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The Lazy Girl's Guide to Staying Fit and Healthy

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When it comes to going to the gym, finding the motivation can be difficult. Between busy schedules, crazy workloads and becoming a girl boss, working out doesn’t always make the cut. Plus, as emerging professionals, there’s a pressure to do it all. Whether it’s excelling at work, killing it at the gym or slaying it in fashion, there is always a constant stress to be a “yes woman,” but staying active and healthy are equally as important as being a kick ass collegiette. So we consulted with the experts to see what you can do to stay in shape, without trekking to the gym.

1. Get moving

When you wake up on a cold and rainy day, the last thing you want to do is workout. Staying tucked into bed seems much more ideal than heading off to a spin class, but there are ways to trick yourself into staying active without even stepping foot into a gym. “Working out doesn't have to be a chore, and it's definitely not punishment,” says writer and personal trainer, Nia Shanks. Enjoyment is an important part of fitness, so find things that get you excited. Or, if you want to get stronger and discover the incredible things your body can do, you can perform bodyweight exercises.”

Everyone’s motivation to go to the gym varies. For some of us, hitting the treadmill is a great way to stay active, but for those that break out into hives at the mention of the word “gym,” going on a hike with friends might be a better way to get in a great workout while also having fun.

In fact, Peggy Hall, a health and wellness expert, recommends exactly that: have fun. “Do what you enjoy,” she says. “Your own natural personality will draw you to something that will work for you.” She tells us that you should never feel like you’re required to hit the gym to stay fit, and that sometimes it’s actually counterproductive because it deters you from athletic activities in general. If you simply do things you enjoy, like swimming, rock-climbing or playing a pick-up game, then you really aren’t working out. You know what they say, “Do something you love and you’ll never work a day in your life” (okay, this is technically meant for actual work, but it totally applies here too).

2. "Workout" at work

Mini workouts are a great way to stay physically moving without putting on gym clothes. Obviously you are going to be working on your career and learning, but that doesn’t mean you can’t fit in a few healthy habits along the way. Shanks recommends simple alterations to your lifestyle, like taking the stairs, walking rather than driving or biking to stay active in sedentary work environments. By getting up from your seat every once in a while, you’re at least moving a little bit, which helps to get your blood flowing.

Plus, even the way you sit at work can help you to stay healthy. Hall says that it’s super tempting to slump over your computer all day, but sitting up straight and breathing deeply are actually really helpful ways to keep your blood flowing and improve core strength.

Related: 6 Workouts You Can Do While You Study

3.  Hit a set benchmark

Don’t just ‘like’ tweets or Instagram photos that define #goals; create your own goals. Self-motivation is a great way to set and surpass those goals. Plus, creating a fitness benchmark will ensure you’re always achieving a healthy lifestyle.

Shanks tells us that “Maintaining a fitness level requires less work than building it in the first place.” Basically, finding what makes your feel healthy and active is different for every person, but once you are reaching a healthy level of fitness, you have a goal that you can keep reaching for. Set a benchmark to reach, like 10,000 steps a day, which you can do with the help of a step counter app, or try to get your heart rate up for ten-minute intervals. Hall actually recommends splitting the recommended 30 minutes of exercise into three segments. “Three ten minute [exercises] are better than the 30 minutes all at once because you get benefits for the next couple hours, [like] improved blood flow, improved oxygen, decreased stress and feeling stronger and more clear in your mind,” says Hall.

Regardless of the benchmarks you choose to set—since it varies from person to person—setting goals that you can literally check off will make you that much more motivated to reach them.

4. Get your beauty sleep

This is probably the best news ever—you’re welcome. Sleeping is a great way to burn calories, believe it or not. So even though you might roll your eyes every time someone mentions the words “beauty sleep,” they’re actually on to something. In the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, by Spiegel and colleagues, it was reported that the hormone, leptin, which is responsible for suppressing hunger, was 19% lower for those who are sleep deprived and actually made subjects crave sweet and salty, high-carb foods. Basically, less sleep = more eating.

So how long should you be snoozing to stay healthy? Alanna McGinn, the founder of Good Night Sleep Site, tells us that adults should be getting between seven and eight hours of sleep a night. “The reason why is [because] this allows us to go through the right amount of cycles to get the proper restorative sleep needed,” she says. “We have at least five to six of those sleep cycles a night. The amount of deep sleep that we get for that restorative sleep that restores our body, restores our energy [and] that helps consolidate memories gets longer and longer each cycle.” She also tells us that without sleep, our metabolism slows down, which makes it harder to digest food. Plus, staying up later means snacking more too. So to stay looking fab and fight the flab, snooze away.

5. Netflix and chill workout

Snuggling up with Netflix can be the most relaxing way to unwind, but sprawling out in bed with a side of Doritos doesn’t quite translate to a workout. Instead, make your Netflix binges productive by adding an easy and impactful “baby-workout.”

Nia suggests simple bodyweight exercises to stay active like, “squats, lunges, push-ups, [and] inverted rows.” These workouts allow you to use your own body to get an efficient workout without the use of weights. You have no excuse because all you need is yourself to get a great workout! Or, if you want a more structured workout to follow, try a Pinterest workout that combines your fav shows with some exercise moves. So instead of watching Grey’s and swooning when Derek says “it’s a beautiful day to save lives,” you do 15 squats (and still swoon, obviously).

6. Boost that metabolism

Okay. So this is kind of the “cheat” way to stay active, because it involves NO exercise whatsoever. The first step your body right with plenty of sleep and water and make conscious food choices.. These are the basics, but they work as long as you do them consistently.”  Hall also tells us that drinking water is an especially important tip because without staying hydrated you’re body can’t burn fat as effectively. Plus, it can actually help you to eat less. “Don’t drink it right before or after you eat something because you’re going to dilute your taste buds, and it actually makes you hungrier because you rinsed off your taste buds you’re not tasting your food as well,” she says.

Hall also says that many people think that energy drinks like Gatorade are a good replacement for water, but in reality they’re just adding unnecessary sugar. Instead, she recommends creating your own energy drink by filling a mason jar with water and fruits like lemons, oranges, berries or cucumbers, and letting it sit overnight. The next morning, you have boosted water that’s flavored with the right amount of sweetness and tons of nutrients.

7. Get active for 10-minutes or less

Avoid the crowded gyms and create your own at-home workouts. Shanks’s recommendation for a workout that will have you sweating is easy enough to do in your dorm:

She recommends doing as many reps of these exercises as possible under 10 minutes:

  • Reverse lunges - 10-12 each leg
  • Push-ups - 10
  • Bodyweight squat - 20
  • Inverted row - 10
  • Plank - 20-30 seconds

 

Stop making getting active so terrifying, and incorporate it in ways that are fun. Tweaking your daily routine can lead to some great exercises and habits that will keep you way more fit than any treadmill can promise. Find what activities you love, keep on moving and get fit—minus the gym.


5 Things You’ll Gain from the Her Campus High School Ambassador Program

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Are you a high school student looking for a new amazing opportunity? You’re in luck—the Her Campus High School Ambassador Program is now accepting applications! If you are interested in journalism, digital media, marketing, public relations or writing, this position is perfect for you.

The Her Campus HSA Program is a remote mentorship program that allows up-and-coming pre-collegiettes to take control of their futures, develop skills and gain experience in their desired career fields. By completing weekly assignments that teach media industry skills, such as building a resume, pitching article ideas and writing a press releases, members of this program get a head start in the professional world. Here are five awesome benefits of being an HC High School Ambassador!

1. An opportunity to meet friends and make connections

When you join the Her Campus High School Ambassador Program, you are immediately introduced to other young women who share your passion for the media. Within days of starting the program, you’ll form close bonds with the other girls involved, sharing the excitement of being a part of the Her Campus community. The girls you meet through the High School Ambassador Program, as well as those you meet in the greater Her Campus community, will be the ones who motivate you to do your best, inspire you to go beyond your comfort zone and support you in your future accomplishments. Building a network of hardworking, determined women who have similar aspiration allows you to create friendships that will benefit you for a lifetime!

2. Knowledge of your future field

Want to have the upper hand in your future career? As a Her Campus High School Ambassador, you’ll have the chance to learn and practice skills in marketing, communications, journalism and public relations each week, preparing you to enter into your collegiate and professional years with more knowledge and confidence than anyone else. The program consists of weekly assignments, which give ambassadors a full understanding of different tasks relating to the various fields, enabling them to accomplish something every week. If you join the HSA Program, no doubt you’ll be one step ahead of your classmates come fall!

3. Access to exclusive Her Campus opportunities

Her Campus always tries to help out members of their own community, so as an official member of the Her Campus team, ambassadors get exclusive access opportunities only offered to Her Campus members. Not to mention, you’ll be the first to know about any and all upcoming events and project launches! Ambassadors also gain access to brand interaction through Her Campus’s partnerships, with companies such as MTV and Bed Bath & Beyond. Working with these high-profile companies will give you unparalleled real world experience.

4. A new and improved resume

Having the Her Campus HSA program on your resume will show future employers and college admissions counselors that you’ve already got a foot in the professional world. Moreover, your weekly assignments will build a portfolio of work, which is often requested by employers when looking at your writing abilities. This high-level experience at such a young age shows a powerful sense of initiative and dedication, making you stand out in any application pool.

 5. A head start before joining a Her Campus chapter

One  of the things that make Her Campus so special is its creation of local chapters at colleges and universities, both nationally and internationally. Being an active part of Her Campus while in high school is the perfect way to kick-start your involvement with Her Campus in college. Knowing Her Campus’s style of writing, method of organization and overall brand will allow you to enter into your collegiette years with a clear vision for what your school’s chapter should be, offering your own set of skills to positively contribute to your school’s HC chapter! And if your future school doesn’t have a chapter yet, who better than someone who has already been involved with Her Campus to start one?

Becoming a Her Campus High School Ambassador is the first of many steps you can take toward advancing yourself toward your future goals—and a really amazing one. Not only will you gain skills that’ll certainly come in handy during college and your career, but you’ll join an inspiring community, gain an impressive resume and so much more!

The High School Ambassador application closes on September 1, 2016. Be sure to submit your application and spread the word to your friends and peers! We are so excited to meet our ambassadors for the 2016-2017 school year. Good luck, pre-collegiettes!

10 Reasons You'll Watch 'Pretty Little Liars' Forever, Even Though It's Absurd AF

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Most Pretty Little Liars fans started innocently watching the show when Freeform was still ABC Family (and Charles––er, Charlotte––was still CeCe Drake). But now, somehow, some way, you've been sucked in to the alternate universe that is Rosewood, and like the girls, you're unable to escape. Despite Aria, Hanna, Spencer and Emily still being tricked into entering dark, abandoned places, the ridiculous amount of people who've been "A," and the fact that Jason dated his cousin, you keep coming back week after week––and you'll never stop. The following are just a few reasons why PLL always has been and always will be the best:

1. All of the ships

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2. Reading and coming up with theories is SO FUN!

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3. Hanna's one-liners

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4. Even if your favorite character *dies*, they're probably not dead

5. The last ten minutes of the show are always so scary

6. You're waiting for old characters to come back 

pretty little liars pll rosewood pll s theories

7. All the men aren't too hard to look at…

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8. Like at all

pretty little liars pll spencer hastings spencer jason dilaurentis

9. You just want to see Emily end up in a happy relationship!

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10. Most importantly, you just want the Liars to get justice and live an A-free life

7 Ways to Quickly Adjust To College As a Freshman

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It’s that time of the year again! And no, we don’t mean the season premiere of Grey’s Anatomy. It’s time to start school and for some, that means starting your first year of college. Although you may be dreading the assignments, tests and professors awaiting you come fall, here are seven tips from current collegiettes to help you transition from high school to college.

1. Make time to excercise

Elle Woods said it best ––endorphins do make people happy! When people are happy, they tend to do better on schoolwork and adjust more easily to a new environment. Believe it or not, exercising will help you feel at home on your new campus.

For Julia Ide, a student at Western Washington University, going to the gym is super important. “Run or go to the gym in the afternoon,” Julia says. “With early classes, you’re not going to want to get up even earlier to squeeze a workout in. Do it after you’re done with classes for the day. It will help you to de-stress and focus on your homework.” After a long day of classes, it will be nice to have the “me time” that you deserve. This way, you can be decompress and be #fit.

2. Keep a planner

Another huge part of starting college is learning how to manage your time. With college being so new and exciting, there will be a lot of things that you want to try. However, it’s important to know what you can and cannot handle.

Elaina Steingard, a student at the University of Missouri-Columbia, suggests keeping a planner to help stay organized. “Don’t be over stressed but also study more,” she says. “It’s mental preparation to know that college will be more work but you can’t overwork yourself.” Keeping a planner is great because you can easily flip to a date and see what upcoming tests and quizzes you have. It’s also a great way to prevent from not turning in assignments.

3. Take time each day to relax

College is busy and hectic, and because of that, it’s easy to get stressed out. Whenever you start to feel overwhelmed, take some time relax so you can start the next day ready to kick some butt.

Katie Roberts, a student at the University of Missouri-Columbia, takes 20 minutes out of her day to relax and proposes that incoming freshmen do the same before they start college. “Get in the habit of going to bed earlier, limiting TV time, going on walks, drinking lots of water and having a face cleaning routine,” she says. It may seem tedious, but doing these simple tasks can make or break you during your first semester at college.

4. Learn how to do your laundry

College will be the first time you will truly be on your own. This means that your parents most likely won’t be around to cook or clean for you. Start learning how to do your own laundry, because clean clothes usually give the appearance that you have your life together.

Reilly Tuccinard, a student at the University of South Carolina, made preparations to learn how to take care of herself (and her clothes) early on. “Before I went to college, I made sure I knew everything I could about doing laundry,” she says. “Whites, colors, cold, hot – I made sure I had it down. By doing your own laundry at home, it makes the transition way easier once you get into college and gets you into the routine of actually doing it.” Learning how to do laundry is just one of the skills you’ll need to know before move-in day.

5. Figure out how to study

Learning how you study best may take a few test runs. Studying can be a very individualized thing and there is nothing wrong with that! Just make sure you do what’s helps you, because you’re the one that’s going to be taking that intro to biology course.

Something that helped Nicole Bunte, a student at the University of Missouri, was going to the library to do homework. “Going to the library before I went home really helped me stay away from distractions,” she says. Whether your study-spot is the library or the local coffee shop, finding that place before you start college will help you get in the routine of planning ahead, which makes your life that much less stressful.

Related: 7 Ways to Start the School Year Stress-Free 

6. Learn to budget

Another stress inducer that has plagued the broke college student since the dawn of time is, you guessed it, money. Every student should know basic tips to manage their finances. “Learning how to budget is extremely important,” says Hannah Hart, a student at Auburn University. “Use bank apps that offer free financial advising – when you have money in your account, it’s one less thing to stress about.” Budgeting is a scary concept for many collegiettes, but don't fear ––you are not alone! Asking for help is the only way to learn. 

7. Find out who your roommate is

Most of the time schools have university chat rooms where you can either find a roommate. If not, Facebook or email usually do the trick.

Grace Dustin, a senior at the University of Missouri-Columbia, introduced herself to her future roommate before move-in day. “It helps reaching out to your roommate ahead of time so you can get a feel for them and get to know them better before you move in,” she says. Meeting anyone new, especially someone you will be living with, for the first time is always nerve-wracking. By reaching out early, you get to break the ice and feel more comfortable when you come to school.

Regardless of anything else, collegiettes, make sure that you are following a routine that is best suited for you. Everyone is different and needs different things to thrive – at the end of the day, college will be (without a doubt) the best four years of your life!

'Stranger Things' Hopes To Become The Next 'Harry Potter'

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We've been watching Netflix's Stranger Things all summer. Lol jk, we binge-watched the entire first season in one day and just haven't stopped talking about it since.

Although the show hasn't been renewed for a second season yet, we're confident that it will happen because we just won't accept any  other alternative. We've already grown too attached—we'd be lying if we didn't say the number 11 now triggers all sorts of emotions. As we keep our eyes out for another season, The Duffer Brothers (aka the brilliant creators behind the show) shared their thoughts on an ideal course for the show —and it involves Harry Potter.

According to Matt Duffer, if the show is renewed for season two, you can expect to see the same familiar faces return. "The dream is a Harry Potter situation," he told Entertainment Weekly. "I love watching kids growing up on camera. So the idea seeing where these kids and these characters are one year later is cool to me. And it allows us to explore the mythology of our nether."

If the popularity and success of Stranger Things continues, there definitely is a possibility that we will see the young stars grow up right before our eyes—as was the case for the HP stars. 

Back to School Expectations vs. Reality: College Edition

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Another summer has come and gone, and with the next academic year quickly approaching, we’re trying to figure out what this year of college will bring us. While we’re still fantasizing about finally achieving our summer bod or meeting our soulmate, we’ve compiled this list of expectations and (too real) realities for going back to school—only this time, we’re going to college, and it’s a whole new playing field.

1. Buying school supplies

Expectation:

You probably think that with every new school year comes a whole new set of pens, pencils and adorable notebooks, right? You know, the ones that you see all over Tumblr reblogged onto the studyblrs, or the colorful Kate Spade notepads that you keep repinning.

Reality:

The truth is, you’re a broke college student just like all the movies said you would be. No, you can’t afford to buy those Moleskine notebooks that all the hipsters use, and you probably still get excited when you find a pen someone left behind in the section before yours. In reality, the only new supplies you’ll be buying are highlighters and index cards for the excessive amounts of flashcards you always tend to make.

2. Meeting your soulmate

Expectation:

New year, new people—or at least, that’s what we tell ourselves every night before the first day of school. Your high school hopes and dreams of meeting that cute transfer (or rekindling an old flame) carry on into college, and you anxiously await your first encounter with “the one” as soon as you turn 18. It happens in the movies, so why couldn’t it happen to you, right?

Reality:

Wrong! Turns out, the only thing on your mind on your first day of a new year at college is whether you should take this GE pass/fail. Why would you even consider finding a soulmate when you can barely remember where you left your student ID, let alone the hundreds of key terms for that one Art History class to fulfill your last requirement?

3. Weekend plans

Expectation:

College: a big kid’s playground where 18-23 year olds party hop till they drop. Now that you’re into your young adult years (but not quite grown up yet), you’re probably going to have nightly invites to the hottest parties—and you’ll always have a date. 

Reality:

In reality, your Friday nights will consist of staring at a screen until your computer overheats—either from marathon-ing too much Netflix or cramming for your week three midterm. Weekends will be your time to recharge, and if you can squeeze a Thirsty Thursday in, it will be right after you electronically submit that essay way too last minute.

4. Food

Expectation:

You probably think that college is the place where you can eat cereal and ice cream for dinner every night and French fries are in constant supply. You get excited over the idea of mixing Cocoa Puffs with coffee ice cream and your parents can’t do anything about it.

Reality:

The truth is, the food in the dining halls isn’t everything you’ve been dreaming of. For the first few weeks, you are in awe of the variety, but by week four you realize that you miss your parents' cooking even more than you thought you would. Better rethink that unlimited meal plan because you’ll be craving buttermilk waffles and homemade dinners your mom and dad always told you to finish (but you never wanted to).

5. Dorm room aesthetics

Expectation:

You’ve been searching Pinterest for dorm inspiration since you were a second semester senior in high school. You’ve scoured the Anthropologie website for Tumblr-worthy bedding and your phone is filled with lists of websites where you’ve found the best twinkle lights.  Even your laptop case has to match the bohemian-princess theme you’ve decided on.

Reality:

In reality, you’ll be living in a shoebox for the next year. You may be on the bottom bunk, and you don’t have nearly as much wall space to display those 50 Polaroid pictures you’ve taken this summer. But even though your room is way smaller than you imagined, you will still try to make it your own safe haven, free from (some) weeknight distractions.

6. Homework

Expectation:

Syllabus week? No problem! Why would your professor assign homework during the first week of a new semester? I mean, they don’t want to have to start grading papers this soon…

Reality:

You have assignments before you’ve even moved into your dorm. You’ve received emails about the textbooks you need since three weeks before the year started, and you have an online quiz due on the second day of class.  Study group at Starbucks, anyone?

8. Friendship

Expectation and Reality:

College is the place where your life truly starts. It is where you truly find yourself and meet life-long friends who will stay with you throughout the years of midterms and breakups, coffee dates and all-nighters. This is what you expect it to be, and this is what it really is. Whether you’re just starting college for the first time or you’re beginning the first day of your senior year, you tend to expect something entirely different than reality, but sometimes reality ends up being a whole lot better than you expected.

Marwa Adina: A Poet Working to End Islamophobia

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In 2000, Marwa Adina found refuge in the U.S. shortly after war broke out in Abijidan, her village on the Ivory Coast. Just months after moving to this country, the World Trade Center was attacked. As a 4-year-old, she had no idea that for the rest of her life she would encounter Islamophobia, discrimination and violence. Now, as a first generation Moroccan-American college student, Marwa has discovered how to promote respect and love through her poetry. She is a woman of resilience and change. This collegiette has a way with words, and she’s inspired us all.

Name: Marwa Adina
Age: 18
College: Rutgers University
Majors: Biology, Minor: Women and Gender Studies
Graduation Year: 2019
Facebook: Reliterate Word

Her Campus: What do you consider your greatest achievement to date?

Marwa Adina: None of my awards, diplomas or even trophies amount to how proud I am to be a co-founder of Reliterate Word, a non-profit organization that publishes monthly literary magazines for local artists. Reliterate Word is the brainchild of my good friend, Dena Igusti, and I. As poets, we found ourselves continuously having the urge to use our art to advocate for our trauma and experiences. Thus, we decided to create this nonprofit organization to be utilized as a stepping stone for any artist (writers, poets, sketchers, etc.) to submit his/her work to us as another way to vocalize their silence. Each month Dena and I focus on a specific charity (i.e., buying novels for a high school classroom, making sandwiches for the homeless, investing in feminine hygiene products for those in need, etc.).  Thus, with every literary magazine we sell, we use that money to create care packages and/or help fund local causes/organizations. This non-profit has allowed me to be a better listener to my peers as I allow them the opportunity to advocate their own experiences through the public domain. I will continue to support local artists as I remain on this journey.

HC: What has been most difficult in your goal of overcoming Islamophobia?

MA: The most difficult obstacle in my goal to overcome Islamophobia has been finding a way to be confident and learning to love myself. As a Muslim woman living in the United States, I am faced with Islamophobia everywhere I turn. This plague had begun to spread to my conscience before I could even consider what it meant. Living in an environment where every terrorist attack is blamed on Islam impacted the way I saw myself. Whether it was out of fear, humiliation or discomfort, I never spoke about my religion up until recently. I didn’t want to be labeled and targeted as a terrorist. To comfort others and myself in public, I would refrain from doing several things that may form a relation to Islam and I. It took almost 18 years for me to love myself for who I am, despite what the world may label me out to be. I refuse to be terrorized and fearful of what others may think of me. I am not a terrorist. Islam has never condoned terror on others. I will never condone terror on myself. I am confident to be an unapologetic Arab-American woman who follows the religion of Islam.

HC: Why has your involvement with poetry been so instrumental in your life?

MA: On days where I do not have the energy to vocalize my pain, I write. I write to expose what cannot be expressed in sound. Art is the toolkit for creation. Through poetry, I am able to create a platform where I can recreate myself away from the stereotype I was planted in. Growing up in a world that has silenced my voice in the media, I began using writing as an outlet to document my experiences. Poetry has presented me with opportunities to share my work on a national level. It is my spine reminding me to stay unapologetic. I will continue to write for me and for the world.

HC: Who in your life most inspires you?

MA:“My mother is a tree…she radiated oxygen through her lungs, her photosynthesis produced a life and she was so breathtaking.” These were the first few lines of the first poem I ever wrote and performed. She is who most inspires me in my life. Despite the rough weather she has endured, like a tree, my mother reminds me to grow freely and embrace my natural elements. In a world where people undermine the power of a woman, my mother has taught me to keep in mind that without us there will be no logs to warm the hearts of men, there will be no breaths to take and most importantly, no life to produce. Through her roots, I remain grounded.

HC: What advice do you have for other ambitious collegiettes with a goal/dream?

MA: This is for anyone with a dream. This is for anyone currently living his or her dream. This is for anyone who doesn’t dream. Continue to grow. Believe in your potential. Be unapologetic. You will be hurt several times in your life––both by strangers and by loved ones. You will experience the lowest point of your life––sometimes even more than once. You need to remember; it is okay to ask for help when you need it. Most importantly, self-care is real. Self-love is real. Learn to fall in love with yourself. Know you can accomplish anything. Stay focused. I believe in all of you. Now, believe in yourself.

HC: What are your top goals and priorities post-graduation?

MA: Since I aspire to attend medical school, I understand the importance of self-care. As a writer, I will continue to document my journey. As an entrepreneur, I will continue to provide an outlet for artists to voice their silenced minds. As a human, I will comfort and support those around me. Today, I am learning to appreciate myself. Tomorrow, I will learn to love myself. Post-graduation, I will prioritize teaching the next generation to be kind to their minds, their bodies and one another.

HC: What is your favorite inspirational quote?

MA:“Every flower grows through dirt.” I remind myself of this quote daily through a mantra. We are all growing. Some of us may have sprouted already while others have just been planted. Love yourself through the process. In the end, we will all blossom.

HC: How would you describe yourself in five words?

MA: Resilient, passionate, friendly, articulate, leader

Kylie Kuhns: Helping Families Cope with Cancer

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At 11-years-old, while most of us were envisioning ourselves in training bras, Kylie Kuhns was envisioning a life-changing organization. After losing her older sister Kelsey to a 7-year battle with leukemia, Kylie fought to ensure that the legacy of her strong and compassionate sister lived on. Kelsey's Dream brings light, companionship and support to children undergoing cancer treatments. Within Kelsey's Dream, Kylie has cultivated several initiatives that have invigorated hospitals across the country. Now a sophomore in college, this girl isn't slowing down, showing cancer that the Kuhns girls are never going to stop fighting.

Name: Kylie Kuhns
Age: 19
College: Pennsylvania State University
Major: Business Management
Graduation Year: 2019
Twitter: @KelseysDream
Facebook: Kelsey’s Dream
Website: KelseysDream.org

Her Campus: What was the hardest part of creating Kelsey’s Dream?
Kylie Kuhns: I was only 11-years-old when I set out to create Kelsey’s Dream. I didn’t know how to coordinate volunteers, encourage outside support, gain nonprofit status, trademark names or do any of the administrative tasks required to run something like this. What I did know was my sister Kelsey, and that I wanted more than anything to help other children and families who were in similar situations. Kelsey was a light throughout her entire life. Despite my age, my lack of knowledge and experience, and the time-consuming world that I was entering into, I knew that no matter what struggles we had to face, they were all worth it to bring that joy to other families. As I got older and we gained more experience with Kelsey’s Dream, the basic sides became natural to us. Our focus shifted to growth. We wanted to help as many families as possible and to do that we needed more volunteers and more exposure. We have a strong support system in our community, but pushing past the people who knew Kelsey and our mission was something we had to really work to figure out. We continue to learn on the job and find new solutions followed by even more challenges. Through everything that we face we keep fighting, stay positive and never give up.

HC: What is the one thing you want to accomplish with Kelsey’s Dream?
KK: Kelsey’s Dream has so many different programs that it seems impossible to pick one goal. I want to see a Hopper the Cancer Crusher in the hands of every child diagnosed with cancer. I want to see Camp Dost, a cancer camp for children and one family member, to continue to grow and succeed after the incredible memories it provided for Kelsey and me. I want to see the Snack Pack program grow in a way that allows children free snacks whenever they have to go through draining and discouraging treatments. I want to see the Angel Tree program continue to bring gifts and joy to families in need during the holiday season. I want to see the annual Kelsey’s Fall Festival continue to thrive as a hub of community engagement and involvement. I want Kelsey’s Dream to continue encouraging children through their battle and support families after a life-altering diagnosis. Kelsey is my inspiration and her dreams and goals live through this organization and our incredible volunteers. I want to accomplish everything she believed in.

HC: Can you tell us a little bit about the Hopper the Cancer Crusher? What does it do?
KK: Hopper the Cancer Crusher is a plush frog that we developed based on one of Kelsey's drawings. Hopper is a play therapy toy, meaning it is both encouraging through the ability for a child to play and snuggle with it, but also includes educational features. Hopper wears medical pajamas, a bandana and even has a mediport similar to the one patients will have during treatment. Hopper is special because hospital staff is able to explain some of the changes the child will go through during treatment, point out the mediport on Hopper, and bring that education to the child in the most positive way possible. Hospitals can be filled with a lot of confusion and fear for children and Hopper allows that little bit of joy to be added for them. Hopper is also unique from other stuffed animals because it really takes the journey with the child. The pajamas, bandana and mediport are designed to make the child feel less alone. Hopper is a friend who takes the journey with them and goes through the same changes that the child may. Through donations and sponsorships, over 8,000 Hoppers have been sent to hospitals in 45 states free of charge. We receive photos and notes of thanks from families all the time to confirm what a blessing and encouragement Hopper truly is to these children and their families.

HC: Who in your life most inspires you?
KK: My entire life, my sister Kelsey inspired me. She is the reason I am the person that I am today. Seeing what she went through with the hospital visits, treatment, medicine and pain all while keeping a smile on her face and a positive attitude helped me have a different outlook on life. Some days were tougher than others but her famous saying that got her through it was “failure is not an option.” Whenever I come across an obstacle in my life I repeat those same words to myself. I always remember that if Kelsey could get through her toughest days of going through cancer with nothing but positive energy coming out of her, I can get through life’s small tests. She is my inspiration to get the most out of life and to take every opportunity and run with it.

HC: How would you describe yourself in 5 words?
KK: Driven, loyal, athletic, familial, dedicated. From starting Kelsey's Dream, graduating high school with honors and achievements, attending my dream university and engaging in both my studies and extracurricular activities on campus, I have always reached for more in the situations I was put in. I really try to push myself to find ways to improve and become even more involved. That drive really takes something deep inside you to keep going and keep finding that motivation. As I keep looking for new ways to grow myself, I know it is important to remain loyal to where I have been. To truly make a difference, you have to stick with something for the long-haul. Kelsey's Dream has changed lives not because of who I am, but because I just kept working, volunteers joined me and we all stayed true to the cause and the dream that we felt loyal to. Also, family is what brings meaning to what I do and who I am. Kelsey and I had a bond that I really can't describe. Even during her battle, our relationship continued to grow. We were so young, but there was still such a clear moment of joy and encouragement when I was first allowed to visit her in the hospital. My mother could see that special love between us and she has always helped me through life. Together we work on Kelsey's Dream and use the love that Kelsey had for people around her to keep inspiring and keep encouraging other children with cancer. None of this would have been possible without Kelsey and her heart. None of it would be possible without my mom and her bravery to charge forward with me to create Kelsey's Dream.

HC: What advice do you have for collegiettes with a goal or dream?
KK: Just go for it. Having a dream, original idea or true motivation to do something is the most valuable tool a person can ever have. Starting out on something new can leave a person feeling filled with doubt and fear. None of that matters if your heart is prepared to push forward and give your dream the time and energy that it needs. If you just dive into something, you have already done the hardest part. As your dream grows and changes, you will start to see where you can tweak and tune, but until you start, you will never know where those areas for growth are. If you don't try, you are guaranteed to never reach that goal. Giving it a shot is the only way you can secure the possibility of success.

HC: Where do you see Kelsey’s Dream going from here?
KK: When I graduated from high school, we had our first major shift in my role at Kelsey’s Dream. I was no longer living in the community that had become so familiar with Kelsey’s Dream. I was more restricted in my communication. Even being away at Penn State University, I maintained a close and personal touch with Kelsey’s Dream and was able to see the organization gain new exposure and be welcomed by a new community. As I continue to grow up, I know even more of these changes will come. My movement throughout the world will only gain new possibilities for Kelsey’s Dream. Each person that I come in contact with, each Hopper that finds a home, each blanket that is given to a camper at Camp Dost, each intern we recruit from local colleges, each Kelsey’s Fall Festival we host opens new doors. Kelsey’s Dream already has a hand in nearly every state in the country. I cannot wait to see Hopper in every state, every hospital and every heart. Kelsey’s Dream will always be working to grow nationally. Every time Kelsey’s name is spoken, a new ear might be inspired to begin helping children who have been diagnosed with cancer. Kelsey never saw any limits and we don’t either.


Logan Brown: A Justice League of Her Own

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Since we were little, we've been asked what we wanted to be when we grew up. While you may have heard common responses like "doctor," "president," "professional athlete," and "movie star,"  how many little girls have told you they want to be a solicitor general?

Meet Logan Brown, who, ever since middle school, has had a passion for crushing crime. After interning with her district attorney, she pioneered an annual fundraiser at a local rape crisis center, raising more than $20,000 in the first three years. We can't wait to see this collegiette putting bad guys behind bars!

Name: Logan Brown
Age: 20
College: Vanderbilt University
Majors: Human and organizational development
Graduation Year: 2018
Hometown: Eudora, KS
Twitter/Instagram:Loganbrown799

Her Campus: How would you say that your strong will has contributed to your success? How do you believe it will contribute to your success in your future career?

Logan Brown: Perseverance and strong will are two of the largest contributors to my success. I have learned that failures and setbacks are inevitable no matter what I choose to pursue in life.  Being willing to work hard and not giving up when obstacles arise has contributed to my success. In addition to working hard, surrounding yourself with people who inspire, support and believe in you is imperative. The largest contributor to any success that I ever had is my family, friends and community.  I believe that as long as I continue to follow my dreams and continue to work past obstacles, I will be able to have success in my future career.

HC: Did you have any role models growing up who helped instill your strong sense of right and wrong?

LB: Growing up, I was lucky to have role models in all aspects of my life.  My parents have been a great example and have instilled in me a strong sense of right and wrong. Throughout my life, my mom has encouraged and challenged me to view situations from the perspective of others and give back to my community. My dad is always true to himself and holds to his convictions no matter the situation. They have both been the most important role models in my life.

The Douglas County District Attorney’s Office, the Lawrence Police Department and several community organizations have opened up their doors to let me interact with the criminal justice system firsthand.  I look up to many of the officers, attorneys and staff members at the office. Seeing real life examples of injustice as well as individuals coming together in the aftermath has had an immeasurable impact in my life.

I’ve also had phenomenal educators in my life. My AP Government and Politics teacher and my high school counselor both supported my goals, provided me with guidance and taught me many life lessons.

HC: What initially intrigued you about the criminal justice system? How has your view changed over the years?

LB: After learning about the criminal justice system in my 7th grade class and seeing how it was depicted on television, I wanted to know more about how the process actually worked. I checked out several books from the library about famous criminal trials. Now that I’ve experienced the criminal justice system firsthand, my view has shifted drastically. Television shows often show a simplified, streamlined version of the system when, in reality, it is incredibly complex.

HC: What advice would you give to other collegiettes who have ever been pressured to change their values?

LB: Remind yourself of who you are and what your goals are. Peer pressure is likely to occur, and it’s easy to conform in response. It is difficult to stand up for what think is right when everyone else disagrees, but focusing on the larger picture can provide perspective. I also think it’s important to surround yourself with people who respect you and your choices.

HC: What was your favorite part about interning at the district attorney’s office? What skills did you gain from your experience?

LB: Interning at the district attorney’s office was a central part of my middle school and high school careers, and I learned many invaluable lessons from the experience. My favorite part was working with my mentor, Dolores Mosely, and the employees of the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office. They opened my eyes to the complexities of the criminal justice system and how much a single crime could affect a community. The skills that I gained from my experience are unquantifiable. I learned how to complete many basic office tasks, how to form and explain logical arguments, and became more knowledgeable about the legal system. Through this, I have also been able to get a better understanding about systemic causes of crime. Moreover, I have also learned how to work with and assist victims in the aftermath of a crime.         

HC: What are you most looking forward to about studying abroad?

LB: I am so excited to study abroad in Shanghai! I am most looking forward to learning and living in a different culture. I hope that by seeing how others live and their approach to social issues, I will gain a new perspective.

HC: Where do you see yourself five years from now?

LB: My future career plans change almost every day! As of right now, I hope to be finishing up law school and preparing for career in international law in five years. I hope to use my education to both prevent and respond to crime and terrorism throughout the globe.

Sara Zaghi: Collecting Clothes & Shortening Showers

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We all have that pair of jeans tucked in the back of our closet that we know we’ll totally fit into someday. Well, if you’ve finally decided to give up hope on squeezing into those 5-year-old skinnies, we’ve got a great new home for them. Since her freshman year of high school, Sara Zaghi has been collecting thousands of jeans for homeless teens. Denim accumulation isn’t this girl’s only talent. Sara also started an initiative to turn up your daily shower routine while turning down your water use. Lather, rinse, save the environment and repeat!


Name: Sara Zaghi
Age: 19
College: University of California, Los Angeles
Major: Communication Studies
Graduation Year: 2019

Her Campus: What do you consider your greatest achievement to date?

Sara Zaghi: While I am extremely proud of my jean collection drive, I would have to say my greatest achievement to date is the national campaign I created with DoSomething.org, one of the largest non-profits for young people under 25. My campaign, Shower Songs, encourages young people to create a timed playlist for the shower in order to take shorter showers and conserve water. The campaign went live on their website, which has more than 4 million members, in November 2014. Since then the campaign has gotten the attention of over 80,000 teens as well as "Shower" singer Becky G. This campaign is especially important to me because I live in California, which is in a drought right now. Water is very important and we need to do our part to save it.

HC: What was the hardest part of creating and running your jean collection drive?

SZ: The hardest part of creating and running my jean drive was getting people motivated and excited about it. I started the drive during freshman year of high school when our student council adviser asked us to brainstorm ideas for meaningful projects to pursue. Jeans are the most requested item in homeless shelters, so I suggested we start jean collection drive at our school. Because I was a freshman, many of my peers disregarded my idea. However, I persisted and our adviser eventually selected my idea. After only collecting 800 pairs of jeans our first year, I did not give up. Five years later and I have collected over 16,000 pairs of jeans - enough to clothe each homeless teen in Los Angeles - and created an annual community jean drive involving over 20 local businesses and 10 schools. At first it was hard getting these businesses and schools involved, but after a few said yes others decided it was a good idea too. By working together, we made a difference in our community. I feel empowered to know that young people can make a difference through teamwork and hard work.

HC: Why has your participation with this drive been so instrumental in your life?

SZ: My participation with this drive sparked a love for leadership, service and business within me. It inspired me to start my own DoSomething club dedicated to participating in campaigns benefiting various causes. It also helped me learn leadership skills which I incorporated though my involvement in student government in high school and even college. It gave me the courage to step up and be a leader in my community. It gave me real world experience working with business owners to collaborate on the drive and press outlets to promote the drive. I worked with Buffalo Exchange to create a partnership for collecting jeans for our drive. I also worked with singer-songwriter Ryan Beatty to plan a benefit concert. Most importantly, it connected me with a group of dedicated volunteers who wanted to make a difference in this world- one pair of jeans at a time.

This drive took place every year from January to March, which meant that the other nine months of the year were dedicated to planning the drive and making sure we were ready to collect. It has been almost six years working on this project and I am so proud of how far we have come. It really is a big part of my life and I can’t imagine what my life would be like without it. It opened so many doors for me and has really helped me grow as a person. It also helped clothe so many homeless teens in my community and brings our community together for a greater cause.  

HC: Who in your life most inspires you?

SZ: My parents! Dreaming of a better world for their children, they escaped Iran after the revolution, leaving behind their home and possessions in search of a new beginning. As Iranian Jews, my parents were the target of hatred, discrimination and inequity. They came to this country with nothing but each other, their education and a good work ethic. Their heroic story is a living reminder of how fortunate I am, and it has inspired me to dedicate myself to improving the lives of others. They inspire me to work hard and stand up for what I believe in. My parents’ courage and sacrifice have taught me what it means to be a leader.

HC: What advice do you have for other ambitious collegiettes with a goal/dream?

SZ: My advice for other ambitious collegiettes would be to never give up. I’m sure you’ve all heard that a million times, but I can’t stress how important it is. There are so many times where I almost gave up on my jean drive, where people told me it was a waste of time, but I didn't give in- instead I worked harder. Also, come up with creative and unique ways of achieving your goal that will set you apart from others. Lastly, don't be afraid to ask for help.

HC: What are your top goals and priorities post-graduation?

SZ: Since I am only a sophomore, I’m not exactly 100 percent sure what I will be doing with my life. I feel like I still have a lot of time to figure that out through my various experiences and internships. I love the entertainment industry and can definitely see myself working in PR or marketing, but I also have a strong love and passion for community service. I know that I will be successful no matter what I do as long as I do something that I am passionate about. Having only completed my first year of college, I'm not exactly sure what my future holds. In five years, I would have graduated from UCLA would be working towards getting my MBA.

HC: What is your favorite inspirational quote?

SZ: “Leadership is not about titles, positions or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another” –John Maxwell

HC: How would you describe yourself in five words?

SZ: Leader, fangirl, responsible, foodie, resourceful

Kristina Linko: An Aspiring Surgeon With a Vision

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Kristina is a Harvard student with dreams of entering the medical industry and working to change lives. In fact, she’s already started making a difference with her creation of VISION, a company that seeks to provide children who can’t afford the costs of ophthalmology with glasses, eye exams and other necessary treatments. She created VISION because she never wants children to have to choose between groceries or eye health, and the company has already grown way beyond her expectations. Kristina is a woman who’s out to change the world, and we can definitely see that her future is bright.

Name: Kristina Linko
Age: 20
College: Harvard University
Major: Chemistry
Graduation Year: Spring 2018
Website: VISION's GoFundMe

Her Campus: What do you consider your greatest achievement to date?

KL: Besides my almost-record-breaking amount of Netflix that I watch, I feel like my greatest accomplishment has been how far VISION has come since its original inception. Myself along with Paul Lewis, the co-founder and co-president, and the rest of our board have been able to expand the organization past its original goals. To be a part of starting an organization that will continue to help people long after I am out of Harvard is an accomplishment I am very thankful to have been involved in. I’m very proud that we’ve been able to collect more than 3,000 pairs of glasses.

HC: What was the hardest part of creating VISION?

KL: When you’re working towards a mission that has a very specific target, in this case visual health regardless of financial status, it can be hard to relay its importance when there are other broader organizations. Certainly removing the financial barriers on the road to healthcare is a worthwhile and important mission that many would agree on. However, the hardest part of creating VISION for me has been trying to relay the necessity of visual health. Being able to get a pair of glasses is a right that so many take for granted. Unfortunately, too many aren’t able to actually afford this right. The benefits of receiving glasses goes past gaining the ability to simply see. Gaining clearer sight can present a range of additional benefits to the user; it can increase confidence, provide a tool for learning and enhance their everyday tasks. Furthermore, the lack of accessibility of even going to get a vision test is a large problem in itself. It is out of this need that Paul and I decided the club needed to evolve past solely collecting glasses. We have been trying to educate people on the wide range of positive effects that come from improved visual health.

HC: Why has your participation in VISION been so instrumental in your life?

KL: Like many people, I have had my fair share of obstacles that I’ve had to overcome. Some have been health related while some have been a seemingly constant stream of nos. When starting VISION, there were many barriers we had to surpass. However, being able to work past those road blocks is the most instrumental lesson I’ve learned from the organization. It has been rewarding to be able to reflect and realize that no matter how hard it was to get there, we were able to directly impact people’s lives for the better. I’ve found that there is truth to the notion that a few people can make a big difference.

HC: Who in your life most inspires you?

KL: My mom has been a figure of inspiration for me. She has encouraged me to reach for all my dreams and has never made them seem out of reach. She has demonstrated to me her determined approach to life and works extremely hard to accomplish whatever she sets her mind to. I am very thankful to have been taught that sentiment since I was little and I try to channel that lesson every day.

HC: What advice do you have for other ambitious collegiettes with a goal/dream?

KL: First and foremost, I would say that you should be prepared for a lot of hard work in the face of barriers. Obstacles are just a part of life. How we approach these obstacles and overcome them are just as important as our end goal. Furthermore, I’ve learned you shouldn’t be hesitant to reach out for help. It is advice that I too have to remind myself often. It is a pleasure to be able to work with other ambitious people and they can be a source of great strength and inspiration. VISION would not be where it is now without the whole team coming together, exchanging ideas and discussing our plans for the future. It continues to be beneficial to have other perspectives on the journey and I encourage everyone to reach out to others as they work towards whatever their goal may be.

HC: What are your top goals and priorities post-graduation?

KL: Post-graduation I hope to be on my way to joining the medical field towards my dream of becoming a surgeon. I can relate to the frustration of constant misdiagnosis and hope to be able to change someone else’s life for the better as my doctors have done for me. On a less professional note, I would love to be able to set aside some time to travel. I find exploring other cultures an extremely rewarding and influential experience. I feel that traveling and being open to other perspectives on life can even help me gain valuable insight into future patients I may meet, in addition to being a defining lesson in general.

HC: What is your favorite inspirational quote?

KL:“Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.” – Albert Einstein

HC: How would you describe yourself in five words?

KL: Passionate, determined, dedicated, inquisitive, independent

Neha Gupta: First American to Win the International Children’s Peace Prize

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If you thought Malala was amazing, you’ve got to check out Neha Gupta. This incredible woman is the first American to win the International Children’s Peace Prize for her founding of Empower Orphans (which she founded at 9-years-old), an organization whose actions have drastically improved the rights of children globally. She urges youth around the world to be igniters of change, and her endless list of social justice accomplishments are an inspiration to us all.

Name: Neha Gupta
Age: 20
College: Pennsylvania State University
Majors: Biology and Neuroscience
Graduation Year: 2018

Her Campus: What do you consider your greatest achievement to date?

Neha Gupta: I believe that becoming an effective global change maker is my greatest achievement to date. I’ve created Empower Orphans which has positively impacted the lives of over 25,000 vulnerable children by providing them with foundational education and basic health care. As a founding member of the Kids Rights Youngsters––an advocacy and awareness-raising platform comprised of my fellow International Children’s Peace Prize winners, I have successfully petitioned for children’s rights to be put at the core of international agendas. For example, we ensured that the issues of child slavery, child labor and child trafficking would be included in the 2030 U.N. Sustainable Development Goals. We also contributed to the development of the Amman Youth Declaration which culminated in the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2250 on Youth, Peace and Security––a first of its kind. I am so impressed by just how well we work together––transcending the barriers of language, color, nationality, ethnicity, race and religion. After speaking on a panel discussion in London for the Thomas Reuters Foundation during End Child Slavery Week, along with 2014 Noble Peace Prize Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, it became apparent to me that my perspective on the world had drastically changed after starting Empower Orphans.

HC: What was the hardest part of starting Empower Orphans?

NG: I think the hardest part in my journey with Empower Orphans was having the courage to be different. I was only 9-years-old when I founded the organization. Very understandably, the majority of my peers had a different focus. To achieve my goals, I had to learn to position myself and communicate my goals for the organization. I had to learn to deal with rejection when asking for donations or support for my organization. And of course, I had to balance being a “kid,” along with the demands of Empower Orphans and school.

HC: Who in your life most inspires you?

NG: The kids that Empower Orphans help, as well as my fellow recipients of the International Children’s Peace Prize are my inspirations. Empower Orphans helps vulnerable children: orphans, abandoned children, children who live on the streets and children whose family’s income are much below the international poverty line. Despite their difficulties and facing a future that would likely be bleak, these children actively leverage the tools we provide them to initiate change in their lives. They make the best of their circumstances and have the determination to rise above their daily struggles. There is much to learn from them. My fellow winners of the Peace Prize are also unquestionably the most inspiring people I have come across. Each one of them has faced, and some continue to face, challenges that we in the West cannot even begin to imagine.

HC: What advice do you have for other ambitious collegiettes with a goal/dream?

NG: The proverb “throw your heart out in front of you, and run ahead to catch it” best describes the advice I would have for other college students like myself. If you have a dream or a passion or a goal, let it be front and center. Chase it with every breath.

I think we would all agree that we live in very disturbing times. We owe it to ourselves and to the coming generations to change this.  It isn’t enough to just talk about the changes that should be made. WE HAVE to take action, to stand up and let our voices be heard and be THE igniters of change. I firmly believe that all youth should find a cause that touches their heart, to convert their empathy into action and then let those actions ripple out to inspire others. We as today’s youth need to become unstoppable forces of good that reach our family, our friends, our community and our world.

HC: What are your top goals and priorities post-graduation?

NG: I have two areas of focus. One is to gain admission into a medical school and specialize in brain injuries and the other is to fight for children’s rights. My experiences with Empower Orphans illustrated the importance of health care in improving the living conditions of vulnerable populations and led to my aspiration of becoming a physician from a young age. This childhood desire is now firmly cemented. I also want to continue to leverage the platform offered to me as a recipient of the International Children’s Peace Prize to advocate for the rights of children, engaging with law-makers and policy-makers at the international level. Concurrently, I want to continue my efforts of inspiring other youth to become change makers.

HC: What is your favorite inspirational quote?

NG:“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” – Maya Angelou

There is nothing I can say that would do this quote justice. It has always been important to me to take each step with optimism and each action with passion. There were many a day when I had to draw strength from and live by these words by Maya Angelou.

HC: How would you describe yourself in five words?

NG: Persistent, humble, empathetic, exuberant, altruistic

Nadya Okamoto: Changing the Way We Talk About Periods

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Nadya Okamoto, in the truest sense of the word, is a fighter. From growing up in an abusive household to being legally homeless at only 15-years-old, Nadya is no stranger to hardship. But what sets this 22 Under 22 winner apart is her will to persevere—even when it seemed impossible.

In December of 2013, Nadya drew inspiration from her mother and turned all of her obstacles into an opportunity by founding Camions of Care (COC). Now an established non-profit with a network of over 2,100 volunteers, COC is responsible for the distribution of feminine hygiene products and engagement of youth leadership on a global scale. As Nadya herself would say, “By changing the way we talk about menstrual health, we can change the world.”

Name: Nadya Okamoto
Age: 18
College: Harvard University
Majors: Political Science and Government
Graduation year: 2020
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Website:www.camionsofcare.com

Her Campus: What is the main thing you hope to achieve for women’s health through Camions of Care?

Nadya Okamoto: I hope to foster a global community that celebrates menstrual hygiene and also prioritizes and addresses it as a natural need to make our global development successful. Periods are currently the number one reason why girls miss school in developing countries. In some cultures, menarche, a girl’s first period, is the single event that leads to her dropping out of school, getting married at a very young age or undergoing genital mutilation. If we invest in women’s empowerment as a key to global development, we need to unite around a universal menstrual movement to ensure that all women and girls are able to discover and reach their full potential.

HC:How has your close relationship with your family shaped who you are today and your vision for tomorrow?

NO: I believe that my family life, and especially what my family has faced together, is what defines who I am and how I conduct myself as a leader. When I speak of my family, I am referring to my two younger sisters, my mother and my two honorary father figures. Growing up in a household where abuse was present, and as the oldest of three girls, I became a very protective big sister at a young age. In protecting them, while watching my mother fight, sacrifice and survive for our well-being—and after much healing—I was shaped into an outspoken leader who prioritizes maximizing others’ potential. Many years after my parents’ divorce when I was 9-years-old, in the spring of my freshman year of high school when my family experienced legal homelessness, and in witnessing my mother’s thoughtfulness and resourcefulness, I learned to prioritize health and education. No matter what, food and school were the two things that my mother always made sure we had access to. Although I am unsure of what exactly I would like to pursue, I know that I want to continue learning so that I can better prepare myself to make systemic social change that empowers others to maximize their potential.

HC: Who was your biggest inspiration growing up?

NO: Growing up, my biggest inspiration was my mother. I did not fully comprehend just how much she inspired my behavior, values and motivation until last month when I moved out of my house (and state) the day after graduation to take a job in Los Angeles for the summer. My mom has always been a working parent (often with multiple jobs). Even with raising three children all on her own, she still made time for us—even if it meant dragging us to the dinner table almost every night or making us put away our devices to read together before bedtime when we were younger. My mother led by example: when I think of my most memorable childhood moments, they are ones where I felt completely embarrassed because my mother would very publicly (and often loudly) defend strangers she saw disrespected. My mother was highly educated, eventually leaving a career in corporate law to prioritize her health and her family, and devote her efforts to something she found more fulfilling: non-profit management and writing. My mother continues to work extremely hard and fight for our family, and she is brutally honest with me and reminds me to stay grounded. Thanks, Mom!

HC: What’s one thing you wish you could tell your younger self when you were in your darkest place?

NO:Calm down! Relax! It will be okay! I was probably one of the most anxious kids growing up. Perhaps it was growing up in downtown New York City post-9/11 or living in a household where my parents were constantly fighting, but I developed intense anxiety at a young age. I would later learn to recognize my anxiety and try to limit my fearful thinking. When I was younger, I would catastrophize everything that remotely freaked me out, whether it was in regard to my safety, health or personal success. I just wish that I could take my younger self by the shoulders and say, “Calm down! It’s okay! It will be okay!” 

HC: At what moment did you realize that you wanted to start your own foundation?  

NO: By the time I was 16, my family had just moved back into our apartment after experiencing legal homelessness, and I had suffered sexual assault. My sexual assault caused me to seek refuge one weekend at a battered women’s shelter in Portland, Oregon. On my final night in the shelter and after intense reflection on what I had experienced and learned that past year, I realized how privileged I was, the potential I held as a teen girl and also how often I heard stories of homeless women struggling with menstrual hygiene. It was at that one weekend in the shelter, that I knew I needed to take action, which catalyzed the beginning of Camions of Care.

HC: How do you hope to expand COC in the future?

NO: I hope to expand COC through our nationwide campus chapter network and our distribution capabilities. By engaging more youth leaders, we will be able to foster social change with the next generation surrounding the topic of menstruation and expand our reach for social media, advocacy and education campaigns. In working to expand our distribution of feminine hygiene products, which means increasing the number of non-profit partners that we have, we will also play a part in empowering new audiences of women and girls through the power of periods.

HC: What does the term “gender equality” mean to you?

NO: To me the term “gender equality” means equal opportunity, respect and recognized potential of all people regardless of gender. It also means an equal playing field for both males and females—meaning both genders have the same advantages and disadvantages for achievement, regardless of natural needs (this means equal pay and representation is necessary).

HC: What do you hope people take away from your story?

NO: I hope that people will understand how blessed they are to have a voice and a platform to amplify their potential, and how that is expanded with education and employment opportunities. In realizing how privileged we are to have a space where our voices are heard, especially in a world where many feel silenced, I hope that people recognize the importance of cultivating their passion into a profession that benefits and empowers others.

Amanda Farren: Ice Hockey Extraordinaire

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For Amanda Farren, ice hockey has been in her blood since she was little––but what was a girl to do when her high school and college didn’t have any women’s club teams on campus? Like any determined collegiette, she started her own. Amanda has paved the way for other women with a passion for ice hockey, smashing the idea that sports are just for the boys. Exemplifying leadership, confidence and hard work, this girl can do anything she sets her mind to, and let’s be real, we definitely want her on our team!

Name: Amanda Farren

Age: 22

College: College of the Holy Cross

Majors: Economics

Graduation Year: 2016

Her Campus: What do you consider your greatest achievement to date?

Amanda Farren: Overall, I really enjoyed the opportunity to share my love of ice hockey with women on the Holy Cross campus through the experience of starting the women’s club ice hockey team. When I first arrived at College of the Holy Cross, there was already a well-established club ice hockey team in place for male students; however, women didn't have the same option. Female students who wished to play ice hockey––aside from the varsity team––didn’t have the opportunity to play. I was inspired to start the Women's Club Ice Hockey Team at Holy Cross in order to create a participation opportunity for women that would benefit current and future female students. This team not only allows girls with previous experience with ice hockey to play, but also allows those with no previous experience to try something that they may not have ever tried otherwise. Regardless of skill level, female students came together to work for a common goal, which is a very empowering experience that created strong friendships on and off the ice. As I hand down my responsibilities to younger teammates, I anticipate a lot of good things to come.

HC: What was the hardest part of starting a women's club ice hockey team?

AF: A lot of work was involved, but every step of the way was worth it. Starting the team involved recruiting student interest, creating a club constitution, speaking in multiple SGA meetings and gaining votes for the approval and recognition of the club. Once the team was established, many duties were necessary for the development of the new team including corresponding with other teams to create a game schedule, booking referees, EMTs and transportation, collecting and disbursing team funds, working with adviser to schedule ice time, organizing fundraising and volunteer opportunities for the team, conducting team meetings and coaching as well as participating in practices and games.  

HC: Why has your participation with ice hockey been so instrumental in your life?

AF: My first time playing ice hockey was the winter after I turned ten years old, the first year that a recreational team was established for girls in my area. Though I had been a figure skater since age five, I determined that I might prefer the camaraderie of a team sport, and grasped at the opportunity. I worked hard during practice and ended up scoring the first goal of our first game. Since then, I have felt a strong sense of strength and excitement from playing hockey, and feel that the discipline and time commitment required to play ice hockey has influenced my determination in all aspects of my life.  

Knowing that my high school did not have a women’s team established, I briefly contemplated playing on the boys’ team, but I faced less than encouraging reactions toward the idea. People believed that the sight of a ponytail coming out of my helmet would cause opponents to target me on the ice in order to show that I don’t belong. Growing up as a female hockey player, I was exposed to a lot of unconscious stereotyping, receiving comments from “you don’t look like a hockey player” to “make sure you wear the cage on your helmet because girls have to be careful not to mess up their faces.” I wondered: Why is it that girls are not often taught to score the winning goal, but they’re often taught to clap for the guys that do? That’s when I set out to start the girls program for my high school, which became a reality during my junior year. The experience was extremely fulfilling and gave me the spirit to start a women’s club ice hockey team in college.  

HC: Who in your life most inspires you?

AF: My parents are the most inspirational people in my life. They’re the kindest, most hardworking people I know, and they inspire me every day.

HC: What advice do you have for other ambitious collegiettes with a goal/dream?

AF: I strongly believe that women should never back down or shy away from reaching their goals. Wayne Gretzky puts it best: “You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.” You will never regret trying to reach your goals. Don’t let someone (including yourself) convince you that something is too challenging and out of reach. It is extremely gratifying to strive and succeed to make one’s dream a reality.  

HC: What are your top goals and priorities post-graduation?

AF: I hope to make each day count.  

HC: What is your favorite inspirational quote?

AF:"You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing which you think you cannot do." Eleanor Roosevelt

HC: How would you describe yourself in five words?

AF: Dedicated, caring, strong, hardworking, passionate

Sara Sakowitz: College Student, CEO & Cancer Researcher

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Sara Sakowitz’s love of science took her beyond textbooks and lab reports. As the 2014 winner of the First Place Grand Award in the Intel Science and Engineering Fair, and Google and Ellen DeGeneres’s “Made with Code” prize, Sara is no stranger when it comes to accomplishments. Yet, one of her most prized achievements is her creation of Blue Moon Box, which is a way to get kids involved in science so that one day they can make a difference too. With an incredible desire to learn, Sara is surely full of more ideas and can’t wait to see where her future will take her.

Name: Sara Sakowitz
Age: 20
College: Columbia University
Major: Psychology
Graduation Year: Spring 2018
Twitter:@SaraSakowitz

Her Campus: What do you consider your greatest achievement to date?

Sarah Sakowitz: Just over a year ago, I started Blue Moon Box, a monthly science kit subscription service for kids. Blue Moon Box aims to inspire future scientists by making science fun, interactive and accessible– every month, kids across the country receive a box filled with science experiments and creative projects they can complete right on their kitchen table. We launched in the spring of 2014 with a successful Kickstarter campaign, and then we were featured on Good Morning America, where I pitched Blue Moon Box to Shark Tank Investor Kevin O’Leary! What started as a tiny business in my college dorm room quickly went national. To date, we have shipped thousands of Blue Moon Boxes and have subscribers in 42 states – and we’re only getting started. Creating and running my company has been the most incredible experience that I could ever have imagined. Most of all though, I am beyond thrilled that kids across the country are falling in love with science through products I created. Science was a huge part of my childhood, and it gave me the tools to question my world. My dream is that Blue Moon Box can shape the next generation of scientists, innovators and leaders by encouraging kids to fall in love with science, just the way that I did. 

HC: What was the hardest part of creating Blue Moon Box?

SS: When I started Blue Moon Box as a freshman at Columbia, I began without any experience in entrepreneurship. I knew I wanted to transform my idea into a company, but I didn’t know how. But I’m not one to back down from a challenge – and I refused to stop because I was terrified. Instead, I pushed myself to learn everything I could, from online articles to books I found in my neighborhood library. I found some amazing mentors who were willing to help me from the very beginning. And I wasn’t afraid to try things myself – one afternoon last March, I sat in my dorm room and incorporated Blue Moon Box. Not everything went smoothly the first time, but in the process I learned a ton about what it takes to start a company – as well as what I can do, as long as I refuse to give up.    

HC: Why has your participation in CORE been so instrumental in your life?

SS: When I joined CORE (Columbia University’s student entrepreneurship society) as a first-year, I quickly found myself surrounded by an amazing community of entrepreneurial college students--some of the most exciting people I had ever met. Through CORE and Columbia’s fantastic entrepreneurship community, I’ve found mentors, role models and friends, who have encouraged, supported and inspired me. This spring, I became the president of CORE – the first female president this organization has had in its entire 17-year history. And during my tenure, I want to accomplish goals that are personally important to me – most critically, I want to change the perception of who an entrepreneur can be. When college students think about entrepreneurship, they might think about Steve Jobs or Mark Zuckerberg, two guys who started tech companies. Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg might be the entrepreneurs of the past or present, but they don’t need to be the entrepreneurs of the future. By changing what people think about entrepreneurs, we can encourage individuals of diverse backgrounds and perspectives to solve the challenges they see in the world and become entrepreneurs themselves–re-thinking problems, innovating technologies and finding new solutions that could better our world.

HC: Who in your life most inspires you?

SS: I’m inspired by the strong women I see in the world, from Taylor Swift to Sheryl Sandberg to Hillary Clinton. I feel so lucky to have role models who are facing challenges head-on, changing the perception of women in industry and shattering glass ceilings with every step. Close to home, I’m inspired by my family and friends, who have been incredibly supportive. Whether they were navigating my apartment after I turned it into a temporary warehouse or dealing with my crazy schedule, they have always been there to encourage me.  

HC: What advice do you have for other ambitious collegiettes with a goal/dream?

SS: Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. I’m the first to admit I’ve made mistakes in the past, but I wouldn’t be the person I am if I hadn’t made them – I’ve grown from every obstacle I’ve encountered. Dedicate yourself to your goal wholeheartedly – you’ll have to work incredibly hard to make it happen – but even during long days, remember what you’re doing and why you’re doing it. Have a purpose. Follow it. And never give up, no matter how hard it is, no matter what people say, no matter what.   

HC: ​What are your top goals and priorities post-graduation?

SS: I’m entering my junior year at Columbia, so I’m still two years away from graduation! Right now, I’m having the most amazing time pursuing a double major in Psychology and German. At Columbia, I’ve found an incredible environment that challenges me to explore different classes, languages and fields – and I only hope to continue that in the future. After college, I would like to pursue graduate degrees in business and cancer biology (in some combination). But most of all, I hope to continue learning at every opportunity, testing my limits and growing as a leader and as an individual.   

HC: What is your favorite inspirational quote?

SS: I have two favorite quotes:

“Fearless is not the absence of fear. It’s not being completely unafraid… Fearless is having fears. Fearless is having doubts… Fearless is living in spite of those things that scare you to death.” –Taylor Swift  

“What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” –Jane Goodall

HC: How would you describe yourself in five words?

SS: Hard-working, dedicated, creative, enthusiastic, thoughtful


Sara Miller: Encouraging Organ Donation

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Although small in size, that little heart on the front of your license is capable of making a huge impact—just ask Sara Miller. Founder of SODA, Student Organ Donation Advocates, Sara has created a huge on-campus conversation that sharing is caring. And by sharing, we mean blood, bone marrow and organs. A literal lifesaver, Sara is determined to spread the word about organ donation to the collegiette generation; and, we have to say, she’s done a pretty unbelievable job so far.


Name: Sara Miller
Age: 20
College: Washington University in St. Louis
Major: Healthcare Management
Minor: Psychology
Graduation Year: 2018
Website: SODA

Her Campus: What do you consider your greatest achievement to date?

Sara Miller: While working to increase awareness about organ donation, I rarely know the extent of the impact I’m making--and that’s okay. Sometimes, though, I get a glimpse at the lifesaving power of education. Each conversation matters. Once, I explained to my friend how one person’s gift of life can save eight lives and potentially enhance the lives of up to 50 individuals. A few weeks after this conversation, her family friend’s stepson was tragically killed in a motorcycle accident. She encouraged the friend to consider donating his deceased stepson’s organs, and this young man became an organ donor, saving and enhancing 13 lives.  What do I consider to be my greatest accomplishment? Sharing my passion about organ donation and inspiring others to do the same; I am convinced that these ordinary conversations will inspire countless miracles.

HC: What was the hardest part of founding and developing SODA?

SM: Too often people are pessimistic and start with “no.” I heard “no” at each stage of founding SODA. No, you can’t get funding. No, you can’t have a program in this room. No, you are too young to start an organization. And even if you pass these hurdles, nobody will attend your events. My goal became moving people to “yes.” I emphasized the specific benefits that my organization would provide to the school, community and the individuals involved. I couldn’t let the naysayers discourage me from realizing my vision. By believing wholeheartedly in SODA’s mission, being persistent when reaching out to others, and sharing my dreams with others, I have been able to overcome this negativity and achieve my goals.

HC: Why has your participation with SODA been so instrumental in your life?

SM: The greatest tragedy of my life has fueled my passion to save lives. When I was 12-years-old, my older sister, Laura, passed away suddenly from a cancerous brain tumor. Her liver, which our family agreed to donate, saved a woman's life in New York; that woman's name is Trish. The devastating loss of Laura, combined with the miraculous story of her having saved a life, has motivated me to advocate on behalf of organ donation, and hopefully save more lives. Founding SODA and empowering others to share their passion for donation has helped me find meaning in an otherwise senseless loss. By leading an effort to mobilize passionate students, I can be part of a life-saving movement, and at the same time show others that even through the darkest times, one can find hope.

HC: Who in your life most inspires you?

SM: My immediate family inspires me. My dad acts as the rock in our family. He is determined, hardworking and encourages everyone around him to reach their potential. I strive to be like my mom; she is compassionate, poised and motivated. She is currently writing a book, so can she share what she has learned about confronting adversity. My older sister, Laura, taught me the importance of being kind and supportive to everyone, even when it is not easy or convenient. She also showed me that everyone can make a difference in the lives of others. And my younger sister, Rachel, is my best friend, confidante and role model. She is the definition of resilient, and always knows how to have fun and keep us laughing.

HC: What advice do you have for other ambitious collegiettes with a goal/dream?

SM: Never work in a vacuum, and always share your ideas with others. From my experience, the best ideas come from creating an idea, sharing it with a friend or at a meeting, and listening to how people respond and then modifying the idea as needed.

HC: What are your top goals and priorities post-graduation?

SM: While the future is always uncertain and unpredictable, I have big dreams for the next five years. In the next year, SODA plans to expand to other campuses using our innovative model. We hope to empower college students to bring organ donation to their campuses and create more life-saving miracles. I will also be spending the fall 2016 semester abroad in Israel, learning about their unique organ donation system while studying business at a university near Tel Aviv. I plan to graduate from Washington University in St. Louis with a degree in healthcare management and a minor in psychology. Afterwards, I hope to expand my efforts regarding organ, blood or marrow donation, perhaps working at a national advocacy organization. But who knows? I’ll see where life takes me.

HC: What is your favorite inspirational quote?

SM: Do it with passion or not at all.

HC: How would you describe yourself in five words?

SM: Passionate, self-reliant, motivated, organized, resilient

Ciara Lucas: Changing the World Through Reporting

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Have you ever met a woman who’s a student trustee, senior class president and a reporter for NBC News? Well, now you have––introducing Ciara Lucas! This girl works non-stop to make her dreams come true, which is clearly reflected by her academic record and work as an accomplished broadcast journalist. She’s the daily motivation we need so that we can make a mark on our community just by doing what we love. This collegiette really does it all, and we can’t wait to see her working at 30 Rockefeller Center one day.

Name: Ciara Lucas
Age: 20
College: Ithaca College
Major: Journalism, Minors: French, Sociology
Graduation Year: 2017

Her Campus: What do you consider your greatest achievement to date?

Ciara Lucas: There have been many moments where I’ve just completely surprised myself and gone above and beyond what I even thought I’d be capable of achieving. One of those moments was at the end of my freshman year at Ithaca College when I was elected on to Ithaca College’s Board of Trustees as the Student Trustee. IC’s governing board only has one student representative every two years, and only once in the school’s history has a freshman been selected for the position. When I got that call the week before going on summer vacation, I was in absolute shock; it was the proudest moment for me to have been selected for this leadership position. My experience on my college’s Board of Trustees largely shaped my college experience and gave me both a business and collegiate perspective of higher education. Earning the position of Student Trustee was the stepping stone to me realizing that I don’t have any limitations on what I can and can’t do.

HC: What was the hardest part of pursuing news reporting?

CL: For me, the absolute hardest part about pursuing news reporting is learning to cope with constant tragedy while remaining level-headed and calm enough to get through the job. There have been moments during my internship experiences where I’ve covered tragedies ranging from mass shootings, terrorist attacks or sudden deaths and I have to report before being able to cope with it emotionally. You can’t help but feel the weight of every sad story that receives coverage. But as I continue to pursue news I’ve developed the strength it takes to temporarily put emotions aside and do the job, which requires me to be objective, fair, accurate and balanced.

HC:Why has your involvement with news reporting at Ithaca College been so instrumental in your life?

CL: I cannot imagine receiving the amount of experiences, both inside and outside of the classroom, if I weren’t studying journalism at Ithaca College. At IC I’m not just studying journalism, I’m also practicing it, which makes me feel undoubtedly prepared for when I graduate and enter the industry. Ithaca College’s student media organizations are what jumpstarted my ventures into news reporting. Whether it’s been TV, radio or print, I’ve had experience with multiple media platforms in order to become as versatile as possible. For the evening news broadcast Newswatch, I started getting involved my first semester in college as an assistant producer, and eventually worked my way up in positions as a reporter, anchor, and most recently the news director. Outside of the classroom, Ithaca College has provided me with many immersive experiences including being a part of two different NBC News teams to cover the 50th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery marches, and this upcoming presidential election. I’ve been able to translate what I’ve learned at school to my work with one of the largest broadcast networks in the country.

HC: Who in your life most inspires you?

CL: As cliché as I know it will sound, I am without a doubt most inspired by my mom. I have developed into the young woman I am today because of her strength, resilience and the small but mighty person that she is. My mom, Michele, is incredibly talented in so many ways and I think that has contributed to me feeling confident to try new things and be as fearless as possible. She’s gone from working in the corporate world, to being an author, a consultant and now she currently works in higher education. No matter what my mom is doing she is putting forth her passions and working towards positively affecting others, which is something I strive to do too.

HC: What advice do you have for other ambitious collegiettes with a goal/dream?

CL: First things first, play to your strengths. When you find something you’re good at and genuinely enjoy doing, roll with it! I didn’t always know I wanted to be a broadcast journalist, but I knew that I had a passion for writing and telling stories. I finally found a career path that played to my strengths and passions, and it makes me look forward to the future. Secondly, speak things into existence. My mom taught me this when I was a little girl and I abide by it every single day of my life. When I want to accomplish something I say it will happen, not “I hope,” or “I’ll try.” If you work hard, apply yourself and stay focused, your goals and objectives will result from your actions. Even if you end up failing, which of course is bound to happen at some point, know that you put your best effort forward and that there will be plenty of future successes if you put the work in.

HC: What are your top goals and priorities post-graduation?

CL: I’m honestly just ready to jump feet first into this profession and see where it takes me. I’m working towards having at least a few prospective job offers, or perhaps be already settled on a decision by the time graduation happens in May. When it comes to the job search I’m being pretty open-minded about any opportunities that come my way. I could be on the other side of the country this time next year, who knows, but I’m excited to find out.

HC: What is your favorite inspirational quote?

CL: I have quite a few favorite inspirational quotes and mantras that I read almost daily. One of my favorites comes from one of my role models, Maya Angelou. She said, “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.”

HC: How would you describe yourself in five words?

CL: Ambitious, Curious, Energetic, Compassionate, Kind

Elle Beecher: Changing the World, One Picture at a Time

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When Elle Beecher stumbled upon the Humans of New York Facebook page, she instantly fell in love with its message, so she created a similar page for the University of Florida. Years later, she has thousands of followers and loves to share people’s stories. With a camera in hand, and an eagerness to change the world, Elle hopes to continue to inspire others with her work. She's also passionate about student government--she formed a completely new opposition party on her campus and won a hard-fought election. Talk about girl power. 

Name: Elle Beecher
Age: 21
College: University of Florida
Majors: Journalism and Marketing
Graduation Year: Spring 2017

Her Campus: What do you consider your greatest achievement to date?

Elle Beecher:“Dear Brandon, About five hours ago, I stumbled across Humans of New York for the first time. And in those five hours, I’ve read every story you’ve ever posted. I cried. I laughed. I laughed until I cried. I felt every emotion on the spectrum. And I am so inspired and moved by your project that, as of three minutes ago, a Humans of UF page was born.”

Those were the first few lines of the email I sent to Brandon Stanton, creator of Humans of New York, on February 17, 2014. That was the day I found the project that inspired me to found my own. (If you haven’t heard of HONY: Treat yo’ self to some popcorn, search for HONY on Facebook, and set aside five hours for your daily dose of inspiration.)

Humans of UF combines storytelling, photography and social media – and it starts by striking up conversations with random University of Florida students and asking about their hopes, dreams, insecurities, life-changing moments and everything in between while snapping their portrait. I then share this photo-story with an audience of over 30,000 people across four platforms. But it’s become much more than a project for me. It’s my biggest teacher. It taught me about the strength in vulnerability, the kindness of strangers, the power of words – and that the best lessons don’t come from school, but from the people you walk past every single day.

HC: What was the hardest part about creating HUOF?

EB: Hands down, the toughest part was getting past my harshest critic in the continental United States: me, myself and I. Let’s rewind the clock back to March 17, 2014 – launch day. For a solid three hours before publishing Humans of UF on the interwebs, I paced back and forth in my dorm room and let my mind run wild with “what ifs:” “What if people don’t like it? What if they think my photo quality is bootleg or my stories are boring? What if my mom is the only person to ‘like’ the page?” At one point, my nerves had gotten so bad that I almost ended the project before it began.

But, with a peace sign in the air and the spirit of YOLO in my heart, I pressed the launch button – and watched the number of Facebook likes grow to over 2,000 by the end of the night. That reaction from friends (and total strangers!) completely changed the way I look at my work. It might not be perfect – but nothing is, and it doesn’t have to be. Because if you love what you do, others might just love it too.

HC: Why has your participation in student government been so instrumental in your life?

EB: Not going to lie, I could write a 100-page thesis on all things UF SG, but here’s the SparkNotes version: Student Government at the University of Florida boasts a budget of $20 million and has a massive influence on the resources, services and opportunities provided to 50,000 students. But it’s also been controlled by a handful of students in Greek life (who all run with the same political party and are elected by the thousands of students in Greek life) for decades.

But having one party control a government is dangerous – which is why I helped found a brand new opposition party in spring 2015. I served as Brand Manager and built the party’s image from scratch through photos, videos, graphics and social media in a sleepless whirlwind of 30 days. We won. (With the highest number of votes in UF SG history and the first minority party win since 2004!)

My time in Student Government has made me fearless. I’ve built brands, created a viral campaign called #NotMySystem that received international media coverage and made it my mission to break the status quo. Student Government has shown me that a small group of passionate people can do anything. That you can create something out of nothing and inspire thousands of people to support it. And that, to make a real change, you have to turn “Somebody should do something about that” into “I am that somebody.”

HC: Who in your life most inspires you?

EB: This is a major toughie. As someone who spends hours learning from strangers and watches a motivational TED talk every night, inspiration is a key ingredient in my routine. But of all the humans (at UF and beyond!), I would have to say my mom and dad inspire me the most. My mom – for her infectious positivity, selflessness and courage to stand for something even if she stands alone. My dad – for his tireless work ethic, support and commitment to giving no less than 100 percent. They’re the most inspiring role models a girl could ask for.

HC: What advice do you have for other ambitious collegiettes with a goal or dream?

EB: In my freshman year, I went to a lecture by Bill Frakes, an award-winning Sports Illustrated photographer who’s traveled the world and captured it in vivid color. We were in a small classroom and, instead of presenting to us, he started a conversation with the audience. I asked him a simple question: “What is one piece of can’t-live-without-it advice you would give to aspiring changemakers?” He paused for a few seconds and said: “Expose yourself to as much as possible. The more you know, the better your work will be.” That was a game changer for me. I challenge you to do the same. Go to lectures outside your major. Go to plays. Go to science fairs. Go to art shows. Go to research seminars. I promise that it will shine through in your work and take it to the next level.

HC: What are your top goals and priorities post-graduation?

EB: I really, really want to change the world. I want to tell stories that matter, connect people to ideas and each other, and start projects that make people want to inspire and be inspired. Right now, the plan is to attend a top 10 MBA program, work in the technology industry and become a business owner who is filled with passion and fueled by caffeine. (Cue the all-nighters and Starbucks runs!)

HC: What is your favorite inspirational quote?

EB: “Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do.” – Apple advertisement, 1997

HC: How would you describe yourself in five words?

EB: Study the status quo. Challenge it.

Christine Savino: Inspiring International Women

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Self-sufficiency sits at the core of feminism. While most of us collegiettes pride our self-sufficiency on things like being able to buy our own books or make our own meals (yes, ramen totally counts), Christine Savino had something a little different in mind. Determined to help impoverished women become independent women, she started the International Women’s Initiative, a program that helps women living below the poverty line achieve entrepreneurial success. By helping women help themselves, Christine is giving rise to a whole new crop of lady bosses.  


Name: Christine Savino
Age: 20
College: University of Connecticut
Majors: Finance and Business Management
Minor: Human Rights
Graduation Year: 2018

Her Campus: What do you consider your greatest achievement to date?

Christine Savino: My greatest achievement to date is really inspiring other women to be economically empowered and to do amazing things through the International Women’s Initiative, a program that provides impoverished women in third world countries microcredit at low interest rates in order to fund business and entrepreneurial endeavors. It also provides them with educational initiatives through volunteer tutors and educators from universities within the U.S. who dedicate their breaks in impoverished countries such as Bangladesh, Zimbabwe and Ghana. Malala once stated that “we cannot succeed when half of us are held back,” and when I heard this it deeply clicked with me. I too wholeheartedly believe that when women are empowered, all of humanity is empowered, which is why I started the International Women’s Initiative. By providing women who typically live in cultures where self-sustainment is condoned with educational services and low interest loans so that they can pursue business ventures, we have opened the door for the other half of the world to finally grow and pursue entrepreneurship.  

HC: What was the hardest part of founding and developing the International Women’s Initiative?

CS: The hardest part about founding and developing the International Women’s Initiative was definitely securing funding for impoverished women so that they could find empowerment through microcredit and gender lens investing. Essentially, these initiatives are forms of micro lending, or the low interest loaning of capital in increments to those in third world countries. Many organizations who offer similar initiatives require lengthy amounts of business experience, are otherwise highly difficult to receive loans from and tend to focus on female entrepreneurs in first world countries. But 70 percent of the 1.3 billion worldwide living in extreme poverty are female, and I believe that it is time we start providing these women the opportunity to empower themselves through entrepreneurial business. Many banks, philanthropic organizations and businesses felt that this initiative was too risky, and pitching my idea for how the organization was going to be successful was merely just that--an idea. How would anyone be able to support such a difficult and large-scale project?  But, with enough time, deals and sleepless nights, we secured enough funds to help the International Women’s Initiative take off and thousands of women financially prosper.

HC: Why has your participation with the International Women’s Initiative been so instrumental in your life?

CS: My participation in the Women’s Initiative has been extremely instrumental in my life as it has given it a new meaning--to help others in need. When we provide a woman in Bangladesh the necessary funds to finally start selling her handmade clothing, for instance, this allows her to eventually generate a profit margin. With this capital, she can now invest in her clothing business by purchasing more and better quality cloth and stitching, which will broaden her profit margin further. With our educational services and continued micro lending, she will be given the opportunity to thrive and finally break free of a cycle of poverty. Also, one of our most important goals is making sure that her children, even if they are daughters, will be inspired and financially able to purse futures of independence and prosperity.

HC: Who in your life most inspires you?

CS: The person in my life who most inspires me is my mother. She grew up economically disadvantaged, and she instilled in me at a young age the importance of self-reliance and hard work in order to break out of the poverty cycle. Although she passed when I was in high school, I still hold onto her words of wisdom and try and touch as many women as possible with them daily.

HC: What advice do you have for other ambitious collegiettes?

CS: I know it might sound a bit cheesy, but my advice to other ambitious collegiettes with a dream is to work hard and never give up until you fulfill your goal. Half of the battle is finding what you’re passionate about and solidifying what you want to accomplish. After that it’s simply having the drive and ambition to carry your plan out. Of course, you’ll face a lot more nos before you hear a yes, and things aren’t always going to go as planned! With the International Women’s Initiative, I was told that my targeted audience would never be able to support businesses and that I would fail in my juvenile attempts at helping them. Had I listened to them, thousands of women would be without the capital they need for economic self-sufficiency.

HC: What are your top goals and priorities post-graduation?

CS: My top priority post-graduation is to grow the International Women’s Initiative and touch as many lives as possible through its microcredit and gender lens investing techniques. If we can include even more women, banks, teachers and public advocates in supporting the International Women’s Initiative, we will be able to touch thousands more women in the next decade. We are especially focused on the most impoverished areas where women are in most need, such as Ghana and Bangladesh, and I hope to see the GDP of such countries rise from the International Women’s Initiative. With strong teamwork and enough time, we can literally change the world.

HC: What is your favorite inspirational quote?

CS: “If it’s both terrifying and amazing, then you should definitely pursue it.”

HC: How would you describe yourself in five words?

CS: Determined, inclusive, proactive, headstrong and entrepreneurial.

Announcing Her Campus's 22 Under 22 Most Inspiring College Women 2016

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This spring, we at Her Campus set out to find 22 ambitious, talented, and big-thinking current college women to recognize as 2016’s 22 Under 22 Most Inspiring College Women. After receiving over 1,000 powerful nominations and culling through their uber-impressive applications, we could not be more in awe of the truly aspirational group at which we arrived.  

These 22 honorees are influencers on their campus (and beyond) who demonstrate leadership, excel academically, are doing big things in an area that’s important to them, and who have ambitious goals for their future. From serving as an elected official, to founding international non-profits, to advocating for transgender rights, and so much more, you'll be amazed these collegiettes have time to make it to class!

Read on for exclusive interviews with these 22 fabulous ladies--we promise you'll be mega-inspired!

HC Love,

Stephanie Kaplan Lewis, Co-founder, CEO & Editor-in-Chief

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