocation; act unstable and threaten to escalate even further; and finally, call for talks and act reasonable." Pyongyang continues to focus on military might, blustering, and establishing its legitimacy among its own people. Raising the stakes with a new nuclear capability continues the cycle we've seen before. 

That doesn't mean officials aren't taking it seriously. If the claim is true, it would mark the fourth nuclear test since 2006 and a huge step forward in nuclear capability, according to the BBC, alarming many in the region and beyond. Condemned by U.N. Secretary-General Ban-ki-moon, an emergency meeting of the U.N. Security Council took place mid-day Wednesday to decide how to respond to the situation. Analysts agree that the state has at least a dozen warheads, though the number may be as high as 20. This takes their nuclear program from a possibility to a very scary reality.

In the region, alliances remain complicated. China remains the only "friendly" nation to North Korea, but it opposes the nuclear tests and has the leverage as an ally to stem the creation of a nuclear peninsula. Analysts like Victor Cha, Georgetown Professor and former Director for Asian Affairs in the White House, point to China's unwillingness to enforce sanctions against the state, however, as a reason these tests continue. A successful test could signal stronger ties between the two nations than was originally thought. It's a tricky balance between pressure and influence, one that makes Western leaders uneasy, according to CNN.

Ultimately, a successful test showcases increased nuclear capabilities and could mark changing power relationships in the region, potentially influencing larger conflicts through sale of arms in Syria and other parts of the Middle East. It will take several days for experts to confirm what really happenned, but for now, we know one thing: North Korea has the world's attention.
 

What Would You Tell Your Younger Self About Sex?

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What advice do you have for girls today about sex? That’s what Peggy Orenstein, author of the upcoming book GIRLS & SEX, wants to know. Her team is making a crowdsourced promotional video for the book, and you could be featured! This is a cool opportunity to get real about a topic that’s still hard for a lot of girls to talk about honestly.

All you have to do is make a quick video of yourself answering one of the prompts listed here and submit it by Friday, Jan. 15. You must be 18 or older to participate.

Click here for detailed instructions on how to submit your video!

This Deleted 'Harry Potter' Scene Shows Draco Malfoy Like You've Never Seen Him Before

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The world of Harry Potter refuses to stop surprising us. A never-seen-before deleted scene has been excavated from the franchise and it has to do not with the boy wizard, but Hogwarts’ favorite bad boy. 

Originally filmed for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, the scene depicts Draco Malfoy (played by Tom Felton) aiding Harry briefly in his final battle against Lord Voldemort—counting as a moment of redemption for Harry’s blonde academic rival.


It's made pretty clear that Draco is unsure of where his loyalties lie; his reluctance to join the Dark Side and his clear discomfort at that hug from Voldemort visibly demonstrate his inability to make up his mind. We've been hoping all along that Draco was one of the good ones... and this clip proves that he really might be on Potter's side. Check it out below:

So why did filmmakers cut this touching scene? One explanation says those who didn't read the books might not have realized that, through a twisted series of events, Harry was already the master of the Elder wand; if you recall, he'd disarmed Malfoy earlier in the last installment. (Adding to the confusion, Voldemort killed Snape under the assumption that Snape, who'd killed Dumbledore, was master to the wand.) The scene might have suggested to non-readers that Malfoy was lending Harry the Elder wand. 

Regardless of why the movie's producers chose to leave the scene out, we'll let ourselves believe that Draco is just a misunderstood boy; one we'll always hold near and dear to our hearts.

Prince George Looks *So* Good For His First Day of School

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The first day of school—also known to many as the first day of the rest of your life—means responsibility, time management and the millions of pictures that your parents take to capture that incredibly “special” day. It seems as if that tradition is also followed by English royalty, as Duchess Kate Middleton snapped adorable first-day-of-preschool photos of her son, Prince George.

Glamour reports that the 2-year-old’s photos were taken on his way to his new preschool in Norfolk, Westacre Montessori, of which he will attend part-time, similar to the program his father had taken. The photos depict the young prince in a quilted blue coat as he precociously anticipates his new adventure.

This goes to show that first day milestones truly are a family affair—ones that always need to be captured!

10 Things to Let Go of in 2016

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As cliché as it sounds, the beginning of a new year is the perfect opportunity to start fresh. While you may still be fine tuning your resolutions, there are quite a few things that we should all stop doing! That being said, let 2016 be the year that you kick those bad habits in order to make room for good ones. Here are some suggestions of things to let go of in the coming year.

1. Comparing yourself to others

The ways we compare ourselves to others come in many forms. Whether it’s wanting another girl’s abs or feeling unmotivated about the future because you don’t have as many internships under your belt as your friends, comparison is likely a daily occurrence. Social media makes this habit even worse! Jamie, a senior from South Dakota University, made an effort to stop doing this by unfollowing a lot of people that she didn’t know in real life. “I used to be so jealous of fashion bloggers and ‘Instagram models’ that lived halfway across the country. I was tired of comparing myself to these girls that I didn’t even know, so I cleaned up my feed!” she says. These comparisons do nothing but make us feel bad about ourselves, so why would we want to carry that into 2016? Make an effort to start appreciating everything in your life, especially yourself!

Related: 9 Ways to Take Your Life Back in 2016

2. Overextending yourself

Overcommitting yourself is bad in general, but especially for your health. When you overextend yourself, you only become mentally and physically exhausted. In 2016, you need to learn how to balance everything that’s going on in your life, whether it be school, extracurricular activities, friends or work. Ryan Luse, an education consultant at College Expert, recommends keeping to-do lists on your phone or setting up text reminders and deadlines. “Time management skills take patience and practice,” he says. However, developing these time management skills will be so beneficial in the long-run.

3. Perfectionism

Of course the idea of perfection is ideal, but in reality, it’s just not attainable. The harder we try to get everything right, the more disappointed we are at the end of the day. Instead of exhausting yourself by trying to be perfect, develop the ability to simply try your hardest and let everything else go. Amy, a senior at Oklahoma University, had to let go of being a perfectionist after her freshman year. “I came into college thinking that I would have no problem maintaining a 4.0 GPA like I did in high school,” she says. “After spending every weeknight in the library for months on end, I knew that I needed to change something. Instead of continuing to get four hours of sleep every night, I changed my study habits and focused less on getting an A, but rather giving everything my best effort.” Take it from Amy—striving to be perfect never works out!

4. Constant phone use

We are the generation that’s repeatedly lectured on our use of technology. As annoying as it is to hear older people complaining about how our heads are glued to our screens, they might have a point. You don’t have to give up social media or throw away your phone, but limiting use could seriously affect your life! Alexandra, a senior at Millersville University puts this into perspective: “We all need to actually enjoy nature or a concert and live in the moment instead of focusing on taking hundreds of photos and videos,” she says. “Take a few, then put it away to enjoy the reason you’re there.”

5. Negative people

You could be the most positive, enthusiastic person in the world—but that doesn’t mean negativity doesn’t affect you. If there’s someone in your life whose sole purpose is bringing you down, you don’t have to keep them around. Removing toxic people from your life will only be beneficial and allow you to focus on your positive relationships. “I had a friend my freshman year who was constantly making fun of everything I did because she found it amusing for some reason,” says Kayla, a junior at Iowa State University. “When I called her out on it, she laughed it off. That’s when I stopped asking her to do things and I’m glad I don’t have her around to bring me down anymore.” Though it may be initially difficult to cut off a negative relationship, you won’t regret it later on.

6. Grudges

Are you still “not talking” to someone who did something that made you mad? Perhaps you’re friends with someone but holding onto anger against them. Either way, you’ve got to let go of these grudges in 2016. You don’t necessarily have to let the person who wronged you back into your life, but you should forgive or accept what they did and move on. It is a new year, after all!

7. Soda

This one may be different than the others, but it’s not less important. Of course you’ve heard over the years how unhealthy soda is, but have you really listened? A recent study by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health showed that drinking a mere can a day greatly increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and more. Just in this past month, Applebee’s and IHOP have taken soda off of kids’ menus. If you’re still not convinced, nurse Coleen Koralek says, “Though you may love the taste, there are absolutely no health benefits to soda. Just a single can of cola has over 9 teaspoons of sugar—which is already over the daily limit!” Time to ditch the Diet Coke!

8. Procrastinating

The mere sight of this word is probably giving you flashbacks to times when you waited until the day before a huge paper was due to even start it. This is exactly why you should do your best to give up procrastinating! Chelsea, a freshman at Bowling Green State University, is doing so after a stressful first semester. “By working on finishing things early and being more organized in general, I feel that my work will have better results and in the end I will be so much less stressed,” she says. Take her advice and try to start things earlier!

9. Dieting

We’re not saying that you should just start living off of junk food; however, make 2016 the year that you quit fad diets. Most of them are completely ridiculous with such strict rules, and oftentimes people don’t even see results. Iris, a senior at UCLA, is doing so because she wants to truly start loving her body. “[Dieting is] stupid and is just so I can adhere to a somewhat outdated ideal of beauty and I just end up obsessing over food in a really unhealthy way,” she says.

10. 2015

While 2015 was literally over once the new year hit, that doesn’t mean everything that happened this past year was automatically erased. Throughout the past year, you were bound to make mistakes and go through rough patches. Instead of lugging your troubles with you, let them go. Allow yourself to look at 2016 as a clean slate!

Don’t get us wrong—we don’t expect you to reach out to anyone who’s ever been negative towards you or throw out your 12 pack of Coke. However, you can undoubtedly make strides to have a brand new and better year in 2016. Kicking these habits will make for a much better year, even if it’s tough in the beginning. It never hurts to try, and you’ll definitely be thanking yourself later on!

17 Signs You've Really Found Your People

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Most of us have that one group in our lives that we just connect with, gets us and is your family away from (your real) family. While they are not necessarily your squad or your team, they are your circle of trust, just as you are theirs and even if they are not in your life as you all advance to different stages of life (like, no longer making Starbucks your morning cup of joe) and meet different people, here are the signs that you have, had or will find your people, but most of the time when you have, you will already know.

1. You finish each other’s sentences

2. You have your own secret language…

3. ….and sometimes that doesn’t even require talking.

4. Pizza, chicken, fries, etc. are just a given whenever you get together

5. Shopping in each other’s closet is just as normal as a weekday

6. You all either do or do not watch Shonda Rhimes Thursdays together

7. You all follow each other on every social media platform

8. Sometimes you all dress accidently alike and color-coordinate…but it’s okay

9. You know you are never alone on an all-nighter

10. You know that there is always the one person in your group that will definitely bring snacks

11. When a new film comes out, you already know that you are all going

12. You serve as one another’s SparkNotes

13. After only one of you has read the book, of course—preferably the English Major (!)

14. You become accustomed to not seeing your dorm room because you spend so much time in someone else’s…

15. …Usually sleeping with someone else’s Econ book on top of you

16. They understand your individual, albeit weird, habits

17. Because they do those weird habits, too

13 College Women Get Real About Birth Control

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Let’s talk about birth control – there are so many options and more reasons than just preventing pregnancy for using it. To find out what collegiettes are using when it comes to birth control, we asked 13 college women to tell us what they do for birth control, and why.

“I use the Pill. Being in a committed relationship, I feel completely comfortable using it as our sole method of contraception. After discussing it with my gynecologist, we stopped using condoms, which I personally feel much more satisfied with. My doctor told me that as long as I take my pill at the same time, don't miss any pills, and don't take any antibiotics along with it, I should have no issues with pregnancy! I'm very careful about taking my pill at the same time; I always suggest to other girls who have issues remembering, to take it first thing in the morning. That way it becomes part of your daily routine, compared to some time in the evening where you might not always be in the same place. The cell phone alarm is a great backup reminder too! My boyfriend and I are each other's only partners, so I we don't have to worry about STD/STIs. We originally used condoms in addition to the Pill, but we both enjoy the feeling without them much better and have been together for two years.”

-Jill, UMass Amherst Class of 2016

“I use both condoms and the Pill for birth control. I think that in order to be safe and not risk pregnancy, I should use both. I know birth control pills are very effective but using condoms makes me much less worried about the small possibility of getting pregnant. Maybe I'm paranoid but I want to be sure of it! Both work for me because my birth control is free and my boyfriend and I alternate between buying condoms. Double the protection means less stress for both of us!”

-Kate, Michigan State University Class of 2018

“I have the Nexplanon arm implant. I chose the implant because it works for three years, I don't have to do anything more after its implanted and I no longer have a period. I tried the Pill but I was terrible at taking it every day.”

-Elise, Minnesota State University, Mankato Class of 2016

“I use the NuvaRing for birth control, and it's the first I've ever used. I initially got put on it because I wasn't having consistent periods. They would come like once every 2-3 months and I felt weird. So I got put on it to regulate my periods and also to prevent pregnancy. I like it because I don't have to take a pill every day since I'm a really forgetful person. The NuvaRing is a flexible clear ring I insert vaginally, and I can't even feel it once it's in. I just have to remember to put take it out three weeks after I put it in, my period comes, then put one in exactly one week after I took it out. Pretty easy! I personally haven't noticed side effects like weight gain or anything.”

-Amber, Georgia State University Class of 2018

RELATED: 8 Birth Control Mistakes You Might Be Making

“I take a hormonal birth control pill consistently. My partner and I also use condoms or the pullout method along with it. The Pill is easy and reliable for me since I was already on it for endometriosis. We use condoms/pullout method as back up.”

-Amy, University of Florida Class of 2017

“I've been on the Pill for almost a year now, and my experience with it has been all over the place. My symptoms change month to month, and I've experienced everything from nausea to cramps to randomly skipping a period. I thought it would regulate my period a lot more, but instead my periods are really inconsistent — heavy one month and almost nonexistent the next. Because the symptoms are so inconsistent, they've caused me a lot of anxiety, which is why I've recently made the decision to switch to an IUD this year.”

-Brenna, Indiana University Class of 2018

“I have an IUD and I love it! Dealing with the Pill every day wasn't working for my hectic lifestyle and the IUD I have comes with the perk of avoiding that pesky monthly gift. It also is about 99% effective when it comes to preventing unwanted pregnancy, which is super handy. Even though the procedure itself was rather painful, I would recommend it to almost any woman for sure.”

-Lauren, UMass Amherst Class of 2017

RELATED: Long-term Birth Control Methods are Becoming Much More Common

Personally, I just use condoms. I choose to just use condoms because they have a high chance of preventing pregnancy and STDs. It works for me because I feel safer, but I am aware there is still a small risk. This is the only form of birth control I have used, so far it still works.”

-Morgan, University of New Haven Class of 2018

“I'm currently on the Depo-Provera shot. Of all the birth controls I've tried this is hands down my favorite. My roommate started using it our freshman year and the thought of getting a shot every three months that stopped my period terrified me at first, but two years later sounded like a dream. After being on the Pill for two years it started making me sick each night when I took it and being in a serious relationship I knew I couldn't stop taking a birth control. With the shot I don't ever have to worry about missing a pill, or getting my period at the wrong time, and it's only one shot every three months. I highly recommend this method to anyone who hates the Pill.”

-Hailey, Hofstra University Class of 2017

“I began taking the Pill after graduating high school, and truthfully it's one of the most beneficial decisions I have ever made. I decided to get my prescription when things were getting more serious with my boyfriend at the time, but it has proved to be more than just contraception: It cleared my skin, balanced my hormones, and lightened my periods considerably (they went from seven heavy days to two or three). I once took the morning after pill when it wasn't really necessary and realized it's something that should only be done in emergencies. It upset my stomach. I've also heard that taking it too often can reduce its efficiency, so I'd definitely try to avoid it unless the situation was pressing.”

-Annika, Gettysburg College Class of 2018

“Actually, as a lesbian, I don't use birth control. While I'm actually still a virgin, birth control is never something I've considered taking and it's kind of nice to not have to worry about.”

-Jessica, Montclair State University Class of 2017

RELATED: 6 Changes to Expect After Going Off the Pill

“I've taken the Pill for about four years now, and after talking with my doctor it seemed like the easiest and least scary method of birth control. It's become part of my routine in the morning, but I do have a silent alarm set on my phone just as a reminder. This is the third pill I've tried, so it certainly took a bit of time to find the right pill for me, but it's definitely worth the time.”

-Jenn, WIlfrid Laurier University Class of 2018

“I use an oral contraceptive as well as condoms. I know some people might think that this is excessive, but pregnancy is something that I do not take lightly. Before going on the Pill, I used to only use condoms, and this method never felt safe enough for me. I don't like the idea that it's only 97% effective; with my luck, I'll be the one in the 3%. Using two methods just makes me feel a lot better about having sex, and I think it's important that I feel comfortable! Going on the Pill also helped relieve some of the horrible side effects of my period, like cramping and bloating, so that was a huge plus. Also, wearing condoms isn't just for pregnancy prevention, but it prevents the spread of STDs. Ladies, if you haven't gone to a clinic with your new guy to get tested — go! Wearing a condom should not be an option, it's a must!”

-Rachel, University of Florida Class of 2017

 

 

19 Times The Kardashians Embodied Your Feelings Towards New Year's Resolutions

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It's the first week of January and with it comes long compiled lists of goals to complete in the new year (most of which we will fulfill until around two weeks into Janurary, when we'll inevitably give up and wait until 2017 to resume).  And guess what? The Kardashians totally feel you. Check out these totally #relatable Kardashian reactions to what are (were) your New Year resolutions for 2016. 

1. Going on a diet 

In the wise words of Kim K herself:

(And by tomorrow, we obviously mean January 1, 2017). 

2. Putting more effort into your appearance 

Expectation: 

Blow out, full contour and strobe and perfectly shaped eyebrows—all before your morning class. 

Reality:

The sooner you accept it, the better 2016 is going to be for you. 

3. Calling family members to catch up instead of just texting

 

Come on, who really wants to call Aunt Loise and have a 45 minute Q&A on how to work the new iPad she got for Christmas? 

4. Going out more (you know, and being all social and stuff)

...Or you could just sit at home bingewatching Netflix and eating Chinese food with the roomies, which brings us to:

5.  Spending less time bingewatching Netflix

What Kourtney said.

6. Figuring out your life plan 

That's another thing that can wait until 2017, right? (For all you seniors out there, that would be a hard 'no'). 

6. Stop swearing 

lol pls like that's going to happen

7. And toning down the road rage 

 

...to the best of your ability, of course. 

At least have the resolution of not sounding one long continous horn beep as you drive down the road swearing at the top of your lungs, okay?

7. Mastering the ultimate snapchat selfie vid like Kylie's  

You know, like when she pulls out one like this: 

And you're just like, 'Pssh, I can do that'...

...But yours always keep turning out like this?

Let's leave it to the selfie professionals, shall we?

 8. Spending more time with family 

*How we feel every holiday that lasts more than a week*

9. Rocking the new year (and new semester!) with a totally brand new look 

Expectation:

Reality: 

You know you're just gonna roll up to your 8:00 AM class in sweats for the entirety of the semester, don't lie. 

10. Traveling more 

We're still attempting to afford our student loans, tuition (and, okay, our Sephora addiction) before we can start budgeting for our Wanderlust. 

11. Drinking less

We will forever remember 2015 as the year "wine-o-clock" was added to the dictionary. Would our 2016 selves really want that to go to waste? 

12. Going to the gym on a regular basis 

Same, Kim. 

13. Becoming less addicted to your phone

Not going to happen, let's be honest.

15. Saving money

Did we mention our Sephora addiction?

16. Getting over your FOMO 

What you want to be like:

Turn that FOMO into JOMO (Joy Of Missing Out, for all you late on the uptake.)

What you'll actually be like:

Definitely a resolution to save for next year. 

17. Not being so melodramatic 

It's in our nature. 

18. Getting a better night's sleep

 

...That means getting to bed before 2:00 in the morning.

18. Not being so judgmental 

Actually probably one we should work on, tbh.

19. And finally, being slightly less basic in 2016 

We'll carry on proudly with our Starbucks and selfies, thanks. 

 

How to Decorate Your First Grown-Up Apartment

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You’ve scoured Zillow, visited “roomy” (for Thumbelina) studios with a “view” (of a dingy alleyway) and finally signed the lease. Congrats! Now comes the really hard part: decorating. If you’re fresh out of college, you no doubt have remnants of your dorm room lying around, and it can be tempting to simply pin up your old Audrey Hepburn poster and call it a day. While you might not be ready to clean out West Elm, moving into your first adult apartment gives you a chance to revamp your home décor. Life completely changes after graduation, which means you need a mature living space to match your new grown-up existence. We’re going to walk you through how to make it happen!

Choose a color scheme

Your college dorm was likely a mish-mash of colors and patterns—especially if you didn’t coordinate décor with your roommate—but moving into your own place gives you the opportunity to create a cohesive design and color scheme. First step: find matching furniture. While this can be tricky when you’re putting together your first apartment, especially since you’re likely to buy used furniture or collect pieces from home, it’s best to aim for neutrals when it comes to larger pieces, like your couch and bed. If you’re worried that doing so makes your living space look too drab, you can always brighten it up with colorful accent pieces.

“You can still use most of your college things if you use them the right way!” says Charlotte Lehman, a Union College 2014 graduate who lives in Rochester, NY with a roommate. “It’s all about accenting—it’s easier to get away with loud prints and colors in a dorm room, but in a bigger apartment, if you mix those floral pillows and striped comforters with some new neutral grown-up furniture, they make a nice focal point to the room and aren’t overbearing or too ‘college.’”

Turn the shoebox into a palace

Chances are, you don’t live in Monica and Rachel’s apartment. It’s tough to find a spacious place when you’re first living on your own, but simple décor hacks can make your new digs look bigger. Try adding mirrors to the walls of your common area or in your bedroom to keep them from feeling too closed-in. This has the added bonus of making a room look brighter and more expensive than it actually is. Curtains can help with this as well; if you opt for longer ones to frame your windows, you can make the room feel taller.

Let there be light

The lighting in your college dorm room likely consisted of fluorescent lights, which does nobody any favors. Your new place gives you a tad more flexibility.

“Lamps make good mood lighting, more so [than] overhead lights,” says Clara Boesch, who lives in The Bard Graduate Center’s student housing in Manhattan.

Keep a floor lamp in your living space, and a table lamp next to your bed—they don’t take up much space, but brighten up your home so much more. And since your apartment isn’t policed by RAs, you can do cool grown-up things like use matches.

“I'm a huge fan of candles. It's amazing to me how much more cozy—not to mention great-smelling—a room can feel with even just a few candles lit,” says Elise DiMeo, a Union College 2014 graduate who moved to Sevilla, Spain last fall. “I don't think I'm ever in my bedroom without having at least one burning nearby. Plus, we're not in college anymore, so they're no longer illegal contraband!”

Candles look even fancier in clusters, so try grouping a few together—matching or not—on your coffee table, fireplace mantle or on your windowsill (your neighbors will appreciate the last one).

Dress it all up

Once you’ve nailed the basics, you can express your creativity through smaller decorative pieces. In organizing your desk, for example, opt for lacquered trays in lieu of plastic magazine holders and cute jars or cups to contain your pens.

In your living room, lay out coffee table books that speak to your taste and coasters to keep your surfaces safe. These can make for a fun DIY craft as well; find colors or prints that complement your space and make your own out of cork squares.

As anyone who has ever given Pinterest a cursory glance could tell you, wine, champagne and liquor bottles make for great vases or other decorative pieces, too. You can also drill a hole in the bottle and stuff it with Christmas lights, which you most certainly were not allowed to have in college, giving you a cute DIY lamp.

Revamp your furniture

An entry-level salary probably won’t buy you a high-end bedroom set, and the furniture that lives in your first apartment might not seem that different from the old wood frame that campus housing called a “bed.”

“I bought cheap IKEA furniture that I dressed up,” says Arielle Siniapkin, a New York University College of Nursing student and member of the class of 2015. “I went to Anthropologie and purchased these drawer pulls…I'm obsessed with.”

Now, fortunately, you have the freedom to spruce up the pieces in your new place and add a personal touch. If you go the IKEA route like Arielle did, you have the option of staining or painting your furniture to match the pieces you already own, since a lot of IKEA furniture comes with naked wood that is easy to work with.

Frame your favorite wall pieces

Nothing says “freshman” like a Sex and the City poster surrounded by photos of you and your best friends. Such décor doesn’t exactly scream “grown-up graduette.”

“Instead of just plastering posters and pictures with tape on the wall, put them in frames you can get at Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie,” suggests Meghan Kupiec, a Georgia Southern University graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in Sport and Exercise Psychology.

You don’t have to toss your treasured senior spring pictures or artsy posters since you can instantly class them up with inexpensive store-bought frames, or even ones you decorate yourself. Try arranging a montage of different-sized frames featuring a variety of images—some old photos, some simple posters, some postcards from places you or your friends have visited, some new pieces of art—in your living room to create a personal, artsy vibe. Mixing the old with the new will allow you to cherish your college memories while giving your new space an updated feel.

Think inside the box

So many of your college trinkets don’t have an obvious home—where are you supposed to keep your deflated boom sticks from the championship hockey game?—but you can’t bring yourself to part with them. These, too, can come to your new place without being scattered aimlessly around your apartment.

Pick up a small chest or storage ottoman and use it to house little odds and ends. You’ll be left with a cute, decorative piece that keeps your place clean.

Know where to save and where to spend

While it’s obviously best to save as much as you can while you’re starting out, that doesn’t mean you should fill your apartment with shoddy furniture. Items like shelves, dressers and coffee tables can certainly be purchased for cheap and be fixed up or decorated, but consider investing in nicer couches, chairs and bed sets. Nothing distracts from an otherwise well-designed room more than dingy cushions—to say nothing of how uncomfortable these can be—so it’s worth focusing your spendings here. This way, you’ll have a few durable pieces of furniture that you can bring with you as you move from place to place.

Ultimately, transitioning from dorm life to adult housing doesn’t have to be an overwhelming—or expensive—task. Moving into your first apartment gives you a great opportunity to blend your old life with your new one. You can revamp the pieces you loved in college and start fresh, cherishing your memories while creating a more mature living space.

4 Things to Know About Amy Schumer’s New Boyfriend

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What better way to start off 2016 than with a new romance? Amy Schumer, every girl's fantasy BFF, has casually dropped that she's in a relationship. So obviously we had to do some digging into 29-year-old Ben Hanisch. Here's what we know (and we have to say, we like what we're seeing):

1. He hung out with Amy's family... at the WHITE HOUSE



2. Ben is a furniture designer who founded his own company, The Last Workshop


 

Here is a custom table for a kitchen nook. Has a Walnut top with steel tube legs.

A photo posted by lastworkshop (@lastworkshop) on


3. He is incredibly, adorably optimistic about the New Year with Amy!



4. And Amy has already broken some big news about their romance!


Very funny, Amy.

L'Oréal is Releasing a Brand New Way to Protect Your Skin

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Usually, when we think of makeup and other beauty products, we only think of the effects it'll have on the exterior of our skin and not how the elements are absorbed inside the skin. But, L'Oréal is pushing consumers to think outside that box, specifically in terms of the effects of sun exposure. UV radiation can often have a negative impact on both the inside and outside of the skin and this new product is helping customers determine just how much sun and UV exposure they are experiencing throughout the day.

According to Refinery29, the new product, My UV Patch, is a slim patch that stretches across any part of the skin, containing photosynthesis dyes that change colors to tell how much sun exposure the patch (and therefore, the wearer) is receiving that day. The color changes are depicted in a heart shape on the patch and are analyzed by a phone app to find out much UV radiation the patch has received. “The key point is to really understand the amounts of exposure you have, even day-to-day, just going to work, walking outside,” says Guive Balooch, the global VP of L'Oréal’s technology incubator that developed My UV Patch. “Having an application won’t tell you that. You need to measure it.”

The app will also describe when you are most or least exposed to the sun and UV rays, which could result in lifestyle changes in an effort to better protect the skin. The patch, which hasn’t been released yet, is disposable and is predicted to not be of any cost to the customer, according to Balooch.

As technology continues to increase and help us manage our skincare routines, we can now only hope for an app that will basically do our makeup for us.

Here's What It'll Take for Kylie Jenner to Leave Instagram

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Kylie Jenner is an Instagram queen. In fact, in 2015, she received more likes than any of her famous sisters did. Imagining Instagram without the youngest Kardashian is a strange though. However, recently in her interview with Elle UK, Kylie admitted that she doesn't plan on being on social media forever.

Kylie announced that when she begins her journey through motherhood, she will retire from all social media platforms. She wants to live in the moment once she has a child, and stated, “You know, I’ll probably delete my Instagram and just… I don’t know, live my life.”


 

A photo posted by King Kylie (@kyliejenner) on


Related: Kylie Jenner's 50 Best Beauty Looks from 2015

Normally, this type of statement would be a mature one coming from an 18-year-old, but in this situation, it could be read as a jab at Kylie's older sisters, Kim and Kourtney, as they are mothers who use social media to voice their appreciation and love for their children. All of the members of the Kardashian/Jenner clan have been in the spotlight for years, so most fans expect them to continue broadcasting their lives after having children. Kylie—who knows exactly what it's like to grow up in the spotlight—has a different perspective.

Kylie's entire extended family has spoken publically about the struggle to figure out the best way to manage social media accounts with so many followers scrutinizing each post. However, Kylie is the first to mention an end to her posting altogether, which is quite a bold move. It'll probably be quite a while before we have to say goodbye to all of King Kylie's accounts, so for now, we'll keep on enjoying her Snapchats, Instagram posts and more.

6 Reasons to Attend SXSWedu This March

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Believe it or not, there is more to life than love, sex and ABC Thursday nights…thank you, Shonda Rhimes. As you carry on your college journey as an education major, you’re going to need to start making moves and experiencing the dreaded adult world. Cue the *but I don’t want to be an adult* whine. SXSWedu is your perfect transition for stepping out into the real world of education.

You probably know about South by Southwest (SXSW) because of its music and film festivals. Although those are awesome and fun, SXSWedu has much to offer outside of entertainment. SXSWedu is a branch of SXSW that focuses on the innovations and fast-growing technology of education. Keep reading. It gets better. World renowned educators, CEOs and entrepreneurs are brought in from all over the world to showcase their genius expertise so you, as growing students, can benefit when becoming a teacher, counselor, educator, etc. Here are six reasons why you should take time out of your day to come to this year’s SXSWedu:

1. Beyoncé will be there

Just kidding. BUT there will be awesome keynote speakers that have flown out just to speak at this event. These speakers are all consolidated in one area so you can get the most out of your time at SXSWedu. You might not know who these speakers are, but that’s okay. Pushing yourself to experiences outside of your knowledge is the best thing you could possibly do for yourself as a student. I promise you will be inspired by what they have to say, leaving you to go out and conquer the education world like the badass you are.

2. A playground for people your age

Not quite like recess, but possibly better. The Playground is a part of SXSWedu that basically lets you explore with other people like yourself. The creative energy in the Playground has no limits and allow you to discover and participate in your individual interests. There are displays, talks and hands-on presentations. Who needs monkey bars and slides, when you can play with 3D pens and build your own circuits. Better than recess, right?

3. The smartest startup competition

Think Shark Tank. This is real life Shark Tank, people! Early-stage companies seeking feedback, investment and potential partnerships are chosen to participate in a startup competition. As a bystander, I can tell you that the future of education is going in a direction you’ve never seen before. You could be using these ideas that are showcased in startup competition in your classroom when you become a teacher. Think of it as a sneak peak into the future. Do you feel cool yet? Because you should.

4. Free Expo!

Not all of us know exactly what we want to do with our lives going through college and that is perfectly fine. The SXSWedu Expo is an event designed to encourage and inspire learners of all ages to identify and reach their education and career goals. This is a great way to expose yourself to possible career paths. It’s also FREE. There might be FREE FOOD too. I knew I could get your attention with that one. Guess you’ll have to find out for yourself.

5. One-on-one mentors

Aside from the Expo, SXSWedu also facilitates one-on-one meetings between experienced professionals and interested attendees. From classroom teachers and professors to industry insiders and CEOs, the mentors at SXSWedu are ready to share their insights with you. All you have to do is attend and sign up. This gives students like you a way to ask any questions they have to those experienced in the area you are interested in working in.

6. Party time

Aside from this all, there is always a time to relax and socialize. SXSWedu hosts social and networking events to celebrate the innovation and creativity in education. Conference-wide mixers, meet-ups, parties and lounges are tailored to network and connect with your fellow attendees. This is a perfect way to start making relationships with people who can help you out throughout your career, whether it’s with a job or even just advice. You never know. You could be mingling over drinks with your next boss, co-worker, or intern.

 

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