In her new interview with Elle for the mag's October issue, Miley Cyrus is revealing a lot. The former Disney Channel star admits that although she was the lead in Hannah Montana, she wasn't paid as much as her costars. 

"I mean, at one point — they'll probably kill me for saying it — I was probably the least paid person on my [Hannah Montana] cast because I didn't know any better," she said. "I was just like, 'I can be on Disney! Yeah, I want to do it!'"

Now that Miley's back on television for the first time since Hannah Montana went off the air in 2011—as one of four celeb coaches on The Voice—she wants to make sure that her mentees don't get taken advantage of, like she did, as they enter the entertainment business. 

"I don't want this to come off the wrong way, but I'm going to tell my contestants: Be Bernie Sanders," she said. "Be the person people want and love. Don't worry about the masses. That's how you make a memorable moment. Let people talk about it."

Though Miley didn't specify whether or not the Hannah Montana actors who got paid more than her were male, it's safe to assume at least some of them were. No matter what, we hope Miley has found the best of both worlds in her new role on The Voice. 

More than 430 college women took Her Campus’s third election survey last month, giving us some great insight into what college women are thinking and feeling as we close in on election day. We wanted to know not just who they’d vote for and what issues they cared about, but also how major controversies throughout the election season affected their opinions. And we wanted to know how they felt about the act of voting itself, after so much talk about a failing system and rigged elections. Here’s what we found out!

You can also see our results in beautiful infographic form here.

1. College women are registered and ready to vote

More than 92 percent of the women who took our survey are registered to vote. Not only that, but they believe that voting is a crucial right that’s meant to be used—75 percent say you should always exercise your right to vote, even if you’re voting for a third party candidate. Thirteen percent think it’s okay not to vote if there’s not a candidate you believe in.

2. They don’t have high opinions of the candidates

Sixty percent of college women would vote for Hillary Clinton right now, but that doesn’t mean they like her all that much. Only 28 percent had a positive impression of her, while 42 percent had a negative impression (the rest were neutral). Still, that pales in comparison to how college women feel about Donald Trump—83 percent have a negative impression of him. This is down from 87 percent in our last two surveys, so maybe Trump is making some progress! Related to these numbers, 60 percent of respondents voting for Clinton and 73 percent of respondents voting for Trump said they felt their candidate was the lesser of two evils.

3. Most think Bernie Sanders was right to end his campaign

Our readers absolutely love Bernie Sanders—In our last survey, twice as many people said they’d vote for him as for Clinton, and almost 70 percent had a positive impression of him. But 47 percent said he did the right thing by dropping out of the race. Another 22 percent also thought he should have dropped out, with the caveat that he shouldn’t have endorsed Clinton.

4. Nearly a quarter don’t think Donald Trump lies more than any other politician

As we said above, the vast majority of college women don’t like Trump, and 63 percent are bothered that he lies frequently in speeches and public appearances. However, 23 percent think he lies, but not more than any other politician. This is pretty surprising given that Trump has been shown time and time again to lie an astonishing amount both on and off the campaign trail—and definitely more than Clinton.

5. The majority say this election made them more politically engaged

This is great news! Sixty-one percent of college women say this election has made them more politically engaged. When asked why, many said that this is their first opportunity to vote. They also noted the historic nature of the election, and the feeling that the result would impact their lives.

It's the circle of life. Disney has decided to remake another of their classic films. Which one is it this time? The Lion King. Shocker, right?

Well, yes and no. On one hand, The Lion King is one of Disney's most successful movies of all time. It's raked in a lot of cash since its release in 1994, won two Academy Awards, and has been turned into a very lucrative Broadway show. On the other hand, well, just that. Why mess with something so great? You know, if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

Disney just announced the "reimagining" of the film, which is to be directed by The Jungle Book's Jon Favreau. Yes, we said reimagining. While we're not quite sure what that means, we think the film might be a live action/CGI version, following suit with Disney's other recent remakes. One thing we do know: the movie will include songs from the original animated film. 

In recent years, Disney has released other live-action films based on their animated movies, such as Cinderella, Maleficent and, most recently, The Jungle Book. In March 2017, they will release yet another: the eagerly-anticipated Beauty and the Beast, starring Emma Watson. 

The Lion King film hasn't been given a release date, but we're already thinking about what movie Disney should remake next. We've got our fingers crossed for The Little Mermaid II. 

WE ARE FREAKING OUT! A new Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them trailer has arrived—the final trailer before the release of the movie on November 16. 

While we've had a few months to swoon over Eddie Redmayne as Newt Scamander (seriously, just look at him…) since the release of initial images, clips and trailers, this new trailer is unlike anything we've seen up to this point. Here, we see more of Mr. Scamander's creatures, the destruction of early 20th century New York City and even a little romance.

Even if more Harry Potter is not on the horizon, we've still got Fantastic Beasts to look forward to, especially if it turns out to be a trilogy as rumored. Rowling wrote the screenplay for Fantastic Beasts, which makes us doubly excited. We'll take anything we can get from her! 

*Sigh* Is it November 16 yet? Until it is, we'll just be over here playing this trailer on repeat.

Your body is a temple, a temple that you are free to decorate as you please, which makes choosing the right tattoo especially difficult.

While it may be fun to get a tattoo based on the current trends, the simple fact is that once you get a tattoo, it’s not going anywhere. If you’re looking for a tattoo that’s meaningful and timeless, you may need to do some soul searching and determine a symbol or design that truly reflects your ~vibe~. So why not let the stars decide for you?

Aries

As an Aries, you like to be the best at what you do, no matter what it is. You have an insatiable need for success, and your go-getting personality fuels you in every aspect of your life. Your friends look to your for inspiration in every aspect: fashion, career, school, you name it. An Aries girl is out to break the glass ceiling and take no prisoners in the workplace.  For your tattoo, consider a key. You’re not one to follow the crowd, and you’re always the first to “open the door,” metaphorically speaking.

Taurus

Taurus girls are the definition of loyal, and your perseverance and patience sets you apart from the others. When it comes to friends, the Taurus girl values quality over quantity, even though everyone looks to you for advice and support. You thrive on stability, and you keep your circle small—just the way you like it. Staying grounded and true to yourself is important, and you value that in your relationships as well. An anchor is a perfect symbol for you Taurus, because much like you it represents security, dedication and hope.

Gemini

Geminis never fail to leave an impression on the people they meet. In fact, Geminis are considered to be one of the most interesting signs (lucky you)!  If you’re a Gemini, chances are you’re an enthusiastic free spirit who doesn’t like to stay in the same place for very long. You bring sunshine and positivity to everyone, which might make you the “mom” of your friend group. The wave is a great way to symbolize your wanderlust nature, and if placed on your wrist it can serve as a constant reminder of your inner freedom.

Cancer

As a Cancer, you are full of contradictions. You crave attention and reassurance from others, but know you are capable of going at it alone. While your spontaneous nature helps keep things interesting, you make sure to balance your adventures with just the right amount of responsibility, which sure comes in handy when choosing between a night out on the town and a night in the library. The Ying Yang symbol sums you up perfectly, representing your ability to balance being independent when you have to be, and your constant need to be loved.

Leo

Leo, you’re the leader of the pack, and you aren’t afraid to let others know you mean business. Being straightforward and direct is your forte, you exude passion and fearlessness in everything you do. Your theme song is “Confident” by Demi Lovato, and you certainly aren’t afraid of being the center of attention at all times. The Leo girl knows how to work a room. A crown is the perfect tattoo for you. You’re a fair leader, and a loyal friend, and worthy of such a regal symbol.

Related: 21 Things Only Girls With Tattoos Will Understand

Virgo

Virgos have a fierce intelligence that allows them to get things done, their own way. Virgo girls are straightforward, logical thinkers who are the go-to friends during a crisis. You’re a perfectionist, and like for everything to be just right, which may come in handy for making plans in the group chat. The Virgo girl is an ideal candidate for a killer internship, because she always has her life together--color-coded planner and all.  An owl suits Virgos very well, as a symbol of wisdom and knowledge.

Libra

If the signs were all Spice Girls, Libra would be Posh. You love doing new, exciting and unusual things, usually with equally as exciting people. Your friends can always count on you to see the beauty in others, and you’re a fierce lady from head-to-toe. Libra girls make great bloggers, because they’re always improving and tweaking their own personal #brand and style. You’ve got a lot of flair, so a peacock is the perfect symbol for you. You know just how to ruffle some feathers (literally) and to show off when necessary.

Scorpio

If you know a Scorpio, chances are she’s always keeping you on your toes…because Scorpio girls are intense little creatures. Scorpio, you are no damsel in distress, and you make that perfectly clear to potential significant others. For this sign, power and mystery are key traits. For you, keep it classic with your zodiac symbol. Your strong, commanding personality is represented well by the scorpion, a small but mighty animal with the power to shock and amaze. The tiny stinger at the end of the symbol shows others that you’re nothing to mess with, and let’s face it, you’re a badass.

Sagittarius

The Sagittarius girl is always seeking new adventures and new ways to explore the world around her...even if she has to explore it alone. You thrive off freedom, independence, and are always kind to others. Of all the zodiac signs, you’re the “wild child,” and you’re proud of it. A Sagittarius girl loves deep, philosophical conversations about life, making her a great guest for a girl’s wine night in. Coordinates to your favorite vacation spot or even a tiny, minimalist world map are sure to keep your wanderlust spirit alive, and let others know that you’re always up for a road trip.

Capricorn

The Capricorn girl is definitely the girl you want in your group project. She is a leader and will most likely take over, because it’s just who she is. Chances are, a Capricorn is three steps ahead of everyone else. She’s a self-starter, and dreams of becoming her own boss one day. She values her professional life, and is definitely a good friend to bring to a networking event (she’ll also probably look over your resume if you ask). The Capricorn girl is an expert at time management, making a clock tattoo the perfect reminder that time is hers to own, and that time is money.

Aquarius

Aquarius girls are particularly conscious of the world around them, and they live for serving and helping others. Your imagination is always running wild, and your curiosity always leads you into interesting situations. Aside from that, the Aquarius girl thinks outside the box, and uses her inherent creativity to go about the world and solve problems in a unique way. Your friends can count on you to bring the ~good vibes~.  The dove represents the Aquarius girl well, as they both promote peace, love and harmony.

Pisces

Intuition and compassion are two key characteristics of the Pisces girl. She is most likely the one to volunteer in her spare time, and is always up for a charity event. Pisces like to see the best in people, and always give others the benefit of the doubt..even when they don’t deserve it. You’re a hopeless romantic, and definitely seek long, meaningful relationships over hook ups. Pisces love to get in touch with their artistic side, and are inherently musically inclined, making the Treble clef a tasteful, timeless way to represent this sign.

You realize as you grow older that there are certain social norms that function merely as unnecessary formalities that, like it or not, you're most likely going to have to deal with throughout your adult life. Small talk is most definitely one of them. Here are 15 things you'll understand if you're of the majority who hates it. 

1. You will do absolutely anything in your power to avoid it 

2. You often feel silly when you are forced to engage in it 

3. Sometimes you're very good at concealing your disdain

4. Other times, not so much 

5. You have garnered a deep respect for those who participate so willingly 

6. You'd much prefer to be posed pretentious and philosophical questions than to be asked about how you've been 

7. You have walked away from many a social gathering in the hopes of avoiding small talk

8. You've mastered the art of ending small talk convos quickly 

9. Family reunions with awkward distant relatives are the worst

10. You are aware that people probably don't care about your weekend, though they will want you to ask about theirs 

11. You'd rather endure silence than a pointless convo about the weather 

12. Getting your hair trimmed or your nails done requires serious mental prep

13. You have pretended to be on your phone while on the street to avoid an oncoming acquaintance

14. Most days you grin and bear it

15. But sometimes you really just can't 

As we get older, we begin to realize how much of a paradox we actually live in: when you were a young kid, all you could think about was what life would be like once you got older and could drive, go see a R-rated movie and go to college. However when you got to college, you suddenly wished you could go back to the days where the most stressful thing you had to think about was what your first day of school outfit was going to be. Taking that walk down memory lane can sometimes be the best thing for anyone, but especially for those millennials who know what it meant to grow up pre-2010, when having the great-great-great ancestor of the iPhone 7 was all the rage. Here are some things that have probably stayed in your head forever.

1. Disney Channel was the best channel ever

Lizzie McGuire, That’s So Raven, Even Stevens, oh my!

2. Bop It was everything

3. Even if you didn’t understand what it all meant, Green Day’s “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” was an instant classic

4. Before Facebook, MySpace was the social media everyone had to have

5. The epicness of Mean Girls

6. Trying to copy all the moves from Beyonce’s “Crazy in Love”

7. …and “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)”

8. Gilmore Girls, The O.C and One Tree Hill were in your top three favorite shows

9. When VHS was still around

10. Your parents being all freaked out for some reason in 2008…

…OH!

11. When that Kanye VMA moment happened

12. When everyone clamored to get just one pair of UGGS

13. You couldn’t believe high school could be as dramatic as “Laguna Beach”

…and you loved every second of it

14. Avril Lavigne. Complicated.

'Nuff said.

15. The debut of the i-anything

16. The amazingness of Spongebob and Squidward delivering Krusty Krab pizza

17. When you heard the Rugrats were all grown up!

18. Britney's VMA performance

Being intimate with someone can bring about a lot of new emotions and insecurities. Sex has the potential of making someone feel more vulnerable and definitely more self-conscious. Even the most confident people have doubts about their body, their performance in bed or what their partner is thinking of them. These thoughts are perfectly normal, but how do you deal with them? We asked some experts (one of them a student and “proud feminist”) and created a list of things to keep in mind if you start to feel awkward in bed.

1. Sleep with someone you’re super comfortable with

In today’s dating world, hookups are common. Whether hookup to you means a steamy make out session or a one-night stand, everyone is going to have to make the decision to follow through with one at some point. However, having sex with someone you just met can increase thoughts of self-consciousness. Adam LoDolce, a dating confidence expert who started the popular site SexyConfidence.com says, “Be choosy about who you get involved with.” LoDolce, whose work and advice has been featured on MTV, Glamour and Cosmopolitan, says that it’s better to get to know a person than jump right into bed with them. This familiarity with them will make it easier to overcome feelings of self-consciousness later on. Of course, do whatever you feel comfortable with; if you know you will be more than fine having sex right away with that hottie at a party, you do you as well!

2. Don’t fall into the trap of societal standards AND communicate!

A lot of self-doubt can be linked to how sex is portrayed to us in the media. Asha Sawhney, a junior at Northwestern University, is the membership chair of Sexual Health and Assault Peer Educators (SHAPE), a student organization that is all about empowering students in their sexuality and fostering healthy conversations around sex. Asha thinks that our minds are constantly running over “unrealistic social scripts from the media. People put pressure on themselves to look perfect, act completely confident, and particularly women are pressured to come off as experienced but not over-eager, due to slut-shaming in our society,” she says. “On the other hand, men feel they have to come off as experienced, totally in control, and worry-free because of our notions of masculinity. Queer and gender non-conforming folks are oftentimes left out of our social scripts all together and have the added worry of navigating their safety as it relates to their marginalized identities in sexual relationships.”

Men and women are also discouraged from talking about these concerns with their partners, according to Asha. While hardly being shown in the media and not being deemed as sexy, couples tend not to voice their opinions about self-consciousness during sex. “Not only does this lack of communication leave our worries unresolved, it is also downright dangerous to be afraid to communicate with one's partner because obtaining consent requires many levels of communication,” Asha says. You should never be afraid to speak your mind.

Related: What to Do When Your Partner's Sex Drive Is Higher (or Lower) Than Yours

3. Self-reflect on who you are and what you want

If you have never had sex before or don’t have much experience, it’s always good to think about what you prefer. What do you want sexually and emotionally? What do you need from your partner or from the sex you’re having? Asha says that without reflecting on yourself first, you might be more prone to awkward feelings in bed. A healthy and satisfying sex life often comes out of being comfortable with your body and what you want. A great checklist of questions can be found at Everyday Feminism, and Asha says this is a great place to start! Be sure to also communicate your findings with your partner! Even if it’s a fling or hookup, at least this way you’ll know what you want.

4. Don’t worry/stress too much about your sex appeal

Another reason you may be feeling awkward in bed is because of your perceived sex appeal, or for some people, the lack thereof. However, that is not something you should be stressing about. Everyone obviously wants to feel wanted when getting intimate, but this can lead to thoughts of “Does he/she find me attractive? What do they think of what I’m doing? Does their silence mean I’m horrible at this?” These are common concerns, but not something that should inhibit you in the bedroom.

Some partners are more verbal in bed, constantly telling the other how hot they are or how good they’re doing. However, this isn’t all that common according to LoDolce. “Many times if you’re not getting that positive feedback from that person, that overriding insecurity, that makes you think ‘Oh god, I must be doing something weird or awkward or he/she is just not that into me,’” he says. Silence isn’t a sign of a sinking ship. Other than voicing consent, it’s normal for partners to be non-verbal during sex. Just try your best to gauge the situation and how your partner is reacting to what you’re doing (and vice versa). Silence doesn’t mean dissatisfaction or judgement. While communication is key in any relationship, try not to worry if they aren’t vocal. Everyone expresses pleasure in different ways.

5. Stop overthinking/overanalyzing

Though we know that it’s easier said than done, overthinking can kill any mood. It’s good to think through tough situations, and in the moment it’s super easy to fall into that pit of despair where “Does he/she think I’m cute?” and “What does this all mean?” just float around your head. And of course, if you know that you’re being awkward or you’re trying your hardest not to be, that continual mantra you have going on in your head is not helping your performance. “If you’re thinking about how to stop your self-consciousness during sex, that’s just going to make you worse,” says LoDolce. “It’s a feedback loop that’s going to get worse and worse and worse as time goes on.”

Just like a reoccurring nightmare, this loop will kill not only the mood of your sexy night with your SO, it will surely just make you feel crappy in the end. We know that it’s very hard to turn your brain off sometimes, but just know that these thoughts will bring about your ultimate demise.

Related: 5 Embarrassing Things That Can Happen During Sex (& How to Recover)

6. Listen to your body and your feelings

If you do have constant worried feelings about being intimate, you shouldn’t suppress them. “I don't think anyone under any circumstances should suppress feelings of being unsafe or uncomfortable in a sexual relationship,” Asha says. She suggests taking a step back and unpacking your feelings. If you find that you seem to have the same feelings through all or most of the same sexual experiences with all your partners, definitely try and work through that with the suggestions in this article. However, if the source of your discomfort comes from anything your partner is saying or doing, try and communicate that with him or her. But do be aware that this might be a signal of an unhealthy and possibly unsafe relationship, which should be dealt with. No one deserves to feel worthless.

7. Remember: There’s no pressure!

You shouldn’t feel like anything is expected of you in a relationship or any sexual situation. However, if you do ever feel self-conscious when having sex, just know that you’re not alone and that there’s no pressure to do anything you don’t want to. No partner should voice frustration if you refuse to do something or are uncomfortable due to lack of experience or otherwise. Reach out to someone you trust if you feel like you’re in an unhealthy relationship and just self-reflect and give it time if you know your awkwardness is stemming from your mindset.

When you enter junior year, you’re convinced that this is going to be your best year yet. You’ll ace all your exams, hit up the hottest parties and maybe have a romance or two. But realizing that you only have two years left of college is going to hit you hard- whether you’re ready for it or not. Every student experiences a mid-college life crisis sometime during their university career. Here are the 12 stages that you are going to go through once you get to that halfway mark.   

1. The Denial Stage

At first you won’t believe you only have two more years of college left. That still seems like a lot of time, but at the same time it means your college career is halfway over. You’ll try to start off your junior year stress-free and innocent, just like your past two years, but the denial will catch up to you.

2. The Crying Over Pizza and Netflix Stage

Once it hits you that you’re at the halfway mark, you’ll feel an overwhelming flood of emotions. You only have a few more semesters to embrace the joys of campus dining halls and sorority events. You’ll binge-watch your favorite season of Grey’s Anatomy while stuffing your face with greasy pizza to try and cope.  

3. The Looking at Your Transcripts Stage

You’ll take a peak at your grades to see how all your studious efforts have paid off, and you’ll feel nowhere close to med school. Getting good grades is not as easy as pulling a couple all-nighters and drinking ridiculous amounts of coffee -- contrary to what the movies make it seem. You’ll feel defeated.

4. The “What Am I Doing With My Life?” Stage

You’ll feel like you haven’t done anything productive with your time in college. All you’ve been doing is suffering through papers and midterms and labs, and that won’t feel like it’s paying off. You’ll feel like there’s more out there than the inside of the library that you need to experience ASAP before it’s too late. 

5. The Partying Every Night Stage

What better way to live-up the last few years than with a good ol’ kegger? You’ll probably try to embrace a ‘work hard, play hard’ mentality and test out the party scene that you thought you left behind after freshmen year. You’ll quickly watch yourself become a regular at the campus bar and will come to know all the frat boys by name.

6. The Refusing to Study Stage

You’ve probably developed a fear of your textbooks by this stage. Between your constant hangovers and the defeat after seeing your transcripts, you can’t put yourself through anymore pain. You’ll refuse to study, even though you know that is not the right thing to do.

7. The “I’m Going to Be a Hairdresser” Stage

Since you feel like your academic career is over, you’ll be looking for other job options. You might try cutting your friends’ hair in a bid to prove you can be a hairdresser. Or maybe you’ll take over the dorm kitchen trying to be the next Rachel Ray. All you’ll know is that it’s time to reinvent yourself.

8. The Calling Your Parents at Midnight Stage

Although you’ve been partying it up, ignoring your academics and trying to learn the ways of Martha Stewart, things still aren’t going right. You’ll call up your parents at heinous times of the night to vent and have them tell you what to do.

9. The Realizing Everyone is Going Through the Same Thing Stage

Eventually you’ll realize that all your friends and classmates in junior year are going through the same mid-college crisis. Everyone is scared of the unknown and is questioning if the past few years have been worth it. It’ll be reassuring knowing you’re not the only one who feels like they’re going insane.

10. The Feeling Guilty Stage

Ignoring the reality of college hasn’t been helping -- it’s only made you feel worse. You feel bad for putting your grades to the side (especially if you actually do want to get into med school) and drinking more than you ever thought was possible. It’s time to stop the madness.  

11. The "I Need to Focus" Stage

You’re finally getting back on track! You have set up camp back in the library (thankfully right before midterms) and are determined to ace everything that comes at you. It’s no use trying to run away from your problems; you’re determined to face them head on.  

12. The Realization That You Still Have Two More Years

Two years is still a long time. While graduation is creeping up closer, you’ll finally reach a sense of peace that you still have time to accomplish everything on your bucket list. The world isn’t as scary as you thought it was, and you’re ready for it.

In the end, every student goes through the same panic of being almost done their degree. Make sure that you have a strong support system behind you, and work to get yourself back on track ASAP. It’s okay to take time to process all the emotions that come with entering your junior year, just make sure to do it in a healthy and safe way. You still have two more amazing years to go, and, believe us, that is still a lot of time. 

You see them every time you go to the mall. Walking past the windows of every store, they're standing there in their fashionable clothes and lifeless faces. Then you go in the store and look around, only to find that when you walk around the back of one of them, there are clips pulling their clothes tighter around their too-small bodies. Mannequins. They're what nightmares are made of, whether you think so because of their stone-cold faces or impossible bodies. Or maybe you're actually afraid of them. 

But now mannequins don't have to be the things of nightmares. Long Tall Sally has created the first mannequin based on the exact proportions of an actual customer. Using 3D printing technology, the company created a mannequin to the exact likeness of actual customer Harriet Winters of London who stands at 6'0 and wears a US size 10. 

A typical mannequin is 5'9 and a US size 4 and measures 34”, 24” and 34” in in the chest, waist and hips, respectively. This new mannequin measures 38" - 31" - 40". 

June Rowe, a fashion expert who specializes in the history of mannequins, believes that this type of personalization is what the future of the fashion industry holds.

“The mannequin has always adapted with fashion, and new digital technologies have seen the industry embrace cutting-edge and dynamic forms—such as holograms and mannequins that move,” says Rowe. “The 3D scanning of a customer meets the new demand of consumers that are looking for a more ‘real’ reflection of themselves in their shopping experience, as well as a more inclusive and forward-thinking fashion industry.”

We would sure be happy to see mannequins of our likeness in stores! How easy would it be to plan outfits and get ready in the morning with your very own, personalized mannequin?

I've been disabled my entire life, but it wasn't a word I used to describe myself until college. To be honest, I had a lot of internalized ableism until I really connected with the disability community on and off campus. In college, I finally made friends (both in real life and virtually) who were disabled, some in the same or very similar ways to my own experiences. And I made friends who were proud of disability as part of their identity, and who called out casual ableism when they saw it.

Still, I was hesitant to use a mobility aid "until the last possible moment." I thought of mobility aids, such as wheelchairs, canes and walkers, as a "last resort," something that I wouldn't use unless I absolutely had to. I'm not disabled enough to use a cane, I thought.

In the last year, I've been thinking more and more about using a cane. Now that I'm in graduate school and working, I spend a lot of my time commuting, which for me is a combination of walking, taking the train and standing around while waiting for red lights. I live in a crowded metropolitan hub, and my campus is literally right in the middle of Boston. More often than not, I'd find myself thinking, "This is hard. A cane would really help in this situation."

This year, I decided to talk to my doctor about going back to physical therapy, and started using a cane. I knew this would make my disability more visible to strangers, and that it might even cause questions from friends, professors or classmates. But I also knew it was something I needed to do, and more than that, something I should be proud of, not ashamed of. And it's now a visible part of my identity that I'm getting used to, similar to what it was like right after coming out as queer.

1. What does it mean to make things accessible?

I've thought about accessibility in-depth in the past, because even without a mobility aid, not everything has been accessible to me. And it's something that comes up frequently when I'm traveling with disabled friends, especially if someone's traveling in a wheelchair. 

Traveling with a cane makes me think about accessibility in new ways, though. Before the cane, I'd still almost always use the elevator to get to class, but not if there was a long line. I'd get stares and weird looks for taking the elevator to the third floor. Now that I have it, I always take the elevator, especially since my classes are on higher floors and the crowded, tiny staircase in one of the campus buildings is extremely inaccessible due to the fact that I need to use handrails.

I'm also a lot more likely to consciously think about how I enter buildings, where I sit and what I order. It's easy for me to find a seat, put my cane down and order a pumpkin spice latte, but if I'm getting that latte to go, I need to think about how I'll open the door while holding a drink and my cane. (The accessibility buttons that auto-open doors are lifesavers for this, but unfortunately the Starbucks next to campus doesn't have one.) 

2. Most people are more considerate than I expected

I'm used to casual (and sometimes blatant) ableism. I've witnessed friends who use wheelchairs being asked, "What happened to you?" and told, "You're so pretty for someone in a wheelchair!" I'm used to being pushed by people walking up the stairs because I need to hold the handrails, or being given dirty looks because it's hard for me to maintain balance while standing on a moving train. 

What I didn't expect was that most people are fairly considerate. Very few people have asked me what happened to make me use a cane, even though it would be a valid question in my particular case. I've explained to closer friends why I'm using one, although many of my friends and classmates had an idea that I'm disabled because I've gotten more comfortable writing publicly about it in the last year. So far, none of my professors have asked, and the only time I've considered bringing it up is to request a longer break during one of my classes. (Ten minutes is not enough time to wait for the elevator, leave the building, get a coffee, struggle with the door at Starbucks and come back. Can you tell caffeine is a requirement for grad school? Because it is.) 

More often, instead of asking invasive questions, people have complimented my cane, held doors open for me, stepped out of the way on a crowded sidewalk and given me their seats if I was standing. 

Related: 15 Things You Should Never Say to Someone in a Wheelchair

3. Being visible is a positive part of my identity

I've seen being queer as an unchangeable, non-negotiable part of who I am for more than ten years now. The same isn't true of disability. My disability wasn't a part of my identity; it was something I hid whenever possible. I'd refuse accommodations or try to find alternate ways to get around the fact that I needed something or couldn't do something, like use a high stool at a restaurant or ride a bike. 

By claiming disability as part of my identity, it's become a part of me that I can be proud of. I feel more comfortable calling out and discussing ableism and disability, full stop, because I'm embracing that part of myself. Being proud and visible is something disabled people can do whether they use mobility aids or not—it's just something I wasn't actively doing before. 

I recently bought a lavender cane and decorated it with glitter fabric, because I want my cane to be an extension of who I am. I want it to be a part of my identity that isn't "other" or shameful, but proud, unchangeable and non-negotiable. I want people to notice it because I want them see me as I really am, with no part of me hidden or ashamed. My cane does more than make walking and standing easier. It also makes me free.

Two students and a teacher were shot by a teenage gunman at Townsville Elementary School in South Carolina on Wednesday afternoon, CNN reports. According to The Washington Post, authorities also found the gunman’s father, 47-year-old Jeffrey Osborne, dead in a home only two miles away from the school.

The shooter, who has been taken into custody, shot one student in the leg, another student in the foot and a teacher in the shoulder, Capt. Garland Major from the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office stated. One of the students is still in critical condition, while the other two victims have been released from the hospital.

According to the Post, the police reported to the scene after a teacher called 911 at 1:45 p.m. Eastern time. Just one minute before, the shooter had called his grandparents, unintelligible and in tears. They went to his house expecting to find him, only to discover his father dying from a gunshot wound.

Parents were instructed to pick up their children from a nearby church. Tony Walker, a youth pastor at Gethsemane Baptist Church, told the Post that a mother of a child who attended Townsville Elementary told him that her son said, “‘Mommy, as soon as I saw him [the shooter], I knew he was a bad guy.’”

Another mother told CNN that her daughter and classmates were huddled together in a bathroom and that her daughter “didn't talk for about five minutes” after she picked her up. The mother further stated, “I'm just so scared. I don't even want her to go to school now.”

Authorities have stated that they are still in the early hours of the investigation and are trying to find out exactly what happened. The school's superintendent says people have to be buzzed into the school building, the Post reports. The shooter was homeschooled and did not attend school in the district. NBC News reports he is 14 years old.

Governor Nikki Haley released a statement Wednesday, asking South Carolinians to join her “in praying for the entire Townville Elementary School family and those touched by today’s tragedy.”

Congress has passed a spending bill that includes aid to Flint, Mich., nearly two years after the water there first became lead-tainted—and they've avoided a government shutdown in the process. While it seemed like lawmakers might go right up to the Friday deadline for a shutdown, they managed to come to agreement, probably because they all want to focus on the election that's now only 39 days away.

Senate Democrats had previously shot down a stopgap spending bill Tuesday afternoon after it failed to include money for Flint.

The House eventually agreed to amend the Water Resources Development Act, sending $170 million in spending to communities in a state of emergency due to water contaminants like lead, according to The New York Times.

However, the deal isn't totally figured out yet, and that's what made some Democrats unhappy with the bill. There still has to be a meeting about exactly how much money will be sent to Flint, and if it would be specifically set aside or "simply authorized," the Times reports. And unfortunately, that meeting won't even happen until after the election. Like the saying goes, the wheels of justice turn slowly—very slowly.

Other pieces of the spending bill include $1.1 billion to fight the Zika virus, and $500 million for aid in states that have experienced flooding, like Louisiana, according to CNN.

As busy college students, finding the time for proper nutrition can seem overwhelming. The health food trends that circulate magazines, blogs and even medical settings are constantly changing, and it’s hard to know what kind of diet will keep you nourished and satisfied without leaving you broke or chained to the kitchen. However, when you break food down to the simplest, most nutrient-dense ingredients, healthy eating can finally become an easy task no matter how much school, work or everyday life gets in the way.

One of the easiest ways to gain the biggest health punch with the least amount of effort is to consistently incorporate “superfoods” into your diet. “A ‘superfood’ is a marketing term used to label a food that is packed with vitamins and minerals,” says Jennifer Calo, a dietitian with Compass Nutrition. Faye Mitchell, a dietitian and editor-in-chief of the online nutrition guide, Foodie on Campus, adds that superfoods achieve their label by “improving your health and lowering your risk of disease.” Stocking up on these ingredients will ensure that a healthy meal or snack is always within reach, all the while alleviating chaotic, puzzled trips to the grocery store We’ve gathered the ten superfoods every college girl should try to stock up on and an explanation of exactly why they are just so “super.”

1. Avocadoes

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There are more reasons than ever to eat your beloved avocado toast. “Avocados are a wonderful source of monounsaturated fatty acids, potassium, lutein and fiber,” says Calo. While avocado is often lauded for the healthy fat that lends its buttery texture, you may not know that those oils actually help with vitamin absorption. Calo notes that these fat soluble vitamins include vitamin A, vitamin D and vitamin K. Use avocado in place of oils, butters or fatty spreads, like mayonnaise, to instantly make your diet more superfood accessible.

2. Sweet potatoes

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Sweet potatoes are an essential superfood to keep on hand, especially since they are cheap, easy to make and taste far more delicious than a plain potato. Mitchell explains that sweet potatoes are high in fiber to help keep you full and keep blood sugar levels in check. She attests to their status as a superfood since “they can decrease chances of diabetes and increase memory.” Not to mention, they could lower your risk for cancer. “Rinse them, pierce them with a fork, microwave on high for eight to 10 minutes and top with Greek yogurt,” suggests Mitchell.

3. Berries

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Berries in general provide loads of nutritional value, but certain varieties in particular earn their superfood title. Calo says raspberries are “the best choice for a fruit when trying to lose weight,” given their eight grams of fiber and only 60 calories with each serving. Vitamins and antioxidants are also beneficial products of berries. Blueberries in particular “contain the antioxidant anthocyanins, which decreases inflammation in the body and can even prevent arthritis,” says Calo. Top some yogurt with a handful of juicy berries, or if you're feeling adventurous, try some exotic, antioxidant-packed acai berries in your very own acai smoothie bowl.

4. Oats

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While humble and in need of a little added pizazz, oats are nutrient powerhouses with high levels of fiber and protein. “Oats are whole grains and contain both insoluble and soluble fiber for healthy digestion,” says Mitchell. They will keep you full, protect your heart and help to prevent high blood pressure. Oats are also extremely versatile and can be incorporated into breakfast cereals with other superfoods (hello, blueberry oatmeal!) or baked into sweet treats for nutrition you won’t even detect. Mitchell also suggests buying unsweetened packets of instant oatmeal and adding your own natural sweetness to avoid the sugary, processed variations.

5. Spinach

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Like all of its cousins in the leafy green family (we’re looking at you, kale), spinach has a great reputation among health critics. As one of the first so-called “superfoods” though, spinach deserves some special attention. Calo says that spinach is rich in potassium and magnesium, which can help reduce blood pressure, preserve bone mineral density and prevent kidney stones. In addition, one cup of spinach provides 60 percent of our required vitamin A, a nutrient Calo points out as essential for tissue growth. “Spinach is also a great source of iron,” she adds, “especially for vegetarians.” So toss it in a salad, wilt it over pasta or blend it up in a smoothie for an easy boost.

6. Salmon

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Salmon is one protein that you may overlook when you take your weekly spin around the grocery store, but it’s definitely one to start including in your meal plan. “The American Heart Association recommends consumption of fatty fish two times a week for increased omega-3 fatty acids,” says Calo. Mitchell adds that salmon is a great source of protein and provides the omega-3s we need for heart health, brain health and focus. Perhaps a salmon dinner is in order before that next math exam! It’s an easy protein to cook and tastes delicious grilled or baked until flaky. Even if cooking salmon isn’t practical in your dorm set-up, Mitchell encourages you to order salmon when you treat yourself to a dinner out or when parents want to spoil you on their next visit!

7. Cacao

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If you have a chocolate craving you just can’t shake, you may be thrilled to find out that you can satisfy your desire while still getting major nutrition. Cacao is simply the unprocessed version of cocoa, and while cocoa offers some of the same benefits, try using the superfood counterpart in its place. Cacao is a great source of the antioxidant flavonoids which Calo says, “can decrease production of LDL, ‘bad cholesterol’.” She also points out that those flavonoids can also aid in cancer prevention and in decreasing inflammation in the body.

8. Seeds

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Like nuts, seeds offer a big nutrition punch in even small amounts. Chia seeds, hemp seeds, flax seeds and pumpkin seeds are some of the varieties you might stock for uses ranging from tasty snacks, creamy breakfast puddings or crunchy salad toppings. Calo approves of their healthy fat content and notes that “we need about 30 percent of our daily calories from healthy fats.” Each kind of seed offers its own unique “superpower,” so experiment with a variety for a diet abundant in nutrients. “Chia seeds are a complete protein,” says Mitchell, which means that they contain all of the essential amino acids your body needs. She also adds that nearly all seed varieties reduce inflammation. Seeds are great to include in homemade granola and trail mix or can simply be sprinkled on top of oatmeal or yogurt for added crunch.

9. Yogurt

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You have probably already heard about the magical power of yogurt, but there really is sound evidence behind the health craze. It “improves digestion because it contains probiotics, which boost our immune system,” says Calo. “We know that a healthy gut helps manage food cravings. It is also the perfect snack due to a combination of protein and carbohydrates.” Don’t go running to the nearest fro-yo store just yet though. Calo points out that many yogurt products are filled with sugar, and some can be highly processed. “I would only recommend plain Greek yogurt, such as Fage total, which contains 20 grams of protein and less than 10 grams of sugar,” she says. You can then add your own, natural sweetness with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey to satisfy a sugar craving.

10. Nuts

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Mitchell praises all types of nuts as being the perfect food for busy college students. They are filled with healthy fat and protein, which she says is one nutrient young adults are often lacking in their diet. Nuts should be eaten in small portions, meaning that they are cost effective and provide good nutrition density for every serving. “Stock up on nut butters with no added sugars or salt,” Mitchell suggests. Then you can always have a snack on hand, like apple and peanut butter, almond butter toast or even a protein rich smoothie that includes a dollop of your favorite nut butter.

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When you’re looking to stock up on nutritious foods to keep you healthy and strong through the school year, give special attention to these mighty superfoods. With just a couple added ingredients, you can take your diet from minimal to mighty.  

A commuter train derailed and crashed through a Hoboken, N.J. station around 8:45 a.m. this morning, killing at least one person and injuring about 100, according to The New York Times.

CNN reports that the train, which was filled with people doing their morning commute, went past the point where it was supposed to stop and also slammed through a bumper block—a device that's supposed to stop trains when they go too far. The person who was killed, allegedly a woman, was apparently standing on the platform when the train derailed.

“From the fifth car, it felt like a major skid,” Jason Danahy, a passenger, told the Times. “A creaking noise and a skid. I was lucky to be on the fifth car.” Other passengers talked about seeing blood on the other passengers and witnessing the devastating damage to the train station.

Another passenger, Leon Offengenden, was in one of the front cars when the crash happened.

"The front car is essentially off the rails ... into the building of the station, with the roof sort of collapsed around it," he told CNN.

The Times reports that investigators from the National Transit Review Board and the Federal Railroad Administration have gone to the scene.

First Zayn, then Liam, and now Niall? While it was sad to see One Direction go, it's a little less heartbreaking now that Harry's a magazine cover model and three of 1D's other members have gone solo and we can still hear their swoon-worthy voices. Late this morning, Niall surprised everyone and tweeted a new single called "This Town." Haven't heard it yet? Here's his live version. You can find the studio verson on Spotify and iTunes.

Can he sing this to us every night before we fall asleep?

The former band member sent out multiple tweets after he debuted the song, thanking his fans for their steadfast support.

No, Niall, thank you.

Chinaza Moses. If you don't know that name then trust us, you will soon. Designer by day and changemaker by night, her designs, titled C. Adeola, are ones you will never forget.

Last week, I had the honor of attending the premiere of her sophomore collection during NYFW and it’s safe to say that there is nothing else like it anywhere. Every design is full of life, graphics, and culture, in a way that would make anyone feel at home—no matter what your heritage is. The pieces were inspired by her Nigerian background with a modern twist that would make any person do a double take. When I asked about the reasoning behind her collection, she told me that she imagined a "young Nigerian girl coming to America and getting off the subway in Brooklyn in 2017." And it shows. 

“There is something for everyone here, whether it’s a bright maxi dress or a tropical printed jumpsuit”, one of the attendees said after the show completed. And she is right. The collection, with a total of 20 looks, was cohesive with every outfit representing a different piece of Nigerian culture all tied together with every model wearing patterned turbans. 

One of the models in the show, Miyah Knight, 23, has been modeling for two years but really hasn’t seen anything like C. Adeola before. “The designs are so unique and beautiful and it’s exciting to be a part of something as special as this,” she said about Moses’ newest collection, titled The Arrival.

I also got a chance to sit down with Moses to discuss her collection and when asked what type of woman she envisions wearing her clothes, she said that, "The C. Adeola woman is a woman who isn't afraid to be herself, she is strong, she's aware of the fact that she is a woman but doesn't allow that to depict her clothing choices. She believes that her clothing is an extension of the light inside of her, and it's her calling in life to spread that light to the nations." And it showed through the models wearing her outfits. 

Although she emphasizes that anyone can wear her clothes regardless of background, she wanted to give women from ethnic backgrounds a chance to show their stuff. "I feel like a model is a model no matter their ethnic background, but the under-representation of ethnic models on the runway is just disheartening, so if my company can utilize a people that the world has rejected then I'm happy to do it, because I know what it feels like to be rejected when you are WELL qualified, and sometimes people just need someone to believe in them and a shot at life"—so she gave them that shot. 

At the end of the day when Moses looks back at her collection, no matter how many followers she has on Instagram (which you really should follow), the impact that she wants to have on the fashion industry is far greater. "I feel as though the depiction of women's clothing has become over-sexualized and dark, the fantasy and character of it is gone," and through C. Adeola, she wants to change that.

In fact, she believes there needs to be more cultural brands/styles like hers. "I believe that we as people find a sense of identity with culture whether it's ours or someone else's, and living in America it teaches people how to accept and incorporate difference into our daily lives. So C. Adeola wants to show off, embrace and infuse culture into clothing and not be ashamed of it"—and other creators really should follow her lead. 

One college campus is about to get in formation. Have you ever wanted to major in Beyoncé? Well, one lucky school is about to get very close. The University of Texas at San Antonio now officially offers a class all about Beyoncé's Lemonade. You gotta start somewhere, right?

The class—titled "Black Women, Beyoncé, and Popular Culture"—has been developed by Professor Kinitra Brooks, who will also teach the course. According to the syllabus, "Lemonade is a meditation on contemporary black womanhood. The purpose of this class is to explore the theoretical, historical, and literary frameworks of black feminism, which feature prominently in Lemonade. We will use Lemonade as a starting point to examine the sociocultural issues that are most prominent in black womanhood through black feminist theory, literature, music, and film."

And no, those in the Beyhive will not be given early registration. (*sniff*) All are welcome, as long as they're ready to discuss the content. But Professor Brooks warns that the class won't be easy. The topics covered in class aren't to be taken lightly, and discussions will get intense. You have to be willing to discuss your thoughts and ideas and have them challenged by other students. 

Shoutout to The University of Texas at San Antonio. When will other campuses get on board? Because when life gives you lemons...

The people of the United States really don’t need a reminder of why we all despise Donald Trump. He’s rude, he’s the epitome of mansplaining and he has clear prejudices against marginalized groups, including women. But an old interview has found its way back into the good graces of the internet to be a little reminder of why he’s so putrid.

The picture Trump was referring to; Kim Kardashian circa 2013

The 2013 video is an interview Trump did for HLN’s Showbiz Tonight, where he was asked about Kim Kardashian registering for gifts for her upcoming baby shower while pregnant with first child North West at the time. From one rich person to another, basically does Kim need to ask for gifts when she can afford everything herself?

Starting off nicely, Trump says he likes Kim, saying she’s "really a nice person." But as most Trump-related speeches go, it takes a turn for the worst.

"She's gotten a little bit large," he continued. "I would say this, I don't think you should dress like you weigh 120 pounds."

Obviously convinced that his opinion matters and forgetting that no one can dictate what you wear except for the person putting those clothes on, Trump yet again wows with his sexist and inappropriate comments. Also, this guy is seriously concerned with women’s weight when he, of all people, really shouldn’t be. 

Queen Bey has blessed us again, but this time with the fall collection for her activewear brand, Ivy Park. The brand released a video of Beyoncé herself wearing some of the new pieces. "I stretch my body out like the horizon. I teach my body every day that I can go a little further. I know my body can learn how to bend and not break. I know what it’s capable of. I’ve seen it perform miracles," she says in the video.

Ivy Park pieces are available to purchase now at Topshop; we've done the hard work for you and found five must-haves from the new collection. They're versatile, stylish, and more affordable than most luxury activewear brands. You're welcome.

1. Ribbed Mid Rise Ankle Legging, $75

Black leggings are a staple in every woman's wardrobe, and these are perfect for the gym or for your favorite athleisure outfit.

2. Cropped Logo Detailed Hoodie, $58

The crop length of this hoodie makes it so trendy; we can already see it with a worn-in pair of boyfriend jeans. And who doesn't love mint?

3. Sleeveless Logo Body, $50

Beyoncé modeled it... need we say more?

4. Ribbed Colourblock Bra, $50

We're in love with this color for fall. This sports bra gives support, comfort, and style all in one.

5. Ivy Park Logo Holdall, $82

Is your gym bag getting old and smelly? This is the perfect time to get a new one. Black is classy and sophisticated, perfect for when you have class at 3 and a sweat sesh at 4.

There's plenty more where this came from, but the collection is selling fast. So, you decide, which is more improtant: spending your money on this month's rent, or buying this season's hottest activewear collection developed by Queen Bey herself? Yeah, that's what we thought.