As proud feminists, there are just some things we’re tired of hearing. So allow us to educate those people who continue to say stuff that really rubs us the wrong way with these 13 things not to say to a feminist.

1. “I don’t believe in bringing men down.”

Guess what? Neither do we. Feminism is about equal rights, not one side winning out over the other.

2. “The wage gap is totally justifiable.”

Um, actually it’s not.

3. “You’ll never get married.”

If a man can’t accept our thirst for equality, then we’d rather stay single.

4. “Cat-calling means you’re hot.”

Sorry, but we don’t feel the need to be whistled at and ridiculed by strangers on the street to boost our confidence.

5. “That’s women’s work.”

This comment often involves a kitchen or maternal joke. We’re not laughing.

6. “Guys can’t be feminists.”

Actually, they can. Here are a few shining examples: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, John Legend, Harry Styles and Daniel Radcliffe.

7. “But you’re so girly.”

We can still wear makeup and shave our legs as feminists, you know?

8. “Sexism isn’t nearly as bad as it used to be.”

There's been progress, but it’s still a completely ongoing struggle. And we have a long way to go.

9. “I think men and women should be equal. I’m not a feminist, though.”

Yes, you are.

10. “Why are you angry all the time?”

So when women talk about the things that bother them about society they come off as angry? It’s not like we’re burning our bras in protest; we just want to have a discussion about equality.

11. “So you object to chivalry.”

EVERYONE should be polite. Manners are great, so please feel free to open the door for us or take something heavy off our hands.

12. “Men face discrimination, too.”

Everyone is discriminated against in some form, but in this case we’re concerned about deeply ingrained institutions and attitudes that keep women from achieving equality.

13. “Men and women are equal now.”

Not even close.

Face-to-face conversation can change attitudes toward transgender people. [Los Angeles Times]

Heartbreak hurts way more than emotionally. [Newser]

Most college students want free speech on campus – but not hate speech. [The Huffington Post]

The best waterproof makeup. [SoundBodyLife]

How does Trump's health-care plan compare? [New York Magazine]

There is no such thing as a 'nice guy'. [Thought Catalog]

When a drinking game becomes offensive. [Times of Israel]

The time it took to get a text back means... [Cosmpolitan]

These beauty products work as hard as you do. [Ed2010]

A cappella contest sings out about sexual assault. [USA Today]

Calling all fashionistas! If your mom's favorite place in the world is her local Sephora or department store, this is the gift guide for her. We've curated our favorite beauty and fashion essentials that will keep your mom feeling pretty and polished this Mother's Day.

UNDER $25

Essie Resort 4 pc Mini Nail Polish Set, $9.97, available at Ulta 

Pair these beachy shades with a manicure gift certificate for a present that's equal parts style and relaxation.

LOL Jewelry Tray, $15, available at Francesca's 

Your mom's so chic, even mom jeans look fab. Solidify the sentiment with this cute jewelry tray for her dresser.

UNDER $50

Mom Knows Best Necklace, $35, available at Vera Bradley

Well it’s true, isn’t it? Tell her what she already knows with this engraved necklace. 

Foldable Sunglasses Case, $48, available at Vera Bradley

Keep her shades protected with this foldable case. It’ll fold flat when not in use so she still has plenty of space in her bag! 

Flower Coin Stud Earrings, $28, available at Vera Bradley

These elegant studs are sure to please any stylish mom. We’re hoping she’ll offer to share.

Fitness Bracelet Cover, $38, available at Tory Burch

Make her Fitbit so cute she'll WANT to work out.

Malachite + Pavé Stackable Rings, $38, available at Chloe and Isabel

Classy, modern and elegant—just like your mom.

Eva NYC 3-Piece, $28, available at Love Culture

Any beauty-obsessed mom will love this travel set that will keep her locks super-nourished and bouncy.

Gardenbloom iPhone Case, $36, available at Anthropologie

She may not have gotten the hang of texting yet, but keep her phone case game on point.

OVER $50

4 Pc. Cosmetic Organizer, $58, available at Vera Bradley

The perfect travel or everyday companion, this cosmetic organizer will hold all of her beauty must-haves in style. 

Paris & New York Cityscapes Cashmere and Silk Scarf, $210, available at Yarnz

Your jetsetter mom will adore this luxe cashmere scarf that unfolds to bright cityscapes of Paris and New York.

Playlist Sunglasses, $55, available at Madewell

Upgrade her sunglasses with these flattering Madewell sunnies. They'll make her look forward to hot weather.

Structured Flutter Hem T-Shirt, $55, available at J.Crew

She'll love this sophisticated, feminine top that works just as well with jeans as it does with a pencil skirt.

Brinley Patent Flat Sandals, $98, available at Ann Taylor

These patent leather nude sandals will add some swing to her step this spring.

Carla Earrings, $70, available at Kendra Scott

Soft and delicate, these earrings will make a statement.

Some of us spent the past several years carefully curating a wedding inspiration board on Pinterest; others may not have even given marriage much of a thought. Whether you already have a ring on your finger or you’re still looking for your better half, marriage is a subject you might be faced with sooner than you think after college. But could marriage be the wrong move for you?

We talked to experts for reasons why you shouldn’t get married—and what to do if you and your SO are taking that next step.

1. You’re getting married because you feel like you’re running out of time

Maybe your biological clock is ticking, or you’ve been a bridesmaid in one too many weddings and you feel like getting married is what you’re supposed to be doing, too. You might even be dealing with family and friends who are urging you to settle down. These external pressures can unintentionally convince you that your partner now is the right one for you, or even push you to jump into a relationship with the first person you can grab a hold of.

Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a psychology professor at California State University, Los Angeles, says it’s important to figure out why you want to get married.

“Take a step back and reflect on your motivations—are you doing this for you or your family?” Durvasula says. “Is this the right man for you, or your mom? Is it because everyone else is getting married and you don't want to be left behind? What does marriage mean to you?”

Even if you’re engaged, Rutgers University graduate and soon-to-be-married Kristen Kraemer believes that it’s important to enjoy the engagement period, not only to leave time to prepare, but also to make sure you’re not rushing into marriage.

“It’s important not to rush because you never want to rush something that’s as important as important … as marriage,” she explains. “Whether you’ve been dating for two years, six years or six months, you always want to make sure what you’re doing is right for you, and taking time to think is never a bad thing.”

2. You think marriage will change your partner

They say love is blind—and marriage consultant and coach Lesli Doares agrees. Whether you see the red flags your partner is putting up or not, when you’re in love with him or her, Doares says it can cloud your judgment.

Doares adds that some people think tying the knot with their partner will help those red flags disappear; maybe you feel that taking the next step will put your SO that much closer to wanting the big family you do, or that saying your vows will convince him or her to prioritize you in his or her life. This, Doares says, is a big sign that you shouldn’t be getting married.

Durvasula agrees, saying, “Most of the women I have interviewed in the aftermath of acrimonious divorces have told me they knew during the engagement that they were making a mistake, that he was already showing signs of being a liar, selfish, unkind, secretive, unfaithful, narcissistic or a bully.”

If you see any major obstacles either in the relationship or in your partner but you’re still trying to make it work, address those issues first. For some, that might simply mean a discussion—for others, it could mean couples’ therapy.

“Some of the most powerful clinical work is done with [the couples] as they learn tools they take into their lives together, rather than learning these tools down the road to fix larger problems, or figuring out later that they are not a good match,” Durvasula says.

Relationship and marriage expert Susanne Alexander says that gaining good communication skills early on can do a lot to help a marriage thrive.

“Marriage is about creating lifelong companionship, not about fixing what is wrong in each other,” Alexander says. “When couples have the necessary knowledge and skills and know each other well enough to be confident of their compatibility, then marriage has a better chance of being happy and lasting.”

3. Your friends and family are against it

The decision to get married is yours alone, but when you’re in the throes of a relationship, it’s possible you’re not necessarily ignoring the red flags, but missing them altogether. Sure, your mother may have only met your SO on the few times the two of you flew home for holidays or breaks, but she may have caught signs—both in your SO’s behavior or yours—that give her insight you might not be recognizing.

“We’ll try to downplay things we shouldn’t ignore,” Doares says. “When we want something, we don’t necessarily take an objective look at the obstacle.”

That’s why it’s important to listen (objectively!) to your friends and family, even if you don’t want to hear what they have to say; you might be able to see the relationship from a different perspective. That being said, do keep in mind that perspective works both ways. You might not be seeing what they see, but they aren’t seeing what you see either, so it’s up to you to take all that information into account and make the best decision for you.

4. Marriage feels like it should be the next step

There are several key milestones you hit over the course of a relationship: You define the relationship, have your first anniversary, meet the parents, move in together. Marriage is what’s supposed to come next, right?

Doares cautions against this mindset.

“We’ve been together for two or three years or four years and this is the next step, or we’re living together, and why not get married,” she says, citing the reasoning she often hears. “It’s almost like happenstance instead of intentionally making the decision to take this next step of life.”

If you and your SO are in a serious enough relationship for you to be thinking about marriage, consider bringing the topic up—and making sure the two of you are on the same page when it comes to your future together.

“Lots of times people do not ask their partners the toughest of questions or take them on adequately because they are afraid of the answers,” Durvasula says. “Ask the hard questions now, and don't let him put you off.”

5. You’re more excited about the wedding than you are about being married

This isn’t to say that wanting to have a glamorous wedding and a perfect day surrounded by all your friends and family is wrong, but it’s important that you don’t let your excitement over the wedding overshadow the real meaning of why you’re getting married.

Alexander advises against putting the main focus on the wedding itself.

“Marriages that happen without careful thought and preparation, with more focus on a lavish wedding ceremony than the quality of the marriage… are highly likely to end in divorce,” she says.

Getting married is a huge, life-changing event, so it’s important not to rush the process and to recognize the reasons why you want to get married. No matter how well-planned your wedding is (on Pinterest, that is), how loudly your biological clock is ticking or how strongly you feel about spending the rest of your life with your SO, make sure you’re asking both yourself and your partner the right questions before you say, “I do.”

The beauty industry is an ever-evolving means to an end of looking #flawless. Fortunately for us, this means that we never have to wait too long to hear about the next big thing sweeping the beauty and skin care industries. As with fashion, celebrities are the trendsetters who bring the haute couture of beauty treatments into the public eye, filled with women like ourselves. Science hasn't yet caught up to our expectations, but it’s given celebrities some strange products and treatments to entertain us in the meantime. They’re bizarre, gross, generally-WTF beauty treatments that celebs swear by to maintain their je ne sais quoi—which, as it turns out, is probably just the afterglow of a bee venom intensive moisturizer.

1. Vampire Facials: Kim Kardashian

It's no secret that beauty is kind of a big deal to the Kardashian clan. Which is why we really aren't that surprised that Kim is willing to opt for a facial that makes her look like the lead from a slasher flick and carries a hefty price tag of $2,500 to boot. The facial makes use of a Dermapen, which contains acupuncture-sized needles that are rolled along the face to make micro punctures in the skin and help the serums used during the facial absorb more effectively. Mrs. Kardashian-West goes an extra step with the Dermapen treatment by including plasma platelets (taken from her own blood) in the regenerative treatment, which boosts collagen and elastin production in the skin. However, Dr. Brian Zelickson, Dermatologist and Founder of MD Complete Skincare, let us in on an interesting clinical find: “A recent study found that the use of platelet preparations in facial rejuvenation remains unproven.” According to Dr. Zelickson, topical fillers that use hyaluronic acid can achieve “significant results” minus the cost and blood-smeared face.

2. Foreskin Cell Face Cream: Oprah Winfrey

Oprah certainly got some heat several years ago for having endorsed this controversial moisturizer to her fans. SkinMedica's anti-aging TNS Recovery Complex contains a nutrient solution derived—you read it correctly—from foreskin cells. The company describes the solution as "Human Fibroblast Conditioned Media," a growth factor that reportedly corrects all woes of aging skin (like lines, wrinkles, age spots, dullness, and uneven texture). Various products from SkinMedica's line have been reviewed and loved by beauty editors far and wide, but we kind of cringe at the thought of adding this 0.63 oz skin serum to our shopping list for $179 a pop.

3. Snake Venom 'Botox': Gwyneth Paltrow

The Iron Man starlet swears by this synthetic snake venom complex that's engineered to be a non-invasive alternative to Botox. Paltrow is known to frequent Sonya Dakar Spa in Beverly Hills, where the complex is used in anti-aging facials. According to The Dermatology Review, Syn-Ake mimics the effects of actual snake venom by "reducing muscular contractions and cell movement, thereby keeping skin smooth," which is similar to how Botox functions. The Syn-Ake complex can be found in a variety of different products (and price ranges) in the beauty industry, so we're sure Paltrow isn't the only A-lister getting in on this five-ssstar beauty buy. But while there are similarities in the ways the two compounds function, Dr. Zelickson noted, “there are no well-done clinical studies showing the showing the specific effects of using snake venom topically on the skin."

4. Burning Off Split Ends With ‘Velaterapia’: Alessandra Ambrosio

This is a traditionally Brazilian hair treatment used by supermodels like Alessandra Ambrosio and Barbara Fialho. Velaterapia involves running pieces of hair along open flame to ‘trim’ the split ends and seal the split in the hair strand. It takes 2 to 3 hours at a time to do, and can seriously damage your hair. We chatted with celebrity stylist Peter Lamas (who’s worked with Hollywood legends like Audrey Hepburn) to get the verdict on what this treatment means for the long-term health of your hair. “Personally, the risk of setting the hair on fire is enough to deter me from using this method. The treatment itself seems over-the-top. Singeing off the split end will help temporarily make hair smooth, however Velaterapia will not make hair healthier,” he says. “As more and more split ends are removed, the hair will reach a certain point where it begins to look thin,” says Lamas. Yikes! Thinning hair is not a good look on anyone. Instead, Lamas suggests regular trims and heated hair masks to keep your hair at its healthiest and shiniest.

5. Bird Poop Facials: Victoria & David Beckham

We think it's safe to say that The Beckhams are the definition of power couple #goals. They both have wildly successful careers, the cutest kids ever, and… they get bird poop facials together? The treatment, more delicately known as a Geisha facial, utilizes the excrement of the Japanese nightingale to exfoliate and purify the skin. According to Shizuka Spa in New York City (where Tom Cruise reportedly goes to for his own Geisha facials), the unique properties of the enzymes in the droppings are proven to "brighten, heal and retexturize the skin."

6. Bee Venom Skin Care: Kate Middleton

Excuse us while we fan girl over how cool Kate Middleton is. She’s bonafide royalty on top of being an incredible philanthropist, a guest editor for the Huffington Post, and she has declared once and for all that leggings are indeed pants. She also set this beauty trend a few years back when she revealed it as a staple in her own beauty routine. Bee venom in beauty products touts the same benefits as Syn-ake (mentioned above) but with a few extra in tow. According to Rodial, the celeb-loved brand responsible for bringing buzz-worthy skincare to the public, their bee venom products also contain peptides that increase skin elasticity and firmness, as well as stimulating collagen production in the skin. Dr. Zelickson adds that purified bee venom has shown clinical results in reducing fine lines and wrinkles. “[It] causes an increase in Epidermal Growth Factor (the protein responsible for cell growth) and accelerates cell regeneration, leading to a higher level of skin elasticity and an increase in collagen production,” he says. Be wary, though; if you’re allergic to bees (or if you’re not sure), these products could pose some serious health risks.

7. Red Wine Baths: Terri Hatcher

In all honesty, bathing in red wine almost sounds normal compared the other celebrities’ beauty go-tos. The former Bond girl and Desperate Housewives star loves to add a bottle of red wine to her bath and insists that it softens and exfoliates her skin in the best way. But Dr. Zelickson isn’t convinced. According to him, the numerous health benefits of red wine don’t extend to topical skincare. “Though it has some exfoliating qualities, the attributes of red wine that have a truly positive impact on your health will not cross the dermal barrier into your skin when bathing. The best way to internalize wine’s antioxidants is through drinking (in moderation) or cooking with it,” He says. It looks like you’re probably better off saving the Cabernet Sauvignon for a glass, collegiettes.

As much fun as it is to read about the weird beauty rituals of the rich and famous, there’s a certain peace of mind to having a trusty skincare routine of your own. Would you be brave enough to try any of these crazy beauty treatments out for yourself?

1. Having a genuine fascination with the way people interact with each other.

2. Especially within larger groups.

3. Any concept you discuss in class will eventually bring you back to this guy.

4. And this one. 

5. Being proud of yourself for educating your friends on the differences between sex and gender.

6. Because you know that gender is basically socially constructed.

7. As is any other social institution. 

8. Having a strong opinion regarding the gender binary.

9. And hegemonic masculinity. 

10. And the nature vs. nurture debate.

11. Which causes you to want to crush gender norms and raise your children to be gender neutral.

12. Knowing the difference between a social network and a social network.

13. Feeling like you have a good understanding of the world around you and realizing why people act the way they do.

14. Realizing that you're pretty liberal when it comes to your opinions on social issues.

15. Giving anyone who asks you what you're going to do with your major this look. 

16. But still twirling on your haters because you know that you chose the right major.

It's the most terrible time of the year. Finals are in full swing, and so is the feeling that you're probably going to die before you make it through the end of the semester. You're spending more time at the library than in your dorm, surviving on black coffee and pizza (delivered to said library) and daydreaming of summer break, when this hell will be over with. Or, more importantly, your bed at home. The horrendous ordeal that is finals week comes with a range of emotions, and Leslie Knope is here to help us express them.

1. Off to the library! I'm so ready to study. Psh, this final isn't going to be that bad. 

2. *Looking at the study guide* Okay, so I definitely should have paid way more attention in lecture instead of checking social media. Curse you, Yik Yak!

3. There's no way I can memorize all of this before my exam. Why did I wait until the day before my exam to study? ProcrastiNATION, population me.

4. What does this term mean? When did we learn this?

5. I've never heard of this before in my life. 

6. I have no choice but to study incessantly until my exam. Great!

7. I hate this library. I hate this class. I hate everything. LET ME GO HOME.

8. Is it hot in here, or is it just me? Why am I shaking? What do you mean, that was my fifth cup of black coffee?!

9. I have to pee so badly, but I can't give up my spot. I'm next to an outlet, for crying out loud! That is library gold!

10. I need a break. Or a hug. Or five puppies to comfort me. Mom, can you come get me? I guess a phone call will suffice...

11. Okay, I have to get back to work. It's too bad I know absolutely nothing on this study guide or any study guide or anything in the world ever. Someone help.

12. OMG. The greasy, unhealthy comfort food I ordered is finally here!

13. Okay, that was probably the best meal I've had in my entire life, but my test is in an hour and a half. Time to cram.

14. WHAT DO YOU MEAN I HAVE TO GO TAKE MY EXAM?!

15. I. Am. Not. Ready.

16. All right, get yourself together. Deep breaths. I can do this! Well, I can at least try to do this.

17. *One stressful hour later* I did it! It's over! That wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it would be!

18. I am outta here. Break filled with binge-watching Netflix and snuggling my cat, here I come!

We all know Carrie Bradshaw loves a good strappy sandal and we completely agree with the shoe queen herself. There's just something about that lace-up detail that adds a little something extra to any outfit. But we know that strappy Manolos with a steep heel aren't perfect for every occassion, unless you ARE Carrie Bradshaw (how did she manage to trot around New York City in those anyway?!). So we've found the 5 best lace-up flats to help you step into spring.

1. Steve Madden "Sunshine"

These simplistic flats ($69.95) come in 5 different colors and have a pop of metallic in the heel. Pair these with some baggy boyfriend jeans to wear to class! 

2. Caslon Espadrilles

Nothing says spring and summer quite like a pair of espadrilles ($89.95). These come in three different colors and can easily add a beachy feel to any outfit. Plus, how perfect are these for this summer's music festivals?

3. Bella Vita "Ollie"

Add an unexpected twist to a formal outfit by pairing these champagne studded flats ($59.90) with a dress. The cute tassels and punky studs just give this pair that extra oomph.

4. ASOS "Lordship"

The intricate cut-outs of these adorable light blue lace-ups ($43) perfectly add dimension and interest to any outfit. The light color makes them perfect for warm weather!

5. ASOS "Level Up"

For those looking for something a little more wild, these flats ($33.50) are the perfect statement piece. Pair with a breezy white dress for an unexpected pop of print!

Name: Elissa Sangster
Job Title and Description: Executive Director of Forté Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to providing women with access to business education and opportunities 
Website: www.ForteFoundation.org

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

ES: No, there’s never a typical day and that’s what makes my job fun and different. There’s always something new going on—like critical thinking about strategic issues. I think it’s a very multifaceted job. I do a lot of talking and listening. I feel like a lot of it comes about from your ability to persuade. Those are the critical skills that you need. 

What inspired you to join Forté Foundation?

ES: I spent the earlier part of my career in higher education. I was involved with getting Forté started, and it was a group of companies and schools talking about how to build a non-profit organization that could address women in leadership positions. It was kind of a leap but it was very much an entrepreneurial decision. I was going to continue what I had been doing in my past career just with a different lens, but at the same time it was very risky as there was no money in the bank to support me. Some fun challenges, a little bit scary.

What is the best part of your job?

ES: Probably working with women because I’m able to see on a regular basis and at Forté events, the effects of our work. Were it not for Forté, they would not have even met that group of women who were similarly inspired or motivated career wise. We have a college to business leadership conference that provides college women with access to companies and business schools. That’s very motivating and encouraging to me, and makes me want to do more to help.

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

ES: The first person I worked with at Forté was Edie Hunt. She was my board chair and she came on right about the time I came on as executive director. She ran human capital management for Goldman Sachs. She had a lot of respect in the industry and everyone was willing to open their doors and talk with us. She was around to help me, be my mentor, guide me and open doors that would’ve been difficult without her. She’s so passionate about our mission. When she finally finished her board tenure, we named an award in her honor. She’s actually just rejoined the Forté board. I can’t say enough good things about her.

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

ES: I make a lot of mistakes, and I don’t dwell a lot on them. I try to make sure that the mistakes end up being small. I try to move forward and rework something and come up with a new plan and strategy that will make up for the mistake and still move us forward. That’s my general approach.

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

ES: I think I’ve just found myself in places where I didn’t expect. Through Forté, because it is an international organization, I’ve met amazing people and had great conversations. I go to the Forbes Women's Summit every year where there are celebrities and amazing people. I’ve been interviewed and had my picture in the Wall Street Journal twice. Crazy things like that I never thought would happen in my career.

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

ES: Take the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) if you have any interest at all in business. I think it’s important for women to take standardized tests before they graduate from college! You take the GMAT and the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) and have it in your back pocket so you don’t have to worry about that in the future. 

Ugh, finals. They come around every semester, yet still manage to take you by surprise every time. All you can do is deal the best way you can... which is obviously in comfy clothes. That's why we've rounded up 15 sassy sweatshirts for you to wear during finals week.

This one that describes your finals week look

Messy Hair Plush Sweatshirt, Rue21, $8.48

This sweatshirt that explains why you're late for classes and study groups

Sorry I'm Late Fleece Sweatshirt, Rue21, $8.48

This is basically us all the time, but especially during finals

5th Sun Junior's Graphic Sweatshirt, Sears, $14.99

When all you can think is "whatever" as you try to remember what you've studied

Long-Sleeve Whatever Graphic Hoodie, Macy's, $14.99

For the times that you're reminiscing about spring break instead of studying

Ocean Air Pineapple Graphic Sweatshirt, Macy's, $6.99

For when you are thisclose to snapping due to all the finals stress

Can't Even With You Sweatshirt, Rue21, $8.48

How you feel about group projects

Bye Cropped Sweatshirt, Forever 21, $17.90

What you wish you were doing instead of taking an exam

Brunch Cowl Neck Sweatshirt, Target, $22.99

How you feel when you're pulling that all-nighter

Nope Graphic Pullover Sweatshirt, Target, $19.99

You, after you've spent all your time in the library

Cabin Fever Graphic Sweatshirt, Target, $19.99

When people ask, "Shouldn't you be studying?"

French Terry Graphic Pullover Sweater, Walmart, $7.50

When all you want to do is sleep...

Let's Hibernate Fleece Sweatshirt, Rue21, $6.99

...and how you justify choosing sleep over studying

Disney Collection Beauty Sleep Sweatshirt, Torrid, $44.50

When you're halfway through exam week

Meh Sweatshirt, Torrid, $44.50

And how you'll feel when finals are over

Happy Soft Graphic Hoodie, Target, $21.99

Good luck, collegiettes!

Starting your first job is extremely exciting. You'll need to shop for a new wardrobe, get into a new routine, and open yourself up to a world of learning. Though beginning your first job is a great step for your career, there are a couple things you may not be prepared for. We talked to recent college grads to have them weigh in on what they wish they knew before starting their careers!

1. There are generational differences to get used to

No matter what company you work for, there is a high chance you'll be collaborating with someone who is in a different generational bracket than you. While you may think sending a quick text to your older coworkers is okay, non-millenials might rather you send them an email or pick up the phone to get your message across.

Use your first couple of weeks to feel out your coworkers' personalities and quirks.

2. Your first job may not be your dream job

There aren't many people who start off their careers in their dream jobs—it's a bummer, we know! If you're lucky enough to grab an internship or an entry-level position in a field that you're interested in, you may have to work your way to the job that you've always dreamed of.

"Your first job may not be your dream job—and that's okay!" says Kayla Lewkowicz, a Marketing Coordinator at Litmus Software. "Be prepared for the post-college letdown... just don't let it drag on for months!"

Think about the experience you're gaining and how much stronger your resume will be after any job you've held. If you focus on the positive, you'll be able to move on from the fact that though you may not be in your dream role, you're working your way towards it.

Related: 7 Ways to Improve Your Focus at Work

3. Your social life may take a hit

Now that you've started your new job, you may be super busy learning your new role, networking with your co-workers, and getting used to your new routine. You may no longer be able to hang with friends during the week nights because you have to get up early the next day, or because you're exhausted from working a 9-to-5.

"It's much more difficult to maintain friendships in the real world," Kayla says. "I didn't know how much effort it would really take to stay connected and see my friends, but the effort is always worth it."

4. Company culture can make or break you

As much as you're focused on getting the job, you should also be honed in on the company's culture. When you go in for an interview, ask to take a tour of the office and pay attention to how the employees act. Do they look like they're enjoying their jobs or are they sulking at their desks? Is it a social atmosphere or is it more quiet? You might not think it's a big deal while you're on your interview (you may be excited to just have one!), but making sure the company culture fits in with your personality is important.

"The company culture matters just as much as your role and your daily responsibilities," says Alaina Leary, a graduate student at Emerson College who works as a Junior Social Designer at Rue La La. "After I graduated, I was a paid, full-time intern at a terrific start-up. Three times a week, we went out to lunch. We watched Shark Tank and Silicon Valley together on a weekly basis. We had fun team meetings. We went for walks around Cambridge and talked about MIT and Harvard. The company culture was relaxed, but hard-working, and everyone stayed late and worked to get things done and problems solved."

Kayla Alexander, a 2015 graduate of the University of South Carolina, also thinks company culture is a big thing to be aware of. "Company culture really impacts your job," says Kayla. "I've had two jobs since I graduated, both with extremely different company cultures, and I definitely saw a tremendous decrease in my productivity level, going from a family-like structure to a more conservative one. Of course it takes time to get to know people and build those relationships, but it was definitely a shift!"

5. Time management skills are a priority

Having great time management skills is a priority in any job. It allows you to complete your work in an efficient way and you learn to prioritize which tasks need your immediate attention and which tasks you can leave on the back-burner for a little while.

"Not only is working full-time for the first time a huge life change, the 8-hour day is long and it's important to know how to prioritize without getting stressed," says Jenna Kapsis, a graduate student at Fairleigh Dickinson University. "I feel like there was minimal preparation for the real world in college, and I wish every college would offer a time-management course. It should offer tips on how to plan your days, how to maintain a healthy work-life balance and how to effectively work with other team members and managers."

Related: 5 Steps to Take After an Interview to Ensure You Get the Job

6. Don't settle

It's important not to settle for a role that you know you may not be happy in. Just because the offer is attractive and it's a job, make sure that you're working for a company you're interested in, and that you'll be doing a job that can be a stepping stone for the future!

"I took a high-paying job at a company because it was an attractive offer and I had secured it before my second semester of senior year," says PhyuSin Tan, a 2015 graduate of Mount Holyoke College. "I thought I had it locked down and was very enthusiastic about working, only to be faced with disorganization within the firm that really killed my motivation. You don't have to know exactly what you want to do, but understand that job satisfaction is incredibly important!"

Meghan Gibbons, a 2014 graduate from Boston College, makes another great point. "In applying to jobs in general, I wish that I had went more for something of interest [and] that I had more personal skills in than what my degree should get me a job in," Meghan says. "There are many skills that I acquired outside of the classroom in college that I miss applying daily and feel would make my work day more enjoyable and eventful."

7. Admin work can make you go far

Being an administrative assistant might not sound all that exciting, but taking on this role can potentially propel your career to new heights—so don't write it off right away!

Take it from Emma St. Laurent, a 2013 graduate of Salve Regina, who is in a different career than where she started, and believes that her admin experience is what got her there. "My degree in college was Communications and all my internship experience was public relations-focused," says Emma. "By the end of my internship, I decided to switch gears. I ended up switching to the real estate industry and worked as an admin for a developer. I'm still with the same company and I've honestly learned so much about the industry through the people I work with. If you are an admin and are serious about your job and work hard, people will notice. I've had two promotions and I'm training for my third now!"

Landing your first job can be a mixture of excitement and nerves, but as long as you do your best to prepare yourself for what's ahead, you'll be ready to take on anything!

You know that icky feeling you get when you walk by a high-class salon, look through the window and spot all of those fabulous haircare and style products you’ll never be able to afford? The bright neon packaging just screams out to you, and you wonder what secrets are inside those oddly-shaped bottles. Then, you go home and try to make a bottle of Pantene last for six months while shaving your legs with soap you stole from your roommate.

It’s time to take matters in your own hands. There are tons of reliable homemade beauty remedies perfect for any girl looking to save some money while enhancing her natural beauty in a healthy and hygienic way. With just a few household ingredients, anyone can whip up face masks, lip balms, body scrubs, shampoos and more that you and your friends can sample. They will leave anyone feeling fresh and radiant. So go ahead—treat yourself and give some of these easy beauty recipes a whirl.

Easy

These basic beauty and hygiene recipes require little to no effort and only use one or two ingredients to get the job done.

Coconut Oil = Sunscreen

Coconut oil is literally the most versatile product out there. It can be used as cooking oil, massage oil and (bet you didn't know this!) sunscreen. Next time you’re tanning by the pool, rub a dab of coconut oil on your arms and legs to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Lemons = Deodorant

Yes, it’s true; lemons are good for more than just lemonade. Apparently, if you cut a lemon in half, squeeze some juice into your hand, and rub it under your armpits, you’ll smell like fresh citrus all day.

Honey + Water = Shampoo

You may think washing your hair with honey can only create a sticky situation, but if you water it down enough, honey shampoo can hydrate and soften hair and fight off dandruff, frizz and bacterial and fungal issues.

Water, Baking Powder, Sea Salt and Dry Brushing = Natural Toothpaste Alternatives

All of these natural toothpaste substitutes and more are said to be easier on teeth and gums than artificial sweeteners, and they leave out weird ingredients like titanium dioxide often found in store-bought toothpaste.

Intermediate

If you’re willing to go the extra mile to create some exquisite body scrubs and hand lotions, be our guest and tackle these intermediate beauty recipes.

Watermelon + Yogurt = Face Mask

Mix together watermelon juice and yogurt and leave the paste on your face for ten minutes before rinsing to create softer, supple skin. 

Coconut Oil + Purification Oil = Non-Toxic Zit Zapper

Melt two tablespoons of coconut oil, then remove it from heat and stir in a few drops of purification oil to make a handy zit zapper remedy. Use an eyedropper to transfer the mixture into lip balm tubes, and store in the fridge to prevent melting.

Arrowroot Powder + Cocoa Powder = Dry Shampoo

You can find arrowroot powder at Whole Foods or use corn starch as a more available substitute to fashion a homemade "no-poo" remedy. Add more cocoa powder to the mixture if your hair is darker and comb it through your hair starting at the roots. You’ll find the greasy spots gone in a few days and less damage done over time.

Arrowroot Powder + Shea Butter = Eye Shadow

Use arrowroot powder as your base and add any of these spices/powders to create different shades of eyeshadow: cocoa powder, nutmeg, turmeric or allspice. Once you have a well-mixed range of colors, add 1/4 teaspoon of shea butter to each mix to create a creamy powder that will stay on your eyelids and moisturize them.

Hard

You’re that girl who mixes up face masks for her friends at sleepovers and has a collection of DIY lip balms. Challenge yourself further with these multi-step home remedies.  

Chocolate Chips + Coconut Oil + Mint Leaves + Cocoa Butter + Sweet Almond Oil = Lip Gloss

We know it’s a mouthful, but the result—mint chocolate lip gloss—makes it all worth it. It’s like having your mouth taste like a peppermint pattie all day!

Coconut Oil + Beeswax + Petroleum Jelly + Kool Aid = Lip Balm

You’ll feel like a kid again buying Kool Aid at the supermarket (the liquid and powder versions both work), but you’ll be able to create multiple flavors and your lips will have a fruity tang! To simplify this recipe even more, combine only petroleum jelly and Crystal Light packets.

Sea Salt + Coconut Oil + Lemon Essential Oil = Lemon Body Scrub

Rub this soothing concoction on your neck, feet, elbows, knees or other dry body parts in the shower to moisturize and soften your skin.

Gelatin + Honey + Apple Cider Vinegar = Frizzy Hair Relief

If you have thick, frizzy hair, keep it tame by finger-combing this mixture through dry hair for five minutes before shampooing.

Kylie Jenner is on a roll with her cosmetics line. It seems like just yesterday she released her line of glosses—which have already sold out, of course, just like her matte liquid lipstick line. Now, she’s adding yet another type of lip product to her Lip Kit collection: metal matte lipsticks.

Jenner went on Instagram yesterday to share swatches of the new metal matte shades, which she will be releasing in honor of Coachella. There is a metallic dark brown hue called Reign (an ode to her nephew Reign Disick), a gold shade called King K and a rose gold color called Heir.

According to Kylie's app, a restock is set for today at 4 p.m. EST. No word yet on whether or not this will include the metal matte shades, but we're sure they'll sell out just as fast—if not faster—than the rest of her Lip Kit products. *hits refresh on Kylie Cosmetics for the rest of the day*

After dating the same person for months or years, it’s hard to imagine the single life. Who’s gonna be the big spoon? Who can I booty call at 2 p.m. without it being weird? Plus, that whole heartbreak thing is not easy. But there are actually a ton of good things that come out of a breakup like this, once you let go and embrace being single. Don’t believe us? These collegiettes have been through it and they never looked back.

1. You get to be selfish

When you're in a LTR, everything is about “us.” From what you're eating for breakfast to what time you're hitting the bar, you have someone else to consider. But the single life is all about doing what you want to do, when you want to do it.

Kasia Jaworski, a recent Villanova University graduate, got out of a 3-year relationship in September. She says, "You're almost forced to take care of yourself after a breakup but in the end, sometimes that's a huge perk to being newly single." How often do you get an excuse to just totally think about you? When you’re newly single, logistics are a non-issue, because you’re working with one schedule, and one set of thoughts and emotions. Spontaneity is less risky, because the only person you have to please is yourself!

2. You can discover new things about yourself

When you're in a long-term relationship Kasia says, "You spend a lot of your time considering another person's wants/needs." But once you have free reign to think totally for yourself, trying new things and putting yourself out there is so healthy. Kasia explains that her breakup "helped [her] discover a little more about [herself] and find new passions." Who knows, maybe you're secretly a tai chi master and your ex was holding you back from your true calling! There’s no reason that a relationship should take you away from being your true self.

3. There are new opportunities

Ashley Dreyton, a senior at Georgia State University, was in a relationship for over two years. She says that once she moved on from the breakup, opportunities for what she could do individually just kept landing in her lap. Ashley explains, "I was finally doing things I wanted to do in regards to blogging and writing, school involvement and also starting my HC chapter! I feel as though if I didn't close that door, all of these other doors would not have opened for me." Sometimes focusing on a relationship can obstruct our personal visions.

4. It can make you a whole lot happier

Sometimes, dysfunctional relationships can cause more harm than happiness. Holding on to a relationship because it's what you know can hold you back from finding your bliss. Ashley shares that for her, "Letting go of a dysfunctional relationship let me focus on me, regain happiness and do what I love." When you’ve been in a comfortable relationship for a while, it can be hard to realize that what you really need is to be single and independent. Leaving a relationship can help you figure out what wasn’t working for you, leading you to seek healthier relationships in the future.

5. You have a chance to plan for the future

Relationships can get you stuck in a rut with your partner and yourself. Getting wrapped up in life as a couple can steer you away from your personal goals. Kristen Kraemer, a graduate of Rutgers University emphasizes, “It's so important to be able to live your own life outside of a relationship.” She adds, “Leaving a long-term one (especially if you're unhappy or things aren't working out) is a great way to evaluate what you want in the future and take time to spend with yourself.” So make a dream board, or get out your journal from those pre-relationship days and think about what it is you want.

How will you embrace the single life, collegiettes?

Last night, Ryan Reynolds received an MTV Movie Award for Best Comedic Performance in his film Deadpool. Humble as always, Reynolds thanked the crew that made his decade-long dream a reality and the fans who pushed for the film's production. He went on to thank his wife, Blake Lively, in a way that may seem unorthodox to most but can only be expected from Reynolds—by joking about their sex life.

After Zac Efron and Seth Rogen announced Reynolds’ win and Salt-N-Pepa came out to sing "Shoop" alongside dancers dressed as Deadpool, Reynolds took the stage to accept the award with the signature dry sense of humor his fans know and love. Speaking of the film, Reynolds said it was a blast to make, but it wasn't "all unicorns and cocaine." 

Reynolds ended his acceptance speech by thanking Blake. "Everything I do is to make her laugh,” he said. “Especially the sex." He may be the only man who could talk about his sex life on national television yet somehow remain comical and completely charming. We're sure Lively appreciates his efforts to humor her, both in and out of the bedroom.

If Donald Trump happens to win the New York primary next week, we'll know that it wasn't because of his kids. In an ironic twist, it seems as though two of Trump's five children have "forgotten" to register to vote.

According to Yahoo! News, Ivanka and Eric Trump are not registered to vote in New York, nor are they enrolled in any political party.

"They had a long time to register, and they were, you know, unaware of the rules, and they didn't—they didn't register in time," Trump said during an appearance on Fox & Friends on Monday. "So they feel very, very guilty. They feel very guilty. But it's fine. I mean, I understand that. I think they have to register a year in advance and they didn't, so Eric and Ivanka, I guess, won't be voting."

The deadline for the two to register and state their party affiliation would have been October 9.

A teacher in Beaumont, Texas has been arrested for a video that surfaced of her repeatedly hitting a male student, according to the New York Daily News.

Mary Hastings of Ozen High School was arrested on Friday morning after the video went viral on Twitter. The clip, which apprears to have originally been posted on Snapchat captioned with a laughing emoji, shows an angry Hastings throwing the student's papers off of his desk before hitting him five times and calling him an idiot. After the assault, the teacher begins to mock the student while the entire classroom erupts in laughter. 

"You're stopping them from graduating, you idiot ass," Hastings yells in the video. 

None of the footage shows what happened leading up to the exchange but student witness Atyra Deroune told 12News that the boy asked about his grade. 

"He asked Ms. Hastings for the grade or whatever and she went awol and she picked up the papers and threw it at him," Deroune, a sophomore, said.

Deroune also claimed that the incident was out of character for Hastings, and that she is normally a "cool teacher."

In a press release, Beaumont school officials stated that Hastings was "immediately removed" from the classroom following the incident and has been placed on administrative leave. 

Eight days after April Fool's day, The Boston Globe was still joking around. On Sunday, they published a fake front page from the future in the opinion section. This fictitious page details the type of conflict that Americans can expect from a Donald Trump presidency.

The page includes several fake articles, including headlines such as “Markets sink as Trade War Looms” and “Trump: Deporting Illegals ‘So Fast Your Head Will Spin’,” as well as several other alarming predictions. The Globe clearly isn’t too keen on the idea of a Trump presidency, as they accompanied this satirical front page post with a second opinion piece entitled “The GOP Must Stop Trump.”

NPR spoke with The Boston Globe’s deputy managing editor, Kathleen Kingsbury, to find out more about the buzzworthy stunt. Kingsbury explained that the Globe conducted thorough research through Trump’s Tweets, speeches, policy papers and many other reliable sources in order to accurately depict what his presidency would look like. Is anyone else terrified that what most people thought was a humorous joke was actually based on detailed research?

"His violent mix of intimidation, hostility to criticism and explicit scapegoating of minorities shows that there is a real political movement taking hold in America and that's a movement that we find deeply disturbing, one that we felt we needed to comment on," Kingsbury told NPR.

According to Yahoo! News, the Trump campaign responded Sunday afternoon. At a rally in Rochester, N.Y., Trump retaliated by saying “How about that stupid Boston Globe— it’s worthless.” He then continued by saying “They made up an entire front-page story — which is really no different than the whole paper.” 

While Trump may have tried his best to throw shade at the Globe, I guess he didn’t realize that every headline was based on promises that he has already made to the American public. 

The satirical page sure did provide a good laugh—but let’s hope a year from now it will still be just a funny joke, rather than breaking news. 

We all get disappointed when the barista at our local Starbucks misspells our name over and over again, no matter how many skinny vanilla lattes we order. This type of dismay was taken to a whole new level for a customer at a Florida Starbucks over the weekend.

After ordering a Grande white chocolate mocha, the Starbucks customer claims instead of labeling the drink with his name, the barista labeled the cup "Diabetes here I come." It's true that most Starbucks drinks are loaded with suger, but who is anyone else to judge another person's drink choices?

The insensitive label would offend anyone, but it really hit home for this customer in particular. 

The anonymous customer told Action News Jax that he has two sisters with Type 1 Diabetes. The “first word just automatically brought the picture of both sisters in my head,” the customer said.

In retaliation, the customer scribbled back to the barista on the cup, writing "2 of my sisters are diabetic, so ... not funny.”

The store manager, Kent Miller, was quoted by Action News Jax saying that they “definitely don’t condone” what happened to the customer, and that he would find out more about the incident. Shortly after, the company released a public apology, 

“We strive to provide an inclusive and positive experience for our customers, and we're disappointed to learn of this incident," Starbucks corporate headquarters said in an email to Action News Jax. "We are working directly with the customer to apologize for his experience, and with our partners (employees) to ensure this does not happen again.”

It's great and all that they said they were sorry, but this was a seriously messed up thing to do. According to Refinery29, the customer does not want an apology, he simply wants to be sure that this does not happen to anyone else. Hopefully this customer gets his wish and we can all go back to being annoyed that our local barista spelled "Cindy" as "Sindee."

There's no better way to show appreciation for your mother than with a gift you actually made! Even if you aren't an ~expert crafter~ we've got you covered with plenty of simple (& adorable!) gifts that any mom would love. 

Level of difficulty: Easy

Ombre Painted Wood Spoons

A nice, cheap set of wooden spoons, masking tape, and paint -- that's it! These are a perfect way to spice up the kitchen. The color possibilities are endless!

Hand-Dotted Tumblers

Easy is an understatement for these cute tumblers. They also only cost around $3 to create! Since there are so many possible color combinations, you'll probably end up making tons of these.

Dip Dyed Ombre Bag

Your mom can never have too many tote bags. Give her a new one with a personalized and ~trendy~ touch! 

Wooden Vase

This DIY gift is practically two items in one. The vase allows you to display an adorable picture all the while creating the perfect space to display flowers!

Level of difficulty: Medium

Raw Crystal Necklace Display

If your mom desperately needs to organize her jewelry, this use of gorgeous crystals is the perfect way to do so! The simplistic design is bound to please anyone. 

Rose Petal Bar Soap

Nothing says "spring" more than flower scented soap. These bars don't just smell great, but they look it too! There are plenty of other homemade soap combinations as well, if you want to customize the scent!

Mason Jar Succulent Pots

If you've never used chalk paint, be prepared to to be impressed with how easy it applies to the glass on these mason jars! The plants and bright colors are ideal for spring. 

Marble Tray

If you're not quite sure what to give your mom, this marble tray is a great option because of its versatility. Presenting food? Yep. Holding beauty products? Definitely. A place for decorations on the coffee table? Yes. 

Level of difficulty: A little harder

Tea Tin Candles

Because why gift your mom with some regular, store-bought candle when you could have these?! These tea tin candles are a great combination of vintage and elegant. 

Infused Olive Oils

Does your mom love the environment and cooking?! Look no further. You get to choose which flavors to make, but regardless of what you choose, they can be used for tons of different foods.

Leaf Catchall

Gone are the days of misplaced keys and spare change scattered all over your house. What better way to help your mom get organized than this natural leaf-shaped dish?