Fans have been calling on Disney to feature its main characters in same-sex relationships. Most recently, they've been pushing for Finn in Star Wars: The Force Awakens and Elsa in Frozen to follow such a plotline.

Idina Menzel, who played Elsa in the 2013 animated film, is on board with the #GiveElsaAGirlfriend movement—so Disney, let's make this happen!

"I think it's great," Menzel told Entertainment Tonight at Sunday's Billboard Music Awards. "Disney's just gotta contend with that. I'll let them figure that out."

With Menzel in support of this idea, it seems like it has the potential to become reality in the future—but only time will tell. If Disney does goes forward with this addition, it would certainly be a step forward in the right direction for them.

President Obama announced that the United States will allow the sale of lethal weapons to Vietnam on Monday. Until this announcement, there was a decades-long ban on the sale of such weapons, going back to the Vietnam War. 

Obama made his announcement at a news conference with Vietnamese President Tran Dai Quang during his 3-day-long trip to the communist country. This comes at a time when the dispute over the South China Sea is in full force. While many islands within the sea are within the territory of several different Asian nations or international waters, China has been trying to overtake the entire area. This makes it seem like the deal may have more to do with China and their buildup in the sea than with Vitetnam correcting its human rights violations.  

However, he said, “The decision to lift the ban was not based on China or any other considerations. It was based on our desire to complete what has been a lengthy process of moving toward normalization with Vietnam.”

Human rights campaigners are angry with the White House after Obama announced the sale of weapons to the country. Activists previously stated that they would not lift the ban until Vietnam's human rights violations were drastically improved, reported CNN.

According to BuzzFeed, the country holds over 100 political prisoners and their political and press freedoms have been labeled "dire in all areas" by Human Rights Watch.

In an attempt to alleviate the concerns, Obama said, “Sales will need to still meet strict requirements, including those related to human rights, but this change will ensure that Vietnam has access to the equipment it needs to defend itself."

Many U.S. citizens aren't so sure about the decision. While lifting the ban certainly makes strides towards normalizing relations with Vietnam, did Obama give the country a reward they didn't deserve?

The Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity at the University of Wisconsin at Madison's campus was recently suspended when a member reported racial insensitivity and discrimination. As if frats didn't already have a bad reputation, this racist event definitely does not improve how SAE looks to the national public. 

According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the unidentified member claimed that other fraternity brothers frequently used racial, anti-gay and anti-Semitic slurs towards him since 2014. He also said that at a Halloween party in 2014, another member called him a racial slur and choked him until other brothers separated the two. 

UW Madison's student-led Student Organizations Committee ruled that the fraternity was violating its nondiscrimination requirements and suspended them until Nov. 1. Fraternity members are required to attend diversity, inclusion and mental health training. The leaders of the fraterniety also have to meet with the university Chancellor Rebecca Blank to figure out how to prevent similar occurences in the future before the suspension will be lifted. “The conduct in this situation must not be repeated,” Blank wrote in a letter to SAE's executive director, according to Reuters.

This is not the only chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon that's had some issues. SAE at Oklahoma University was shut down after a video surfaced of fraternity brothers yelling a racist chant on a bus. 

According to Reuters, the national fraternity apologized for the behavior of the chapter and said that any type of discriminatory behavior is "inconsistent with their expectations." But with racist allegations on more than one occassion, does the fraternity really encourage inclusion? It seems like more than just a coincidence.

To say that your sex drive is complicated would be an understatement. Formally known as “libido,” it can randomly hit you when you’re walking down the street, but leave when you’re actually in bed with your partner. With all of the ups and downs that come with your sex drive, it’s hard to feel like you’re in control. That being said, learning what hurts and helps is important, including the following:

1. More yoga equals better sex

Not only can yoga de-stress you, build your muscle strength, and improve heart health, but it can also benefit you in between the sheets too. Women who actively partake in yoga have reported an increase in arousal. Since stress can kill your sex drive, the combination of lowered stress, an increase in blood circulation, and the mental benefits associated with yoga increase your desire for sex and improve your orgasms.

Katie Finch, a yoga instructor at Brain and Body Yoga, recommends a few poses to get started on your endeavor to better sex: the downward dog, cat and cow, bridge, plow, and the butterfly.

To reap all the sexual benefits of yoga, remember to keep your form and more importantly, make yoga at least a part of your weekly routine. The more yoga you do, the more you’ll learn about your body.

2. You are what you eat, especially when it comes to sex

There is an ongoing debate over whether certain foods actually can stimulate your sex drive, but nutritionist Kelly Stanton at the Greater Atlanta Dietetic Association, says that it might not be a total myth. These foods, called aphrodisiacs, increase blood circulation throughout the body, which leads to a boost in your sex drive.

Drinking too much alcohol will lower your libido, but indulging in only a glass or two of red wine can heat things up. “Compared to women who never drink alcohol, women who drink a small portion of red wine have increased sexual desires. This is attributed to polyphenols, a micronutrient that is found in red wine,” she says. “Overall, it improves blood flow, including vaginal blood flow.”

Stanton also recommends a few other foods if you’re looking to get in the mood: watermelon, berries, licorice, ginger, and bananas. However, she recommends advises that you stay away from dairy, fried foods, soy, and over consumption of chocolate. These foods can lower libido and make you sluggish and tired. 

3. Birth control can impact your sex drive 

This form of contraception really knows how to keep a girl from getting pregnant. About 15 percent of women have reported a decrease in libido while taking the pill, according to Dr. Kevin Windom, an OB-GYN at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta. “This decrease in libido stems from negative side effects of birth control, such as nausea and weight gain, which can lead to body image issues,” he says.

However, Windom says it is more common for women to report no change in libido or an increase in libido due to the realization that they probably won’t get pregnant. So don’t prepare for the worst when it comes to the pill.

Kristen*, a junior at Mississippi State University, experienced negative side effects when she began taking the pill. “The only time when I would feel any type of sexual desire was during the week I was taking the sugar pills. Ironically, that’s the week that your period comes. Before being on the pill, [my boyfriend and I] had a healthy sex life,” she says. “After the pill, he started to think it was something he was doing wrong. But with my mood swings, acne and headaches, having sex was the last thing on my mind.”

Depending on which negative side effects that you are experiencing, there is a solution. Birth control pills can contain estrogen, progestin, and androgen. Having mood swings? Lower the progestin. Gaining weight? Lower the estrogen and progestin. Is acne your number one concern? Increase the estrogen, lower the androgen. Birth control isn’t a one type fits all, so consult with your doctor on what’s the best pill for you. Like Windom says, it’s all “trial and error.”

4. Other medications can have a negative effect

Unfortunately, some prescription medications can affect your sex life for the worse. Medications such as antidepressants, blood pressure regulators, and even prescribed marijuana can be the only way to manage a condition; however, what your doctor probably didn’t tell you is that these medications can delay or inhibit orgasms and decrease lubrication.

“The number one side effect of some SSRI’s is difficulty having an orgasm, and the number two side effect is a decrease in overall libido,” says Windom.

Madison*, a sophomore at Texas A&M University, experienced a healthy sex life before she began using antidepressants. “I had to give up one thing to help another,” she says. “At this point in life, it’s more important to treat my anxiety than get my sex drive back. It’s made dating hard, but I don’t see a way around the situation.”

If you want to see a change and get your sex life back on track, go see your doctor. Windom says that a common practice now to improve patient’s sex life is to cut their dosage of their antidepressant medication such as Lexapro in half, and then add a half dose of Wellbutrin. Although Wellbutrin is a SSRI as well, it is known to stabilize sexual dysfunction. 

It’s up to you to decide where you would like your sex drive to be. If you want to improve your libido, there certainly are ways to make that possible. If you are comfortable with your sex drive being low, more power to you! It is all about what you want. 

Grey’s Anatomy would not be the same without the strong-willed and feisty Miranda Bailey. It would be amazing to have half the talent of this beloved character, and you and Bailey may be more similar than you actually realize! Here are 19 signs that Miranda Bailey is your spirit animal.  

1. Your friends and family know how amazing you are. 

And they are an amazing support system. 

2. You have a talent for making pop-culture references. 

Both you and Bailey know how to show your love for The Hunger Games. 

3. You're not afraid to point out double-standards and sexism. 

#feminism

4. You know when it is and is not appropriate to make jokes. 

Sometimes you need to keep a straight face. 

5. You are not afraid to shut people down when necessary. 

Bailey is the Queen of making people stfu. 

6. You let people know when they've hurt you. 

You and Bailey are definitely not push-overs.  

7. You let people know when they're acting douche-bag like. 

A little tough-love never hurt. 

8. You are fierce AF. 

And you don't let anyone forget it. 

9. Sometimes you get overwhelmed with everything going on.  

And there's nothing wrong with that! 

10. You are the definition of sassy. 

Bailey would make a good comedian if she wasn't a surgeon. 

11. You celebrate your accomplishments. 

And you always have a new accomplishment to celebrate. 

12. You are not afraid of your feelings. 

It's good to be in-touch with your sensitive side! 

13. You take responsibility for your actions. 

You and Bailey are both #adultgoals. 

14. You make sure to take care of yourself. 

You can't take care of others when you're not doing the same for yourself. 

15. You know the value of pizza and wine. 

Like Bailey, you have no shame. 

16. You are incredibly successful in your line of work.  

And you'd totally be Chief of Surgery if you were a surgeon.  

17. Some people say you can be a little bit harsh. 

But it's only because you know the value in tough love.

18. You have moments of self-doubt.  

But then you just remember how AMAZING you are.  

19. At the end of the day, you're the one in charge. 

Because, like Bailey, you are a total boss.   

While Rory Gilmore was no stranger to slip ups in her love life, she was also a pretty kickass role model when it came to following her gut and living her life the way she wanted. Here are 20 of the best well-learned love lessons as told by the Coffee Queen herself.

1. When you're scrambling for conversation in the pre-dating ritual, honesty is key 

2. When push finally comes to shove, just let them know you're interested 

3. You are NOT required to say "I love you" back 

4. But if the opportunity presents itself, by all means, tell them as best you can

5. No matter how hard you resist, you're gonna have to wallow after a breakup

6. You may be forced to blantantly question another's motives at one point 

7. Don't worry too much about finding "the one"

8. Jealousy can and will get the best of you 

9. A real lover is worthy of your leftover egg hors d'ouvres 

10. First attempts at intimacy can be super awkward and uncomfortable

11. Future encounters with exes with also be super awkward and uncomfortable

12. The first time may not be as perfect as you hoped 

13. It's okay to be reckless and uncharacteristic sometimes

14. Casual dating and open relationships might be right for you

15. Or not

16. At the end of the day, all you really need in life is a good friend and some kickass comfort food

In the age of social media, it is no secret that we are more connected than ever before. All millennials are used to being warned about keeping their social media pages “clean,” but just how should you go about doing so? Luckily, the challenge is not too difficult and we’ve consulted with Jade McDermott, a social media specialist at Bearly Marketing to find out how to clean up all of your social media pages before college:

1. Make sure your pictures say something positive

Believe us, ladies ––we know how tempting it can be to post anything and everything on social media. But, a good piece of advice is to make sure every image you post represents something good about you!

Jade believes millennials should shy away from posting anything related to partying, drinking and drug usage, nudity, profanity and excess negativity. "Posting this type of content can create a negative reflection of you and can harm your chances of getting into certain colleges, internships and jobs," she says.

A good rule to live by is that if you have to contemplate posting it, you probably shouldn’t. While we have all done (and taken pictures of) some questionable things in life, posting such things on your Facebook or Instagram is potentially harmful to your future. 

2. Watch your language

This one goes without saying, but it is definitely worth repeating. You never know who’s scrolling through your social media pages these days, so shy away from foul language. Profanity ––from racism, to sexism, to homophobia, to explicit language–– that you may think is a joke can cause viewers to reconsider the great person you probably are!

Jade warns pre-collegiettes that this kind of language can harm your reputation even if you are a great individual. "You may be an honor student with a good heart, but for those who don't know you personally, all they are gathering as an impression for you is what they see online," she says. "By using profanity, you can appear immature, unpolished and unprofessional." We could not agree more!

3. Balance personal and professional

Social media background checks have gained extreme prominence in the past decade. Seriously, over 45 percent of employers admit checking out their candidates on social media. The way you behave online plays a big factor in how people judge your potential in the classroom (and eventually, the workplace).

But wait, you're safe if you set your profile to private, right? According to Jade, not so much. "Keep in mind that anyone can look at your social media profiles, even if they are set to private," she says. "Many corporations (even small businesses) have access to tools and programs that can easily get around privacy settings." This is definitely beneficial to know.

By keeping your online content and messaging clean and positive, you can share aspects of your personal life without worry.  Jade says, "As long as you refrain from using profanity and posting anything vulgar or too negative, you can easily maintain a professional and personal presence."

Although it may feel otherwise, you really do not need to post all the details of your personal life on the Internet. Trust us ––a few years down the road, you will cringe at some of the things you posted! Post the highlights of your life, but leave some of the details to the imagination.

Related: 11 Social Media Updates You Need to Make While Job Hunting

4. Share content that is relevant to your area of study

You may still be undecided about what you want to do in life, but honing in on and exploring your interests is a great way to utilize the Web. It goes without saying, but social media sites like Twitter and LinkedIn are great sources for networking (at any age)! It is never too early to get started on making a name for yourself ––especially in fields like communications or business.

Jade is a big supporter of this. "By posting and interacting with content that is relevant to your field of study or work, you are exuding passion, interest and knowledge in that subject," she says. "It is a great way to showcase your professionalism and is great for increasing your online network within your field." Networking is an essential part of making a name for yourself in any industry, and social media is a great tool for doing it!

5. Don’t post about alcohol or drug use

Just don’t do it. Literally. Ever. In no way is this ever a good idea. Obviously, the college lifestyle comes with a lot of temptation (especially in your younger years). However, no matter how tempting it may seem to post a “funny” picture now, the repercussions will absolutely not be worth it later.

In the digital age, you are your own brand. "When you post alcohol and drug usage online, you are essentially harming your image and your brand," Jade says. "By posting photos of you wasted, you are creating a negative image of yourself and the damage is much worse if you are underage." You will probably regret it later, anyway.

Some high schoolers may not think their online image is something to be too worried about, but according to Jade, they should rethink this. "I would explain [to these people] that they are creating a negative image of themselves and although they may not see it as a big deal, employers and colleges DO," she says. "Posting such content can (and often does) prevent you from getting into your dream college and/or your dream job." It is truly not worth the risk.

6. Cut down your “Friends” list

In high school, it was probably cool to be friends with as many people as possible on your social media profiles. However, this will have little benefit in your collegiette life. In fact, it will probably become more of an annoyance than anything else.

Isabel Calkins, a sophomore at New York University, wanted to make sure her online friends were her actual friends. “Before college, I unfriended literally every single person I did not know,” she says. “Then, once that was done I did the same with people I knew but had never talked to, like people in older grades or friends of siblings, etc. It’s not that I was posting inappropriate things but I just wanted a fresh start.”

Jade reminds pre-collegiettes that social media is a powerful tool when it comes to both school and work, so you should monitor who you are connecting with. "By maintaining relationships and connections, you can open doors and create opportunities for yourself and otehrs," she says. "When you have too many friends, your network may be oversaturated and creating these networking opportunities can be more difficult."

What is Jade's biggest piece of advice for social media usage? Remember the two Ps: professionalism and positivity. "Employers and colleges are very particular about who they recruit and associate with them," she says. "At the end of the day, it is simply not worth tainting your image on social media."

We are the digital generation, so our knowledge and use of social media is ever-changing. However, there are definitely steps to shape your online profiles in a way that will benefit you. Before college, clean up those pages ––it is never too early to plan for your future!

Ah, summer! We wait all year long for the weather to get warmer, the days to get longer and the stress of finals to become nothing but a distant memory. But when it comes to beauty, this time of the year doesn’t always turn us into the sun-kissed beach babes we think it will. Thankfully, HC has the solution for five of the most common beauty woes that collegiettes experience during the summer.

The problem: Your makeup melts off

When the temperature rises and things start to get sweaty, makeup can stream right off your face—not exactly the best look. “When the weather gets warmer, my eyeliner starts to melt everywhere,” says Lillian Noble, a junior at American University. “Even liquid eyeliner seems to melt onto my eyes.”

The solution:

If your makeup starts going places it's not supposed to be, you’ll need to be prepared to do some damage control. “In the summer months, I usually carry around Q-Tips to touch up under my eyes and wipe off the eyeliner,” Lillian says.

But ideally, your makeup won’t come off at all. “Wear waterproof makeup, because foundation will slip and mascara will run,” says Kimberley Bosso, a celebrity makeup artist and founder of Bosso makeup. “Stay away from powder. It’s best to stick with cream and minimal makeup is better.” Bosso recommends using cream eyeshadows, like the ones from Revlon ($5.19), a cream foundation like MAC’s Face and Body ($27), a waterproof concealer like the one from her line ($28) and brow pencils instead of powder. “In the summer, less is more,” she adds.

The problem: Your skin burns easily

You already know that too much sun exposure can have serious long-term consequences for everyone, but some collegiettes are more prone to the short-term ones than others. “I have very fair skin and always have to worry about getting a sunburn,” says Elizabeth Huebsch, a junior at Davidson College. “I used to be more careless and shrug off burns because they fade into tans. But recently having seen friends and family go through skin cancer scares, I know that being reckless about sun exposure is a no-go.” And remember, just because you don’t burn so easily doesn’t mean that you don’t need to wear sunscreen!

The solution:

Elizabeth has found a way to reduce the risk of sunburn. “Now, I'm careful to use products with SPF even if I'm not planning on laying out,” she says. “I use moisturizer and foundation with SPF so that I don't even have to think about slathering on sunscreen. My favorite product line is COOLA. They have amazing, natural products that smell great and are awesome for your skin.”

What do the experts say? Henry Von Norden, a paramedical aesthetician and makeup artist at Hollywood Beauty Bar, recommends you stay no more than 15 or 20 minutes in full sun, regardless of skin type. His favorite sunscreen is VI DERM SPF 50+ Sun Protection ($30).

Wearing makeup with SPF like Elizabeth does is also a great idea. A BB cream like the one from Maybelline ($9) works well because it triples as foundation, moisturizer and sunscreen. Don’t forget to also wear sun block even if you’re planning on tanning.

That being said, if you do end up getting a sunburn, aloe vera is the way to go. “The sprays have a lot of alcohol with them,” Von Norden says. “The best way to treat sunburns is with over the counter aloe vera. It’s better to use a gel rather than a spray.” You can find these gels at any pharmacy.

The problem: Sunscreen makes you break out

So to counteract the harmful effects of UV rays, you wear sunscreen. But unfortunately, it turns out that sunscreen can also be bad for your skin. Ugh, can we ever catch a break? “One issue I experience in the summer time is sunscreen clogging my pores, and not just on my face,” says Haley Cahill, a senior at Appalachian State University. “It's so frustrating when my chest, shoulders and back start to break out, but I can't pass on the sunscreen. This is the worst when you try to rock strapless tops or dresses, but you're self-conscious about how your skin looks!”

The solution:

Although we’re all on a budget, sunscreen is not something we should be scrimping on. “The problem lies within the base of the product,” Von Norden explains. “Less expensive products have base ingredients that cause breakouts. The cheaper the brand, the more wax. That’s why we pay more.”

You should also be using a different product on your face than you use on your body. For your face, “you should aim for something that you would find at a salon,” Von Norden says. “VI DERM SPF 50+ Sun Protection is specific for your face. It’s very refined, light and dry. The body ones can be thicker and heavier.” Overall, you should be looking for products that are “non-comedegenic, paraben-free and mineral oil free.” We love Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Moisturizer ($21) and Super Fluid UV Defense for body ($38).

The problem: You have to shave all the time

In the winter, jeans and tights can make shaving irrelevant. But when the sun comes out, so do bare legs, and suddenly you find yourself shaving almost every day. Not to mention that hair seems to grow faster in the summer months!

And sure, shaving all the time is annoying, but it also has other unpleasant consequences. “I hate dealing with ingrown hairs, razor burn, and that constant worry of, 'are my legs hairy?'” says Kristen Kraemer, a graduate from Rutgers University.

The solution:

There is no way around it: “Waxing is a much better way to go,” Von Norden says. “It’s once every three to four weeks and in the long run you’re slowing hair growth. Shaving makes the root stronger.” Obviously, this method also eliminates razor burn. As for ingrown hairs, “you should use some kind of a loofah or body scrub with a bead every time you shave or wax.”

But if you really have to shave, “I don’t recommend using Nair or anything like that,” Von Norden says. “It can actually dissolve hair so you can imagine what it’s doing to your skin. If you’re going to shave, shave and use an aftershave cream. I would recommend Aveeno body cream or any of those calming products.”

The problem: Your hair gets all frizzy

Heat and humidity are great and all, but they’re not exactly the best when it comes to our hair. “I always get attacked with frizzy hair each summer, especially when it's humid,” says Malone Ryan, a sophomore at John Carroll University. “I have natural pretty curly hair, so combine that with the summertime heat and I've got a complete mess.”

The solution:

The easiest way to deal with frizz is to simply tie your hair up, but you might also want to consider investing in an anti-frizz product, especially for days when you just want to leave the locks down. “Apart from throwing [my hair] up in a ponytail (and simply dealing with the fly-aways!), I've learned to use products like John Frieda Frizz Ease to get it somewhat manageable,” Malone says. “Plus it saves me from chopping off all my hair in frustration each summer!”

There are plenty of great products out there, like Moroccanoil’s Frizz Control ($36) or Redken’s Frizz Dismiss line.

To every summer beauty problem, there’s an easy solution—so you can enjoy your summer to the fullest.

Kylie Jenner isn't letting the momentum from her highly-coveted Lip Kits slow. Week after week, each restock sells out as soon as product becomes available—and Kylie's not showing any signs of stopping. This week, she revealed a daring new addition to her metal matte collection, rightfully named Majesty.

If there's one person who can pull this edgy shade off, it's Kylie—whose recent Snapchats have nearly convinced us that a metallic black is THE color we should be wearing. Okay, so it might not be the most practical, and anybody who isn't Kylie might look a little less stunning and a little more... outrageous? But hey, life without bold lipstick is a life not worth living, so we're into it.

There's no word yet on when Majesty will be available, but our eyes are peeled.

As we all know, getting your hands on one of Kylie Jenner's Lip Kits is not easy. They've sold out in as quickly as three minutes and have literally broke the internet—so needless to say, it’s basically impossible to get one. So impossible, actually, that people have resorted to stealing them straight off of doorsteps.

According to claims sent to the Better Business Bureau, customers' lipsticks are being stolen because of the recognizable packaging. Last week the company wrote, “Currently the BBB is receiving multiple complaints from this company's customers claiming that after ordering and paying for products, some or all of the products are not being shipped as expected.” 

Seventeen reports that because the boxes are so clearly recognizable, with the white paint drips coming down the sides, Kylie Jenner has actually been forced to redesign it entirely. 

The new box, above, has the signature paint drip design on the inside of the box rather than on the outside. Fingers crossed that this stops the thieves and lets the Lip Kits get to their rightful owners!

After watching the season 12 premiere of The Bachelorette, we're sure you have a few hotties picked out as your favorites. Maybe you're interested in their ridiculous good looks or can't help but be charmed by the fact that they're 20-somethings who have their lives together. Take this quiz to see which Bachelorette guy is made for you—because JoJo doesn't get to have all the fun!

You’ve been graded for as long as you can remember—you’ll never forget your first gold star. And though you might have graduated, those evaluations don’t end. Instead, the stakes are higher than ever.

In the age of super-hip startups, unlimited vacation time, and jobs that fulfill us, it can be easy to lose sight of why we schlep to work every day in the first place: the money.

Related: Should You Take A Job For The Money? 

Yet it’s really intimidating and difficult to discuss your salary at work, either in a formal negotiation setting or with peers. But it’s important to know what’s appropriate when, and how to discuss it without making enemies in the process.

You shouldn’t discuss it at work

It’s against “The Rules”

Just like fight club, the first rule of talking about salaries is never talk about salaries. Says professional career advisor and author of Networking for the Novice, Nervous, or Naive Job Seeker Tom Dezell, “Private companies may have policies regarding this, some may formally write them in policy or handbooks, others simply verbally forbid or discourage discussing salary information.”

These kinds of gag rules aren’t necessarily explicit, because that would be against the law. As a worker in the United States, you’re entitled to talk about pay, according to The Atlantic.

That doesn’t mean that it won’t hurt you at work, though. It’s still completely taboo to bring it up in day-to-day conversation, and could definitely earn you a trip to HR.

It’s too personal

Just like you wouldn’t bring up the election or your religion while at work, it isn’t kosher to talk about your salary. A 2013 Monster.Com poll showed that 63 percent of U.S. workers were uncomfortable talking about their salary at work—ever.  Even in the age of the Internet, it’s still a part of basic business etiquette. “[On the list of] things you should never ask someone, how much they earn is one of them,” says Dezell. “It’s more relaxed now, but many still regard it as too personal a question to be asked.”

When you talk about salary, you run the risk of offending someone, or making them uncomfortable. Unless you’re office BFFs, it’s probably not a good idea to mention it—and even then, you should proceed with caution. Says Elise*, a 20-something at a small tech B2B company, “You run the risk of making things awkward, creating an unnecessary competitive atmosphere and potentially causing people think of you in a certain way.”

…Except when you should

“Discussing salary with other employees is stereotypically considered taboo, but especially when you're beginning a new role, knowing the going salary is fairly important,” says Alaina Leary, Jr. Social Media Designer for Rue La La. “This is particularly true because of the gender wage gap—you don't want to end up being paid less than your worth.”

Yes, the pay gap is real. By not talking about it, or assuming that you'll be noticed just by working hard, you can put yourself at a disadvantage. 

“I think it's worth a conversation to compare other people's experiences,” says Kaitlin*, a millennial based in D.C. “I think a big factor may also be women's hesitance or fear to ask for what they deserve. We have to practice being strong and demanding without the fear that we'll be perceived as bitchy or bossy.”

The fact of the matter is: if you don’t ask, you won’t receive. “They're not going to just roll over and give us what we want if we don't ask for what we deserve. It's worth the conversation and you have to fight and make noise about what's glaringly unfair,” says Kaitlin.

That’s what makes the ‘should you?’ question so difficult. There’s a time and place to talk about your salary: your performance review. “You’ll need a compelling reason,” says Tom. “Often with a boss, it will be a topic in performance reviews, so that can be the way to approach it.”

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Negotiating a Job Offer 

This doesn’t mean you only have one shot to discuss your salary. Though your company might have a period of “official” performance reviews, you should be having regular meetings with your manager regarding your personal development—and salary is certainly a topic to discuss.

How to discuss your salary (the right way)

Your boss may be ready to shut you down when you ask—naming budgets, politics, or any other excuse—so if you’re not prepared with information about your performance (and industry benchmarks), you won’t go very far in your negotiation, according to Forbes.

Do your research ahead of time with tools like this free salary calculator or with larger reports from sites like Glassdoor. Understanding where you fit into the grand scheme of your industry, your location, your education, and your experience will help you know if what you’re hearing is baloney or if there’s a real reason behind the “no.”

Industry events can be a great way to chat with women at your level. Talking with peers from different companies in the same industry, if they feel comfortable doing so, can give you a better baseline than online research. Attending a salary negotiation class, talk, or other empowering event like a women’s conference can provide a safe, empowering space to discuss real issues or role-play different scenarios.

If you’ve learned through the grapevine in your company that others in your position are making more than you, it’s critical to stay calm. “Such a realization is upsetting,” says Tom. “But you’ll get better results by approaching the conversation with a tone of ‘It’s come to my attention that others in my role are earning a higher salary than me, what can we work out to increase my compensation?’ as opposed to demanding equal pay.”

The best way to frame your discussion is not on what others are doing, but what you can do. Saying to your boss, “I want more money,” makes you look greedy, desperate, and will immediately put them on the defensive.

Instead, start with how you can do better. “What actions do I need to take that will put me in position for a raise?” or “What kind of performance do you need to see for me to receive a raise next year?” are questions that signal to your boss you’re willing to work for it—and that you want to get better.

Salary is only one piece of the puzzle when it comes to others in your position. There are a lot of reasons why they might be earning more than you. So before you knee-jerk to “That’s not fair!” remember the context. “Some employees have longer tenure, some managers give higher raises than others and some raises are based on different projects or goals that have been reached,” Elise points out.

Talking about your salary is an important but delicate art. Though it’s often considered taboo, there are right times and wrong times to discuss it. Be confident in your abilities, and above all: arm yourself with information. It can make the difference between a raise and a big fat “no.”

*Names have been changed

With summer finally working its way into the atmosphere, the days of sun, road trips and freedom are upon us. As if summer wasn't exciting enough to begin with, it's the time of the Gemini, and your favorite Gemini girl will be celebrating her birthday any day now! Just to make your life a bit simpler, we've put together a list of DIY gifts your fave Gemini would love to get this year.

1. Scripted Pillows

Gemini girls are genuinely curious and relatively fast learners. You'll often find them in a book, so why not help them end the night with phrases from their favorite author? These DIY scripted pillows are the perfect touch to any Gemini's bedroom!

2. Happy Succulents

Geminis are the gentlest and kindest souls you'll ever meet, so they'd absolutely love this happy little succulent to warm up their space on a dreary day!

3. CD Mosaic 

Music is everything to a Gemini girl, so why not make her a super pretty mosaic out of old CDs? 

4. Teacup Pin Cushion

Everything about a Gemini is endearing, so make your fave Gemini this adorable piece that serves as storage for her colorful pins (because we know she's crafty).

5. Dreamcatcher

There's nothing wrong with dreaming, and these ladies are the ultimate dreamers. Any dreamcatcher is great, but it means so much more if it's made by one of your greatest friends.

6. Bathtub Tray

Geminis love to kick back and relax, so this tub tray is the perfect way to help your girl forget about her frustrations. Coincidentally, it's also an amazing solution to that binge-watching in the tub problem. 

7. Borax Crystal Paperweights 

Geminis tend to be fascinated with the world's wonders and all things shiny. These adorable crystal paperweights should spark her interest. 

8. Chill Pills

Nervous tendencies are common for Geminis, so anything you can do to help relieve her stress would be greatly appreciated. A person's sweet tooth is directly connected to their heart, so fill a jar with candy and call it a prescription of chill pills.

9. Decision Wheel

It's almost impossible for a Gemini to make up her mind. If you're trying to make plans, you might want her to decide ASAP. So this is the perfect tool for any indecisive Gemini girl!

10. Road Trip Survival Kit 

Being a warm weather girl, road trips are everything to the Gemini in your life. There's nothing she'd love more than a planned road trip and this survival kit to get you all through your crazy adventure.

11. Book Clutch

Book lovers rejoice! Geminis can finally have a clutch that truly fits their personality. As much as it might pain her to see a book torn apart, this clutch is a Gemini's dream!

Congratulations! You’ve made it through the dreaded internship application process and landed an awesome summer position. The hard part is over, so now all you have to worry about is how to impress your boss. No pressure, right?

It’s something that our moms always tell us: it’s important to make a good first impression. While this may seem obvious (we clearly don’t want to make a bad first impression), your first day can set the stage for a successful internship experience. Whether you’ll be fetching coffee or sitting in on meetings, here are seven ways to impress your boss and totally rock your first day.

1. Do some research beforehand

Start impressing your boss before you even step into the office! Even though you’ll learn a lot about the company and industry you’re working for throughout the summer, it’s important to have an idea of what’s going on prior to your first day.

“For starters, read about the company’s latest news and check out their social media profiles,” says Vicki Salemi, careers expert at Monster. “Think about what you’re reading and how that might impact the job you’ve been hired to do.”

With a grasp on what the company’s latest accomplishments or projects are, you can be up to speed from day one. That way you’ll have something to contribute if your boss or other employees are discussing the organization or industry.

“Read up about the history of the organization or what they’re currently working on,” says Jodi R. R. Smith, etiquette consultant and president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting. “That way you’re knowledgeable, and if there’s nothing else to talk about, you can make small talk about [the company].”

Most likely you’ll have some time between the end of school and the start of your internship, so put it to good use and get to know the company you’re interning for!

2. Be on time & well dressed

Two of the biggest factors of professionalism are punctuality and looking the part. They’re also two ways to impress—or, if you’re doing it wrong, displease—your boss.

“Your boss is not going to evaluate an entire internship on the first day, but it’s important to cover the basics,” Salemi says. “Be punctual, dress to impress and shake everyone’s hand. These are characteristics that your boss and colleagues will value.”

To make sure you’re on time and ready to work that first day, Salemi suggests practicing your commute the weekend before you start. This way you can learn the route so you don’t get lost the first day. But don’t forget to factor in weekday traffic to your travel time! The day of, give yourself 15 minutes extra time. It’s always better to sit in your car for a few extra minutes instead of rushing into the office 10 minutes late.

Also during that weekend before you start, pick out two to three appropriate outfits for the office. While some companies have a more casual dress code in the summer, it’s always better to err on the side of professional on the first day. “If it’s hot, you can wear linen or cotton, but make sure it’s in a dark color,” Smith says. “Navy is nice or black if it’s not too harsh. Make sure your skirt is knee-length and that your top has sleeves. If you’re walking, wear comfortable shoes and change into your professional shoes when you get to work.”

The worst feeling is walking into an office and realizing you’re way underdressed. It’s better to be a little overdressed and see what the other employees are wearing and adjust your outfit for the next day. If you want to ensure your outfit is appropriate, don’t be afraid to call or email your manager or point of contact before the first day and ask about the dress code.

3. Ask lots of questions

Internships are about learning—and what’s the best way to learn? Ask questions! Especially on your first day when you’re just learning the ropes, it’s important to make sure you understand all your responsibilities as an intern, so there’s no confusion later on.

“If not already planned, you should ask your boss to carve out at least 30 minutes to meet and review your job responsibilities,” Salemi says. “This is also a time to set expectations, explain what you’re hoping to learn and ask your boss what he or she is specifically looking for you to accomplish.”

By discussing goals and guidelines, you can monitor your own progress and never have to question what’s expected of you. You should also ask your boss how much he or she wants you to check in with them (every day, once a week, any particular time of day), how you two should communicate (come to their office, call them, email, text) and who’s next in line to contact if he or she isn’t there and you need help. Also ask about what time you should break for lunch, where your desk/work space is and policies about sick/vacation days. Being up front about these things will lead to less miscommunication down the road!

4. Use lunch to get to know people

You’re halfway through the day when your stomach starts to rumble. All you want to do is scarf down your sandwich and take a mental break for a half hour, but using your lunch break to talk to other employees will show your boss that you’re interested in the company as a whole, not just your own tasks.

For the first day, either pack your lunch or bring money just in case. You may not know what the lunch situation is like until you get there (is there a cafeteria or does everyone eat out?). Once you’ve figured out whom you’re eating with, start a conversation! “Keep the conversation light,” Smith says. “Ask about their backgrounds, what they like about the company, if there’s anything they wished someone had told them on their first day of work, etc.” And don’t forget to be prepared to talk a little about yourself too! They may want to know what other internships you’ve had, what classes you’re taking or what else you’ve planned for the rest of the summer.

Additionally, use lunch or other breaks to get to know your fellow interns, if you have any. Ask them about where they go to school, what their major is and what department they’re working with for the internship. Making an effort to get to know other people in the office will show your boss your social side as well as how well you get along with others. Everyone likes working with a personable intern!

5. Take notes

Sure you’re done with class for the summer, but that doesn’t mean you’re finished taking notes. Not only will it help you remember important details about your job (what should you do when you’ve finished a report and it needs to be reviewed?), but also it will show your boss that you’re interested and serious about your work and the company.

“You should always be asking questions, but if you’re not, you’re observing and taking notes,” Smith says. “Have a pen and paper with you always and constantly take notes. When you’re shadowing someone, in a meeting, whatever. Your boss will notice that you’re paying attention and processing information.”

Smith also discourages interns from using their cell phones, even if it’s to jot something down. “It could be easier to take notes on your cell phone, but don’t do it,” she adds. “No matter what, people will assume you’re texting. So stay away from the cell phone.” If you prefer taking notes digitally, ask your boss about using a laptop or tablet.

If you show your boss that you’re engaged from day one, he or she will see you’re dedicated to your position and more likely give you bigger responsibilities later on!

6. Keep it positive

The first day of any internship comes with nerves, surprises and maybe some boring tasks. However, it’s important to stay positive and enthusiastic, no matter what you’re doing.

“Be patient through the onboarding process,” Smith says. “You may have some more boring tasks that first day, but just remember that you’re doing something so that someone else doesn’t have to. They’re going to like you for that! So keep it positive.”

If you’re given a task and you finish it, don’t sit and wait to be assigned something else. Double-check your work and then ask if there’s anything else that needs to be done. “Make yourself useful,” Smith adds. “People notice.”

You should be confident in your abilities (you did land this awesome internship after all!), but also keep an open mind and show your willingness to learn. “Be enthusiastic,” Salemi says. “Participation is key on the first day to show that you’re dedicated and [want] to learn.”

Ultimately, you should put your best foot forward and be yourself. They clearly hired you for a reason, so keep it professional and positive and you’ll be sure to make a lasting first impression!

7. Check in

You got there on time, your outfit was professional but cute and your boss happily answered all your questions. Seems like your first day has been a success! But before you sprint out of there to call your mom and tell her how it went, make sure you check in.

“The biggest thing managers will say is that they want you to check in,” Smith says. “Check in at the end of the day to say you’re getting ready to leave. And always ask if there’s anything else they need right now. Don’t just disappear!”

More likely than not, your boss will want to get home at the end of the day as much as you do, but if they do ask you to complete a small task before you leave, do it well and don’t rush through it. Once you’re done, tell them to have a good night and you’ll see them in the morning!

Internships are a great way to get hands-on experience, learn about an industry and make professional relationships with bosses and mentors. While you might be nervous for your first day, keep these tips in mind and you’re bound to make an awesome first impression!

Queen Bey’s latest album Lemonade left us with many unanswered questions, but there is one question we have been waiting very impatiently to have answered. Is Jay Z ever going to respond to his wife's new music, which seems to put him on blast for cheating?

Us Weekly previously reported that the rapper was going to release his own album in response to Lemonade, but it seems like for now, he’s sticking with a verse.

For the remixed version of his comeback hit, “All The Way Up,” Fat Joe called upon some fellow artists, including Jay Z, to update the track.

In the song, Jay manages to reference Beyoncé’s drink of choice and his marriage with the lines, “You know you made it when the fact / Your marriage made it is worth millions / Lemonade is a popular drink and it still is.”

Wait…what? We suppose his words are open to interpretation, but we've never been more confused.

What do you think the message behind Jay Z's verse is?

After more than 50 women came forward over the past decade accusing him of sexual assault, Bill Cosby is finally going to trial.

Pennsylvania district judge Elizabeth McHugh heard enough evidence to officially allow Cosby’s criminal trial to begin. However, it could be more than a year before that trial actually starts, according to The Chicago Tribune. 

The trial will focus on Cosby’s alleged assault of former Temple University women’s basketball coach Andrea Constand. According to her 2005 police statement that was read in court, she considered Bill Cosby to be her mentor for several years. One night in 2004, when she went over Cosby’s house, Constand said she was stressed out. He gave her three blue pills to help “take the edge off” and handed her a glass of wine. Soon enough, she felt frozen and blurry, unable to move or talk.

That’s when Cosby began to grope her and assault her. She woke up with her bra undone early the next morning. In horror, she ran out of the house—but not before Cosby offered her a muffin.

Constand was the first woman to come out and accuse Cosby of assault in 2005, according to Philly Magazine. She was soon followed by dozens of others women who had experienced similar things, dating all the way back to the 1960s.

The 78-year-old actor and comedian faces three counts of felony aggravated indecent assault, according to CNN. Each one of these charges carries a 10-year maximum sentence in prison, but the judge can also choose to combine these into just one 10-year stint.

Although more than 50 women came forward to accuse Cosby of sexual misconduct, his lawyer Brian McMonagle thinks, of course, that the judge made a bad decision. “There was no evidence of a crime here. And the inconsistencies that plagued this investigation from the beginning continue to plague it now. This case should end immediately,” said McMonagle to CNN.

Others are more than happy to see that Bill Cosby will finally answer to the justice system. “I’m glad the case is going to go forward. I’m glad he will have to face someone in court,” said Heidi Thomas to Fox 31 Denver. Thomas is just one of the more than 50 women who came forward saying Cosby had sexually assaulted them.

When Thomas was just 24 years old, she met with Cosby for one-on-one training. She portrayed a drunk girl during a “cold read” of a script when Cosby allegedly handed her a glass of wine. According to Thomas’ account, she took just one sip before losing consciousness—then woke up to Cosby sexually assaulting her.

Thomas never had the chance to report Cosby because she was scared it would impact her acting career. “[Constand] is really doing this for the rest of us who haven’t had the opportunity and never will. So she is our champion,” Thomas said to Fox 31.

The pre-trial hearing was just the first step of many to finally get justice for the dozens of women who accused Cosby of assault. The actual trial is unfortunately still months away. In the meantime, let’s hope that the court puts an end to Cosby’s pattern of assault. 

Remember the days when a sleek, fashionable Motorola Razr was the absolute epitome of cool? If you had a pink one, even better. Well, those days might not be so far away anymore—Motorola just released a YouTube video teasing the comeback of the phones on June 9.

The video is nostalgic throwback to what seems to be a '90s or early ‘00s high school, complete with popular girls, jocks, and an emo guy with a rose in his locker. And of course, they’re all using Razrs. It’s fun to watch, but it doesn’t really explain how the phones will fit into our smartphone-obsessed future.

Adele famously used a flip phone in her “Hello” video late last year, but people were talking about their comeback even before that. As Emily Peck of the Huffington Post argued, they’re cheap, hard to break, and a good way to stay a little bit connected without totally dropping off the grid. People are tired of feeling addicted to their devices, and there’s nothing better for that addiction than being forced to type “44 *pause* 4” to say “Hi.”

Get excited—Everything old is new again, especially your middle school cell phone!

Professor Angelina Jolie? 

In a statement to the Huffington Post, the superstar actress and special envoy for the U.N. refugee agency (UNHCR) announced that she would be teaching a new masters course on women, peace, and security at the London School of Economics starting next year. 

She will be working alongside William Hague, Britain's former foreign secretary and Jolie's co-founder of the LSE Centre for Women, Peace, and Security. 

Jolie was firm about her goals for the course. "It is vital that we broaden the discussion on how to advance women's rights and end impunity for crimes that dispraportionately affecty women, such as sexual violence in conflict," she said in a statement. "I am looking forward to teaching and to learning from the students, as well as to sharing my own experiences of working alongside governments and the United Nations."

Both Hague and Jolie will be joining the London School of Ecomics as visiting professors.

We're psyched that the groundbreaking power duo is bringing attention to subject that has been overlooked for far too long. Now, how do we sign up for classes at the LSE? 

Amber Riley has officially had enough of body shamers. The Glee star posted a video to her Instagram over the weekend calling out all of the haters who have ever thrown insults at her for being a full-figured woman.

“I love all colors, shapes, and sizes. So just so you know, when you come out here and you call me fat, it's not an insult, dummy. My ass is fat, and the fellas love it. And so do I. So eat it.”

Preach, girl! The video was posted right after Riley underwent dental surgery, so she was, as she admitted, slightly under the influence while filming the video. Regardless, this speech was definitely called for, and we couldn’t agree with her more.

It’s important to stand up for yourself, and we are so proud of Riley for doing so—even if it did take a little post-surgery medication to do so.

China and Taiwan have always had some serious issues. While much of Taiwan wants to be independent, officials in China want to reunify with the small Asian country. When Taiwan swore in their first female leader, Tsai Ing-wen, last week, China decided to ramp up their attacks against the president.

In particular, one Chinese official decided to insult the fact that Tsai is not married. “As a single female politician, she has no emotional encumbrances of love, no family restraint, no children to worry about,” wrote Wang Weixing, a member of China’s Association for Relations across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS), according to CNN. “Her political tactics are often emotional, personalized, and extreme.”

In 2016, women need a husband and children to be unemotional and rational? Really?? Many Chinese residents or people around the world seemed to agree that Wang’s statement was pretty ridiculous and sexist—especially to be published by a mainstream and government-run media company like China’s Xinhua News Agency.

“This is very shocking. How did such dirty and obscene viewpoints get associated with Xinhua,” wrote Gao Lidong, chief editor of a small Chinese news website, on Weibo (China’s version of Twitter).

The Wall Street Journal reported that another Weibo user agreed with Lidong, writing, “Looks like Xinhua wants to become the public enemy of the millions of unmarried women in China.”

This isn’t the first time Tsai Ing-Wen has been questioned on her decision not to marry or have children. “In a traditional society, a woman who never marries would be regarded as less whole,” wrote Tsai in a Facebook post, according to The New York Times. “But in modern society, what marriage provides is also available outside of marriages, isn’t it?”

Park Geun-hye, president of South Korea, is also an unmarried woman. Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner is a widow and was the first elected female president of Argentina. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf divorced her husband and never remarried before becoming the president of Liberia. Women run the world, literally, with or without husbands all the time.

Although the article by Wang has since been taken off of the International Herald’s website, remnants of the essay remain on Weibo. In modern times, calling a woman “extreme” because she is not married is absolutely ridiculous and sexist. There are plenty of single, male rulers around the world. Women are no different—and people know that. If this is China’s way of convincing Taiwan to reunify, then reunification doesn’t seem to be in either country’s futures.