We’ve heard it so many times: Guys can detach themselves after a hook-up, keeping the experience entirely physical. Meanwhile, for whatever reason, biological or otherwise, collegiettes like us have a harder time keeping emotions out of the bedroom.

Is this really true, though? Can boys really avoid attachment? Are girls unable to detach themselves and make sex an entirely physical act? It’s not usually something that gets covered in class, so how’s a collegiette to know the truth? We at Her Campus wanted to find out!

Your Brain on Sex

The hook-up culture that exists on college campuses leaves a lot of questions unanswered for both men and women. “Did that mean something?” and “Does he/she realize that I don’t want a relationship?” are common questions from both sides. Whether you’ve had a one-night stand or you’re trying to turn a hook-up into something more, navigating the aftermath of casual sex is never an easy task. The preconception that many collegiettes have is that men are “only after one thing,” and that a relationship isn’t in the cards. Recent studies, however, have shown that sex isn’t strictly a physical act for men or women!

A 2011 study conducted by psychology professor Jim Pfaus at Concordia University in Canada revealed that there is an “overlap between sexual desire and emotional love in the brain’s insular cortex.” They are still different receptive areas of the brain, meaning that the two emotions are different, but the overlap means that the connection between love and lust is stronger than once thought. It explains why, when someone has what they think will be casual sex, he or she ends up feeling attached afterwards. These receptive areas of the brain are the same for both men and women.

The main biological difference between men’s and women’s reactions to sexual experiences is the release of hormones during and after sex. During climax, women release higher levels of oxytocin (the “cuddle hormone”) than men do. This unavoidable release causes higher levels of post-sex attachment in women than in men. Males, on the other hand, have lower dopamine levels after sex, resulting in negative withdrawal symptoms and the occasional desire to flee from their partner. It’s bizarre, but not something that they can control. Basically, for women, sexual needs and attachment needs are more highly related than these needs are for men.

What have collegiettes experienced? Hannah*, 20, from Canterbury Christ Church University, says it’s “definitely possible” for girls to have sex without attachment. “I was having sex with an ex for quite a while, and didn’t get re-attached,” she says. She says she’s also had a one-night stand “and definitely felt nothing afterwards.”

Her experience is not out of the ordinary. Riley*, a student at the University of New Hampshire, says “it’s easy not to get attached” after sex.

Love at First Sight?

What about one-night stands? Is it possible for men (or women) to grow attached after casual sex? It would appear so, according to a study done by Match.com. According to this study, 31 percent of the people surveyed had transitioned from a one-night stand to a long-term commitment. Similarly, 43 percent of men and 32 percent of women admitted to having felt love at first sight, without even having sex. This is encouraging news for men and women who are looking to make a relationship out of a one-time sexual encounter.

It is, of course, difficult to make general statements about gender and attachment. The level of emotional attachment during and after sex is different for each person, regardless of gender. Dr. Helen Fisher, a professor of anthropology at Rutgers University, says, “Some people have sex first and then fall in love. Some fall head over heels in love, then climb into bed.”

The Takeaway

In other words, attachment happens at different points to different couples; there isn’t a foolproof formula for lust turning into love. Though it may take a woman a while to figure out whether or not she wants to pursue a relationship with someone she hooks up with, relationship coach Lisa Shield suggests that men know “immediately when they are interested in having more than just a sexual relationship with a woman.” So if he comes back after you’ve hooked up once, it could be that he’s interested in something more.

In short, it’s hard to tell whether men and women are truly incapable of having completely “casual” sex. For each gender, the stakes are slightly different. However, the release of hormones on both sides during sex triggers emotional attachment on a certain level. That being said, the hormones are different and have different effects on each gender.

The best thing to do is to be completely honest with your partner about your hopes and expectations for your relationship, whether they include sex or not.

*Names have been changed.

It's no secret that pastel-toned tresses are totally having moment right now. Both celebrities and street style bloggers alike have pushed traditional shades aside to make room for hair colors that have us dreaming about spring. Here are seven of our favorite Pinterest-famous shades. 

1. Cotton Candy Blue 

Nothing like a cool blue to give off ~chill~ vibes. 

2. Lavender 

A little bit girly, a whole lot fierce.

3. Blue + Purple Ombré

Talk about the best of both worlds!

4. Bubble Gum Pink 

Come on Barbie, let's go party!

5. Cool Mint 

Color inspiration à la Kylie Jenner.

6. Gray-Toned Blue 

Whoever said gray is boring clearly never saw this style before.

7. Peachy Keen 

The perfect color to rock with nude lipstick. 

Which pastel hair color is your fave, collegiettes? 

Let's face it (pun intended): it's fun to experiment with makeup, whether you’re going for a natural or dramatic look. And part of the reason we experiment is because we're always in search of the perfect look that shows off our best facial features. But if you're sick of test runs, look no further. We'll start with your favorite feature—whether it be your brows, eyes, cheeks or lips—and tell you exactly how to show it some love.

1. Brows

If you were blessed with gorgeous, full brows, then congrats: you probably don’t envy Cara Delevingne like the rest of us do. And if your brows are already thick, there's no need to use a brow powder or pomade. But you can enhance the individual hairs on your brows by using a brow gel, like Glossier’s Boy Brow ($16, Glossier.com) or Benefit’s Gimme Brow Volumizing Fiber Gel ($24, Sephora). Brow gels are a great way to groom your brows into a neat, tapered arch (or whichever shape you prefer). They will even emphasize baby brow hairs so your brows are at their maximum fullness.

Another tip is to highlight with an eyeshadow that is slightly lighter than your skin tone just beneath your brow arch, so your brows are perfectly framed and stand out on your face. And to really bring all the attention to your brows, go minimal on eye makeup by using only neutral tones of eyeshadow, if any. This will keep the look fresh and will add extra contrast between your brows and your eye area.

2. Eyes

If you love your eye shape or color and want to make it pop, here’s how. Lancôme beauty expert Sandy Linter perfects an eye-enhancing makeup routine for Elle. She suggests using a dark eye pencil to contrast against the whites of the eye and the pupil. “You should also use a pencil because it’s easily manipulated. Liquids and gels will chip and flake, but pencil can be pushed around to form a beautiful shape,” she adds. She then uses a neutral palette of eyeshadow tones, adding in a taupe color along the lashline and blending it into a sideways “V” along the brow bone to further open up the eyes. 

And as with brows, make sure to balance dark colors with light ones to keep the focus on your eyes.  “Having darker tones surround a lighter one gives shape and definition—the light on the eye makes it pop,” Linter advises. Alongside that logic, you can also add highlighter or a white eyeliner to the inner corner of the eyes to look more awake. Amp up the contrast by selecting eye makeup colors that complement the color of your eyes: neutral champagne shades for blue eyes, smoky blue or silver cool tones for gray eyes, muted browns for green eyes and black or gold to set off brown eyes.

Finally, don’t forget to complete the look with a touch of eyeliner and mascara!

Related: 7 Ways to Up Your Eyeliner Game

3. Cheeks

If you’re a fan of your sculpted cheeks, contouring (using makeup that's slightly darker than your skin tone to outline your features) and highlighting (the opposite) are two terms you should be familiar with. First, contour right underneath your cheekbones, which is the area from the corners of your mouth to your earlobe. Next, use bronzer in the hollows of your cheeks, and apply blush on the apples of your cheek—just make sure you find the right shade of blush for your skin tone! Lastly, apply highlighter on top of your cheekbones to brighten up the rest of your makeup.

Since you want the focal point of your face to be your cheeks, aim for a soft look on your eyes and lips. That means staying away from dramatic cat eyes or bold lip colors. However, pay attention to the colors you use for your eye and lip makeup; using tones that coordinate with your blush and bronzer colors will pull the look together and make your face look as natural as possible.

4. Lips

If you’re the most proud of your lips, you have a ton of options when it comes to lip color. If you prefer a clean, matte look, add a little concealer around your mouth so your lip color will look even more meticulously applied. Similarly, use a lip pencil before applying your lipstick to increase your lip color’s staying power and enhance the color.

The gradient lip is definitely an option too; it’s basically the lip equivalent of a smoky eye. Use a concealer or a nude lipstick as a base, dabbing it on the outer area of your lips. The Paul and Joe Lip Concealer Duo ($15.30, Beauty Bay) is also an option, as it has a pencil tip that makes it easy to apply right up to the edges of your pout. Then, come in with a brighter color and blend it into the center of your lip with your fingers or a brush. The combination of both colors will give your lips a dynamic look that will have you turning heads.

There you have it, collegiettes. We all have our favorite facial feature, and it's time to give it some attention. So get ready to add some extra oomph to your daily makeup routine with these tips and tricks!

Lured in with promises of new drama, romance and adventure, ABC drew in 9.5 million viewers for the season premiere of the Bachelor season 20, featuring the beloved bachelor Ben Higgins. Viewers from across “Bachelor nation” are eagerly watching as 25 women compete for Higgin’s affection in yet another season of what is dubbed as “the most dramatic season of the Bachelor yet.” Veteran Bachelor viewers know that while no two Bachelors or Bachelorettes are alike, there are definitely overlapping themes and mannerisms that make the Bachelor everyone's favorite guilty (or not so guilty) reality TV pleasure. 

1. You draft your favorites like it’s fantasy football — only more intense

You pick out your favorites from the very beginning and feel a sigh of relief whenever they get picked to go to the next round, but if they don’t get a rose, you’re screaming at your TV like…

2. You go on social media and intensely follow everyone’s live commentary

Twitter on Monday nights: pure gold.

3. There is always that one girl takes complete advantage of the open champagne bar

After 19 seasons of the Bachelor, you would assume that girls would catch on to the fact that the open bar is indeed a trap. Producers want you to get belligerently intoxicated so you’ll create drama for the show.

4. Someone gets insecure and bashes all of the other girls

But what else would you expect when 25 girls are competing for the affection of one guy?

5. One or more of the contestants has a trivial title to compensate for the fact that they are indeed, unemployed

Dog-lover, free spirit, and twin are apparently occupations now.

6. That one girl really tries to push her luck on day one

Whether it be showing up in a wedding dress, or really vying for that first kiss — there is sure to be one contestant who does the most to make a first impression.

7. Someone is not there for the right reasons

“For the right reasons” will forever be engraved in the minds of all Bachelor fans.

8. Past Bachelors make cameo appearances — and naturally, you fan-girl out

How could you not fan-girl when you see Sean Lowe?

9. The date goes well and he says “I could really see myself falling for her”

Her, and the other 25 women in the house, right?

10. When everyone hates someone in the house but the Bachelor can’t see it

And you’re screaming at your TV wondering how he can’t see that this girl is actually insane.

11. You get emotionally attached to certain girls — and question the Bachelor’s credibility if sends her home

Face it — you’re left more heartbroken than the Bachelor is.

12. One of the girls makes the super classy exit, making even the Bachelor wonder if he made the wrong choice

A class act goes a long way — potential Bachelorette maybe?

13. That one girl who makes the not-so-classy exit, and the sigh of relief when she’s finally gone

And if you’re lucky, it’s the same girl as #10

14. The cutthroat awkwardness that is a 2-on-1 date

But you secretly love it, especially when there is a show “hero” and “villain” who are on the date.

15. Their elaborate dates gives you an unrealistic expectation of what dating is really like

Flying into the Met on a Helicopter, renting out Castles and jumping from buildings — relationship goals?

16. You question whether or not you want to join next season just for the ultimate travel experience

Thailand, Curacao, Antigua, Bali, The Bachelor leaves no corner of the world untouched. We can't help but to want to sign up for the adventure, too.

17. Hometown dates roll around and all you can think of is how judgmental each of their families are going to be

Whether its a batty older brother or an overprotective parent, someone in the family is sure to stir up some drama. Have your popcorn ready?

18. Chris Harrison brings around the fantasy suite card, and things get really awkward, really fast

The controversial “fantasy suite” leaves the cameras behind, leaving the “fantasy” to the viewer's imagination.

19. The Neil Lane diamond ring comes out, and you hyperventilate about how big and beautiful it is

ABC pays for the big hunk of rock, but in reality, the Neil Lane rings featured on the show retail somewhere between $20,000 - $75,000.

20. The girl who was hiding until about halfway through the season “wins” the whole thing

While you’re too busy worried about the front-runners and drama queens, the “girl next door” will inevitably walk away with the engagement ring.

21. Every season is dubbed “the most dramatic season yet” by Chris Harrison

Every. Single. Season.

22. You can’t wait for the “After The Final Rose” or “Women Tell All”

The Bachelor finally confronts all his exes and a Bachelorette is “surprise” announced — reality television heaven.

Some people can be incredibly forthcoming about their sexual experiences, others look at the subject as incredibly taboo; no one needs to know their “number” but themselves.

We talked to 13 college women about how they feel talking about their “number” and their sexual history – check out what they said below.

“I feel I've had too many partners. I've slept with six people. At 20 I feel that's a lot. However, four were from committed, year-long relationships. As for the other two, I was hooking up with both of them for a good amount of time. I wish I had less because I feel, as a girl, six sounds bad. For a guy, it's not bad. I hate the double standard.”

-Cristina, Villanova University Class of 2018

“I have no issue talking about my sexual partners. A women's ‘number’ is so shamed in society when really, it should be no big deal. I have personally only slept with my long-term boyfriend but I know many women who have yet to have a steady relationship but still sleep with men or women. I don't care how many people they've slept with as long as it's safe and consensual and I think most people should look at that way. I feel totally comfortable letting people know I've only slept with my boyfriend because to me, that's important to me. In fact, I've had more people judge me for only sleeping with him. I think everyone's ‘number’ should be as private or as personal they want it to be. To each their own.”

-Caroline, St. Michael’s College Class of 2019

RELATED: The Truth About Your ‘Number’

“I am usually completely open when talking about the number of sexual partners I've had because I truly don't feel like it's as big of a deal as some people make it out to be. If I'm comfortable with my ‘number’ (which is eight, by the way) and that number can't be decreased, why would someone else's opinion matter? I used to regret some of my sexual experiences, but now that I have settled down with an amazing man that I plan to marry someday, I feel like the past ones don't really matter and just allow me to appreciate my current partner even more.”

-Tianna, University of Illinois Class of 2017

“I do not feel very comfortable talking to other people about the number of sexual partners I've had. Mainly because many of them were, not mistakes per-se but they weren't people that care about me and my life. I've had easily over 45 sexual partners, and that's probably not counting the mistaken drunken hookups senior year of high school and freshman year of college. I do not feel ‘comfortable’ with my number; I wish I had less partners. The last few men in my life have been the most important ones and when they bring this conversation up it's embarrassing to tell them I had so many wild days and nights. I'd rather tell them I had a number in single digits like them so they wouldn't look at me in such a disapproving manner. They also often get judgmental and make accusations shortly after we've discussed my ‘number.’ So, yes I do wish I had less partners for the sake of my future relationships.”

-Sydney, Kent State University Class of 2017

“I do feel comfortable talking about the number of sexual partners I've had. I enjoy talking about sex positivity and talking about sex as a pleasurable experience, not one that carries guilt or negative feelings. While I do like being educated on the topic, I've never had sex with a partner so my ‘number’ is zero, and I am comfortable with that. I don't think people should feel pressured into being in a relationship, having sex, or falling in love right now. College is a time to really find yourself and I know that it'll happen for me when the time is right.”

-Melissa, Montclair State University Class of 2017

RELATED: The Truth About Virginity in College

“I feel comfortable talking to people about my number of partners or lack thereof because I feel like I'm misconceived as being a slut because I'm pretty and I am in Greek life and talking about this gives me a chance to kill those assumptions. I've only ever slept with one person but at this point in my life I wish I'd had more because I feel like it's a turnoff whenever I tell guys and try to sleep with them because if I'm ever drunk they get too nervous or they assume I want a long-term thing when really I'm just trying to have fun like they are.”

-Kaitlyn, Bryant University Class of 2016

“Even though my ‘number’ isn't something that I tend to toss around in conversations with just anybody, I don't mind talking about it. Sexuality is something that should be celebrated, as long as you're going about it safely, no matter if you've had one or hundreds of partners. Personally, I've only had sex with one person. I'm happy with that, as this person is someone with whom I was/am comfortable, and I don't regret doing it. As long as you're being tested periodically and having safe sex, your ‘number’ really is just a number.”

-Olivia, University of North Carolina at Wilmington Class of 2018

“I have only been with two people and I'm not ashamed to talk about it. I had my reasons for decisions about both situations. Never be ashamed of something you had total control of! If my number was bigger, I think I'd still feel this way.”

-Anna, Gettysburg College Class of 2019

“All of my sexual experiences were all conscious choices that I was happy with and as a feminist and a sex positive woman I think talking about sex is part of removing the stigmas of females having sex that we have in today’s culture. And I'm happy with the number of partners because they were all consensual and I like to think each partner helped me grow sexually and vice versa.”

-Laura, Georgia College & State University Class of 2018

RELATED: Here’s Why No One Should Actually Care About Your Number

“I love talking about sex. It's freeing and invigorating, and incredibly interesting. I've ‘hooked up’ with a total of four guys so far in my life, some were relationships and others were not. With each experience I have learned something new about myself and the fascinating ‘sexual sphere’. There's so much to learn... It's definitely something you have to get good at, and then it's so much fun! I am comfortable with my number because the guys I got with were not random. I would say that I'm extremely picky, but there will definitely be more guys.”

-Alix, Franklin & Marshall College Class of 2019

“I am comfortable talking about it because I think it's important to as to stop the inherent slut-shaming in our culture. I have had 12 sexual partners, and I don't wish I had more or less because it's simply a number. As long as we continue to focus on safe, consensual sexual encounters there is really no reason to focus on the number of partners you choose to have so people should not be ashamed to talk about it.”

-Cieara, Boise State University Class of 2018

“I think the same rules that apply with salary apply here. You don't want a person to know much you make so they can judge you solely off of a number. In the same respect, you don't want someone knowing your number whether it be small or large so they can make their own assumptions about who you are because of some digit. I have had five partners in my lifetime and with that being said some people may find this number to be too high and others might find this number to be decent, but their opinion does not matter. Only mine does and in terms of being comfortable, if I could change it, I would have wished that I only had one partner. This partner was the only one that truly showed me what it was like to be in love and taught me that when I have that same feeling for another person the way I did for him, that is when I know I am ready.”

-Anna, George Washington University Class of 2016

“I'm pretty much an over-sharer when it comes to everything—including my sexual history. I tell almost-strangers my number (it's 14). Not all of these were positive experiences; actually, most of them weren't, but I don't regret any of them. I really think I've learned something from each of these times. Additionally, my ‘number’ doesn't define me in the slightest. There are so many different circumstances surrounding sex that judging someone based off a digit or two is beyond ridiculous and unfair. I remember reading an article (the movie What's Your Number was loosely based off of it) in which a number of women talked about their number, what it meant to them and how proud they were of it. These numbers ranged from 0 to 100 and it was so empowering... eff those double standards.”

-Amanda, UCLA Class of 2016

To put it bluntly, humans are ignorant beings. We say things without thinking and don’t realize that we’re being offensive until after the fact, or not ever. Black women, along with women from other minorities, are subject to this ignorance on a daily basis. Questions, assumptions and “compliments” that we think are harmless are really not at all. Below are just a few examples of things that you should never say to a black woman.

1. “But you don’t act black.”

And what, exactly, is acting black? It is unfair to assume that all African-Americans fit a certain mold and act a certain way. You may say this harmlessly and the woman you this to make brush off the comment, but trust us, it’s offensive. If she doesn’t anything in response, she’s just being polite.

2. “You sound so white though!”

Wow, didn’t know that to qualify as black you had to speak a certain way. Just because she annunciates and speaks proper English doesn’t mean you have the right to question her ethnicity.

3. “You’re so articulate!”

Why are you so shocked? She has an education.

4. “Why do you speak like that?”

Because… that’s just her voice.

5. “Do you care if I call you the 'N' word?”

There’s a 90% chance that she does, so save yourself the drama and don’t even ask. Many people gloss over the significance of the “N” word, simply seeing it as a term of endearment. Historically, the “N” word was a phrase used to degrade black people. It was a word used by white supremacists to convey that people of African descent were not human at all. So, now knowing the historical origin of the word, why exactly do you want to call her by the “N” word again…?

6. “What does *insert the latest popular slang word here* mean?”

And what makes you think that she should know? You might even be the first person to expose her to the word.

7. “Is that your hair? Or a weave?”

Why are you assuming that it isn’t? Not all black women wear weave, and if they do, it’s none of your business. Honestly, it’s rude to ask. If they wanted people to know, they’d wear a sign. She doesn’t ask you if you wear weave, so why do you?

8. “Can I touch your hair?”

She’s not your golden retriever, Skippy. But hey, at least you asked.

9. “You mean that’s your real hair? OMG it’s so nice!”

You do realize that your shocked reaction implies that you didn’t think that she could grow something so nice herself, right? You’re also implying that you don’t hold a high regard for African-American hair in general.

10. “URGH! My hair looks like an afro today!”

First of all, stop. Your hair is far from looking like an afro. Secondly, what's wrong with afros to begin with?

11. “Why don’t you ever wear your hair curly like *insert the name of someone with a completely different hair texture/curl pattern here*?”

People with curly hair are born with a certain type of curl pattern. They can’t change their natural hair unless they use chemicals, which leaves permanent and sometimes damaging results. She doesn’t wear her hair like someone with a 3b curl pattern because her hair is a 4c. It’s as simple as that.

12. “How do you comb/brush your hair?”

She does it with a comb and with a brush, same as you…

13. “Can you teach me how to twerk?”

Why do you assume that because she’s black, she will know how to do it?

14. “Where are you from? Jamaica?”

If she says she’s Caribbean, never jump to the conclusion that she’s from Jamaica. It may be one of the more popular islands, but it is not the only island in the Caribbean Sea. There’s also Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and many more.

15. “You’re so pretty! Are you mixed with anything?”

We’re not saying don’t give out compliments when you feel the need to, but just please, be mindful of what you say. You’re indirectly implying that a black woman must be mixed with another ethnicity to ever be considered pretty.

16. “I’m usually not into black girls, but you’re beautiful.” / “You’re pretty for a black girl.”

And what is it about the black female population that is so unappealing? And how exactly did she manage to obtain the privilege of meeting your standards? At this point, are you even really giving out a compliment at all?

17. “You and *insert another black woman’s name here* look so much alike.”

Not all black people look alike just because they’re black. She probably doesn't see it at all.

18. “You’re so sassy” / “Why do black girls have so much attitude?”

Just because the “angry black woman” stereotype is constantly portrayed by black actresses in television and film doesn’t mean that it’s actually true. Why does her speaking her mind fall under the category of “sass” and “attitude”?

19. “Haaayy Bon Qui Qui/Sharqueffa/Shanaynay!”

If that’s not her name, what makes you think it’s okay to call her that? It’s actually not as funny as you think. Honestly, it’s not funny at all…

20. “I’m a big fan of *insert the name of a relevant black actor, athlete, celebrity, musician or politician here*”

And you felt the need to go out of your way to mention this to her because…? She may not have even voted for Obama, she may think Kanye West is insane and blasphemous, and she may not even know who Michael B Jordan is.

21. “Why do you guys get your own television station? That’s segregation.”

This one may seem a bit far-fetched, but trust us; it’s been said before. BET wasn’t created as a means for black people to distance themselves from other cultures; on the contrary, it was instilled in order to give black men and women a voice and something to relate to. It’s 2016 and Caucasian actresses and actors still account for the majority of the faces we see in popular culture.

22. “You’re so lucky you don’t have to tan or use sunscreen!”

For the record, black people are capable of tanning and they do need protection from the sun too. Their dark skin makes them less prone to sunburns and skin cancer, but they are still vulnerable to the effects of sun exposure.

23. “What do you want to eat? Fried chicken?”

Okay…she probably wouldn’t mind a wing or two but damn, you don’t have to joke about fried chicken with a side of grape soda and a slice of watermelon all of the time.

No matter where you go to school, there are certain types of collegiettes you see on every campus. Maybe that’s why we love (or love to hate) their on-screen counterparts! Be on the lookout for these ladies on campus—you’re bound to meet them somewhere).

1. Fat Amy (Pitch Perfect)

The name’s Amy, Fat Amy. No seriously, that is what she wants you to call her. She is the friend who will scream your name from across the dining hall to alert you that there is only one more of your favorite sandwich left so you’d better come and get it. Some people might find her a bit too blunt for their taste, but if you need a reality check, she’s got your back. There is never a dull moment with Fat Amy in your group and she wouldn’t have it any other way.

Where can you find her?

While you will probably never catch a glimpse of Fat Amy on an elliptical or treadmill at the campus gym, there is a very good chance that she will be at an a capella rehearsal, and she might just be running horizontally.

2. Natalie (The House Bunny)

Natalie is the girl you don’t see yourself being friends with initially because of her out-there, hard-to-grasp personality, but as soon as you get to know her you hit it off because, after all, what’s not to love about an energetic, go-getter BFF? Since she isn’t afraid to put it all on the line for her bestie, you know that she won’t flake on you even if there is a 95 percent chance that whatever you have plans to do is probably not going to end well for either one of you.

Where can you find her?

Natalie’s super excitable personality, high energy and desire to be involved would more than likely lead her to a leadership position that would allow her to showcase her spirit and inspire others to be just as eager to take on the world as she is. If you stop by the New Students office, it is a definite possibility that she’ll be there, training to be an orientation leader.

3. Buffy (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)

Buffy is just your average bubbly, personable, fun-loving college student with the exception that in her spare time, she slays monsters (while the rest of us are watching Netflix). While you could let this minor detail freak you out, you should consider the possibilities of having a supernatural friend. If you are still Team Edward, the two of you might disagree on some things, but other than that you would probably get along just fine.

Where can you find her?

Buffy’s outgoing personality and obvious superhuman strength makes her the perfect athlete. All of the kicking she does while fending off vampires probably translates very nicely on the soccer field. When she isn't on the field herself you will more than likely find her cheering your school’s team to victory.

4. Sydney White (Sydney White)

Sydney is your typical guy’s girl. It’s not that she doesn’t enjoy a girls’ night out or a chick flick every now and then, but she prefers the low-drama, feud-free setting that comes with hanging out with the guys. She is immune to the weird antics of boys, but despite her disinclination to be a “perfect little lady” guys fall for her left and right. Her charm lies in the fact that she doesn't even have to try to be a laid-back, fun person that everyone wants to hang out with.

Where can you find her?

If there is a sporting event going on, there is a very good chance that Sydney will be there surrounded by her best guy friends and yelling at the referee for the terrible call he just made.

5. Rory Gilmore (Gilmore Girls)

Those who don’t know her would describe her as quiet and shy. However, those who she surrounds herself with know her to be quick-witted,sarcastic and highly opinionated. She will be the listener to your talker, but still able to offer you some of the best pieces of advice that you have ever heard.

Where can you find her?

For Rory, there are always stories to be told and deadlines to be met. She lives to be a journalist, and it is fairly difficult to tear her away from the newsroom when she is in the midst of writing a story. On occasion you might be able to find her on a break from the newsroom…but only to pick up the latest edition of the paper.

6. Allie Hamilton (The Notebook)

Allie is the best friend who’ll willingly come over and talk out your problems with you over a gallon of ice cream—even if you call her at three in the morning. You’ll have to be willing to do the same because there is that boy back home you keep hearing about whom she just cannot seem to get over.

Where can you find her?

You’ll find Allie at the next sorority council meeting because she is probably the president. Her kind heart and infectious personality make fellow students feel at ease around her and she just epitomizes the strength and bond of sisterhood. She is the queen bee who gets work done, but doesn’t have to step on anyone’s toes in the process.

7. Annie Edison (Community)

Although she is young, she is fierce. Annie is the quintessential overachiever. She, unlike you, finishes her papers before the day they are due and goes to every early morning class with a smile and a can-do attitude. She has enough motivation for the both of you, and that is exactly the kind of person that you need in your life.

Where can you find her?

You know those people who you can practically envision moving pieces of furniture into the library because they’re there so often? Annie is definitely one of those collegiettes. The night before a big exam you can find her in her favorite spot in the library poring over lecture notes and textbooks because academics are a top priority and sleep is for the weak.

8. Rachel Berry (Glee)

Is she a bit bossy? Yes. Is she sometimes overly stubborn? Yes. Will she be the most loyal friend you will ever have? Probably so. Rachel definitely has a tough outer shell, but once you break through it she will be there for you through thick and thin. Even if she is in the middle of a Broadway performance she will still probably let you hide out in her dressing room until she has the time to talk to you during intermission.

Where can you find her?

At the theater belting out a song for the next big production. As far as Rachel is concerned the show must and will go on. There is never a time when Rachel Berry does not deem it suitable to be devoting herself to her art. If you want to catch up with her all you need to do is purchase tickets to her next performance.

9. Serena van der Woodsen and Blair Waldorf (Gossip Girl)

There are always those friends whose names seem interconnected as if they were one entity. Without Blair there is no Serena, and without Serena there is no Blair. They are the best friends that each will ever have, and pretty much the entire school spends a good portion of their time following that friendship through its ups and downs, living vicariously through them as they enjoy their fabulous lives.

Where can you find them?

Everywhere. These are the girls who, no matter where they go or what they are doing, they know everyone and everyone knows them. They are not strangers to any place or anyone. It’s their campus, you just go to classes there.

10. Elle Woods (Legally Blonde)

Ever preppy, ever sociable, Elle Woods is the perfect combination of ditzy and brilliant. Every girl needs that gal pal who will not only make sure she is not wearing last season’s Prada shoes, but can also make sure she knows the difference between mala in se and mala prohibita for an upcoming criminal justice exam.

Where can you find her?

Elle Woods is not a slacker, nor is she a quitter. You will find her in the first row of any lecture with her pink, sparkly pen in hand ready to be the best student that she can be. However, Elle is also not one to tolerate getting bored. If the lecture hits a dry patch, she will not hesitate to scroll through Pinterest until it is once again deserving of her attention.

Whether you’re a Blair, a Rory or a Rachel, there’s an on-screen collegiette just like you. See you on campus!

From day one, Lace has been our pick—not for the woman who would eventually steal Ben’s heart, but for the craziest lady attempting to marry our Bachelor. Of course, you have your token cuckoos every season, but Lace stood out as one we wouldn’t soon forget.

Her insistence that Ben refused to make eye contact with her during the first rose ceremony ensured she made her mark early on. It was quite the solid start for the MTB couple. We kid because clearly these two were not going to happen. We figured it was only a matter of time before Ben sent Lace packing.

But instead, Lace beat him to it and opted to leave on her own this week. Her reasoning? She needed to work on loving herself more. Much to our surprise, we felt a newfound respect for Lace.

We know that many of the women who choose to come on The Bachelor are there for love, fun, the experience, the fame or whatever reason they used to convince their boss (that is, if they have one) to let them take an extended reality TV-related leave of absence. But for every girl who’s there for “the right reasons,” there’s also those who arrive feeling dejected and lonely. This is their last ditch effort to see if they’re worthy of being loved.

As sad as that may be to accept, the emotional roller coaster the environment of The Bachelor—not to mention the show’s producers—puts these women through makes their immense fear of rejection and self-loathing all the more apparent. So for a woman like Lace, who has been all over the place from the moment she stepped out of the limo, to address this matter and take a stand on her own behalf is so refreshing.

Season after season, we cringe as women like Ashley I., Kelsey and Ashley S. (and that’s just the ones from Bachelor Chris Soules’s season) deal with the show’s reality in dramatic waves of crying, pure rage or nonsensical ramblings. And more often than not, we find these women are completely normal, functioning members of society once their time on The Bachelor is complete.

Imagine if every woman—and we’re not just talking about those on The Bachelor—took a step back to focus on herself rather than the extremes around her. Even though we tend to forget, it’s important for us to take care of and love ourselves, above all else.

Kudos to Lace for recognizing that this show was majorly messing with her emotions. In our opinion, it takes a strong, dynamic woman to say she needs to work on loving herself more. Because, honestly, don’t we all?

We hate to see her go, but we’re pretty sure we’ll be seeing Lace on Bachelor in Paradise when the time is right.  

With the New Year upon us, there is no better time to re-boot and find your authentic self. LEAP is a personal re-branding company, that uses specialized coaching techniques to help us reconnect with who we are and what’s truly important to us. Typically taking place in a two-day group setting. LEAP professionals help you focus on what allows you to be your best self —and how to show it to others.

LEAP is partnering up with Her Campus to offer three lucky winners the LEAP personal branding package: One session with a LEAP branding coach, another session with a LEAP branding expert, and a LEAP branding portfolio!

Learn how to be your most authentic self with LEAP. Enter now to win! 

LEAP

Kendall and Kylie have just announced they will be bringing their newest collection at Fashion Week. Get ready for some major fashion inspiration!

The two youngest sisters of the Kardashian-Jenner clan have been collaborating with stores such as PacSun and Topshop for several years. This season, they are expanding their career in fashion by celebrating their very own collection at New York Fashion Week. The official Instagram account for Kendall + Kylie shows the sisters getting their collection ready for this exciting event.

In an interview with WWD over the summer, the girls spoke about how their newest collection would allow them to break free of some barriers that had been holding them back. Kendall explains, “[the new collection is] a lot different from Topshop and PacSun collections because those were both collaborations, so they obviously had a say in everything."

We have loved the Kendall + Kylie collection from the beginning, so it’s exciting to see what this new collection has in store. With pieces price from $60 to $250, they’re definitely a less costly option than some other designer pieces being showcased at Fashion Week. Better start saving up, collegiettes, because we bet there will be some serious shopping in your future when this collection officially hits stores.

Laxmi Saa proves that beauty comes in all forms. When Saa was 15, an older man threw acid at her after she refused his marriage proposal, which left scars and burn marks on her face and neck. Now, 10 years later, this brave woman stars in the Indian sari brand Viva N Diva's newest campaign, "Face of Courage." 

According to the brand's website, the campaign serves as "an initiative dedicated to those who lost their physical beauty due to the horrific acid attacks with an aim to create new opportunities for them in the fashion industry."

Today, Saa is one of the most prominent advocates against the unregulated sale of acid in India, while also working for her own non-profit organizations, Chhanv Foundation and  Stop Acid Attacks. She even won the International Women of Courage Award in 2014.

Saa told BBC that this campaign was a "platform for [her] to send a clear message to criminals that women will not lose courage even after they are attacked with acid to destroy their physical beauty." According to the Huffington Post, she will be the first acid attack survivor to model in a fashion campaign. Talk about girl power!

Rupesh Jhawar, the co-founder of Viva N Diva, came up with the idea to cast Saa after seeing a calendar full of other acid attack survivors. The campaign encourages women who have suffered in any way to feel beautiful.

In a culture where perfection is everything, it's so refreshing to see the fashion industry accepting more forms of beauty! It's even more amazing that the campaign spreads awareness for acid attack victims. 

Whether you’re in a relationship with a new guy or have been together for months, Valentine’s Day can be a fun way to show your love and appreciation for your significant other. But before you plan the elaborate V-Day gift and dinner, check out what these guys had to say about Valentine’s Day! Here’s a hint: they’re (almost) as sappy as we are!

On Valentine’s Day as a legitimate holiday

Valentine’s Day is a commercial holiday—no doubt about it. But turns out guys aren’t as cynical as you’d expect. Some actually sort of like it!

“I think that it’s just another way for greeting card companies to benefit from couples spending money on gifts on each other. However, it’s kind of cool to have a special day for couples to celebrate (as long as they don’t overdo it with all the manufactured Valentine’s Day stuff.) – Ryan, a sophomore at University of Washington

“Why not have a day to celebrate love? I think the people who decry the commercial overtones are just miserable, even if they make good points. Let someone have a day to be extra happy.” – Luca, a sophomore at SUNY Geneseo

But then there are the cynics… So, collegiettes, when it comes to V-Day, guys are as across the board as we are.

“I’ve never really celebrated it so when that day comes, I don’t really care. So I guess to me, it’s not a holiday. Just like any other day.” – Morris, a sophomore at Johns Hopkins University

“No, I think Valentine’s Day is a made-up holiday by the chocolate/flower industries and restaurant owners to sell their products.” –Daniel, a senior at Columbia University

On giving and receiving gifts

Gift-giving for guys is rarely easy, especially on Valentine’s Day, since the typical fare (flower, chocolates, teddy bears) often seems cheesy and overly-sappy. The takeaway? Boys don’t necessarily expect gifts on this holiday, though most do plan on giving their significant others gifts. So don’t stress too much if you’re debating whether or not a gift is appropriate. Guys like effort (think homemade) and know money is often tight in college.

“I’d probably give her a gift. I don’t care that much. I’d prefer her gift to me to be not something tangible. I’d want my gift to be her to do something special. Something new in the sexual realm, for example.” – Morris

“No I really don't need a gift, I feel like this day is more about spending time with someone you love rather than gifts.” – Ryan

“Some couples like corny gifts. If that’s you, then sure, get a stuffed animal or some kind of trinket. Flowers are great, too. But, come on, expensive jewelry? I don’t know. Just because it’s Valentine’s Day? It seems more romantic to give a gift on a day that you find to be important as a couple.” – Andrew, a sophomore at Boston University

“I think it's best for you and him to set a monetary limit if you plan on exchanging V-Day gifts. This lessens the pressure on the guy especially, who is already probably dropping fat stacks on a fancy dinner. The gift should be tailored to what a guy is interested in or what his hobbies are. If he likes movies, buy him some DVDs or a subscription to Netflix. If he likes to party, pick out a nice bottle of liquor. If he follows sports, get him a jersey for his favorite team or tickets to a game. Try to pick out something that you can both enjoy and use to create a shared experience. Concert tickets for a musical artist you both enjoy, for example.” – Mike, a senior at Kent State University

On romantic dates

Most guys agree: going on a date seems to be the gold standard for Valentine’s Day. Whether it’s an intimate dinner, a classic dinner-and-a-movie or something a bit more unusual, guys typically like going on V-Day dates and will take the reins in planning them.

“If I went on a Valentine's date I would probably do something small, like go see a movie and probably have dinner afterwards. Also probably like a walk afterwards too.” – Ryan

“Despite knowing that Valentine's Day is a big scam, I still enjoy using it as an opportunity to show my significant other that I love her and bring some excitement into our love life. A romantic dinner is a must. However, if we were to watch a movie it would probably be at home rather than a theater. Would want to spend as much ‘alone time’ with my significant other as possible.” – Daniel

“I’d want something very causal for Valentine’s Day. We’d spend the afternoon taking a walk somewhere if the weather’s not too bad, maybe catch a movie, and then grab dinner at a place that both of us would be excited to eat at before we spend the night at whichever dorm/apartment/house is more comfortable.” – Andrew

“If you're in a relationship with someone you should want to go on a romantic date on Valentine's Day and treat your woman right. While plans should be more aimed toward what the female would want to do, there should be some compromise. Dinner and a movie seems like a win-win for all involved.” – Mike

“Last year I made dinner and we danced to a mix CD. In general, I’d probably want to do something weird, something different, not usually considered a date. Or, I’d be more than happy holing ourselves up and watching movies while cuddling the entire day.” - Luca

On spending V-Day single

Like us, single guys also tend to get a little envious on Valentine’s Day. But most don’t care. So if you’re single, take a cue from these guys and ignore the handholding on the quad! Check out these tips for having a great V-Day regardless of your relationship status!

“It doesn't really sadden me too much because I am not actively looking for a girlfriend but it kind of makes me jealous seeing all the couples out and about.” – Ryan

“I’ve done it, and it’s fine. It doesn’t suck. Yes, I’d rather be with someone, but if you remember that it’s just February 14, it helps to go through the day like any other one. Maybe I’d watch a romantic comedy on TV if I were really bummed out. But hopefully I’ll have something more to do this year than that.“ – Andrew

“When you're single on Valentine's Day, you often feel like you're the only one without a date. That's so far from the truth! In college, there's definitely more people single than in a relationship. This fact should give you comfort. It's not a big deal if you don't have an official girlfriend or boyfriend. If you're afraid of being lonely, you can go out with a group of single friends... or even just talk to your mom or dad on the phone. Single or not, there's still plenty of ways to feel the love on Valentine's Day. Couples aren't the only ones who get to have fun.” – Mike

On their ideal Valentine’s Day

Now here’s the fun stuff: we asked guys across the country to describe their ideal V-Day—the who, what, where and when. Here’s what they had to say.

“Probably with somebody I love dearly and we would go away from all the other Valentine’s Day stuff and spend time just together. But in a very romantic setting. Like a waterfall or something exotic.” – Morris

“I would like to do a morning hike here in Washington. Maybe go to Gasworks Park afterwards and have a little picnic. After that we go see a movie afterwards and it wouldn't be like a rom-com. Maybe a dinner somewhere and then we go walk around, enjoying the night and looking at stars. With who? No one in particular, but Anne Hathaway would be nice!” – Ryan

“Take a day off from work, perfect weather, tropical island, beach, beach view suite with Jacuzzi, meal from Michelin-starred restaurant (as well as being lactose free), with the love of my life. Hey, it never hurts to think big right?” – Daniel

“Somewhere offbeat: we visit every coffee shop within an X mile radius and try their espresso shots. Then we get lost in the woods somewhere. Perhaps go shopping with the express goal of buying one thing for the other that they wouldn't wear otherwise. Then make dinner together, something big and involved. Finish with a movie, or maybe instead finish with learning a song together.” – Luca

“Flirtatious texts throughout the day. Dinner at an upscale restaurant in the evening. Next, a movie (either at the theaters or at home). Perhaps some drinks. And then after that, hopefully we just get it on.” – Mike

So there you have it, collegiettes! Don’t stress on this romantic holiday. Ask your guy about date ideas, plan something fun together and just enjoy the day!

No matter what, people can't decide what age I look. It's never my actual age—twenty-two—and it's never older. But it ranges anywhere from twelve (yes—I got that from a woman in line at Fire & Ice) to nineteen, with every variation in between. I've even been carded for looking under eighteen in a mall after 5 p.m. 

So when I found out there was a new website that measures your age, gender and attractiveness, I was ready to try it. I try almost all of these websites just to get a kick out of whatever nonsense it tells me.

Faces, which was created by Computer Vision Laboratory and Swiss dating app BLINQ, allows you to upload any photo and it will detect the age, gender and attractiveness of the person in the photo. 

I put the app to the test. First, I tried photos of, in my opinion, some of the hottest celebrities. 

Nina Dobrev is godlike. I see that.

Faces, you're not wrong.

Wow, I think Samira Wiley is definitely more than "nice," but whatever. 

Then I started uploading photos of myself. I've had a variety of hair colors and styles, and each of them influenced by stereotypical "hotness" (as measured by daily catcalls) and the age people thought I looked. I've had ombre purple, a pixie cut, long straight blonde, long dark brown, and short medium brown, all with different results.

What did Faces think?

This is my current Twitter and LinkedIn photo, so I'm really fond of it. I used my Canon EOS Rebel to take the shot and I think I look pretty good. Apparently, I'm only "nice," but at least Faces thinks I'm nineteen. That's something.

I tried to trick Faces by uploading a pic with my pixie cut, which frequently had little kids asking what gender I was.

I was seventeen at the time of that photo, so that's not too shabby. I'm a little offended about that "hmm" rating, though.

I had braces from ages 17 to 22 and just got them off this summer (never get braces right before college, that's the lesson) so I wanted to see if they had any impact on my age and attractiveness.

Apparently not. In this cute selfie, the most noticeable aspect of me was my necklace. I get it, it's a pretty cool Time Turner. It's still not twenty-four years old, or a man.

What would Faces think of my blonde hair, or my best recent selfie?

When I was blonde, I was twenty. It was also the six-month period in which I was the most frequently catcalled I've ever been in my life, starting with the exact moment I stepped out of the hairdressers. Despite that, Faces ranked me at only "nice," and sixteen. I'm still glad I left the phase behind me, because being blonde and noticed is hard work.

This is my best recent selfie, which I took two months ago. I chose this one because I was hit on twice in the same day, and I also felt really confident before that happened. According to Faces, I'm twenty-five and "hot"—or rather, it's the car that's looking good. Okay.

After I tested a few of my various hairstyles, I started to get a little silly with Faces.

What would happen if I uploaded a photo of me holding up a caricature of me?

That drawing of me is totally twenty-five and a guy. 

I also tried out a photo of one of my cats, because damn, she's gorgeous.

Apparently, my cat is thirty-two and hot. I'm a little sad that Faces based this decision on a clump of my blanket, though. My blanket is definitely not hotter than this gorgeous tabby, no matter how well I make the bed.

I also tested what would happen if I uploaded the gorgeous drawing of me that my friend, artist Damian Alexander, made. I use this picture on my portfolio and I always receive really positive responses.

Faces decided it "couldn't detect a face." Okay, but my necklace and a blanket are faces? What kind of logic is this?

I tried a few different versions of the file, all to no avail. What else would Faces accept as a true face?

Apparently, even Bit Strips count as a face. But my cartoon self is only "okay." 

I'm a little outraged that the website couldn't detect a beautifully rendered drawing, but saw a face in a clump of sheets. What does Faces think it is, a stoner watching the clouds roll by? My bed is not an accurate representation of human anatomy any more than hours of a talented artists' hard work and dedication. 

On the plus side, Faces never ranked me as twelve, so it's at least doing better than the woman at Fire & Ice who was utterly dumbfounded to find out that I was there as part of a college presentation trip two years ago. 

This post shares results from our Complete College Life Survey Series where we collected over 10,000 responses from women at 300+ colleges.  Check out even more of the results here.

College women are skimping on sleep during the week (though not too badly) and catching up over the weekend.  15% of college women manage to get to bed by 11PM on weeknights, while 51% burn the midnight oil, staying up past midnight.  When it comes to weekday mornings, a whopping 81% are up by 9AM (curse those 9AM lectures!). 

Collegiettes are going to bed later and waking up later on the weekend though (just gotta make it up in time for brunch!), with almost a third of college women reporting that they usually go to bed later than 2AM on weekend nights, and 75% sleeping in past 9AM (and 6% sleeping in past noon!). 

And unsurprisingly, 71% of collegiettes report sleeping with their phones right next to them or in their bed… let’s just hope they’re not sleep-texting!

Infographic by Vikki Burnett

Don't miss our the rest of our survey results - check them out here! 

Goodbye 2015 and hello to the new year! It’s back to the grind: With a new semester comes new stresses, but we know you’re going to kill it this year. Why are we so sure? You’ll get by with a little help from your friends! SKOUT, the global app that helps you meet new people and expand your social circle, did a survey among college-aged women in the US and found that your #squad plays a bigger role than you think in making your semester awesome. Here are just a few reasons why they’ll help you slay spring:

1. Going to the gym is way better with your bestie

SKOUT’s survey found that 56 percent of college-aged women are going to exercise more in 2016—and 29 percent will only do it with a friend.

2.  A little healthy competition never hurt anybody

SKOUT found that 83 percent of women say that working out with a friend helps push them harder for a better workout.

3. They’ll support you no matter what

There’s nothing better than a loyal best friend. From your neurotic study habits to that 2 a.m. decision to order nachos—they’ll respect and support all of your good (and bad) decisions.

4. Friends make the best wing-people

80 percent are looking for new romantic partners in 2016—and 68 percent are open to having their friends set them up on a date!

5. They’ll push you to try new things

Let’s face it—you’re way more likely to sign up for ballroom dance club or sorority recruitment this spring if your BFFs are doing it with you. Same goes for exotic sports—60 percent say if their friend signed up for an obstacle course race, they would too.

6. They’ll always be honest

Have your beloved leggings become see-through? Your BFF will let you know. Did you fill in your eyebrows a bit too harshly? Your squad will help get them back on fleek. 84 percent of college women are working to improve their look this year, and 67 percent would let their friend give them a makeover!

7.  They’ll inspire you to be healthier

Unsurprisingly, 55 percent of college-aged women want to go on a diet in 2016, according to SKOUT. Of those, 17 percent will only do it with a friend. Sounds about right: the only way we’re letting go of that pizza slice is if our BFF removes it from our hands!

8. They (might) help you save money

Like most college girls, we’re feeling pretty broke right now after the holidays. In fact, 93 percent of us say that saving money is one of our goals for 2016. Luckily, only 27 percent say that if a friend buys something expensive, they are tempted to do so as well.

Thank god for friends! Here’s to having our best year yet, collegiettes! 

The ex-boyfriend of a SUNY Geneseo student fatally stabbed her and another student before killing himself at an off-campus house on Sunday, according to the New York Daily News.

Colin Kingston, a 24-year-old former SUNY Geneseo student, entered 21-year-old Kelsey Annese’s home early Sunday morning, Geneseo Police Public Information Officer Jeffrey Szczensiak told reporters.

Kingston then stabbed and killed Annese and 24-year-old Matthew Hutchinson in a bedroom of the house.

Kingston and Annese had recently ended an almost three-year relationship.

“We believe Mr. Kingston was distraught over the breakup, which led to the events yesterday,” said Szczesniak in a news conference Monday.

Kingston called his father from an unknown number, saying he had murdered his girlfriend and was also going to kill himself.

Officers found the bodies of Kingston, Annese, and Hutchinson when they arrived at the home early Sunday morning.

"All indications are that Mr. Kingston used the same knife to take his own life,'' said Szczensiak.

As reported by The Buffalo News, Szczensiak stated that Kingston did not have a criminal record and there was no indication that Annese and Hutchinson were in a relationship at the time.

“It’s a profoundly sad day for all of us at SUNY Geneseo as we begin to mourn these heartbreaking deaths,” SUNY Geneseo President Denise A. Battles said at Geneseo Police Department news conference Monday. “This is a very difficult time for the college, and we appreciate the huge outpouring of support we are receiving during this time of grieving. The Geneseo we know is a strong community, and together we will pull together in dealing with the aftermath of this tragedy.”

Annese was a captain for the women's basketball team, and Battles said Tuesday's basketball games would be postponed.. She also said counseling would be available to everyone on campus.

January is finally upon us—and for super stylish collegiettes, this can only mean one thing: the struggle of winter dressing. While we’re all about looking cute, dressing for winter also involves getting creative when it comes to staying chic, warm and dry all at the same time—for many of us, this means trading our pretty pea coats for heavy parkas when the snow and sleet hit. Fortunately, believe it or not, it’s easy to make a parka look a lot more fashionable than you’d think—these looks straight from our favorite street style stars are proof.

1. Layer It On

On this season’s most freezing days, layers are the answer to all of your winter woes—and a practical parka can easily be made more interesting when worn over a layered look. Any type of collared shirt worn underneath a snuggly sweater is a tried and true way to instantly make any outfit a little more sophisticated. We like this casual take on the look, with a denim shirt worn under a neutral colored sweater.

Get her look: ASOS Slim Fit Denim Shirt ($38 at ASOS) and Warmlight Pullover Sweater ($59.50 at Madewell)

2. Add A Blanket Scarf

Is there anything better than a massive blanket scarf on a cold morning? (Hint: It’s basically a socially acceptable way to bring your blanket out of bed with you—so, no). A blanket scarf is also an amazing way to chic-ify a plain parka! Look for statement colors, interesting patterns and, when in doubt, go for a pretty plaid like this bundled up fashionista.

Get her look: Wool Plaid Scarf ($44.95 at Sole Society)

3. All Black Everything

It’s no secret that fashion girls are big believers in the whole “all black everything” thing—Jay-Z was definitely onto something. Green parkas are great, but for a slightly sleeker look, opt for one in black—and rock the all-black look from head to toe. We love the way blogger Michaela Babuskova of FIGTNY elevated hers by pairing it with black leather pants.

Get her look: Anorak Parka With Faux Fur Trim ($146 at Zappos) and Imitation Leather Pants ($19.99 at H&M)

4. Go For the Double Jacket Look

Take advantage of your parka’s oversize shape by layering it with another jacket underneath. Not only will you stay seriously warm while walking to class, but you’ll have another entirely different cute outfit underneath for when you take your coat off indoors! Any light jacket will look fab, but we love the way this street style star wore a moto jacket underneath hers—it totally toughens up the look!

Get her look: Faux Leather Moto Jacket ($32.90 at Forever 21)

5. Do Denim on Denim

A little bit of winter weather doesn’t have to get in the way of amazing off-duty weekend style. The Canadian tuxedo, aka denim on denim, is the easiest way to maintain your effortless weekend look, and pairs amazingly with a parka. Take your style cues from this blogger and up the warmth factor by wearing a denim jacket instead of a chambray shirt.

Get her look: Denim Jacket ($68 at Nasty Gal), Button Through Skirt in Mid Wash Blue ($42 at ASOS) and Opaque Tights ($14.90 at Express)

Related: How to Get Away With Wearing the Same Coat Every Day

6. Dress It Up

Headed to a slightly dressier affair? You can still look on point in a parka— seriously! Take it from blogger Chiara Ferragni—a heavy winter coat looks unexpectedly chic when paired with a sweater dress and tights. For extra warmth under your dress, update Chiara’s look by swapping typical tights for black sweater tights.

Get her look: V-Back Sweater Dress ($27.90 at Forever 21) and HeatTech Knitted Tights ($14.90 at Uniqlo)

7. Back to Basics

When it doubt, get back to basics. Simple, wear-forever pieces like a French girl-esque striped tee and boyfriend jeans are essentials you probably already have in your closet—and it turns out that they look amazing underneath a military green parka.

Get the look: Striped Cotton T-Shirt ($24.99 at Mango) and Blue Ripped Hayden Jeans ($80 at Topshop)

Sure parkas are totally practical—but with a few styling tips and tricks, it’s easy to transform your heavy winter coat into a stylish wardrobe essential!

1. Skip the Must-Sees.

Despite its popularity with international tourists, some people just have no interest in seeing the Greenwich Meridian Line. Likewise, for some travelers, Times Square on New Year’s Eve is an utter dream; yet for others, it’s an absolute nightmare.

Guess what? You don’t have to see or do anything you don’t want. If you’re not genuinely interested, then skip any supposed “must see” or “once in a lifetime experience.” This is your trip: you do you.

2. Get Lost.

It’s tempting to plan out each day of your trip. You wouldn’t want to miss anything or—God forbid—waste a day. But for at least a few hours on every trip, try ditching the map and skipping the planning apps, and see what happens. All the best adventures are ones that are unplanned.

3. Talk to Strangers.

Chat with the server who brings you your morning cappuccino. Share a bench and conversation in a public park. Ask your tour guide a personal question. Take a shop owner up on their invitation for tea. Smile at a stranger and see what happens. A new place is all about new people—meet some of them.

4. Waste the Day.

Stay out too late and sleep in. Miss a whole day of sightseeing and stay in bed all day long. (Just make the night before well worth it.)

5. Act Like a Tourist.

I’m not saying that you should wear a fanny pack or only speak loudly in your own language; instead, I mean stop worrying about looking cool and wear that beret in France; take the dorky photo leaning on the Tower of Pisa; trek for miles just to taste the best frites in Belgium. Don’t be afraid to be a typical tourist.

6. Ditch the Camera.

Come out from behind the lens and do something new without the burden of documenting it. Instead of reaching for your phone and considering the Instagram filter, breathe deeply and fully enjoy a new experience or place by just being there.

7. Do Something You Suck At.

Scared of heights? Go rock scrambling. Can’t cook? Take a local cooking class. We spend our whole lives avoiding stuff we suck at. When we travel we get to try new things; most people look silly doing things they’ve never done before. You may suck at it—but do it anyway.

8. Forget About Your Loved Ones Back Home.

In the past, I would spend countless hours searching for the perfect presents to bring home for everyone in my immediate circle including roommates, grandparents, and coworkers.

In addition to it being mentally exhausting, it also often resulted in everyone getting tacky decorative shot glasses or cheap snow globes that were hardly treasured.

Nowadays, I skip the souvenir shopping and instead bring home lots of local treats—like candy, to give out to my colleagues, friends, and family. By bringing home food, you show your loved one that you were thinking about them, without cluttering their shelves with useless and usually inauthentic tchotchkes.

9. Buy Yourself Something Useless

You’ve just been given permission to skip souvenir shopping, but don’t forget to treat yourself. Remember: Souvenir comes from the French, meaning, “to remember.”

So you know that strange piece of handmade art or that weird Christmas ornament you can’t seem to walk away from? Go on and buy it. Even if the ridiculous trinkets that you’re drawn to have no practical purpose or are just a little too silly for every day, go on and get them anyway and start a collection of unique souvenirs that will always remind you of your trips.

10. Dislike a Place.

There’s no rule that says you need to fall in with love every place you visit. Despite how much money you invested or how far you traveled, you have no obligation to absolutely love a place and vow to return again and again.

The world will surprise you—there will be times when you’ll stumble upon some city that you will have an intense and inexplicable affinity with. Likewise, there will be places that you just do not connect with. Own up to your true feelings. Knowing what you don’t like is as important as knowing what you like.

You may not feel as prepared for adulthood as you thought you'd be. You kind of hoped that right after graduation, or at least within six months to a year, you'd be kicking it in a gorgeous house, driving to your dream job in a brand new car and adopting at least one adorable puppy. 

Maybe you aren't doing all that, and that's okay. You may still be living at home, or in your first crappy out-of-college apartment with three random roommates. You may still be opening bottles of wine with a penknife because you don't have a corkscrew. And that's okay. You're new to this whole adulting thing--and here are 16 reasons you're actually killing it as a recent grad.

1. You have your own Netflix or Hulu account.

Who cares if you don't have cable in your apartment? If you have even just one streaming account of your own, consider that a success.

2. You have a job, no matter what it is.

You may not have your dream job yet. It's okay to be a temp worker, a cashier, a bartender, or whatever else you need to do in the meantime. The fact that you're dedicated enough to do something hard says a lot about you.

3. You still keep in touch with your friends.

Hey, it's not as easy staying friends when you can't walk right across campus into each other's dorms. If you're still keeping in touch for once-a-month dinners, you're doing better than you thought.

4. You have actual silverware.

If you own plates, bowls, knives and the whole shebang instead of improvising like in college, this is a good sign.

5. Even if you don't have your own place, you're working on it.

There's no shame in living at home after graduation. You can save money and take time to actually apartment shop instead of signing the lease on the first crappy studio you can find. If you're at least working on saving the money and figuring out independence, you should be proud.

6. You have goals.

It's okay not to be in your dream job, as long as you know what you want to do. Taking steps, even small ones, to get to that point is just as important. 

7. You drink socially sometimes.

In college, drinking was all about who could take the most shots in ten minutes. Now that you're an adult, you probably sip wine at happy hour with your friends or coworkers, and that's just as great.

8. You paid some bills.

Even if you don't have your own place, you probably still have at least one bill, like a credit card, your phone or your dreaded student loans. Be proud of making payments consistently on time--it'll be great for your credit score.

9. You aren't worried your car is going to fall apart if it hits a pothole.

In college, chances are, your car was a death trap and you were never sure if the check engine light was on for a reason, or just permanently broken. It's fine if you don't own a brand new car--who wants that kind of monthly payment, anyway? As long as you aren't terrified your car will break down every time you hit a pothole, you're doing better than you think. 

10. You don't have a job, but you're applying your skills.

This is for those of us who have applied to what seems like every job in a 50 mile radius and still aren't getting anywhere. Maybe you're applying those skills by volunteering somewhere, doing an extra post-grad internship or helping out a friend. As long as you're trying, you should be proud. 

11. You make your own appointments.

Or avoid going to the doctor's for six months at a time because you don't want to make the appointments. Either way...

12. You know how to feed yourself.

And it doesn't involved late night runs to Chipotle or dollar store mac n'cheese.

13. You get enough sleep. Or at least try.

In college, we were all up until four in the morning for days on end during finals. Now that you're an adult and you have work, or applying for jobs, or job interviews, or doctor's appointments, you at least try to get eight hours a night. Sometimes it actually happens.

14. You're still keeping up with your hobbies.

You may not have as much time as you did before, but you find at least a few hours every week to go running, read a book, work on your painting, do some knitting, or whatever other hobbies you care about.

15. Your family has stopped asking what you'll do after college.

Your family can't ask you about your post-grad plans at every holiday party anymore, because even if you're not in your dream job, you're doing enough that they can clearly see your goals. No explanation necessary.

16. You only eat ramen if you want to.

And when you do, it's the fancy kind from a local restaurant with eggs and real meat in it. 

17. Other people ask you for advice.

Who cares if that advice is, "What show should I binge-watch next?"

18. Your professors are telling current students about you.

And maybe they even ask you for advice too! If you've ever been asked for your contact information for current students in need of career advice, you're doing better than you thought.

19. You're qualified for jobs in your field.

Even if it feels like every job application requires 10+ years experience for an entry level position, plus the ability to do cardiac surgery with your eyes closed upside down, you actually do have qualifications for jobs in your field. You just need someone to trust in your abilities, because you know you can knock it out of the park once they do.

When I was 6 years old, my older cousin Lizzie gave me a makeup kit. It was pink with purple drawers and a small mirror, and filled with headbands, cheap nail polish, eye shadow, and lipstick. It was a dream come true!  I was so excited when she gave it to me—I was finally able to act like a grown up and do my makeup just like the Spice Girls!

My parents were not as happy with this gift, though; they were not comfortable with their little girl wearing makeup. Since an early age, my parents taught me that make up is not something I should wear to become beautiful, but something that highlights my beauty. As any loving dad would, mine told me I do not need makeup, and I believed that. My mom also taught me that I don’t need makeup to cover my face and how my skin can become ruined because of makeup, especially if I start using it at an early age.

I was also taught that makeup should be used just in certain occasions, which is what I used to do; whenever I went to the movies with my friends and my crush was there I would apply mascara, when I had a wedding, bar mitzvah or a celebration my mom would apply a little foundation and blush, and in our yearly Israeli Dancing Festival I would wear the crazy designs that looked good with our outfits on stage. But other than that, my face was completely naked.

Related: 3 Professionals Share Their Best Tips for Natural Makeup

I started to wear “real” makeup after spring break of senior year of high school. My makeup consisted of BB cream, bronzer, and mascara and, for me, that was full makeup. It was something simple, but it did indeed highlight my beauty. But once I started college my routine changed. Some days I would wear what I considered full makeup, some days I would just apply bronzer, and other days I wouldn’t even touch my makeup bag.  I will admit that I am comfortable with my own skin, and it is normal to find me around campus without any makeup—even while out on the weekends.

Then one day I decided to conduct an experiment in which I would have to wear full makeup every day. Not just BB cream, mascara, and bronzer, but eyeliner, eye shadow, and maybe some contouring. No matter where I go, I would have to wear makeup. It was extremely weird that my face didn’t match my mood most of the time, especially since I was jet lagged for half of this experiment. (I spent my winter break in Israel, and I landed the day before I started this challenge.)

Day One

I was so excited to start this experiment. I just bought a new foundation, so I was actually excited to try it on. It took me a while to get it even, but once I did, I felt accomplished. I woke up that day an hour before I had to leave my house, when I normally take care of my morning routine in less than 30 minutes. I put some powder and concealer, and I contoured my face a little bit. I applied bronzer and some blush to make my cheeks less pale, and put some eye shadow on my lids. I tried to do a little bit of a smoky eye with earth colors, and I finished up with some liquid eyeliner, crayon, and purple mascara.

At work all of my co-workers told me that I looked different. I was sick last month, so most of them told me that I look much healthier and they could tell I was rested. It was weird to receive compliments from my co-workers, especially since I'm just an intern. On the way back to campus a couple of guys cat-called me, which made me feel extremely uncomfortable, but—I have to admit—it made me feel noticed. I also went to the gym that night, still wearing makeup which was extremely disgusting; I could feel the makeup melting on my face, and the mixture of sweat and foundation was making me anxious. I couldn’t enjoy my run as much as usual because I was paying attention to my face. As soon as I got back to my apartment I took it the makeup off, and I felt relieved. This week couldn't go by fast enough.

Day Two

Tuesdays and Thursdays are my days off, and I normally go to the business building on campus or to a small coffee shop to get my work done. I was still jet lagged, and all I really wanted to do was wear sweatpants and UGGs and binge-watch on Netflix. I had to write some articles and start my assignments for the online class I was taking, so I sucked it up and made myself move out of bed. I did wear sweatpants and a t-shirt, but did my makeup as required for this challenge and headed to the business building. I spent the whole morning there, and then went shopping with one of my sisters from my sorority. It was great to try on clothes looking good. I haven’t been shopping in a while, and having my makeup done definitely made me feel better about myself.

Day Three

I did my makeup with excitement on this morning and I went to work. I was told again that I looked great and well-rested, and that I should keep doing whatever I was doing. I had a sorority event that night and I knew I had to look put together especially being part of the executive board. I wanted to look my best, but I already had makeup on and I didn’t know how to re-touch it, or how to fix my smudged eyeliner without taking off my eye makeup completely.

Related: 14 Thoughts Girls Have When Applying Makeup

I had to ask my friend to help me out and fix my makeup, because I never had to do so. When I got to the event, my sisters told me that I looked great and healthy. I felt so pretty that all I wanted to do is take pictures and have them up on social media. To be honest, I wanted a guy to see those pictures on Facebook and see if that gave him an excuse to talk to me. If I was wearing makeup, I felt like I might as well use it in my advantage.

Day Four

I had to wake up at 8 a.m. on a Saturday because I was being initiated into my sorority. We were told that we need to wear really natural make up and I thought that was hard to accomplish with my challenge. I manage to do it as natural as possible and headed to the event. Because we were the first class getting initiated, we were taking an exorbitant amount of pictures, and I was happy to capture the moment. I felt so pretty that day that all I wanted was to take more pictures (after initiation of course). 

By the end of the day, I was so ready for a night in, but my friends wanted to get together that night. I hated that I had to wear makeup again that day, but after a couple of shots of espresso I managed to find the motivation to do it. My friend helped me transition my full day makeup to something more suitable for the night. I felt weird wearing such a bright lipstick and more eye shadow than I ever imagined, plus she even helped with winged eyeliner! We got to the get together, and a guy who did me wrong a couple of months ago actually approached me to talk to me. Unfortunately, I knew he was definitely talking to me that night because of how I looked. I forgave him long time ago, but the fact that he would just talk to me because I was looking good made me feel uncomfortable. I ended up leaving the party and went directly to bed.

Day Five

Sundays are supposed to be lazy days, but I had back-to-back meetings the whole day. I actually woke up feeling terrible, so I ran to CVS to buy some brownie mix. That always fixes things, right? It was one of those days when you don’t want to move from your bed, much less look presentable. I put a big hoodie on and did my makeup against my will. I never put makeup to run errands, much less when I am still wearing my pajamas! I had to admit that putting on makeup made me feel better and cheered me up a little bit. I made the brownies and ran from meeting to meeting the whole day. My last meeting was formal chapter, and I wanted to look good. By the end of the day, I was starting to think that wearing makeup was not a hassle, but something I could actually enjoy.

Related: 7 Beauty Hacks That Will Change How You Use Makeup

Days Six and Seven

These final two days were pretty normal. I guess people got used to me wearing makeup and looking more put together. The only big thing that happened was that one of the members of a board I am part of introduced himself to me again—because he didn’t recognize me.

Overall Experience

My perception about makeup changed completely during this challenge. I still believe that makeup highlights your beauty, and that full makeup should be reserved for special occasions. But I have to admit that I enjoyed feeling pretty and put together, it gave me a little push during those days when I was feeling down or when the jet lag was too much to handle. It also made me think about the perception people have of me; people compliment me when I wear makeup, which highlights my beauty. But they don't compliment me when I am brave enough to go around makeup-less. I guess wearing makeup is a double standard kind of thing; it makes me feel more confident when I wear it, but makes me guess my beauty when I am not wearing any.

I also decided to not wear any makeup the day after the challenge, and I felt uncomfortable during the first 20 minutes I was outside. But after a while I realized that the only person I want to impress right now is myself, and if I am not wearing makeup in public is because I do consider myself pretty enough.

At the end of the day I know that if I decide to wear makeup it's because I want to and because it makes me feel better—not because I expect a compliment or a random guy to talk to me.