Arianna Huffington, who co-founded the Huffington Post over a decade ago, will step down as Editor-in-Chief to pursue Thrive Global, a new health and wellness company she is building, The New York Times reports.
According to The Huffington Post, what started out as a website “comprised primarily of aggregation and blog posts from friends” has “morphed over the years into a major news organization and digital media company that’s expanded into 15 countries.”
When announcing her new business venture in June, Huffington reportedly told her staff that her “focus [would] remain on The Huffington Post, with no change to [her] current role”, CNN Money reports.
According to the Times, in a note to her employees on Thursday, Huffington stated that she would be focusing her attention to her new project, saying she “fully expected to be able to continue leading HuffPost while also building Thrive Global, [b]ut it became clear that this was an illusion as Thrive went from an idea to a reality, with investors, staff and offices.”
Huffington told CNN Money that “[b]uilding something from scratch doesn't become easier or less challenging just because you've done it before. There is only one way to do it: with your full attention and all your heart.”
According to HuffPost, Huffington’s role in the company has shifted before when AOL purchased the site in 2011; however, she remained Editor-in-Chief following the deal.
Her departure from the company comes after Verizon, AOL’s parent company, announced its plans to buy Yahoo, CNN Money reports. HuffPost reported that Huffington’s departure was not influenced by Verizon’s plans, saying that she thought it would be “great for HuffPost because of the amazing distribution it can provide for our content.”
Huffington told HuffPost that she’s confident the publication “will do amazing things in the future” under new leadership.
“Great companies always succeed beyond their founder. Even though HuffPost bears my name, it is absolutely about all of you and about this amazing team we’ve been for over 11 years,” Huffington said.
Donald Trump, who has been extremely critical of President Obama’s anti-terrorism strategies in the Middle East, stated that Obama is the “founder of ISIS” at a rally in Florida on Wednesday, The New York Timesreports. This remark comes only days after Trump’s Second Amendment comments.
According to NBC News, Trump further claimed that ISIS “honors” Obama, and even called Hillary Clinton the “co-founder” of the extremist group. Trump went on to discuss the Russian’s involvement and the crisis in Crimea, stating that this event occurred “during the administration of Barrack Hussein Obama”, which was meant as a jab of the President’s handling of the situation, the Times reports.
In an interview on Thursday morning, conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt asked Trump to clarify his remarks. Hewitt said in the interview that he “knew what [Trump] meant," adding that Trump meant that Obama “created a vacuum” and “lost the peace.” “No, I meant that he’s the founder of ISIS,” Trump replied.
Trump also held an interview with CNBC, in which he said Obama “was the founder of ISIS, absolutely," CNN reports. "The way he removed our troops—you shouldn't have gone in. I was against the war in Iraq. Totally against it. That mistake was made. It was a horrible mistake—one of the worst mistakes in the history of our country. We destabilized the Middle East and we've been paying the price for it for years,” Trump added.
A spokesperson from Hillary Clinton’s campaign dismissed Trump’s statement, saying that it was “another example” of Trump “trash-talking the United States,” NBC reports. The White House did not respond to Trump’s remarks.
According to CNN, critics say Obama has downplayed the terror threat and failed to anticipate the rise of the extremist group.
Michael Hayden, former Director of the CIA and NSA, said that Trump made a valid point on MSNBC's Morning Joe on Thursday, NBC reports. “The actions of the Obama administration in withdrawing from Iraq actually set the conditions for the recovery of al Qaeda in Iraq, which then became ISIS. So there's a very powerful case to be made,” Hayden said.
Early Friday morning, Trump tweeted that his comments about ISIS were "sarcasm."
Hillary Clinton's technological trash bin has become a feeding ground for dirt-diggers in this election. Now, another piece of potentially shady action has been unearthed from the presidential nominee's internet past, arousing suspicions about the relationship between the State Department and the Clinton Foundation.
CNN reports that the conservative watchdog group, Judicial Watch, believes 44 pages of a 296-page email log were not previously released by Clinton because of their detrimental content.
The documents reveal some serious missteps by Clinton Foundation official Doug Band, including his use of Clinton aides to both secure someone a State Department job and put Clinton Foundation donor Gilbert Chagoury in touch with the State Department.
"No wonder Hillary Clinton and Huma Abedin hid emails from the American people, the courts and Congress," Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton said in a press release. "They show the Clinton Foundation, Clinton donors, and operatives worked with Hillary Clinton in potential violation of the law."
Nevertheless, Clinton’s campaign denies any relation between this correspondence and the former Secretary's actual work. According to Judicial Watch, Clinton herself mentioned on several occasions that she turned over all of her work-related emails to the State Department two years ago.
Needless to say, Donald Trump is using this latest revelation to fuel his argument that Clinton is unfit to be president. “When is the media going to talk about Hillary's policies that have gotten people killed, like Libya, open borders, and maybe her emails?” Trump said in a tweet on Tuesday.
Despite the new batch of concerns that this email unveiling cooked up, there's still not enough evidence to prompt an investigation.
Still, we recommend you think twice before you type.
There are many wonderful things about fall, like pumpkin patches, haunted houses, warm apple cider and spiced cinnamon lattes. And then there’s the inevitable back-to-school shopping. Because despite all of our wishful thinking otherwise, fall semester is right around the corner and it’s time to start preparing for classes.
Whether you’re embarking on another university year or just now registering for your first college core classes, one thing is certain: college can be expensive. However, with the right attitude and some Modge Podge, it doesn’t have to be. Give some of these DIY school supplies a try and save the rest of your earnings for tuition and textbooks.
Sometimes all you need is an apple and some acryllic paint to make your teachers believe you're ready for class. Simply cut an apple in half, dip it in some funky paint and stamp the apple to a white surface to create a classic aesthetic. Decorate paper book covers, white tote bags or even brown paper bags for homemade lunches.
This year, make an effort to stay organized by putting together this neon piano hinge notebook. It may look complicated, but with flashy folders and bamboo skewers, this notebook is sure to keep everything in its place.
If you consider yourself a dedicated artist or writer, you probably will need a reliable case for your writing instruments. This felt cutout pouch will take you five minutes to make and is easy to transport. The best part is when eventual wear and tear happens, it's easy to create another one.
Not only is this all-in-one eraser and flash drive a multi-purpose idea, but it camoflauges your USB so nobody will steal any of your important documents. Plus, you'll always remember which flash drive is yours.
Let's face it: writing down assignments on your arm with a Sharpie is so high school. Start college serious by investing in a daily planner. Then, unleash your unique style by personalizing it. In her video, Hannah Ashton provides some fun decorating and organizing tips for any agenda including washi tape, pockets and stickers.
A first aid kit might not immediately come to mind when packing a backpack, but rest assured it will come in handy. This patterned pouch is perfect for storing everyday health necessities like cough drops, Midol, chapstick, tissues and much more. You'll be prepared when flu season rolls around.
If you have basic sewing skills and a white canvas tote bag, get yourself ready for school by embroidering a loose leaf design guarenteed to make you reminisce about grade school days. A sewing machine will cut the project time in half, but hand-stitching works just as well.
Another practical and adorable way to keep track of all of your miscellaneous pens, highlighers and pencils. This is the most intensive DIY project on this list, but if you're up to the challenge and have "sewing" listed under your resume's special skills section, you'll be delighted with the results and your friends will take notice, too.
We've all had one of those exam days where we maybe weren't feeling so hot. Who better to give you a confidence boost than yourself, with happy thoughts pencils? Use pastel-colored acryllic paint to dress up your boring No. 2 pencils and a fine-tipped Sharpie or stamps to create motivational messages.
Keep your iPad or tablet safe with this no-sew case reconstructed from a bubble mailer envelope. All you need are fabric fragments, a few buttons and some thread to pull off this quirky electronics carrier.
An event intended to strengthen the relationship between police officers and residents turned deadly Tuesday evening in Punta Gorda, Fla.
Mary Knowlton, a 73-year-old retired librarian originally from Minnesota, was killed by a single bullet shot from the revolver of an unidentified Punta Gorda police officer during a live “shoot/don’t shoot” exercise, NBC News reports.
Knowlton's son Steve told NBC that his mother signed up to participate in the exercise following two recent break-ins in her neighborhood, and to show her support for police officers after the recent deadly attacks on officers in Dallas and Baton Rouge, La.
The shoot/don't shoot drills, where police demonstrate situations where they would have to make a decision about using their weapons, are common throughout the state and are intended to give “people a better idea of what an officer has to deal with when confronted with ambiguous situations,” Steve Arthur, spokesman for the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), told NBC.
Knowlton was selected as a volunteer to help demonstrate how and when officers decide to use deadly force. Knowlton was playing the role of a police officer and the officer was playing the role of a “bad guy.”
“Mary went over and started the role play and within 30-40 seconds of it starting, all we heard were three loud bangs,” John Wright, president of the Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce, told NBC. “Nobody in their wildest dreams thought this was live ammunition in there.”
The gun, which had been used in an earlier exercise, was supposed to be loaded with blanks. Wright and the other participants thought this was part of the exercise and it wasn’t until Knowlton fell to the floor bleeding that they realized the severity of the situation.
Knowlton was rushed to a local hospital where she was pronounced dead.
“Our entire police department and all of our city leaders are absolutely devastated for everyone involved in this unimaginable event,” Chief Lewis said during a press conference Tuesday night, according to the Washington Post.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement has launched an investigation into Knowlton's death, and the officer involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave.
Whether you’re paying for tuition,books,an apartmentor just afroyo addiction,a job can make your college years significantly easier to afford. And where’s the first place you should look to find one? On campus, of course!
But not all positions are created equal—and a role that’s ill suited to your personality will make you dread every day of work. We’ve compiled a list of the most common campus jobs and their pros and cons so that every day you’re hustlin’ in a role that’s ideal for your individual strengths and preferences.
If you’re constantly giving your friends advice, taking care of people when they’re sick (from both viruses and vodka) and taking charge in stressful situations, being a resident assistant (RA) could be your perfect on-campus job.
RAs live in college housing and assume responsibility for the approximately 20 to 50 students living in their assigned section—usually a dorm floor. Their main duty is to create a safe and supportive environment for students. A typical RA serves as a role model, a source of information about campus and community resources and a person students with concerns can talk to to get help. RAs also mediate between students, act as a liaison between students and the administration, organize dorm events and police the floor or hall, meaning they walk around and makes sure nothing illicit is going on.
Pros
“Being an RA was easily one of the best experiences of my life,” says Haley Cahill, a senior at Appalachian State University who was an RA her sophomore year. Haley loved the convenience of “living at work” and helping people her own age.
Cons
However, “I was constantly on the job and expected to handle any situation that arose,” Haley says.
Some schools require RAs to be on call for specific time periods, during which they must stay in the building and be ready to respond to any emergencies or problems. These could be in the middle of the night and/or the weekends, which could interfere with both your sleep schedule and your social life.
Also worth keeping in mind: Some RAs don’t receive an hourly wage. Instead, they get free housing and a meal plan. Depending on your needs, that can be a good or a bad thing!
Tips
For the collegiettes who can’t wait to start leading icebreakers, Haley has some suggestions.
“Be sure to express in your interviews and applications that you are organized and can multitask, work on a team, handle stressful situations and address and manage conflict,” she says. “Also, RAs do a lot of programming and events for their residents, so if you are creative or have prior experience planning educational events, be sure to tell your interviewer that.”
Applying to be an RA can be a very competitive process, so above all, express your enthusiasm and desire for the role!
2. For the Wordsmith: Peer Tutor at the Writing Center
Your friends constantly ask you to look over their essays, because you know the differences between a hyphen, an en-dash and an em-dash, and even your emails are perfectly crafted. Sound like you? Then consider getting paid for what you probably already do just to be nice—helping your fellow students with their writing!
Almost every college has a writing center where students can get one-on-one tutoring at no cost. In general, tutors help with idea development, organization and support as well as accurate source citation and overall clarity. However, they don’t write essays for students or edit by making in-text corrections, so don’t be worried about going from writing two papers a month for your own classes to 30 for your peers.
Pros
“I feel so fortunate that I get paid to talk about reading and writing, my two passions,” says Katherine Varga, a senior at the University of Rochester who works at her school’s writing center. “We get people from all disciplines, so I work with people writing about a wide variety of topics.”
Cons
Some schools require you get a recommendation from a faculty member or complete a seminar or course before you can become a tutor, making this job a little more difficult to obtain. In addition, helping people with their writing all day can be hard work!
Tips
If you apply, make sure to emphasize your strong English skills, patience, ability to communicate well and talent for constructive criticism.
3. For the “Most Spirited” Collegiette: Tour Guide
You know this is the job for you if the only thing second to your Beyoncé obsession is your obsession with your school. Bonus points for being outgoing, talkative and coordinated enough to walk backwards!
Pros
Even if you’re not a huge fan of giving speeches to a large audience, the tour life could still be awesome. “Working as a tour guide is not only easy money but also helps you with public speaking,” says Jordan Sypek, a University of Tampa senior. “Before I was a tour guide, I was a little shy and hated talking in front of a big group. Now I have no problem with it and feel comfortable talking to anyone, anywhere.”
Other perks: You get to learn fun facts about your school, walk quickly every day (hello, effortless cardio) and, maybe most importantly, help young adults make one of the most significant decisions of their lives—where to attend college!
Cons
It can be difficult to work a tour guide schedule into your existing one; after all, most tours take place during the morning and afternoon, when your classes happen.
Tips
When going for the gig, you should communicate your willingness to answer any and all questions (even the annoying ones like, “What was your SAT score?” and, “How likely is it that I’ll get in?”) as well as your enthusiastic nature. It’s also a good idea to brush up on your campus knowledge, such as important buildings, traditions, history, services and student life. If you get the job, you’ll go through training, but your interviewers will be impressed with your head start.
4. For the Social Butterfly: Food Server
There are some girls who are born to mingle and who have a smile and a nice comment for everyone they come across. Well, those skills are perfect for food-service jobs! After all, Hungover Grumpy Guy who just wants his bagel and caffeine? He definitely needs an upbeat person serving him his perfectly toasted bagel with cream cheese (and pumping an extra shot of expresso in his drink).
You can work at a coffee shop or small-scale on-campus restaurant, like a sandwich shop, or you can work in your school’s dining hall. While the first option may sound less stressful, don’t forget the long lines these places always have during rush hours. However, working in the cafeteria may require more menial work, like busing tables and washing dishes, as opposed to serving up food.
“I worked [at my school’s café] two nights a week: Tuesdays from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m., which was the closing shift,” says Carina Corbin, a sophomore at Amherst College.
Pros
The job helped Carina make friends and become much more popular on campus because she was always running into people or meeting new ones.
Sarah James, a sophomore at the University of Birmingham who works at her campus’s bar, also loves the social aspect of food-establishment jobs.
“The hours are flexible, and it’s a lot of fun working in a fast-paced environment with other students, especially when the vibe is good and the music is pumping,” Sarah says.
In addition, those who work in dining usually receive complimentary food—which is definitely a highlight, as long as you don’t overindulge! Guess there is such a thing as a free lunch.
Cons
Both Carina and Sarah mentioned drunk students as one of the downfalls of the job.
“Let's just say drunk people aren't very friendly when they are hungry,” Carina says. She also disliked how the smell of fast food would linger on her clothes. Yuck.
Tips
Employers look for high-energy people who are willing to literally get their hands dirty, so try to highlight those characteristics during the application process.
5. For the Chatterbox: Receptionist/Administrative Assistant
Your confident voice and approachable nature help you make friends while you’re using public transportation, and your family jokes that you only stop speaking when you fall asleep (and even then, you mumble in your sleep). Put your conversational skills to good use by becoming a receptionist/administrative assistant at an on-campus office!
Although they’ll vary depending on the office, the main duties of a receptionist are fairly simple: Answer phones, direct calls, greet and help visitors and perform clerical work, like filing and scheduling appointments.
Pros
Having a low-maintenance job can be relaxing. Plus, you can get tons of homework done while you’re in between answering questions and taking messages.
Cons
Being a receptionist can also be a bit tedious, and you’ll definitely have to deal with the occasional obnoxious caller.
Tips
When you interview, you should be outgoing, polite and professional, as those are ideal qualities in a receptionist. And don’t be afraid to apply to a department that has no connection with your major, career path or interests!
“I knew nothing about the department I worked in; It's more about where you're a good fit,” says Laura Fagen, a senior at the University of Kansas and a receptionist for the department of design and architecture. “When you apply, just remember to be friendly and open!”
6. For the Grading Guru: Teaching Assistant
You bleed red ink. You’re ready to spend even more time in the classroom than you already do. You’re super passionate about a particular subject or field. If these characteristics apply to you, definitely consider becoming a teaching assistant, or TA.
TAs traditionally grade papers, lead review sessions and hold office hours. If you’re a TA for a huge lecture, you’ll probably be the direct link between the students and the professor!
“I love being able to share my excitement about a topic and seeing the students get the same passion for the material as I have!” says Maria Filsinger, a junior at Stanford who is a TA for an EMT class. “It’s amazing seeing how much the students grow throughout the year—the change in their knowledge and confidence from the first class to the last makes all the hard work of TAing worth it.”
Cons
Speaking of hard work, be prepared to put in a lot of hours! Maria said she dislikes the grunt work, such as grading quizzes, doing equipment checks, etc.
“I also dislike watching students struggle with the material after trying to teach it multiple times,” she says.
Tips
Make sure you know the requirements for the individual position before you go for the job—many TA roles require that you’re pursuing a graduate degree. (If that’s the case, you might get free tuition!)
Maria advises having a couple of solid references from professors, and if you’re thinking about TAing for a class in the future, definitely ace that class! You can also find open positions on your school’s job board or by emailing department chairs within your school and asking them if they know of any professors looking for a TA.
7. For the Busy Bee: Library Assistant
You think they should sell “Dusty Leather Books” as a Febreze scent. You’re always reading four or five books at once—and you have six more lined up on your bureau. Matilda was your favorite movie as a child (and, let’s face it, as a college student). If this applies to you, being a library assistant is a no-brainer.
So what will you be doing in the stacks? Typical responsibilities include monitoring the front desk, answering questions, checking books in and out, helping people find books, shelving books and answering the phone.
Pros
“I am a work-study student at my campus library, and I find it very convenient,” says Rachel Pasker, a senior at St. Ambrose University. “I can walk to work, leave early for class if I need to and come in for a few hours between classes.”
In addition, not only will you have lots of downtime for studying and doing homework, but you’ll be in the ideal environment for it: a quiet and relaxing library. You’ll also become familiar with all of the library’s great resources, many of which most students never discover in their four years. Best of all, how many times have you seen a belligerent customer in a library? People tend to be pretty respectful in the library—there must be something in the book-perfumed air that makes visitors more at ease.
Cons
If you’re looking for a fast-paced, dynamic job, you probably won’t find it at the library—although that’s not exactly a spoiler!
Tips
If you’re ready to hit the books, try to bring out your great customer service skills, attention to detail and “inside voice.”
By finding a job that fits your personality, you’ll get the best of both worlds: enjoying what you do and making some money at the same time. Count us in! Here’s to paying the bills (and maybe buying yourself some new shoes).
While most people have been watching Michael Phelps during the Rio Olympics, a new name in swimming has emerged: Simone Manuel.
Manuel set out to prove hard work and dedication can help you accomplish anything, even when others believe you to be incapable. And she did just that. During her race in the women’s 100 meter freestyle, Manuel not only set a record time when she tied for first place with her 52.70-second swim, but she also became the first African American woman to ever win a gold medal in an individual swimming event.
A fellow collegiette, Manuel attends Stanford University and learned to swim at the age of five in Sugar Land, Texas.
After her victory, the 20-year-old said that the win was not just for her.
"This is for all who... will come after who believe they can't do it."
According to the New York Times, Manuel was “pretty shocked” by her accomplishment. “My goal coming in was to get on the medal stand after seeing how I swam in prelims and semifinals,” she said. “But getting a gold medal in my first Olympics, I still can’t describe it but I’m really excited about it.”
So is the rest of the world. Congratulations, Simone!
At 31 years old, Michael Phelps is the proud owner of 22 Olympic gold medals. Unfortunately, the commentators at the Rio Olympics seem to be more concerned about Phelps’ “old” age.
Apparently, the commentators think Phelps should exit the pool faster than he does. Yep, that’s why his “old age” keeps coming up. Because he doesn’t pop out of the pool as fast as some of the other competitors. We think they're forgetting the fact that he's been swimming his way to gold medals…but whatever.
On Tuesday, this talking point came up when Phelps’ teammates helped him out of the pool after winning the 4x200-meter relay. Then again, the topic was discussed on air Thursday, when Phelps lifted himself out of the warm-up pool slower than his younger competitors.
But who are these commentators to criticize Phelps? As the most decorated Olympian in the world (let's not forget he even beat an ancient Greek record for the amount of individual wins he’s racked up), we’d say Phelps’ “old man body” is the stuff of legends.
Simone Biles has been a huge highlight of the Rio Olympics. As of now, she has a gold medal in gymnastics for individual all-around and another first place victory to share with her fellow Final Five teammates.
Although she still has a few more competitions to think about, Biles is already focused on what she wants to do after the Olympics. It seems the best female gymnast in the world is headed to Rosewood.
Marlene King, the creator of Pretty Little Liars, posted a video to Twitter, asking Biles and her teammates to visit the set of the show that has had us obsessed for years.
Every time an Olympian wins a gold medal, we can be certain of one thing: they will most definitely be photographed biting it.
But why? Because pics or it didn’t happen, that’s why. No, seriously. Olympic historian David Wallechinsky explains to CNN that photographers eat this pose up. “I think they look at it as an iconic shot, as something that you can probably sell. I don’t think it’s something the athletes would probably do on their own,” he says.
The idea of biting on gold actually dates back as far as 700 B.C., when gold was used as currency. It was common then to bite down on a gold coin to make sure it was real. Since gold is softer than most metals, your teeth would leave a mark in it and that’s how you could be assured the coin wasn’t a fake.
Of course, the last time a real gold medal was awarded to an Olympian was at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics. Today, gold medals are actually made of silver and then plated in gold. But the symbolism and achievement behind winning a gold medal still stands strong. Who needs real gold when you can have international acclaim and glory, right?
The school year is almost upon us, and that means it's time to go back-to-school shopping. The most important thing on our shopping list is a killer (yet functional) bag. To make your BTS shopping that much easier, we've already found the perfect bag for you, based on your sign.
Aquarius: Bucket Bag
As the down-to-earth woman that you are, you need a bag that’s simple. A bucket bag is perfect for keeping things neat and lightweight. With a bag like this, you can always be sure you’ve got the essentials on you in style.
Pisces: Waterproof Tote
A waterproof bag (like a Longchamp tote) is sleek and straightforward, and that is the kind of bag you need in your life! It’s something that will get the job done but will look sophisticated and polished too. They come in all sorts of different colors, so you can express yourself and carry everything you need to be a #ladyboss.
Aries: Red Tote Bag
As a woman who likes to stand out from the pack, a red tote is the perfect bag for you. You’re daring when it comes to fashion, so the red delivers the perfect amount of boldness to any outfit. A tote bag is great for you because you’re spontaneous and fun and prepared for any adventure, so it’ll be ready to take on the world when you are.
This is the OG of school bags. The fact that classic backpacks are both sturdy and reliable is what you’re all about. The best part about the original-style backpack is that they come in every trend and design imaginable. Everything from athleisure to solids to patterned, and of course just solid colors too.
Savanna Tavakoli, a Taurus and junior at Boston University, says “I always look for something really stylish and unique, in addition to being practical. I like to make sure that my backpack acts as a statement piece in some ways and can also match any outfit I'll potentially wear that year.”
With all the colors and patterns to choose from, you really can’t go wrong with this classic backpack.
Gemini: Floral Backpack
As a Gemini, you have a lively and young spirit, which is captured beautifully in a floral backpack, like the ones by Vera Bradley. The quilted, cloth texture is comfy and the patterns (like Northern Stripes or Pop Art) will have people turning heads because they’re so chic yet eye-grabbing.
Cancer: Duffle bag
Cancer women are spontaneous, so you need to be prepared for any spur-of-the-moment adventure you might have. Enter: the duffle bag. It might sound crazy, but they come in a bunch of different styles (like this faux-leather one from Nordstrom), and will ensure that you have everything you need for yoga class, an early-morning hike, a late night study sesh or wherever you’re going on any given day.
Leo: Quirky Backpack
As a creative and fun-loving woman, you need a backpack that will express your personality. Whether that’s a pizza backpack (like this one from Nasty Gal), a Disney-inspired backpack (like this Peter Pan one) or anything in between, your enthusiasm for what you’re passionate about will speak through your backpack.
Virgo: Cross-body bag
A cross-body is efficient and simple, just like the Virgo. As someone who is super put-together, you need a bag that can hold all of your books and anything else you may need. A cross-body is a classy way of changing up your school-year style from the classic backpack.
Libra: Satchel
Satchels have the charm of a bygone era made new again, and that’s what you’re all about. Since you’re easygoing and sociable,this bag is super easy to carry around campus and wear while mingling with other people. You’ll come off as charming and polished with this classic silhouette!
Scorpio: Leather Tote
Classy and a true statement-maker, a leather tote bag is one you can rely on to match your bold personality. Krystal Douglas, a senior at Georgia State, carries a Michael Kors tote because it’s big enough to carry everything she needs. “That’s my bag of choice because I like to not forget anything, including food, my computer, planner, more snacks, etc.,” she says.
This Vince Camuto style (from Macy’s) has all kinds of pockets in it, and even on the front of it, so you can make sure you have everything you need to rule this school year.
Sagittarius: Laptop Bag
As someone who doesn’t even buy textbooks when she can purchase e-books, so what you need is a laptop bag. A laptop bag (like this elegant one from Kate Spade) is sturdy without being bulky. Your no-nonsense style matches perfectly with this sophisticated and straightforward bag.
Capricorn: Leather Backpack
You’re the woman with to-do lists all over her desk and a deep-rooted need to get things done fast. But you also want a bag that is as classic and sophisticated as you are. Nothing says classy like a leather backpack (like this one from Urban Outfitters). You can get them in tons of different designs, but we like ones with buckle straps to give it more character. No matter what style of bag you go for, they will all speak to your timeless sense of style.
From backpacks to duffel bags to satchels, we know you’re going to rock this school year, no matter what bag you carry. The hardest part is picking one that can carry all your stuff and go with your outfits!
This is a girl who isn't afraid to hang with the guys. Not only is she fun to be around, but she's also super ~chill~ and always up for beer and basketball. So forget what you know about clingy girlfriends and read on to see why this girl is pretty much an honorary “bro” and will always be the best of both worlds.
1. She will watch Sunday football with you all day long
Or without you—she’s watching either way, and probably shouting at the ref for missing another pass interference call.
2. She won’t be afraid to try new things
Cliff jumping and touch football? Bring it.
3. You'll never have to worry about bro time
She gets it…and also needs her own girl time too.
4. She isn’t clingy
Don’t expect to get texts checking in on you 24/7. She doesn’t have the time to worry about your every move.
5. You’ll have the best beer pong partner
Together you will be unstoppable. Other couples won’t have a chance.
6. Your friends will actually like having her around
A girl who drinks beer, likes sports and can just chill? They’ll actuallly look forward to her joining a few bro's nights.
7. She will defend you in any sports argument
If Brady didn’t know about deflate-gate, then why is he suspended for four games?
8. She can get ready in less than ten minutes...
...and still look fab.
9. She is independent
She doesn’t need a guy—you’re just lucky.
10. She won’t mind hearing about your fantasy football failures
She probably even has a fantasy football team of her own.
11. She can pull off the ‘I woke up like this’ look
And still looks like she could hit the runway.
12. You’ll always have a gym buddy
Need a spot?
13. She’ll tell it like it is
She isn’t afraid of letting you know when she's feeling sad or angry. Don’t expect to hear, “it’s fine.”
14. She is drama-free
She doesn’t have the time to be Keeping Up With the Kardashians.
15. She can eat her fair share
Splitting a pizza will never be a problem.
16. She’s fun to be around
You’ll probably spend more time laughing together than anything else.
17. She’ll become your best friend
Without girlfriend drama and craziness you’ll be able to rely on each other and be best friends before anything else.
Think you’re prepared for college romance? Until you can spot the most notorious campus couples,think again! Read below for HC’s guide to the top ten duos you’ll get to know in your four years.
1. The Couple Who’s Already Booked the Campus Chapel
These “romantics” are engaged or soon-to-be. They lovingly refer to the children they do not have, and they’ve already spent at least one year of major holidays together (including, but not limited to, the Fourth of July). If they seem on a different track than most couples, it’s because they are. Expect them to skip out on fraternity ragers for quiet weekends at (ugh) bed and breakfasts. But hooray for true love, right guys??
2. The Sorority Sweetheart and the Frat Star
These Greek gods have all the social connections and one or both of them is most likely a chapter president. They’re pretty. Like J.Crew catalog pretty. And while there’s always underlying drama with these two, you’ll never see them miss a big social event!
3. The Activists
Remember way back when Summer got all vegan-y on the last season of The O.C. and started hanging around that Che guy? THEY WERE THIS COUPLE. They always have a cause, and it always involves wearing really similar pants. Find them planting sustainable foods in the campus garden, having sit-ins to stop wildlife clearing in order to build new dorms and, most importantly, biking everywhere.
4. The All-Americans
Imagine if David Beckham and Hope Solo dated . . . this is the couple with enough athletic scholarship money between them to finance a comfortable suburban home. These two are gifted in the abs department. My one request? Stop working out at the gym together; it just makes everyone else want to give up.
5. The Reality Show Drama Couple
Okay, so maybe they don’t have a reality show, but they break up and get back together enough times to make one happen. Find them at the bar, alternatively slurring insults at each other and furiously making out. Don’t even THINK about trying to get mixed up in this one. Remember what happened when Ronnie tried to hook up with other girls behind Sammi’s back on The Jersey Shore? Yikes.
6. The Power Couple
They’ve got matching ambition and the 4.0’s to prove it. This is the couple who will go from trading notes in the library to trading notes on the Senate floor. If you end up in a class with them, expect that they will dominate—they are each other’s biggest competition. Like the Obamas or the Clintons (though some of these romances work out better than others...).
7. The High School Sweethearts
Every freshman floor has at least one girl pining away for her high school boyfriend. They Skype constantly, and he comes to visit about every other weekend. When they’re together, expect them to hibernate in her dorm; when they’re not, expect her phone to be attached to her hand at all times. This couple often bids their relationship adieu over the notorious Thanksgiving Break (“The Turkey Dump”), but some manage to stick it out for the long haul.
8. The Orientation to Graduation Couple
These crazy kids met the first day of college and have been dating ever since. They were among the few freshmen to pair off right away and are among the even fewer who stay together. While they may not keep dating after college, they are certainly tagged in an obscene amount of Facebook photos together from the duration.
9. The Law Student and the Co-ed
There’s always one sorority girl who finds her frat boy counterparts to be too immature. Enter the older law student/med student/local businessman who’s still into 19-year-olds! While their love isn’t traditional, it is mutually beneficial. You can find them out at nice dinners and swanky bars. Just don’t call him a Sugar Daddy!
10. The Best Dressed Duo
Even if they go to school in the middle of Iowa, they dress like it’s New York Fashion Week every day. They shop together, and they probably both have really good hair, seemingly without trying. Find them around campus looking like they’re posing for a fashion shoot. You will never find them repeating outfits.
Recently, People gathered a team of female comedians to answer the question as old as time itself: "why aren't men funny?" Alright, now we know men are funny (um, have you seen Adam DeVine?) but People's brilliant parody of gender inequality and sexism in Hollywood towards female comedians needed to happen.
"When I think of stories about men, I think...kitchen," Emmy nominee Tracee Ellis Ross says.
Male comedians have long stated that there just aren't any funny women in comedy, so Tracee Ellis Ross, Samantha Bee, Kate McKinnon and more got together for a very necessary video that essentially reflected the negative comments said about female comedians back at the clueless men who said them.
"Their voices are so weird to my ears that when I hear a man say a joke, it just feels wrong," Samantha Bee adds.
And of course, there's always the issue that women are being paid drastically less than men, which in the entertainment world really adds up as women reach the top of their carreers. Allison Janney laments, "Sometimes I wonder if men will ever be able to break through the glass ceiling." Janney continues that men don't really need to be involved in comedy at all and they should stop trying. They have their looks going for them, what else do they need? "If I'm with a man who's attractive, I don't really need him to be funny," she says.
Honestly, this was the thing we needed in our life today. Keep fighting for equality ladies, and remember, our kind is hilarious AF.
We would all be much more comfortable in our favorite pair of Nike Frees over heels or sandals, right? So what’s stopping you from wearing them all the time? Erase those images of Avril Lavigne circa the early 2000s from your head, because these looks are way cooler than that. Here's how to dress up your sneakers for everyday wear, no matter where you're headed.
Since we know you already have one (or five) of these stashed in your closet, this outfit should be easy to complete. You can pair your LBD with basically any sneaker you have to create and effortless badass vibe.
No, not the kind of skorts we all bought at Limited Too back in the day, but the kind T-Swift has been known to rock from time to time. The practicality of a skort (no accidental flashing here) works well with the practicality of some tennis shoes.
While pairing with a leather jacket would no doubt create a classically cool ensemble, why not go even edgier and wear some leather or faux-leather pants? The pants paired with easy sneaks makes for a sleek, cool look.
This might seem like a no-duh suggestion, but lately, especially on college campuses, athleisure looks have become quite stylish. With the right pair, the look can really become something cool. Luckily, we live in the day and age where leggings are perfectly acceptable as pants so you should already have everything you need to pull this together.
First, you'll actually have to buy a tutu, but after that sneakers will nicely contrast the super girly piece. After all, ballet flats would take the look a bit too literally.
With these ideas, you truly do not have to trade comfort for style. Whoever said that sneakers were just for running or denim cutoffs probably just weren’t cool enough to pull this off, but we know you can!
After a long, tiring day of class and homework, we bet the last thing on your mind is exercise, and the last place on Earth you want to be at is your college’s gym. It may seem like more of a hassle than a reward to get yourself there, but trust us: it will pay off in the long run. Even if you think you’d rather exercise in the comfort of your own home, there are definitely perks to hitting up the school’s facilities. Can’t make yourself go? Check out these strategies to get yourself to the gym today!
1. Upgrade your workout gear
Your old, beat-up Nikes are collecting dust, along with the two-sizes-too-small sports bra that you wore in high school. Just like buying new clothes makes you excited to dress up for class, revamping your workout style works the same way! Once you find exercise clothes that are comfortable and cute for you, there’s no better time to wear them than during your next gym session—it’s okay to show off a little. Amidst a sea of baggy sweatpants and old tees, your new outfit will be sure to stand out. Target is a great place to start for stylish yet affordable workout gear. If you’re looking to spoil yourself, lululemon is another popular choice.
2. Make the perfect playlist
When you’re tired of running and just about ready to call it quits, that surprisingly catchy Iggy Azalea jam comes on. After two or three songs, you barely notice your aching knees or the sweat dripping in your eyes.
Ask any avid fitness buff, and they’ll attest—music is a must-have when going to the gym! We recommend creating a workout playlist to keep yourself entertained and focused on your workout. You’ll have the chance to listen to your favorite tracks while also getting great exercise. Create your playlist beforehand so that you can exercise without the annoyance of having to switch songs. It can be filled with whatever you’d like (yes, even One Direction), as long as the songs are motivating!
In her HC vlog Connie Chan, a recent graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, recommends creating a playlist for the entire length of your workout. “Create a playlist, and don’t stop working out until that playlist is over,” she says. This will help prevent you from throwing in the towel too soon!
3. Bring a friend
As the semester picks up, it becomes that much harder to meet with friends between classes, extracurriculars, part-time jobs and homework. If you know you’ll want to start exercising this semester but are too anxious to hit the gym alone, why not bring a friend (or two) along? Instead of a quick coffee date with the girls, heading to the gym together is an easy way to stay healthy and catch up at the same time. This is also perfect for collegiettes who are worried about slipping up on their routines and who want someone to hold them accountable, or those collegiettes who are just too nervous to enter the weight room alone (do you even lift, bro?).
Madeline Lacey, a senior at the University of Michigan, says she feels more comfortable with friends at the gym. “Having a friend there helps you ease into the (sometimes) intense gym atmosphere, especially the weight room with all the macho boys,” she says. “It’s definitely more fun!” Your friends are there to make sure you stick with the workout until finished, and you will be there to motivate them, too!
4. Sign up for a fitness class
It can be hard (really hard) to plan and finish a workout on your own, so that’s what group fitness classes are for! With other girls and an enthusiastic teacher by your side, you’ll become more motivated to complete each exercise and keep up with the rest of the class. Most college gyms will offer a variety of options, ranging from karate and kickboxing to yoga and barre classes, so there is something for everyone. Instead of exercising on a whim, having a fitness class in your schedule will encourage you to visit the gym more regularly. You can always invite a friend and turn it into weekly bonding activity!
5. Think of the cuties
The gym weight room is like something out of a fairy tale: all of campus’s cutest athletes gathered in one place (did you see that guy with Ryan Gosling’s face and Taylor Lautner’s abs?!). At first, it can be intimidating to work out with the boys, but what better motivation to hit the college gym than seeing those hot bods with chiseled arms every day?
And you can even get to know them (wink, wink) by going to the gym! We don’t recommend striking up a conversation while he’s mid-lift or mid-squat, but if he’s taking a break, there’s nothing wrong with getting your flirt on (can I have yo numba?). Raquel Sulaiman, a senior at the University of Michigan, says she loves getting attention from guys at UMich’s gym. “My favorite pick up line was, ‘Excuse me, I have a question. How do you get so cute?’ It just threw me completely off guard!”
The gym is the perfect place to meet some of campus’s finest, but beware of Mr. I Think I’m All That And A Bag Of Chips (you can find him flexing and grinning in front of a mirror).
6. Create a schedule
Gina Patrico, a senior at Oakland University, says that creating a workout schedule is an easy way to stay motivated to exercise even when things get hectic with classes and extracurriculars. “I have set days for certain muscle groups, so I can stay organized and fit in workouts around both school and work,” she says.
Try creating your own schedule and sticking to it. It’s as easy as picking two or three days out of the week and dedicating up to an hour of free time to get to the gym. Once you have the time allocated, you can plan ahead for homework, meals and other commitments. It’s super helpful to hang your exercise calendar in your room in order to keep track of progress and future workouts.
7. Reward yourself
If you’re the type of person that’s motivated by rewards (aren’t we all?), there’s nothing wrong with treating yourself after successful visits to the gym. Although a great workout is a reward in and of itself, you should decide what’s extra motivating for you and set a goal before you reward yourself with it. For example: if you work out at the gym 10 times this month, you could reward yourself with a mani/pedi. This is a great way to celebrate your hard work and pamper yourself at the same time! It’s important to make the reward something special so you’ll be that much more excited to hit the gym—and ultimately reach your fitness goal.
Whether its lifting weights, running on the treadmill or hitting up a punching bag, there is something for every type of workout at the college gym. If you’re looking to get your bod back into shape, there’s no better time than now! By taking the effort to get to the gym, you’ll be that much more likely to finish your workout, which is the first step in making progress. With these tips, we hope you’ll feel more motivated to visit the gym.
Have your own suggestions about how to get yourself to the gym? Leave a comment below.
Say so long to your high school guys, and HEL-LOOO to college boys. As a freshman girl, eligible cuties seem to be everywhere – and guess what? They’re all looking at you. The attention can be fun, but when it comes down to it, the dating game in college is one that you’ll learn a lot about as time goes on – you might not be a pro right off the bat. To get started, Her Campus has put together a list of the DOs and DON’Ts of college dating. Who, you ask, knew there was such a science behind college guys, anyway? Aren’t they just a bunch of sex-hungry dudes? Well, maybe, but there might be a little bit more to it. Here are the guidelines of how to deal with the ones who are, and the ones who aren’t. Read ‘em and weep, girls.
DO make friends with the guys on your floor.
These guys will be super fun to hang out with once they get to know each other well, and you’ll be the cool girl who can get in on that action when you need a break from girl drama. On top of it, you might really connect with one of them.
DON’T rush into anything, though.
Hooking up with one or two of your hallmates within the first few days of school, however, is a definite no-no. When tempted to engage in “dormcest,” remind yourself that you’re going to have to face him – as well as everyone else on your floor, because they’re going to find out – for the rest of the year, no matter how good or bad your hook-up was.
DON’T write anybody off too soon.
Just because he’s sitting alone and doesn’t speak to anyone in the class doesn’t mean he’s a total lunatic. If you’re interested, all it takes is a slow pack-up-and-hang-back after class to initiate conversation.
DO go out to meet people.
Find out where the hot spots are each night of the week(end), and make sure to show up every once in a while. As a new student, you’ll get a feel for student life and get exposed to every kind of guy – frat boys, athletes, pre-meds, business students and artsy guys, too.
DON’T stay in talking to your high school boyfriend every night.
If you’ve broken up, there was a reason, and now is the time to move on. Your freshman year is meant for new beginnings, not dwelling on old relationships. Phone calls between Texas and Massachusetts won’t bring you back together – it’ll only keep you from meeting new people that are just beyond your dorm room door.
DO start off slowly if you’re not used to dating or just got out of a relationship.
Study hall or dining hall dates count, too! As casual as these settings are, it can be a great place to get to know a guy or meet someone new. Take it easy if you’re just getting your feet wet with the whole dating game, and don’t feel a need to rush into anything intense.
DON’T go out every single night.
A little mystery never hurt anyone… and it’ll do wonders for your grades, too. A mother’s wisest words – if guys see you going out night after night, how will they ever get to miss you? Show face as often as you can without being that girl that everyone expects to run into.
DO look around your classes for guys.
If they’re showing up for class at all, then you know they’ve at least got something going for them. And hey, maybe he’s even smart and organized enough for you to make him your “study buddy.” Study dates are pretty much the best dates most college girls can hope for within the first month or so of school (news flash: college guys are usually cheap).
DON’T make him think you’re interested if you’re not just because you don’t want the perks to go away.
It’s not fair to the guy if you’re just not that into him, but you keep him around because he’s, like, obsessed with you. The puppy dog thing will get old after a while, leaving him feeling stupid/angry and you feeling unfulfilled, annoyed and guilty – not to mention that other guys you might actually become interested in will get the wrong idea.
DO engage in a random hook-up (safely), if you want to.
They’re part of the college lifestyle, and you can choose if you want to engage in them or not (certainly, you can avoid making out with the guy you’ve been dancing with all night if you’re just not that into it). It’s up to you to decide if that’s your style, but know that it happens and it doesn’t have to be scandalous or “slutty” – but just, in fact, kind of fun. As long as you’re not going crazy by swapping saliva with every guy you lay eyes on, random hook-ups can be fun and can lead to date parties, formals and maybe even a real date! If nothing else, at least you can get an exciting night or two out of them — just make sure to stay safe and keep your friends posted on your whereabouts.
DON’T count on them turning into anything serious.
Most of the time, dance-floor make-outs (DFMO’s) start and finish on the dance floor and only go as far as a phone number swap. Take these experiences for what they are, and don’t think he’s fallen in love with you simply because he’s been attached to your mouth all night.
DO accept invitations/initiations from older guys.
Attention from upperclassmen is surely a plus in any freshman’s book, because they’re seasoned. They know what’s up in this whole college world, and it can be quite nice to have a hot, older guy show you the ropes – he’ll let you know what parties are happening, bring you to date parties, introduce you to his friends and be a pretty face to show up in your tagged pictures on Facebook. That said, don’t feel the need to hook up with him purely because he’s “older and wiser…” because he may just turn out to be pretty stupid.
DON’T feel pressured to have sex.
No, we can’t be certain that what all guys are looking for is sex, but that’s definitely a part of college hook-ups. He might want it and he might even ask for it, but if you’re uncomfortable, it’s not up to you to give it to him. Know your boundaries and ask him – whether you know him well or not – to respect your boundaries; if he doesn’t, walk away.
DO avoid those guys that hook up with your entire group of friends.
There are always the guys that have no qualms about coming in between a group of girl friends just to get some action. He has no problem with hooking up with each one of your friends by jumping from one to the next. He might have no idea that what he’s doing is hurting your relationships with your friends, but it’s up to you guys to stop him by cutting him out of the equation.
DON’T get too attached to said upperclassmen.
He’s graduating sooner than you are, and he knows it. Upperclassmen usually aren’t in it for the long haul when they seek out a freshman girl that they’d like to hook up with. Just because he’s lent you a bunch of attention one night, don’t assume that he’ll be chasing after you for the rest of the semester.
DO be open to going on dates with anyone.
That is, of course, presuming that dates aren’t obsolete anymore. While a lot of guys don’t even have the courtesy to take a girl out for dinner – or even coffee?! – there are some who like to kick it old school and go for the dinner and a movie. If you’re looking for companionship of any kind, there’s no reason to refuse a casual invitation to lunch or dinner.
DON’T expect him to take you out to fancy meals all the time.
But at the same time, know that college culture is changing, and going out on the “dates” we see happening in movies or the ones we hear about from our parents simply doesn’t happen anymore, for the most part. These guys are most likely on a budget, so fancy dinner dates aren’t always an option. There’s nothing wrong with a nice fro-yo in the quad, though!
DON’T count on finding a boyfriend right away.
Keep in mind that as many hotties as you see on a regular basis, most of them aren’t right for you. It’s about finding the right one that’s interested in having the same type of relationship that you are, no matter what type that may be. Also, be wary of becoming BF-GF with someone on Day 1 of orientation. Do some exploring before you settle on one guy to get hot and heavy with right away.
DO start a relationship if you find someone special.
Maybe you’ll find him on day one of classes, or maybe it’ll take until senior year for you to realize that the guy you’ve been friends with all along suddenly seems like he’s ready to take the plunge with you. But if it feels right, don’t hold back, and find a way to make it work.
DO know that people move on quickly in college.
Hook-ups last for any length of time – you can be attached to one particular guy for several months, or only for a matter of days and it can still be considered “hooking up.” Go figure. At any rate, don’t be surprised if a guy has eyes for you on Thursday and then you spot him spitting game to another girl on Saturday. Don’t get jealous or crazy and be that girl who slaps him in the middle of the party. Instead, try to figure out what he’s interested in before you hook up with him, so you know what to expect from him after the fact.
DON’T hold back if you want something more out of a hook-up.
If you silence yourself, you’ll only end up unhappy and wasting your time. He may not be taking your relationship as seriously as you wished he would if it started out as a random hook-up. If your feelings intensify and you want to take it to the next level, let him know and don’t make him guess. If you’re afraid of scaring him off, leave your feelings on the table and the situation open-ended. This is his relationship too, and you don’t wish to monopolize it, so ask him what it is that he wants out of it. Chances are that otherwise he won’t just guess that you want to be treated to romantic dinners and you’ll just end up getting frustrated and angry.
DO try to meet guys without a gaggle of girls surrounding you.
While girls’ night out is always one of the best nights of the week, do try to distance yourself from your pack of besties for a little bit each night. No guy wants to approach you if your six best friends are by your side eyeing him with those girly judgmental glares.
DON’T get left places alone or go home with a guy you don’t know…and having made out with him all night doesn’t make him any more familiar.
If you do manage to separate from your girlfriends for a few minutes, keep in touch with them to make sure they’re not leaving the club/bar/party without you. It’s risky to leave with a guy you’ve just met – especially if one of his friends who “didn’t drink tonight” is driving – even if he seems genuine. Exchange numbers instead, and stay with your girlfriends.
College will open doors for you in the way of the dating scene, but it always helps to take things slowly and be wary. Stay grounded and always question people’s intentions, while making sure that your own are as clear as crystal. Your future boyfriend is out there somewhere, whether he’s sitting next to you in class or isn’t even enrolled at your school. And you’ll find him, too... you just may have to kiss a few frogs first and have a lot of single and mingling fun.
America's pizza lovers can rejoice knowing that the country's first pizza ATM is now open.
Cincinnati's Xavier University made every college student's dream come true when they installed the ATM this month.
In just three minutes after placing an order, students will receive their freshly-made 12 inch pizzas for $9 to $10, according to NBC News. The best part? Pizza ATM is open 24/7, unlike the dining halls, so students craving a late night snack don't have to leave campus to get fuel for their all nighter.
"We were looking for a cost-effective way to solve this problem of having a late-night pizza option on campus," Xavier Assistant Vice President Jude Kiah told NBC. "We liked the idea of being the first school to have this high-quality machine."
The pizzas, Kiah said, are always fresh. Xavier's award-winning chefs prepare them in the same way as the dining hall pizzas, and the ATM, which can hold 70 pizzas at a time, will cook them upon purchase.
"We've gotten almost 700 inquiries about the machine," Kiah said. "Many, many other schools are interested in bringing it to their campuses."
Students will have to wait another month before experiencing the satisfaction of Pizza ATM, but Xavier's female soccer team was lucky enough to preview the service.
A California woman with ALS threw herself a two-day long party to say goodbye to her loved ones and ending in her assisted suicide, becoming one of the first California residents to use the state's new doctor-assisted-suicide law for terminally ill patients, according to the Associated Press.
Betsy Davis, a 41-year-old artist with Lou Gehrig's disease, emailed close friends and family in early June, inviting them to join her on July 23 and 24 for a two-day celebration of her life before she passed. In the invitation, she called it a "rebirth party," and the only rule was that no one could cry in front of her.
More than 30 of Davis's friends and relatives flew from around the country to join the festivities and support Davis in her final moments. They ate pizza, watched movies and played music.
Once guests left at the end of the weekend, Davis watched the sunset before taking various prescription drugs, as prescribed by her doctor, to end her life.
Davis, however, was grateful for the decision, after gradually losing control over her body functions and abilities over the past three years. Her friends understood that.
"For me and everyone who was invited, it was very challenging to consider, but there was no question that we would be there for her," Niels Alpert, a guest at the party, told the AP.
Davis was surrounded by her caretakers, doctor and sister when she took the drugs 6:45 in the evening. Afterwards, guests agreed to meet again next June for Davis' birthday, to scatter her ashes.
"What Betsy did gave her the most beautiful death that any person could ever wish for," Alpert told the AP. "By taking charge, she turned her departure into a work of art."
At the Claremont colleges in California, a typical Facebook housing post started a debate about racism on campus earlier this month. Karé Ureña, a junior at Pitzer, and Sajo Jefferson, a sophomore at Pomona, made a Facebook post saying they needed a fourth roommate for an off-campus house. The controversy? The two students asked that the roommate be "POC only," according to The Washington Post. Soon, people started to push back in the post's comments, asking why the students were excluding white people.
“It’s exclusive [because] I don’t want to live with any white folks,” Ureña, who describes herself as Afro-Carribean, wrote back.
The two students further defended their reasoning in an email to the Post:
“When and if you understand this context, it becomes clear that students of color seeking a living space that is all-POC is not only reasonable, but can be necessary,” they wrote. “We live in a world where the living circumstances of POC are grounded in racist social structures that we can not opt out of. These conditions threaten the minds, bodies and souls of people of color both within and without the realms of higher education. We are fighting to exist.”
Before Ureña removed the post after finding a fourth roommate, there was a thread of Facebook comments supporting and criticizing the students that gave context to the situation. Some thought the Ureña and Jefferson had every right to only consider people of color as their roommate, while others thought it was discriminatory.
“I think that a POC-only housing policy is about as clear-cut an example of prejudice as one could find," one commenter wrote. "I completely understand the desire not to live with people who could be racist, but excluding all white people is an extremely blunt instrument to achieve that end and a harmful overgeneralization.”
Another comment had a different perspective, however: "White people have cause[d] so much trauma on these campuses … why in the world would I want to bring that into my home? A place that is supposed to be safe for me?”
The President of Pitzer College, Melvin Oliver, who is also a sociologist specializing in racial inequality, released a statement to the Pitzer community on Wednesday saying that Ureña's post was "inconsistent with [Pitzer's] Mission and values," and that "social media is not an effective platform to enegage in complex dialog on seemingly intractable critical issues that varied histories and contested understandings."
As colleges around the country grapple with making their school cultures more reflective of their diverse student bodies, these debates are par for the course. From the protests at Mizzou to the actions at Yale, college students are no longer okay with the status quo—and that means we all have to work hard to learn from one another.
