Summer is fast approaching, which means many collegiettes have job and internships interviews coming up. You already know how to write a perfect cover letter and how to craft an awesome resume—but interviewing is a completely different animal. Being put on the spot can be super stressful and intimidating, but with enough preparation and practice, acing an interview can become second-nature.

We asked Martin Yate, the author of the award-winning Knock ’Em Dead job search book series for his best interviewing tips for collegiettes. Follow this guide and you'll be sure to nail the interview and land the job! 

1. Do your research.

Sure, you might be able to give an impromptu speech in Public Speaking 101, but an interview is not the time to test your improvisation skills. No matter what, you need to be prepared for a job interview. Most of that preparation comes in research. You'll want to be knowledgeable about the company, the job you're applying for, and the interviewer.  

First to find out more about the company, you can do a quick search on Google, Facebook, Twitter to learn the basics. See if they have accounts on Pinterest, Tumblr, or Instagram, too. To take it a step further, set up a Google media alert. Just type in the company’s name, and Google will email you new stories, blogs, videos, and more to give you up-to-the-minute news about the company. Make sure you know the basics about the company, like what it does, where it's based, and who its clients are if applicable.

"It is so easy to find out about the company and what they are doing," Yate said. "They want to know that you are interested in them. By showing that you understand what the company does, that demonstrates your interest."

If you know their names, researching the interviewer(s) can also show your preparedness. By searching them on Facebook and LinkedIn, you can find out a little bit about them. Yate suggests looking for connections—maybe you went to the same college or are the in the same sorority. Bringing up those connections can help you bond with the interviewer. And even if you don't have anything in common, you'll likely find out what the interviewer looks like, which might make you less nervous about meeting them for the first time.

If you don’t know who’s interviewing you, ask! Ideally, you should ask this question when you set up the interview. However, if you didn’t find out already, calling to ask will show the interviewer that you’re doing your homework.

Finally, you need to know about the job you're interviewing for. "You can find out more about the position by reaching out to people you know who are doing this job or who have done this job," Yate said. Talk to people either at the specific company you’re applying for, or who hold a similar job in the field. Yate also suggests connecting with your college’s alumni association and joining special interests groups on LinkedIn that relate to your career field.

Having this base knowledge will show your interviewer that you took the time to do the research, which in turn shows that you're serious about the job opportunity. Plus, doing the research can make you more confident because you'll be able to engage in educated conversations with the interviewer. 

2. Dress the part.

"You're trying to get hired—not date," Yate said. That means you need to make sure that you’re showing an appropriate amount of skin. A short-sleeved dress is probably acceptable, for example, but avoid showing cleavage or wearing a short skirt. Also, make sure your outfit isn’t too tight—you don’t need to show off your killer curves to get a job. Marilyn Monroe put it best: “Your clothes should be tight enough to show you're a woman but loose enough to show you're a lady.”

Stick with closed-toed shoes, even if it's warm out. A pair of simple black or nude pumps will do the trick. But be mindful of the heels' height! "You cannot look professional teetering around in five-inch heels," Yate says. Keep your heels no higher than three inches. 

But dressing professionally doesn’t mean you have to wear a suit. “Most people will say, without a doubt, dress professionally to an interview. But nowadays, this isn't always the case,” said Christine Marshall, a collegiette from William Paterson University of New Jersey. She advises asking a current or past employee how they dressed for their interview or how they dress on a regular workday. “Some companies have a casual-wear policy, so walking into your interview in a suit really wouldn’t fit in with the atmosphere. Your clothing choice should not only reflect your personality, but it should also showcase how well you'll fit into this company.”

There are plenty of ways to look professional and show of your personality. Adding a pop of color in your shoes, jewelry, or a blazer can make your outfit look vibrant and exciting. Or try a pencil skirt with a patterned blouse for a mix of fresh and professional. Or, of course, you could always keep it simple with a classic black dress and simple jewelry. Check out this HC article on what to wear to an interview for more ideas!

3. Bring the essentials.

Don't go into an interview empty-handed! There are a few key things to bring with you:

• A professional-looking bag to carry everything in
• A few extra copies of your resume
• A list of references
• Your business card
• A notebook and pen
• Portfolio/work examples (if applicable)

If you're in a creative field that includes writing or design, be careful about showing off your previous work. "There's a difference between a professional interview and show-and-tell in third grade," said Yate. Don't pull out your work unless asked. The other appropriate time to show your clips is if the best way to answer a question is by showing a specific example. For instance, if you’re asked about your reporting skills for a journalism job, you might want to show a story that required a lot of research and interviewing.

Plus, don’t forget to bring directions or a GPS, and the interviewer’s phone number, just in case you get lost or something goes wrong. You may not use them, but you’re better off safe than sorry! 

4. Showcase your skills and best qualities in your answers. 

The hardest part of any interview is… well, the interview! Being put on the spot and talking about yourself isn't easy, but there are ways to make sure you best demonstrate why you're well-suited for the job and impress your interviewer.

If you’re nervous about answering questions in your interview, Christine advises practicing answers to questions you think they'll ask, so that you'll have an eloquent response in the interview. “Have a friend ask you the questions and draft up your answers on the spot,” Christine suggests. “Make sure she gives you feedback on your answers.” Here are some of the most common interview questions you can practice answering:

• Tell us about yourself.
• Tell me about your resume.
• Why do you want this job?
• Why did you decide to pursue a career in this industry?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• What is your proudest accomplishment?
• Describe a time that you made a mistake.
• How would your professors/friends/colleagues describe you?
• What did you learn most from your internship at XYZ Company?
• Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Still, the interviewer might ask you some questions you're not expecting. In this case, Yate says the most important thing to remember is to tailor your answers to the responsibilities of the specific job you're applying for.

You can do that by showing how your skills, qualities, and past experiences can lend themselves to this position—and one of the best ways to do that is showing how you've done that in the past using the STAR method.

STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, Results. First, give the interviewer the background on a difficult situation you recently faced, and tell them what the task you had to accomplish was. Then, describe the actions you took to solve the problem. Finally, tell them the results of your actions to demonstrate how your talents have been beneficial in the past and can be beneficial in the future.

These examples should come from previous jobs or internships. You can talk about classes or extracurricular activities if they apply to the job and if you can relate them to the responsibilities of the job. However, showing that you have real world, professional experience will set you apart.

5. Ask good questions.

Near the end of the interview you'll almost definitely be asked, "Do you have any questions for me?" The answer is always "Yes!" Asking questions shows that you're not only interested in the job for your personal benefit, but you're also interested in the company and the team. "These questions turn a one-sided examination into a two-way conversation between a couple of professionals with a common interest," Yate said.

That being said, watch how many questions you ask. "You don't want to ask a question after every question they ask," Yate said. "If you do that, it shows that you are trying to take control of the conversation." 

Here are some of the best questions you can ask:

• What are some of the responsibilities I'll have in this position?
• What have other people in this position found most difficult?
• What would you say is the biggest challenge in this position?
• What's something I should learn before starting the job/internship?
• What are the most important qualities for the person in this position to have?
• What equipment / software do you use? (if relevant)
• When something goes wrong, how do you like the problem handled?
• What is your timeframe for filling the position?

6. Send a thank you note.

Even though the interview is over, there's one more thing you need to do to impress an employer: send a thank you note!

Yate said you should always send an email on the same day as your interview, but if you have several days or weeks before they make a decision, you should send a note through snail mail, too. "Nobody gets mail anymore, so it's a lovely break from the computer screen for the interviewer," Yate said. "Plus nobody else does it, so you'll stand out." 

What should you write in your thank you note? Luckily, you can keep it pretty short—three or four sentences are usually enough. Here's what you need:

Dear Ms. Smith,

Thank you so much for taking the time to talk with me today about the [job title] position. I enjoyed learning more about [the company] and the exciting opportunities it has to offer. After hearing more about the job, I’m confident that my experience and skills will make me a positive addition to your team. Thank you again for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,
Your Name

Yate says that if you answered a question in the interview poorly, you can redeem yourself in a thank you note or email. You can say you didn't quite answer the question fully, and you want to make sure the interviewer knows everything they need to about your skills, qualifications, and interest in the job. 

Even if your next interview is intimidating, following these tips will help you shine! The best part is that even if you don't get the job, you can think of the interview as great practice. The more interviews you have, the more confident you will be and the more likely you are to succeed in the future! 

Do you have any more tips to ace an interview? Share them in the comments!

Why can’t we ever seem to find our dream guy? We’re constantly inundated with rom-coms, books and advice columns telling us we “deserve” to find Prince Charming… and yet, he is nowhere to be found. Sure, we’ve met some great guys, but no one ever seems to be charming enough or make us laugh all the time or know exactly what we’re thinking every minute of every day. So what gives? 

What we sometimes forget is that our dream guy doesn’t exist (outside of the lives of Disney princess movies, that is!) and that—as much as we hate to admit it—we’re not exactly perfect ourselves. If you want to finally see the potential in the great guy who’s always been there instead of continuing your search for him, there are a few dating expectations you’re going to have to abandon. We talked to some dating experts to get the lowdown on what’s unrealistic to expect from our men.

1. A guy should be willing to fight for you. 

If your guy really thinks you’re worth it, he should be willing to take some pretty crazy risks to keep you on his arm—right?

According to Carole Lieberman, M.D., psychiatrist and author of Bad Girls: Why Men Love Them & How Good Girls Can Learn Their Secrets, you should only expect a guy to fight so much for your affection, both emotionally and physically. “If your guy really cares about you, he should stand up for you and feel challenged to win your heart over the guys who are competing for you,” she says. But really, there shouldn't be a reason for him to literally “fight” for you.

It’s fair to expect your partner to want the relationship, but what you can’t expect is that he’ll do anything to save it—especially if you’re the one putting your relationship at risk. “It is poor relationship etiquette to play games to get him to ‘fight’ for you,” says Lesli Doares, licensed marriage and family therapist at Balanced Family. “Purposely making him jealous to get him to show much he cares will only bring you trouble.”

So don’t flirt with another guy right in front of your significant other or not text your guy back for three days straight just to see how much he cares; trust that your guy values your relationship instead of testing him to see just how much he does.

2. Your guy should be willing to help you with anything you deem too gross, scary or difficult to deal with yourself. 

A nice guy will kill that scary spider in your shower for you, but a guy who cares about you should also help you realize that the damsel-in-distress act won’t get you anywhere.

“A man who loves you generally wants you to be happy, and will help if that would add to your happiness,” says Jasbina Ahluwalia, Founder and President of Intersections Match, an Indian matchmaking site. “That said… he also typically wants you to be able to stand on your own two feet.” A guy should want to help you assemble your IKEA bookshelf so you can learn and grow, not just to do it for you.

Guys should be willing to help you out, but that doesn’t mean they should always take over and take care of everything for you. “I think if your partner can and wants to help you with these things, that’s fine,” Doares says. “However, it is the expectation that they will that is problematic. Doing things out of love and generosity, not expectation, is the best policy for a healthy relationship.”

Basically, it’s great if your guy wants to help you research grad school programs, but don’t expect that he should start filling out the application forms for you.

3. A guy should pay for everything. 

You may think that if a guy really likes you, he should be willing to dish out any sort of money to keep you happy. And while you may expect your guy to treat you in the beginning of a relationship, Lieberman doesn’t think it’s fair to expect this to last. “Guys should offer to pay for dates,” she says. “But, as the relationship proceeds and you’re going a lot of places together, you can offer to pay for some of the things.” If he’s paying for the expensive concert tickets, then you can offer to pay for dinner beforehand.

Chivalry is nice, but that doesn’t mean you can’t treat your guy now and then, too. “The best rule of thumb to follow is that whoever asks for or arranges the date should pay,” Doares says. “If this is him, he should pay; if it’s you, you should. Once you are in a relationship, things should become more equitable.”

So unless you’re dating an actual prince with an unlimited bank account, your guy will probably appreciate your financial assistance.

4. He should remember everything you tell him. 

How could your guy forget your favorite flavor of ice cream or how you lost your first tooth or what the name of your pet fish was when you were six? Well, can you honestly remember all those things about him?

“Unless you can do the same, you have no ground to stand on,” Doares says. “Even if you can remember everything he tells you, including the minutiae of his favorite sports team or video game, you are setting him and your relationship up for failure.”

You and your guy naturally don’t have the same levels of interest in all things, and it’s fine if you’re more attuned to what you’re interested in. What you must keep in mind is that the reverse is true as well.

It is fair to expect your guys to remember the important things, however. “If he forgets your birthday or something that’s important to you, such as where you want to go to grad school, where you were born or that your parents are divorced, this is not a good sign,” Lieberman says. The best you both can do is put forth your best effort and spend as much time listening as you do sharing.

5. He should always know what you’re thinking.

Sure, you didn’t tell him you were upset that he had to cancel your date last Friday night, but he should just know you are… shouldn’t he?

You may think that people can read you like a book, but you can’t always expect your guy to read you correctly. Even if you think you’ve made it clear you’d rather not go to his friend’s party tonight or that you want to order in sushi for dinner instead of pizza, your guy can’t get on the same page as you unless you say your thoughts out loud.

According to Doares, guys aren’t mind readers, and we shouldn’t treat them as such. “Neither of you can change your personality, but you both are in charge of your behavior,” she explains. It’s up to us to convey to our partner what we’re thinking and feeling rather than expecting him to know that crossing your arms over your chest means you’re hungry and sighing means you’re bored of watching his football game on TV. 

6. Your guy should always know the right thing to say. 

Sure, Ryan Gosling knows just how to charm you—but what you forget sometimes is that Ryan Gosling has all his best lines written for him.

“While Hollywood (or Bollywood) screenwriters always seem to know just the ‘right’ things to say at just the right time, holding men unversed in the script to such an unrealistic standard is a recipe for disappointment,” Ahluwalia says.

Guys can be at a loss for words just as often as you are. As Lieberman points out, “Guys are notorious for saying the wrong thing, especially when they are feeling awkward, nervous or pressured.”

More than anything, you should be cautious when a guy seems a little too smooth. “Any guy who knows the right thing to say before he even knows you should send up warning flags,” Doares says. These are the guys who have mastered the script and will say the right thing to get what they want. Real people fumble sometimes, especially early in a relationship.

If you’re willing to take the time to show your guy what you like and need from him, he’ll say things that will make you happy—and better yet, he’ll mean them.

7. Your guy should make grand gestures that sweep you off your feet. 

Who doesn’t want to be kissed in the rain or get a dozen red roses or ride a chariot into the sunset? According to Doares, however, this is the expectation that needs to be shattered the most. “This desire for grand gestures isn’t about him or about the relationship,” she says. “Real love is what is done when no one can see.”

Whether your guy is bringing you soup when you’re sick, making you dinner when you’ve had a hard day or watching a romantic comedy with you when he really wants to watch the basketball game, little acts of generosity can leave a big impact.

Even though those small, thoughtful gestures can mean a lot more than grand ones, it’s okay to want something other than dinner and a movie sometimes. Your guy may not have all that imagination or courage, but Lieberman says there are ways to make your hopes clear to your guy. “You could drop hints every now and then,” she says. “For example, if you're watching a movie together where a guy brings a girl roses, you could say, ‘I would love it if a guy surprised me with roses for no special occasion other than to show me he cares.’ Wink, wink. But, if he doesn't get the hint, don't push it.”

If your guy is on the shy side, just know that his small gestures are still evidence of how much he cares. 

While we can have expectations set up for ourselves, our relationships become destructive when we create expectations for other people. According to relationship coach Kim Olver, “Expectations are the things that get us in trouble in our relationships and our lives.” Expect your partner to treat you well, to make you feel special and to accept you for whom you are as a person—but never expect your guy to be perfect, or you’ll only end up disappointed. 

To keep life from getting you down, one of the most effective things you can do for yourself is dedicate time to proper self-care. You may have an avalanche of other responsibilities to attend to, whether it’s school or friends or work, but let’s be real: life’s going to suck unless you try to maintain your emotional and physical well-being through getting plenty of you time.

Don’t know where to start? Luckily, our favorite TV roommates—Nick, Schmidt and Winston—are chock-full of unexpected wisdom that we can keep in mind through all of life’s ups and downs. So the next time you’re in need of a little self-care, channel your inner New Girl bros and get ready to love yourself.

Are you ready? Let’s get started.

1. Spice up your daily routine with plenty of self-affirmation.

2. Treat yourself to your favorite things on a regular basis.

3. Give yourself plenty of time for rest and relaxation.

4. Like, whole days of it, if necessary.

5. Free yourself of societal expectations and let your freak flag fly.

6. Never apologize for the things that make you happy.

7. Don’t get hung up on past mistakes. Apologize, pay penance or do whatever you need to do to let it go—then move on.

8. Embrace your sexuality and celebrate the sexy thang you are by wearing what you want, doing what you want and experimenting until you know just what you like.

9. Stop taking yourself so seriously by letting loose as often as possible, preferably at a loud volume.

10. Cleanse your life of any negative relationships you have with food. Remember: you shouldn’t deprive yourself of food you love.

11. However, if you do want to cut out some of your guilty-pleasure foods for a healthier lifestyle, take baby steps so you don’t get overwhelmed.

12. Channel your inner model whenever you feel like it. The world is your runway, beautiful.

13. Constantly remind yourself what an awesome dancer you are by breaking it down wherever you see fit.

14. Stay hydrated for a clear, happy mind.

15. Increase your day-to-day quality of life by maintaining relationships with adorable and/or fluffy animals. Even if they’re not your own.

16. Remember that your emotions are valid and deserve to be felt. You don’t always have to be okay.

17. Celebrate your talents and qualities without comparing yourself to others.

18. Remember that there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel.

19. Finally, treat yourself just as well as you treat the people you love… because you deserve it!

We all need a little guidance now and then, so whether you’re stressed about a fling gone wrong or a recently wrecked relationship or you’re wondering how to handle a stage-five clinger, Real Live College Guy Dale is here to help you navigate the college dating scene.

I’ve been seeing a guy for a while now. Everything seems to be going well; he took me out on Valentine's Day to an expensive restaurant and got me flowers. He has taken me on dates and we do pretty well just spending time together. He's the type of guy who doesn't have to be in constant communication, which I like.

We have been in this weird "talking" stage for a while now, though, and it makes me a little bit unsure. I feel like I shouldn't be waiting around for him to make the move since we haven't had the DTR conversation and there are other guys who have asked me on dates. What should I do—take the new opportunities, or wait on this guy? –Make a Move? at Mississippi State

Mississippi,

Honesty goes a long way. I know a lot of women who believe that men should always initiate the DTR conversation—after all, if a guy is interested in being with you, then what would keep him from doing so? But that’s not always the case.

I think the most likely reason for his silence is that he’s nervous. I’ve said this before, but not every guy is able to muster up that courage to have that DTR talk. This shouldn’t reflect poorly on him, nor should it be taken as a general disinterest in you. If a guy is nervous, it means he’s nervous. Some people—men and woman alike—always say stuff like, “Well, what’s the worst that can happen—she says ‘No’?” like “No” can’t feel like a punch in the gut, especially if it’s coming from someone you’re head over heels for. The possibility of “no” can instill a great fear in some guys, and that’s a hard thing to face.

Moreover, does he know that other guys are lining up to ask you out? If that’s the case, maybe his nervousness is stemming from the perception that you aren’t totally interested in him.

Of course, the other option is that maybe he just isn’t interested anymore. Perhaps at one point he was, but he hasn’t found a way to let you down yet. However, I think this option is less likely than him just being too nervous to talk about your relationship. If he had lost interest, I think you’d have noticed by now. Signs of this would include increasingly fewer texts, shorter replies and flat-out ignoring you, among other things.

You like him, Mississippi; that’s clear even from reading your message. If this means that much to you, I strongly advise you to initiate the conversation first. If I’m right and he is just nervous, then you initiating that conversation will at the very least prove to him that you are interested in something more and will definitely relieve some of his nerves. Call him and tell him you want to talk to him, see if he wants to go out or skip the fluff and straight up ask him what you two are… if you’re anything at all.

And really, if you didn’t think he was worth the wait, then you wouldn’t have sent in this question in the first place. 

Sometimes we are not sure what's going on down there, but paying attention to your vaginal discharge can possibly save your life. Although it is a normal thing, it can also point to signs that you need to see a doctor. So when should you be concerned? We spoke to Dr. Patricia Mirwaldt, director of student health service at the University of British Columbia, to get the 4-1-1 on vaginal discharge.

What Is Vaginal Discharge?

Vaginal discharge is a normal part of our reproductive system. In fact, we start to get discharge once we start our periods. The purpose of discharge is to clear out dead cells and bacteria, according to WebMD. Normal discharge is usually clear or white. However, your discharge can change slightly, depending on the phase of your menstrual cycle, the amount of fluids you consume and the type of medication you're on (decongestants and antidepressants can dry out vaginal secretions, and antibiotics can change your discharge), says Dr. Mirwaldt.

Here is (generally) what to expect:

A couple of days after your period has ended, there will be little to no discharge. Later you’ll start to develop more (usually clear or “can look and be as stringy as egg whites," says Dr. Mirwaldt) and it will last 14 days until the next period. "And then the discharge tends to get thicker, hard to see through and more clumpy than stringy," says Dr. Mirwaldt.

Dr. Mirwaldt has many women come in to see her with concerns about the amount of discharge they are secreting. But she wants to let us know that you shouldn't be too concerned if you notice a difference in the volume of discharge.

A common reason could be the amount of sexual activity you are engaging in. “So for example, someone who is involved in a sexual relationship after not having been [sexual] for a few months, your discharge amount is going to change because sexual stimulation increases discharge,” says Dr. Mirwaldt. 

Phew. So then when should we start to worry?

What Are Signs of Abnormal Discharge?

There are three things you should look out for: unfamiliar color, a bad smell or weird consistency. If any of these things are off, and are accompanied by pain, swelling, itching or redness, it may be a sign of something more serious.

Abnormal discharge could be a sign of one of the following:

Yeast infection

A yeast infection is a fungal infection that is probably more common than we think. “Most women have experienced a yeast infection once in their lifetime. Some more often than that,” says Dr. Mirwaldt. 

Our vaginas have a normal type and amount of yeast, fungus and bacteria. If it gets out of balance, it can create redness of the walls of the vagina and cause an odor, itchiness and thick, white and cottage cheese-esque discharge, she explains.

It can be treated with over-the-counter medications or prescription medication. The anti-fungal treatment can come in the form of a cream, ovul, or a pill (taken orally). They all take about the same time to work (3-5 days) and are around the same price. Check in with health services on your campus if you need to get a prescription. They can also test for a yeast infection with a pelvic exam, but you’ll often be prescribed medication without a test if you are experiencing symptoms because it is so common.

Any woman can get a yeast infection. “Fungal infections are not related to having had sex, so a woman who hasn’t had sex can get it,” says Dr. Mirwaldt.

Bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is another infection (this time caused by bacteria) that can occur with or without sex. 

If you notice white or gray or yellowish discharge, accompanied by a fishy scent, this may be a sign that you have bacterial vaginosis. If you also experience itching, burning, swelling and redness, get checked by a doctor. It might not itch as much as a yeast infection, but it can cause a general discomfort and discomfort during sex.

Bacterial vaginosis is diagnosed through a swab, which you can get done at health services. 

If you have it, according to Dr. Mirwaldt, many women can clear it on their own if they’re not pregnant. It might last a week or two before going away without being treated. 

“Sometimes vaginosis is persistent,” warns Dr. Mirwaldt. “If you have it for two or three weeks and it’s not going away, then we recommend [you get] a medication for it.” Once again, see a medical professional about an antibiotic to treat this.

Trichomonas

Trichomonas is a common STI. Although the majority of people infected with trichomonas do not experience any signs or symptoms, some women experience vaginal discharge that could be an obvious sign of this STI. Look out for frothy discharge with a greenish color, accompanied by a strong, unpleasant (usually fishy) smell. However, some people experience a fishy odor, but do not always have trichomonas, says Dr. Mirwaldt.

Trichomonas is treated with an antibiotic metronidazole (usually taken for seven days). Dr. Mirwaldt recommends that if you are diagnosed with trichomonas, your partner should be tested and treated as well.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea another one of those tricky STIs that you can have without experiencing any symptoms. However, a common symptom is small amounts of a thicker, greenish yellow or sometimes bloody discharge. Other symptoms of gonorrhea also can include burning during urination, leaking urine and pain in the pelvis or lower abdomen, according to WebMD.

Dr. Mirwaldt warns that you cannot always rely on discharge to tell you whether or not you have gonorrhea. If you suspect you have it, you can get a swab or a urine test done.

It is also common that chlamidya also occurs with gonorrhea, so get tested for both.

Dr. Mirwaldt warns: “You shouldn’t wait for the signs to be tested. If you had sexual activity without protection it would be a good idea to check to see whether you have chlamidya or gonorrhea.”

Again, go to health services for an official diagnosis and to get treatment (antibiotic injection or oral antibiotics).

Cervical cancer

Usually bloody or brown discharge is a result of an irregular menstrual cycle. But sometimes it can be a sign of cervical cancer or endometrial cancer.

Brianna*, a student at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, knows the importance of paying attention to any unusual discharge. Her mother, who was diagnosed with vaginal cancer, noticed something different about her discharge.

"That was the first symptom she noticed. Her discharge started to have a consistency more like urine. Shortly thereafter, she started to notice an odor to it as well,” says Brianna.

“Her doctor discounted these symptoms until she started spotting constantly, but had someone paid attention to what she noticed, her cancer would have been found and treated much sooner."

However, there’s no need to panic. 

“In the student population, that’s really quite rare,” says Dr. Mirwaldt. “What we would be looking for is a precancerous condition and that would be an abnormal cell in your cervix, which is what we use a pap test to look for.”

It’s important to get a regular pap smear and tell your doctor if there is any pain or itching associated with discharge. 

Tips On How to Avoid Abnormal Discharge

• We might love satin and lace panties, but a good way to prevent infection is by wearing cotton underwear. Also avoid tight underwear and tight jeans.
• Stay away from using douches or using any scented soaps. Bubble baths can also upset the balance of normal vaginal bacteria, which can cause infection and result in abnormal discharge. Instead, use mild soap.
• The best way to prevent STIs is to use condoms during sexual intercourse, and even during oral sex (gonorrhea can be contracted through oral sex).
• After urinating, wipe from the front to the back, instead of the back to the front. This will help prevent an infection by preventing bacteria from getting into the vagina.

If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s best to be safe and visit a doctor as soon as possible. It may be an embarrassing topic, but with your health at risk, it’s worth it to bring it up. 

Dr. Mirwaldt advises avoiding euphemisms. It’s good to be specific and let the doctor know exactly what is going on. “If someone says, I’m itchy down-there,’ are they talking about their feet or are they talking about their vagina?”

The most important thing to remember is that you shouldn’t be embarrassed because your doctor is not. “Even though this is your first time talking about this, a physician or a nurse practitioner may deal with it everyday,” says Dr. Mirwaldt. Probably every other person who comes in will have this conversation with them, so we’re very comfortable talking about it. It’s just like an everyday occurrence for us.”  So keep an eye on what’s going on, and stay safe!

As you’re browsing Pinterest, Instagram or Tumblr, trying to procrastinate from whatever pressing homework you probably should have done already, it’s common to come across a shopping site you’ve never heard of. How can you know if a particular site is legit? Who even has time to research to find out?

Luckily, you have us at Her Campus to do it for you. We love online shopping just as much as (if not more than) the next girl, so when it comes to feeding our style addiction, we know how important it is to research and compare sites. If you’re tired to scrolling through your go-to sites and feel like you’re no longer digging what they have to offer, then it may be time to check out some new offerings. These are our favorite online shopping sites (that you’ve probably never heard of!).

1. Ruche (shopruche.com)

Full of pretty, vintage-inspired dresses and tops, Ruche is an indie girl’s shopping heaven. If you’re into lace detailing and floral prints, check out their collection of clothes, accessories and shoes. Some of our favorite items include an ethereal blue faux-wrap dress ($62.99), this dreamy jeweled statement necklace ($24.99) and these fun yet functional woven sandals ($38.99). There’s also an adorable home décor section stocked with cookbooks, notebooks and candles.

2. Pixie Market (pixiemarket.com)

This NY-based retailer stocks flirty dresses and girly accessories, all at a collegiette-friendly price. Pixie Market also curates a “$20$30$40” sale section, where nothing passes $40, making it a great place to score an awesome deal. If you’re a new-age flower child, you’ll love this white summer lace dress ($62). Lovers of modern vintage will love Pixie Market’s selection, too, especially this crop top and short set ($65). We could scroll through their website for hours; it’s absolute perfection.

3. DailyLook (dailylook.com)

Los Angeles retailer DailyLook offers a full styling experience for customers. When you choose a shirt on their site, for instance, complementing shorts, shoes and accessories (chosen by the site’s stylists) will show up on the sidebar to help you create an entire look. You can even chat with a stylist while you’re shopping for suggestions and answers to questions about sizing and shipping. Because the site is based in California, the aesthetic is very surfer-girl chic—think burnout tees, crop tops and super-short shorts. We’re obsessed with this music-festival-ready crop top ($39.99) and this sexy yet chic trapeze dress ($29.99)

4. 2020AVE (shop.2020ave.com)

2020AVE, also based in LA, is curated for what founders Brian Kim and Eric Hwang call “your inner fashion rebel.” The entire site is affordable, with dozens of dresses, tops and bottoms to choose from. We’re coveting a pair of their lounge shorts ($22) and jagged-edge watercolor skort ($38). Under the “Lookbooks” tab are small, aptly-named curated shops, like “Wild Thing” and “Diamond Girl.” Within these smaller shops are collections of similarly styled separates for you to mix and match to create an entire look. We want literally everything.

5. Wanderlust + Co (wanderlustandco.com)

We are big fans of this Melbourne, Australia-based jewelry company, which launched in 2010 and has since taken over our Pinterest feeds. Shipping is free on orders over $50, which isn’t a hard number to reach given the wealth of beautiful, delicate rings and chunky necklaces on the site. Wanderlust + Co is popular all over the world, and it’s no wonder why. This spiked gunmetal necklace ($55) is enough to capture our hearts, let alone this sweet ring ($35), which says “oui” (coincidentally, the same thing we said to this website!).

6. Sosie (shopsosie.com)

If you’re looking to update your wardrobe for spring without breaking the bank, check out this online retailer for pretty pastels and cute cutouts. A bright floral skirt ($33) will carry you from class to work to the library, and when Friday night comes along, you can slip into a bright romper ($39) to dance the night away. While you’re shopping, be sure to peruse the accessory section of the website as well for unique, hipster-esque pieces, like the Minal necklace ($19) or the Roadtripper aviator sunglasses in black ($16).

7. PUBLIK (shoppublik.com)

This trend-conscious site sells sweet and reasonably priced clothes, such as summery tie-dye dresses ($26), navy floral overalls ($29) (need!) and some pretty sweet bling, like this necklace, which will only run you $26. Shipping is free for orders over $75, and they also have a pretty solid sale section.

8. River Island (us.riverisland.com)

Our friends in the UK have known about River Island forever, but the retailer is just starting to get popular here in the U.S. The dominant style is reminiscent of Topshop or Urban Outfitters, and although stores have popped up all over the UK, the only way the U.S. has access to their affordable style is online. Because we’re digging all things that remind us summer is just around the corner, we can’t get over this pineapple crop top ($30) and this floral necklace ($30). Luckily, they ship overseas!

9. Pree Brulée(preebrulee.com)

Pree Brulée may be the most adorable online jewelry store we’ve ever seen. Each order comes packaged in a charming box, and a lot of the pieces are sparkly, so we. Are. Sold. Items sell out relatively quickly, so make sure to jump on something if you think you can’t live without it. We’re currently lusting after the Paris Fashion Week statement necklace ($68), which is pure sparkly gloriousness, and this super-girly pink glitter watch ($48), which looks like something you could buy from a candy store. Yum!

10. Necessary Clothing (necessaryclothing.com)

Though this store doesn’t operate completely online (there are a few NYC store locations), most of us can only browse the racks of Necessary Clothing, a brand that Pinterest users are obsessed with, though their online store. The looks are super hip, like a true New Yorker is, but allow you to look style-blogger chic without busting your budget. Crocheted tops ($24.99) will be perfect for hanging out on rooftop bars or at beach bonfires this summer, while a pair of tie-dye shorts ($18.99) will be ideal for throwing on before heading to lay out at the pool. Be sure to browse their blog while you’re shopping for major style inspiration!

11.Choies (choies.com)

It takes a little bit of stamina to get through this street-style driven site, but the free international shipping and awesome deals make it worth it. Stay focused and search their items for Tumblr-worthy separates, cat-printed leggings ($19.99) (we want them; don’t judge!), and more crop tops than you’ll know what to do with. We suggest clearing your schedule, because you’re going to want to dedicate a few good hours to browsing.

We obviously love online shopping. It’s not an addiction, though; it’s a lifestyle. 

Name: Robby Rodriguez

School: WVU

Age: 21

Hometown: Northfield, NJ

Major: Excerise Physiology

Celebrity Crush: Kate Upton

What's fun about Robby? He's got better dance moves than anyone you know

Name: Kai Fiske
School: Bucknell
Hometown: Palos Verdes, California
Major: Undecided
Class Year: 2016

The Basics:

• Favorite book: Harry Potter
• Favorite Movie: Step Brothers
• Favorite Store: J Crew
• Most Played Song on your ipod: Otherside by Macklemore
• Favorite Class at Bucknell: Economics
• Campus Activities: Concert Committee
• General Interests: Music, Baseball, Football
• Little Known Fact: I was born in Pennsylvania but moved to California when I was three

Girls, Girls, Girls:

• Relationship: Single
• What do you look for in a girl: A sense of humor
• Female turnoff: Too serious
• Celebrity Crush: Kate Upton

Best of the Rest:

• Proudest Accomplishment: Getting into Bucknell
• Where do you see yourself in 10 years: Having a good job or traveling the world
• 3 words to describe yourself: Funny, Enthusiastic, Happy

Name:Jonny Mydra

School: Minnesota

Hometown: Minnetonka, Minnesota

Year: Sophomore

Major: Finance

Relationship Status: Single

Interesting Fact: I will be studying abroad in Sweden spring semester.

Favorite Sports Team: Miami Heat

Favorite thing about the University of Minnesota: The city atmosphere and the cute girls.

Dream job: President of the United States

Favorite restaurant: Jimmy Johns

Celeb crush: Kate Upton or Lucy Hale

Favorite movie: Knowing Aaron

Favorite song: Heart of the City - Jay Z

Name: Chad Kehoe

School: SMU

Hometown: Jacksonville, Florida

Greek Affiliation: None

Single or Taken: Single

Hobbies: Lacrosse, Movies, Will Ferrell

Celebrity Crush: Kate Upton

Dream Job: Sports/Entertainment Agent

Biggest Turn Off When it comes to girls: Girls who aren't confident.

Most embarrassing moment at SMU: Falling down stairs of Dallas Hall first week.

Ideal Date: Skydiving followed by a romantic dinner at NOBU.

Name: Mike Jones
School: Maryland
Class: 2015
Hometown: London, England
Major: Business/Pre-med

Interests: Soccer, traveling, conspiracies
Activities: Club soccer, Phi Delta Theta, Premed society
Favorite soccer team: Liverpool
Relationship status: Single
Favorite: Fish and Chips
Favorite store: Vineyard Vines
Favorite show: The Bachelor and Friends
Dream girl: Kate Upton
If you could be an animal, what would you be? A kangaroo

Basic Facts
Name: Steven Farley
School: U Maine
Hometown: Brewer, Maine
Relationship Status: Single
Sign: Aries

Campus Life

Major: Mechanical Engineering
Favorite thing about UMaine: Hockey Games
How are you involved on campus: Sigma Phi Epsilon, Naked 5
Favorite place to eat in Orono: Pats 
Campus posse (name some friends): Mark Rucci, Andrew Hawkins, Nate Frazier, Logan Desmond, Alec Young, Jake Ward.
Best place to meet girls at UMaine: Parties 
Why did you choose UMaine: Engineering
Best Professor: Senthil Vel
Best Class: Physics with Bernhardt
Worst Class: Diff Eq's
How do you like to spend your weekends here: Going to hockey games, hanging out with friends

Miscellaneous
What is on your ipod's top rated: My Kinda Party - Jason Aldean
Boxers or Briefs:  Boxer Briefs
An embarrassing confession: I know more about amusement parks than anyone I know.
Guilty Pleasure: The movie Pitch Perfect is incredible
Ski or Snowboard: Ski
Salty or Sweet: Salty 
Cats or Dogs: Cats
Dream job: Designing roller coasters
Biggest Pet Peeve: People who are full of themselves  
Three words to describe yourself: Hard working, Alpha Male, Jackhammer...

Favorites
Favorite song to dance to at a party: Infinity by Guru Josh Project (but I don't dance much)
Favorite food: Steak
Favorite Beer: PBR 
Favorite App (game or otherwise): NHL app

The Nitty Gritty

How do you let someone know you're interested in them: Tell them/ask them to hangout 
What do you look for in a girl:  Good sense of humor, easy to get along with
Deal-breaker: Smokers
Celebrity Girl Crush: Kate Upton
Celebrity Man Crush: George Clooney

Basic Facts
Name: Jordan Theriault
School: U Maine
Hometown: Rumford, Maine
Relationship Status: Taken
Sign: Pisces

Twitter? @JorTheriault

Campus Life
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Favorite thing about UMaine: Weekend activities
How are you involved on campus: Intramural Soccer
Favorite place to eat in Orono: The Roost

Campus posse (name some friends): Nerdy engineering kids with too many books

Best place to meet girls at UMaine: Not in engineering classes!
Why did you choose UMaine: Full tuition scholarship was pretty hard to turn down

Best Professor: Paul Van Steenberghe

Best Class: Senior Capstone – SAE Clean Snowmobile Team

Worst Class: Heat Transfer
How do you like to spend your weekends here: Sleeping most of the day and with friends for the night

Miscellaneous
What is on your ipod's top rated: ASAP Ferg, Kendrick, Moufy

Boxers or Briefs: Boxer briefs
An embarrassing confession: I’m no longer allowed to walk home drunk…

Guilty Pleasure: Rihanna
Ski or Snowboard: Snowboarding
Salty or Sweet: Sweet
Cats or Dogs: Dogs
Dream job: Travelling the world with my acoustic guitar
Biggest Pet Peeve: When people need 2 spaces to park

Favorite Charity: ASPCA

Three words to describe yourself: Tall, dark and handsome

Favorites

Favorite songs to dance to at a party: Mashups
Favorite food: Buffalo Wings
Favorite Beer: PBR, Rolling Rock, and Boston Lager
Favorite App (game or otherwise): Sonic Dash

Pick up line: “How YOU doin?”

The Nitty Gritty

Craziest place you've ever had sex: Raft on a river in the middle of Carthage

How do you let someone know you're interested in them: With a smile, a conversation, and plans for the weekend
What do you look for in a significant other: Beauty with a brain
Deal-breaker: Too high maintenance

Celebrity Girl Crush: Kate Upton
Celebrity Man Crush: Gerard Butler

Basic Facts
Name: Kyle Hutchinson
School: U Maine
Hometown: Dixfield, ME
Relationship Status: Single
Sign: Aquarius

Twitter? Maybe someday

Campus Life
Major: Premed/ Biology
Favorite thing about UMaine: The people.
How are you involved on campus:  Beta Theta Pi
Favorite place to eat in Orono: The Roost
Campus posse (name some friends):  Nick Woods, Ryan Hall, Brandon Jonaitis, John Fassak.

Best place to meet girls at UMaine: At the library, obviously.

Why did you choose UMaine: Great Parking

Best Professor: Brian Olsen

Best Class: Medical Physiology
Worst Class: Organic Chem
How do you like to spend your weekends here: Out with friends

Miscellaneous
What is on your ipod's top rated: Timeflies Tuesday/ Macklemore
Boxers or Briefs: Boxerbriefs
An embarrassing confession: I buy women’s shaving cream.

Guilty Pleasure: Strawberritas
Ski or Snowboard: Snowboard
Salty or Sweet: Sweet
Cats or Dogs:  Dogs
Dream job: Pediatric Oncologist
Biggest Pet Peeve: Bad Tippers

Favorite Charity: Boys and Girls Club
Three words to describe yourself: Crazy, Sarcastic, Honest

Favorites
Favorite song to dance to at a party: And We Danced- Macklemore & Ryan Lewis
Favorite food: Chinese
Favorite Beer: Pumpkinhead
Favorite App (game or otherwise): Snapchat
Pick up line: Do you sleep on your stomach? Oh, can I?

 
The Nitty Gritty
Craziest place you've ever had sex: Dorm Showers
How do you let someone know you're interested in them: I poke her on Facebook
What do you look for in a girl: A sense of humor
Deal-breaker: Overbearing

Celebrity Girl Crush: Kate Upton
Celebrity Man Crush: Ryan Reynolds

Joey Burchard is this week's Campus Cutie, and is certainly worthy of the title. He's an Mechanical Engineering sophomore from Lindenhurt, Illinois. Joey enjoys the simple parts of life, but also loves an an intellectual challange. He spends lots of time with friends, and often plays Sushi Cat (it's a computer thing). 

School: Marquette

What is your Dream Job?
I would like to become an engineer for a prestigious company.

What is the first thing you notice about a girl?
I notice her smile. That is if I'm funny enough.

What is your favorite pick-up line?
I like to use the 'How much does a polar bear weigh?' line.

Favorite disney movie?
Thanks to my sister, Tangled is my favorite disney movie.

If you could have lunch with anyone, dead or alive, who would you pick? 
I would like to have lunch with Neil Armstrong to find out first-hand how it was to be on the moon.

Extracurriculars: ASME, Intermural Volleyball, and Inspired by Curiosity.

Favorite Movie: Remember the Titans

Favorite Song: Thnks Fr Th Mmrs by Fall Out Boy

Favorite Food: Puppy Chow!

If he could marry one celebrity, he'd chose: Kate Upton

Favorite Spot in Milwaukee: The Beach

Favorite Color: Blue

Which Care Bear do you identify to the most: I would relate with Wish Bear the most because never give up the opportunity to wish.

Favorite Sport: Soccer

Favorite place to take a girl on a date: The Movies.

Favorite Late-Night Snack: Ice cream.

If you were on legend of the hidden temple which team would you be on? Green Monkeys 

Name: Nick Iuliano

School: JMU

Year: Sophomore

Hometown: Chesapeake, Va.

Major: Business management

Relationship status: Taken

If you could have any super power in the world what would it be and why: Fly so I could go anywhere at any time really fast

What attracts you most about a girl: A laid-back personality

Celebrity crush: Kate Upton

Favorite drink: Crown Royal

Favorite food: Nachos

Describe yourself in three words: Friendly, humble and positive

Meet Chris Bergin, a Finance major who's this week's Campus Cutie! 

School - U Conn
Year - Junior
Major - Finance
Hometown– Stoke Mandeville, England/Wilton, CT

Name:James Beyer

School: Fordham

Single or Taken: Taken

Major: Accounting and Finance

What he’s looking for in a significant other: A sweetheart who always wants to have a good time.

Why he picked Fordham: Because there’s no reasons not to.

Campus involvement: Global Outreach and sports intramurals.

What is one thing that you do not understand about the opposite sex? Their obsession with The Bachelor.

What is your hidden talent? Playing the clarinet…

Do you prefer to make the first move of have her come to you? I’ll make the first move.

Who is your celebrity crush? A tie between Kate Upton and Kim K.

What is your life motto? Everything happens for a reason.

Name: Manny Chavez

School: U Illinois-Chicago

Year: Freshman

Major: Kinesiology

Hometown: Whiting, IN

Relationship Status: Single

Hobbies/Activities: Playing sports and hanging with family/friends

What is the most important characteristic a girl has to have?: A sense of humor and a cute smile

What is your favorite sport?: Soccer

What do you want to do when you grow up?: Personal Trainer

Describe a perfect date: Dinner on the beach as the sun sets

What song explains your mood right now?: Birthday sex

Who is your celebrity crush?: Kate Upton

If you could go anywhere in the world and only bring one person, where would you go and who would you bring?: Bora Bora and my mom

Name: Thomas ‘Chaz’ Harrison

School: Kansas

Age: 21

Year in School: Junior

Hometown: Overland Park, Kansas

Major: Economics

Relationship Status: Single

Campus Activities/Interests: I’m a One Direction groupie with aspirations of being a telemarketer one day. Member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity and House boy for Kappa Kappa Gamma. 

Celeb Crush: Kate Upton

One surprising fact about yourself: I am McLovin’

What do you look for in a girl: Personality, good sense of humor, not a diva

Favorite movie: Superbad

Favorite song: Anything Lil’ Wayne

Turn ons: Anyone that likes to laugh, have a good time, and be adventurous 

Turn offs: Boring and girls that smoke cigarettes

Where do you see yourself in 10 years: High school basketball coach and a State Farm agent

Guilty pleasure: Slightly chubby women

Nicknames: Chaz

Name: Tim Eldridge
School: Georgetown
School and Year: College, freshmen
Relationship Status: In a relationship
Hometown: Columbus, OH

Give me your best pick up line:
Are you from Tennessee? Because you're the only ten I see.

Describe yourself in three words:
Fun, smart, honest

Blondes or brunettes?
Brunettes

Best place to pick up girls on campus?
My girlfriend goes to GW...

Favorite movie, book and musical artist?
Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, and right now probably Macklemore

Favorite class at Georgetown? 
My Ignatius Seminar

Who is your celebrity crush?
Kate Upton

Why is Georgetown the best?
Because everyone is really smart but still knows how to have fun.

Name: Alex Zidani

School: WVWC

Year: Freshman

Major: Sports Management

Activities: Men's soccer at Wesleyan

Hometown: Sarasota, Fla.

Relationship status: Single

Nickname: "Z"

Favorite Movie: Never Back Down

Best pick up line: Can I hakuna your ma-tata's?

Dream date: A day at the beach

Turn on: If she plays soccer

Turn off: Cigarettes

Celebrity crush: Kate Upton

Would you rather a girl be athletic or smart? Smart

Pet peeve: People that are annoying

Blonde or Brunette? Brunette

Country girl or City girl? City

Clever, cute and athletic? Alex is definitely a winner. Be sure to keep an eye out for Alex both on campus and on the soccer field this upcoming season, ladies!

Name: Jonny Polster

School: Maryland
 
Major: Finance
 
Year: Sophomore
 
Hometown: Cleveland, OH
 
Relationship Status: “Single and ready to mingle”

If you were stranded on an Island what three things would you bring?
“Kate Upton, tanning oil, Words With Friends”
 
Best date spot in College Park: “Ledo’s.”
 
In your free time you: “Paint.”
 
Favorite feature: “Personality and thick facial hair.”
 
First thing you notice in a girl: “Eyes.”
 
Dream job: “Professional photographer.”
 
If you could only have one song stuck in your head forever: “Don’t stop believing by Journey. But the Glee version, of course.”
 
Best pick up line: “Am I awake? Because I’ve seen you in my dreams.”
 
If you could be a cartoon character, who would you be: “Butters from South Park.”

Name: Brett Lysik

School: Illinois State

Age: 19

Major: Information Technology

Hometown: New Lenox

Affiliation: Red Bird Nation, Intermural soccer

Status: “Single, Single, Single.”

Ideal Date: “Ocean front view on a private island.”

Favorite Food: Steak

First thing you notice about a girl: Personality

Last song played on iPod: "Live Set" from Ultra Music Festival

Celeb Crush: Kate Upton

Where do you see yourself in 10 years: “Married, living out west, successful, and still snowboarding and wake boarding!”

Random Fact: “Girls with tattoos and piercings are always a plus.”

So you’ve started going out with this wonderful new guy. He’s handsome, he’s sweet, he’s totally Prince Charming (or as much of one as you can expect from a college guy). There’s just one teensy, weensy problem. His ex is all over campus and she’s made it clear that she wants him back. One of the first things you’re inclined to do is to size her up. You might start comparing yourself to her, but that’s the last thing you should do. He’s with you now, right? That means that things didn’t work out with her. If his ex is still hung up on him, she’s probably doing the same thing you are (“What does he see in her? What does she have that I don’t?”) So the first thing you should do is stop comparing yourself to her. 

If you find that you’re constantly running into one of his exes, keeping your cool when she’s obviously still into him can be a big challenge. Well, ladies, don’t worry; we’ve got the scoop on what to do in the most common situations.

She’s in one of your classes

When you’re in the same class as one of your boyfriend’s exes, you might end up being assigned to work with her on a class project. “When I dated this one guy awhile back, I always had to work on projects with his ex,” says Alexia*, a collegiette from Case Western University. “It was awkward, but she was really nice. I actually felt guilty for dating him!”

While you definitely shouldn’t feel guilty for being the one who’s with him now, feeling awkward is completely normal. Jodi R. R. Smith, the president and owner of Mannersmith and author of The Etiquette Book: A Complete Guide to Modern Manners, advises maintaining your professionalism and focusing on the project or class assignment. “Take the bull by the horn,” Smith says. Your goal is to get an education, not to appease your boyfriend’s ex. 

She suggests acknowledging the awkwardness by saying something like, “I think we have two choices: either go to the professor and ask for different partners or we put our differences aside and work like crazy on this project to earn a good grade. What do you think we should do?” This lets the ex know that you’re not going to be pushed around, and the next move is up to her. 

She shows up at the same party

So you and your new guy got invited to the biggest bash of the year on campus. Everyone is there, and we mean everyone... including his ex-girlfriend. Parties tend to be the perfect setting for high-strung drama, but you don’t need to give in to the impulse to hold your man a little bit tighter just because she’s around. How you handle yourself around his ex will show him that you’re either confident or clingy, and you want to come across as confident (even if you’re seething inside). If your boyfriend is like most guys, he hates running into his ex as much as you do. 

Sean McFarland, one of HC's former Real Live College Guys, thinks that your best move is to back away. “If my ex confronts her, [my new girlfriend] shouldn’t do anything really,” he says. “It would be a huge turnoff for me if she decided to lower herself to my ex’s level and respond. The best thing, in my opinion, would be to walk away.” Why? According to Sean, if you’re with him, you’ve already won. It’s pointless to fight over it. 

She’s in the same clubs as you

If she shares the same interests as you do and belongs to the same on-campus clubs, you’re going to see her whenever you attend a meeting or participate in a rally. “It’s not surprising that you have similar interests as the ex; after all, you clearly both have similar tastes in men,” says Smith. Unless she’s the crazy ex-girlfriend, you can handle this situation the same way you would deal with seeing your own ex all of the time: by staying calm and collected. Does this mean he’s dating you because you’re a carbon-copy of his ex?

Nope. Just like you’re drawn to certain types of guys, your new boyfriend is drawn to certain types of girls. So what if you and his ex-girlfriend have something in common? Your fellow club members can provide the right amount of space between you and his ex to keep the conversations civil. “When attending a club meeting, do be sure to be polite and say Hello, and then go sit with your friends,” Smith advises. You might not even have to talk to the ex. 

But if you have to talk to her, discuss the things you two have in common, such as shared music tastes or shared social passions. The great thing about this situation is that you have a shared purpose, which gives you something to fall safely onto when you encounter her on a regular basis. Are her friends giving you the evil eye? Don’t pay attention to it. “Ignore any prolonged looks from her posse,” Smith suggests. “You have the guy, so there’s no need to rub it in her face.” So keep your cool and avoid getting into an all-out fight with her or her friends.

She’s in your dorm

This one might be one of the trickiest situations because you will see her all of the time. She’s also likely to know when your new boyfriend (aka her ex) are hooking up down the hall. According to Sean, the best thing you can do is get things out in the open. “If they can be mature enough to talk it out or agree to not let it come between them, that would probably be best,” he says. Find a neutral person, such as the resident assistant, to referee and work out a treaty to keep the peace as much as possible.

Of course, that’s not always going to work. If his ex-girlfriend is absolutely determined to make your life miserable, avoid flaunting the relationship in front of her. Instead of bringing him back to your dorm for lust sessions, go to his place. This respects her hurt feelings over seeing you two together, avoids drama and keeps her out of your new relationship. 

She’s your interviewer for an on-campus job

Christy*, a student at Drake University, experienced this firsthand. “I applied to be a recruitment counselor for a sorority rush next fall, and I was really excited to interview for the position,” she says. It became really awkward when she realized that her boyfriend’s ex-girlfriend would be the one to interview her! “Luckily, it was a group interview, so it could have been worse,” Christy explains. She didn’t get the job and still wonders if it had something to do with her status as the “new girlfriend.”

If you suspect that you didn’t get the job because she let her personal feelings get in the way, ask her. The key is to approach her in a non-threatening way and ask for feedback on your interview. Don’t accuse her of not choosing you for personal reasons. Maybe you didn’t get the job for other reasons that have nothing to do with the fact that you’re dating her ex. Of course, if she did reject you for the job based on her personal feelings, you might not be able to do anything about it. She would have to confess it, and really, do you want to work with her that much? Find an equivalent job on campus or appeal the decision to someone in a higher position. You might be able to get hired by approaching the actual supervisor and setting up an interview with them.

She’s stalking your Facebook

When you share the same social media circle, she’s going to be able to keep up-to-date on your relationship, especially if your Facebook or Google Plus posts are public or viewable by mutual friends. According to Sean, Facebook-fighting is a huge turn-off for guys. “My new lady should almost take it in stride. I’d probably think that [the Facebook stalking] was petty and stupid as well.” Are you constantly posting pictures of you and him together? Or do you feel the need the need to constantly update everyone on how your new relationship is going? 

Even if you only do these things occasionally, his ex-girlfriend is seething over every post. “Clearly, you need to update your privacy settings,” Smith says. “Next, go on a Facebook diet. Stop posting status updates and ask your friends to not tag you in pictures.” The problem with social media sites is the overflow of information. If you don’t want her snooping on your relationship, lock up your accounts to friends-only or set posts about your relationship to friends-only, even if you keep the rest of your profile public. This restricts what information she can find out about you or your relationship. 

“If she can’t find the information she’s looking for, she will get bored and move onto trolling Match.com instead of your Facebook page,” says Smith. So keep your private life private, and your new relationship won’t be intruded online by a persistent ex-girlfriend.

When you’re in a new relationship, you should be focusing on your new guy and not on his ex-girlfriend. “In all of these situations, remember to take the high road,” Smith advises. “Enjoy hanging with your new beau, If the ex is behaving badly, that reflects poorly on her, not on you.” Don’t allow an ex-girlfriend to come between the two of you if your relationship is working well. 

*Names have been changed

Ever wonder whether you should toss that nail polish you’ve had since forever? You're not alone. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to help you lovely collegiettes figure out when to save and when to say goodbye to your favorite nail-related products.

Product: Nail polish

When to toss it: Once opened, 1-2 years

How to make it last: While two years seems like enough time to get maximum use out of your favorite shade, it’s important to notice when your polish has expired. When applying, look for a thick, gooey formula and/or a streaky application – all signs that your polish has seen better days. To extend the shelf life of your nail polish collection, make sure to store your polishes upright in a cool, dark space. If there is polish around the neck of the bottle, make sure to clean it with polish remover and screw the top on tightly to preserve your polish.

Product: Nail file

When to toss it: 3 months

How to make it last: To avoid damaging your nails with a subpar file or transferring bacteria to your cuticle beds, it’s important to replace your nail files frequently (luckily, they’re super inexpensive!). If you prefer a more durable file, check out some of the newer glass or crystal files, which need to be replaced much more infrequently and can be hand-washed -- making them more hygienic.

Product: Nail polish remover

When to toss it: Never (or when you run out!)

How to make it last: No need to toss that polish remover from middle school -- it’s still good! Nail polish remover may lose potency over several years, but it more or less lasts indefinitely, meaning you don’t need to replace it until you run out!

Product: Cuticle trimmers and nail clippers

When to toss them: Never, as long as you keep them clean

How to make them last: Metal tools like cuticle trimmers and nail clippers can last you a lifetime as long as they don't rust or break. However, make sure to frequently sanitize them with rubbing alcohol to prevent the growth of bacteria.

Keep these tips in mind when doing your spring cleaning (also known as an annual purging of excessive beauty products), and don’t be afraid to toss out products that aren’t getting the job done!

Oh hey, finals season. Aren’t we happy to see you… not. Finals season means it's time to write those final papers, but getting a 10-pager done is the definition of struggle. While we’re trying to write final essays, here are the thoughts that go through our (and every other girl’s) head.

1. Okay, let’s do this. I can totally get 10 pages done tonight.

2. I’m putting on SelfControl so that I don’t check Facebook for the next hour. Productivity mode: ON.

3. Hey, this actually isn't so bad. Fifteen minutes and I've already written a good first paragraph!

4. Plow through! Plow through!

5. I’ve been writing for an hour and I only have a page written? Ugh, I’m such a slow writer.

6. Maybe I should take a Facebook break. I deserve it.

7. Is “disinstitutionalized” a word? No, definitely not.

8. Okay, Mozart’s putting me to sleep. Time for some Britney. She’ll get me pumped up.

9. This is horrible. I want to be done. Can I be done yet?

10. MLA format can go bury itself in a hole.

11. Have I earned a snack break yet?

12. Wait, how did I end up online shopping?

13. Why is the guy at the table next to me in the library snoring so loud? Wake up, you foolish bro!

14. Maybe if I increase the period size to 14-point font I’ll have 10 pages. Is that cheating? Maybe I shouldn’t do that; I’d feel bad. But it’ll get me to 10 pages! Why do I have a conscience?

15. I have been sitting here for SO. LONG. My butt definitely fell asleep.

16. Snack time!

17. Okay, 9.5 pages. Time to whip out a conclusion. That’s basically the easiest part... right?

18. Does my thesis even make sense?

19. Welp, it’s too late now, I’ve written the whole thing. Hopefully it makes sense.

20. How does anyone remember how to cite sources off the top of their head? I always have to Google it.

21. That was torture. I’m never doing it ever again.

And when you hit “Print”...

22. FREEDOM! HELLO, SWEET WORLD! I’M SO HAPPY TO BE A PART OF YOU AGAIN.

Somehow all the papers get written and the tests get taken. You can do it, collegiettes! Kick those finals in the you-know-where! 

While some collegiettes have a job lined up or plan to attend graduate school, others want to take the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to move abroad for a job. If you’re deciding if packing up and moving to another country is adventurous or just too risky, we’re here to help. We’ve spoken to experts and collegiettes to help you figure out what you need to know before you buy that one-way ticket to a new country. 

Search for career opportunities

Know you want to work abroad but aren’t sure where to start in your job search? Lesley Mitler, president of Priority Candidates Inc., a career coaching service for college students, recent grads and millennials, recommends Anywork Anywhere, a free site that posts everything from job and volunteer opportunities (filtered by country) to document and housing information that may vary by country.

In your job search, it’s important to apply for positions based on more than just your dream location. Remember that when you’re going abroad, the same basic job-hunting rules apply. Mitler says that it’s important to understand how a job abroad will benefit you in terms of your long-term career goals.

Stay connected

Even if you don’t plan on using your cell phone much while abroad, having an active cell phone is important for staying safe and communicating with people both in your host country and back home. It’s likely that your cell phone carrier has options for an international plan; however, you also might want to consider buying a cell phone when you get to your new country.

“I bought a SIM card [when I was] in New Zealand,” says Emma, a senior at the University of Delaware. “I prepaid for my minutes in data instead of just getting an international plan, so I knew exactly how much I was spending and didn’t have to deal with any awful surprises when the bill came.”

Manage your money

ATM fees and credit card transaction fees can add up fast when you’re abroad. If you’re going to be working overseas for more than a couple of months, setting up a local bank account is a good way to avoid paying extra on every transaction. Check with your bank before you set anything up to determine your options overseas; it’s possible that they have partner banks in different countries that you can use to avoid an abundance of fees.

If you’re going to be using your normal credit or debit cards while abroad, be sure to let your bank know where you’re moving a few weeks before you go in order to avoid having your account frozen.

“I moved to Australia to work for a year,” says Samantha, a Penn State University graduate. “I assumed that my credit card would work while I was there. After my first transaction, my credit card company froze my account because I forgot to tell them I was moving! It took days to get the problem fixed.”

Apply for documentation

While every country differs when it comes to which documents you’ll need in order to work abroad, you can count on filling out some paperwork before you go. Here are two things you’ll definitely need:

• Passport: If you’re going to work in another country, you’ll need a valid passport before you go. While it’s possible to get your forms approved the same day you fill them out, it can take several weeks for your passport to be delivered. If you need to apply for or renew your passport, be sure to leave enough time to do so. Visit the U.S. Department of State website to find out how to get a passport.
• Visa: Every country has different policies relating to the visa you’ll need in order to work and how long it will last. Mitler recommends applying for a working holiday visa, which is generally issued for people ages 18-30 with a bachelor’s degree. This option is great for collegiettes looking to work abroad for about a year. Getting a visa can take months depending on the country and length of your stay, so visit your local embassy or consulate as soon as possible to avoid delays in your plans.

Get access to health care

Having access to health care while you’re abroad is crucial for ensuring your safety during your time in another country. Once you’ve accepted a job offer, check with your new company to see if there are any health benefits included in your offer. If not, you may need to find a health insurance policy from a company that specializes in international coverage.

To keep your medical routine on track, it’s important to get duplicates of anything you normally use (contacts, glasses, solution, etc.) in case your host country doesn’t carry the brand or product you normally use.

While you may not think twice about the prescription drugs you take frequently, some of these may be illegal in your host country. Before you pack these in your suitcase, be sure to contact your embassy to find out if your normal medicine is allowed in the country and follow up with your doctor if not.

Avoid the language barrier

You may not need to be fluent in your host country’s language to get by, but when working abroad, it’s important to know as much of the basics as you can before you go.

“I moved to Spain for six months after graduation and I had never taken a Spanish class,” says Ciara, a Rutgers University graduate. “The company I was working for was full of English speakers so I thought it wouldn’t matter, but when interacting with clients and locals it became embarrassing when I couldn’t understand the basics. Some of them were even offended.”

Online programs such as Livemocha and Babbel offer free or low-cost starting points for learning the native tongue of your new home.

While we hope your time abroad is full of nothing but great experiences, in the event of an emergency, it’s always better to be prepared. Registering with your embassy through the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a great way to have support during an emergency as well as receive updates on travel warnings and alerts for the country that you’re in.

Whether you’re considering going abroad for a month, a year or a lifetime, do your research in order to make an educated decision about moving abroad after graduation. Safe travels, collegiettes! 

With so many different food options to choose from in the dining hall, you'd think that it'd be easy to find some healthy choices. But finding food that will make your body happy is actually trickier that it may seem! Some foods have hidden fat and calories, others have unexpected ingredients and others are consistently served in disproportionately large serving sizes. Get ready to be surprised by these nine dining hall foods that aren't as healthy as they sound! 

1. Fat-Free Salad Dressing  

What's the first thing that comes to mind when the word "healthy" is mentioned? Probably salad. And what could be healthier than a bowl of leafy greens with your favorite dressing, minus the fat? Seems like a win-win, but fat-free dressings can actually do damage to what you thought was a healthy salad.

According to a Purdue University study, in order to get the most vitamins, minerals and carotenes from salad, you need to pair it with some oil or fat so the nutrients can be fully absorbed and utilized by the body. This means that if you don't have any fat in your salad, you might not be getting the full benefits of many of the nutrients in the salad. Fat-free dressings also tend to replace the fat with sugar or high-fructose corn syrup, which is linked to liver problems and weight gain.

So next time you're having a salad, try using a teaspoon to half a tablespoon of dressing containing olive oil or vinegar, squeeze on some lemon juice as natural dressing or get a small scoop of hummus on your salad so both your health and your taste buds will thank you!

2. Multigrain and Wheat Bread

Multigrain and wheat bread may sound extremely healthy, but they may not actually contain whole grains! A lot of the time these breads are made with refined grains, which means that you're not getting the full benefit of whole grains. "Refined grains are hard to stay away from in the dining hall–but if you know what to look for, you will be set," says Rachel Paul, a registered dietitian and food expert for college students. "Look for whole-grain options, like brown rice, whole-wheat pasta and bread, oatmeal, quinoa, barley, etc."

To make sure you're getting whole grains and not refined grains, it's a good idea to check the nutrition labels first. If the first flour on the ingredient list says "bleached" or "unbleached enriched wheat flour," the bread is made with refined flour. On the other hand, if the first ingredient listed contains the word "whole," as in "whole wheat flour" or "whole oats," the product is probably predominantly whole grain. Not only will these whole-grain options give you more fiber, vitamins and minerals than refined grains, they’ll keep you fuller for longer and aid with digestion.

3. Smoothies

These delicious blends of fruits and vegetables are a great way to start the morning off or keep you going through the day. If you're getting your smoothies from the dining hall or coffee bars on campus, however, watch out for disproportionately large serving sizes, as well as added sugar and ice cream to make them taste better. The Fit 'N Fruitful Smoothies at Jamba Juice, for example, contain about 300 calories and 40 grams of sugar for a small size.

"Remember that portions served are often bigger than what you need, so pay attention while eating and stop when [you’re] full," says Mary Hartley, a registered dietitian from New York. Even the smallest size at most smoothie shops is often double the amount you should be drinking! While the standard size for a smoothie is 22 ounces, 8 ounces is actually what you should be aiming for.

To avoid all the extra sugar, calories and fat, you can also try ones made from just fresh fruit, vegetables, milk and yogurt instead of from sweetened fruit juices, frozen yogurt, syrups and ice cream. The simpler, the better!

4. Turkey Sandwiches

When all else fails, sandwiches are usually the answer in the dining hall. But while a sandwich is an easy go-to meal, you still have to choose carefully. While turkey is a great source of lean protein, many packaged turkey slices are actually loaded with sodium. A single serving of some brands can contain almost a third of the maximum recommended daily sodium intake! So if you can, go for the low-sodium kinds or for fresh turkey slices.

Sandwiches are also usually made on white bread, which is lacking in nutrients. "White carbohydrates in general lack many nutrients whole grains naturally contain, like fiber, which keeps food moving through your body," Paul says. "A good alternative is to ask your chef to use whole-wheat bread and even add some veggies if he’s feeling up to it. Bring him the a few slices of tomato and cucumber from the sandwich station to ease the process."

Your condiments influence the nutritional value of your sandwich, too. Avoid mayonnaise and other creamy condiments like dressings, or at least go easy on them. A tablespoon of mayo packs in about 94 calories and 10 grams of fat, and the average tablespoon of ranch dressing has about 70 calories and 8 grams of fat. Your best bet is mustard or something with healthier fats, like avocado spread or hummus.

5. Premade Salads

What, the salads are striking out again? Unfortunately, you can't automatically assume that all things with the word "salad" in it are healthy, especially when it comes to mayo-based salads. While a lot depends on ingredients and portion size, prepared lettuce-based salads along with premade mayo-based salads (like tuna, egg and potato salads) can have hidden fat and calories.

"These salads are not inherently ‘bad’ if made well, but often they are full of mayonnaise, which is usually high in fat and calories," Paul says. "A better alternative would be to have plain tuna, hard-boiled eggs or a baked potato. Spice it up with one tablespoon of a creamy dressing like Caesar."

Or, make your own salad at the dining hall salad bar and then take it to go in a Tupperware if your dining hall allows it. That way, you can have a say in what goes in your body!

6. Breaded Fish and Chicken

When most of us see "breaded cod," we get tunnel vision and see only the fish part. As innocent-sounding as "breaded" is, though, anything breaded or fried adds extra fat, calories, refined grains and sodium.

"Ask for grilled or baked options instead, like grilled chicken or a baked potato," Paul says. "You’ll thank yourself later!"

Not only do grilled foods have fewer calories, they also have a higher nutritional content and a reduced fat content, which helps lower bad cholesterol levels in your blood.

7. Pesto

Pesto is green, like most vegetables, so you'd think it would be great for your health. However, pesto is surprisingly high in fat and calories because of all the oil and pine nuts, which contain healthy fats but are very caloric. So if you're concerned with watching your weight, try some tomato sauce on your pasta instead.

And while you're on a roll, try switching out white pasta for whole-wheat pasta. "Whole-wheat pasta contains more fiber and naturally more B vitamins than refined grains, keeping your digestion moving along and your energy level high," Paul says.

8. Yogurt Parfaits

Yogurt, fruit and granola sound harmless enough... right?

Paul says otherwise. "Sweetened yogurt (any yogurt that is not plain) is actually very high in added sugar," she says. "Granola on the top of parfaits is also high in added sugar and calories."

In fact, half a cup of granola at University of Michigan dining halls contains a whopping 287 calories, 16 grams of fat and 12 grams of sugar! The fruit that you find in fruit-flavored yogurt is also made with a lot of preservatives and sugar, so you're not actually getting all the health benefits of fresh fruit.

Luckily, there's a super easy alternative to this yummy snack. Just mix plain Greek yogurt with fruit and sprinkle on some whole-grain cereal on top if you’re craving a crunch!

9. Reduced-Fat Peanut Butter

There's really nothing like a good, old-fashioned peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwich. You may think that you're doing yourself a favor by replacing regular peanut butter with the reduced-fat variety, but it might not necessarily be healthier. Both contain around the same amount of calories, but reduced-fat peanut butter typically has more sugar. Regular peanut butter is also a great source of good monounsaturated fats, which the reduced-fat variety has less of. Look for a natural peanut butter with no added oils, and you'll be all set to go!

Although hidden calories, sugar, salt and fat are good things to look out for, it's always important to remember that all foods can fit into a healthy diet in moderation. "When eating in the dining hall, it is always a good idea to eat the foods you enjoy, but eat less," says Marissa Garcia, a registered dietitian at the University of Connecticut. "Try taking smaller portions or using smaller plates. Make half your plate fruits and vegetables to make your meals more nutritious and flavorful." 

Paul also stresses reaching a balance in the foods that you eat. "Look for WHOLE foods—not the store, I mean actual foods in their whole form," Paul says. "At meal times, your plate should comprise of equal amounts of whole grains, lean protein, fruits and vegetables. Complete your meal with a side of low- or non-fat dairy. If you follow these guidelines, your body will be full and you will have the right nutrients to work hard and play hard."

Many colleges list the menu information on their dining halls' websites, so it's a great idea to plan out a healthy, balanced meal before you step foot in the dining halls. "Planning ahead is a great way to make smarter eating decisions," Garcia says.

So while some dining hall foods may not be as healthy as you think they are, don't be too alarmed! There are a lot of great alternatives, and they're still perfectly okay to eat as long as you stick to the "everything in moderation" rule.

Some collegiettes enter their undergraduate orientation week confident about their post-graduation plans, whether they’re aiming for med school, law school, or even Broadway. For those less sure, however, graduation often brings them to a fork in their lives where they ask themselves: should I continue my education or find an entry-level job? While there are pros and cons to both options, the decision doesn’t have to be so black and white.

Online graduate programs serve as an alternative that allows students to complete a degree while simultaneously gaining work experience. Her Campus spoke with former collegiettes currently enrolled in online graduate programs as well as experts from online universities to get the scoop on this rapidly growing option for post-graduates.

How Do Online Graduate Programs Work?

Online graduate programs are structured similarly to traditional programs, but with a few twists. The courses still have lectures, discussions, assignments and exams, but these are generally completed and submitted away from a physical college campus.

Where and when are classes?

The online classroom comes to life via e-learning software programs, such as Blackboard and Moodle. These programs are composed of text chats and bulletin boards, as well as streaming audio and recorded lectures. Depending on the program and institution, online learning may either consist of synchronous (live) sessions, asynchronous (non-live) sessions, or a combination of the two. In both cases, transcripts, notes, and students’ lecture participation are usually archived so that students can review the lectures if they miss something. Courses are usually taught in a seminar format that requires students to view or listen to lectures online in addition to participating in class discussion through forums and video conferencing.

Synchronous lectures require students to collectively login to the program at a set time in order to attend class. “We have to go online at certain times and participate in class discussions,” says Jaime Cannon, a full-time 7th and 8th grade science teacher who is currently pursuing an online master’s in middle grades education at East Carolina University. Everything is live in this format and, similar to a traditional class setting, students must engage with their peers and professors in real-time.

Asynchronous lectures do not require students to login at a set time. Designed to accommodate students who rely on a flexible schedule, these lectures consist of pre-recorded lectures, slideshows and reading supplements. “I love how I can pace myself and engage in lectures to fit my schedule,” says Mathavi Jothimurugesan.

Mathavi is a graduate student studying Higher Education Administration at Harvard University’s School of Education, and is also currently enrolled in an online social justice class at Harvard. “If life is too hectic (like right now), I can hold off on lectures until it's convenient for me.” Like most asynchronous programs, Mathavi’s online class provides her with a structured syllabus that outlines suggested pacing.

Although the majority of lectures for online graduate programs are watched online, several university-affiliated programs still require students to attend classes on campus grounds to meet a specified number of “residency hours.” Some limited residency graduate programs, like Prescott College’s Master’s and PhD programs, require students to attend weekend or weeklong seminars on a physical campus. Other programs require students to spend one or two semesters taking classes on campus, and some may even require quarterly immersion days, like University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill’s online MBA program. However, there are also programs that are offered entirely online with no campus visits required, such as the majority of degrees at Liberty University Online.

Regardless of the length, residency requirements are mandatory, so it’s vital to ensure that you make sure you are able to follow through with a program’s expectations before enrolling. Be thorough with your research, as one institution may require different residency policies for different programs. For example, although the majority of Arizona State University’s online degree programs are offered entirely online with no campus visits required, there are some exceptions. “ASU has a few degree programs that require occasional campus attendance,” says Russ Knocke, Chief of Staff and Director of Communications for ASU Online.

Even the online programs that are 100% online may require an initial on-campus orientation, where new students meet their classmates, instructors and support personnel. This in-person introduction to the class teaches students how to use the technology involved, and explains everything they need to know about the library, reference systems and beginning their coursework. Orientation dates vary along with the start date for online programs, but there are generally many more options for these visits than for traditional programs. For example, rather than a single fall semester start date, ASU Online offers six start dates each year while Liberty University Online offers eleven.

Once a program begins, its length depends on how many credits are taken each semester and the overall number of credits required. Graduate level programs can be extremely demanding and students working full-time while enrolled in a part-time program may only be able to handle a limited number of classes each semester on top of a professional workload. “With a full-time teaching job, it is sometimes hard to manage work and school all within the same week,” says Jaime.

Exams and Assignments

Online graduate programs offer students the flexibility to complete course assessments on their own time, as long as they are submitted by specified deadlines. “I can watch lectures at my own pace, but there are still definite deadlines by when I must submit assignments, quizzes and tests,” says Mathavi.

Tests are usually administered online within a time limit to make it difficult for students to answer questions if they are underprepared, as well as to limit them from taking advantage of using outside sources. “We have quizzes that are administered through our course software, Blackboard, but mostly we have papers instead of tests,” says Jaime. “If we do have a quiz, it’s usually timed.” Occasionally, students may be required to take a test at a local testing center while being monitored by a proctor appointed by the university.

Classroom Discussion and Interaction

One of the most striking differences between an online program and a traditional university is that the majority of contact with instructors and classmates in an online program is through written communication. Rather than attending in-person office hours or staying after class, communicating with professors is usually done through e-mail, chat rooms, bulletin boards, and instant messaging. Interaction amongst students also occurs through discussion boards and forums. These discussions may be graded, but the discussion board format gives students time to articulate responses and proofread their ideas before responding. Instructors may occasionally assign students to a “virtual work group” where they will work on a project or solve a problem with other students. These small group interactions may be completed through written collaborations or video conferencing.

Although instructor-student contact in an online program seems like a challenge compared to the communicative ease of a traditional classroom, that is not necessarily the case. In fact, faculty-student contact in online programs such as Duke University's Online Global Executive MBA is significantly greater than other Executive MBA programs because of the 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week nature of online learning. The faculty in this program, as well as in many others, hold weekly real-time office hours in addition to monitoring class discussions and responding to email on a regular basis.

This adjustment from the traditional, in-class discussion format may not be a change welcomed by everyone, however. “There's something almost essential that is absent from an online course experience, and that is interactions with peers and professors,” says Mathavi. “Although there are online forums and chats to engage in, nothing beats the ability to collaborate and discuss with others in real-time. I feel like I'm simply absorbing the information instead of engaging in the nuances of the material.”

Types of Online Graduate Programs

The list of master’s degrees that can be completed online is endless. From master’s in arts and religion to science and engineering, the areas of study offered through online programs are extensive. However, not all master’s degrees are meant to be completed online. “Master’s degrees in business and education are the most popular online programs offered at our university,” says Edwin Tjoe, director of eLearning at St. John’s University. “But our master’s programs in communication are extremely unpopular.”

Other hands-on subjects like public speaking, broadcast studies, and sports, where physical movement is essential to the learning experience, are currently better understood in the traditional classroom. However, advancements in technology may be on their way to creating a more interactive online medium. Engineering, for example, is traditionally a hands-on field, but is booming at ASU Online. “Online degrees in engineering at ASU are large and growing fast,” says Knocke.

Several prestigious schools also offer online certificate programs for working professionals who don't have time for lengthy residencies or complete degrees. Although the coursework may be challenging, a certificate from a prestigious school can make your resume stand out to potential employers without the added hassle of relocation. One example of a certificate program with a reputable name is the Harvard Extension School. Within this program, students can choose from a wide variety of distance learning courses and can earn a graduate certificate by taking a series of five courses in a particular field. Certificates from Harvard in sustainability, strategic management, web technologies and religious studies all can be earned completely online.

Although there is an extensive variety of graduate degrees that can be completed online, not all graduate degrees can be earned on the Internet. For example, several doctorate degrees, such as a Doctor of Education (EdD), Doctor of Public Health (DPH), Doctor of Psychology (PhD) and Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), can be earned virtually. However, there are also doctorate degrees that require highly supervised training, such as that received by medical doctors. These types of degrees cannot be earned online, as they focus on hands-on skills that cannot be mastered by watching an online lecture. In addition, while completely online J.D. programs exist, they are not accredited by the American Bar Association, a critical factor to look for when evaluating law school programs. The human interaction involved in a traditional law school setting is crucial to ultimately finding success in the field of law, a fact that as of now has prevented the growth of online J.D. programs.

Finding Employment with an Online Degree

As online degrees become more prevalent, employers are increasingly perceiving them as the equivalent of a traditional degree. “Our clients who hire based on post-graduate degrees do not have a preference when it comes to online vs. traditional diplomas,” says Bill Peppler, employment expert and managing director at Kavaliro Staffing Services, a firm that connects employers with potential employees.

Employers regard the accreditation of the university, the quality of its graduates and the name of the institution awarding the degree as factors that make an online degree more credible. “The online version of the degree is most significant when it comes from an accredited university that carries brand name recognition,” says Peppler. “Our clients and our hiring managers start to ask questions when the degree comes from a university that we have never heard of.”

As the numbers of students interested in online degrees steadily increases, the number of colleges and universities providing these online programs continues to rise along with the number of employers who value online degrees as the equivalent of a traditional degree. “Learning technologies have advanced to the point now where it is possible to design and deliver high-quality courses in almost any academic discipline, and with learning outcomes that are as good or better than in a traditional classroom,” says ASU’s Knocke.

Several online programs also provide career assistance to help students with their job search. For example, ASU Online Career Services offer programs and counseling throughout the year to help online students strengthen their job search skills, résumé writing and interview techniques. There is also an online chat room for career advice available every day of the week, in addition to drop-in counseling with career counselors. Live webinars covering a range of job-related topics are held several times a semester, and online students have access to the same career portal as traditional students when they apply for jobs.

Staying Motivated in Online Programs

The majority of students enrolled in online programs appreciate the flexibility of the program as long as they posses the self-motivation to stick to an academic schedule. By enrolling in East Carolina University’s online, no-residency graduate program, middle school teacher Jaime Cannon is able to work full-time while simultaneously pursuing her master’s. “After graduating from Gardner-Webb University in 2011 and teaching with Teach for America for a year, I knew that I wanted to pursue the field of education,” says Jaime. “While continuing to work as a full-time teacher, I am able to also take self-paced classes to obtain a master’s degree that will further my career after TFA.”

The flexibility of online programs also appeals to collegiette Emily Schon from Duke University who is considering enrollment in an online master’s in Library and Information Science program while working full-time in a library. “If I pursue an online graduate program, I will aim to work full-time to gain experience in libraries, so I can have a higher-paying job upon completing my degree,” says Emily. Since there are only a small number of schools that offer degrees in Library and Information Science, a distance learning program will also give Emily the flexibility to live anywhere in the country while completing her education. “It is a major pro that I wouldn't be tied down to one city or one job throughout the experience,” says Emily.

However, the immense flexibility of online classes is often accompanied by the challenge to stay focused. It is much easier to procrastinate as an online student because, unlike traditional students, you can always “save class until later.” Online classes with non-live components also make it much harder to hold yourself accountable for going to class when you aren’t required to show up to lecture at a certain time of day. “We advise graduatestudents to plan for 20 hours of study time per week, per class,” says Knocke. “It can be a very demanding commitment, especially for students who have work and family responsibilities.”

The virtual learning environment can make it easy to forget you’re in school and a large amount of self-motivation is key to succeeding in these programs. “Online classes won’t be a problem as long as I can stay motivated and work hard throughout the whole process, giving myself adequate time to learn the information in a thorough manner,” says Emily. Online programs work best for students who are self-disciplined, well organized and have excellent time management skills. Alternatively, it may be an inappropriate learning environment for more dependent learners who have difficulty assuming the responsibilities required by online courses.

Being Social in a Virtual Campus

Although taking a class from bed may seem like the ideal situation for current undergraduates who are begrudgingly waking up early each morning for class, those 8 AM on-campus classes might actually not be so bad. “I miss the fact that you can’t build meaningful relationships with others in your program through online classes,” says Jaime. “I feel like I miss the opportunity to have candid conversations with classmates and professors about school and instruction.” Even though online students are encouraged to actively participate in class and discussion boards, it is still much harder to befriend your classmates from your bedroom than it is in a traditional classroom setting.

Virtual interactions also remove the chance to network within the graduate social circle. Since you’re likely to meet more people face-to-face while attending a traditional university, your contacts inevitably grow along with your networking opportunities. Although many online programs provide career services, the spontaneity of networking opportunities almost completely disappears in an online setting.

Although it may be difficult, keep in mind that it’s not impossible to make friends in an online program. It may not be as easy to bond with people when you can’t actually see them in person, but reaching out to peers in your programs’ discussion board and chat rooms is an effective first step in connecting with fellow students. From there, you can friend them on Facebook and ask to meet up when you go to the physical campus for classes or orientation.

Depending on your program, you may be able to still take part in some of the hallmarks of going to graduate school, such as on-campus extracurricular activities and social events. For example, ASU Online students receive their diploma with every other Arizona State University graduate student. While researching online universities, check to see if universities with distance learning programs open up on-campus opportunities to online students as well.

Finding a Quality Online Degree

If you’re interested in pursuing an online graduate degree, the most important step in the enrollment process is choosing a credible program. There are two main things to consider when looking for a quality online degree: reputation and accreditation.

Reputation

There is a huge difference between an “online university” and an online extension of a legitimate, reputable university with a physical campus that offers distance education. Several traditional schools offer online programs that are equally credible to their on-campus programs and it is possible that these schools will even be listed on a graduate’s transcripts without the online designation. At ASU Online, for example, students graduate with simply “Arizona State University” listed on their transcripts.

Always look for prestigious universities or colleges providing online degree programs over solely online programs with little or no reputation. To supplement your research on these schools, find published news articles about the online programs you are considering. In addition, read through blogs, reviews and forums discussing specific schools to search for quality programs that are well-recognized and highly rated. If you can, speak to various employers and university administrators to gauge their thoughts on the schools you are considering. Ultimately, the reputation of an institution is a make-or-break it factor when it comes to a credible degree that will be recognized by employers, so choose wisely, collegiette!

Accreditation

Researching the accreditation of an online program is another essential step in evaluating a degree’s credibility. A school’s accreditation is a signal to students and employers that the programs they offer meet certain academic standards.  Unaccredited “diploma mills,” or institutions offering phony academic degrees and diplomas for a fee, are usually accredited by fake agencies. These schools have no academic standards, offer online degrees that don’t adequately educate students for a career in the field and produce degrees that are worthless and unacceptable to employers.

Some known diploma mills include Breyer State University, Canyon College, Atlantic International University, University of Berkeley, Stratford Career Institute and the Esoteric Theological Seminary. Many more exist, so if you are wary of a school’s accreditation, compare the lists of accrediting agencies maintained by the US Department of Education to the accrediting agency listed on the school’s homepage. If the school’s accrediting agency is not on the accepted list, the school is not legitimately accredited. You can also search for specific accredited institutions here.

Continuing your education after college can be a vital step in landing your dream job, but gaining work experience is often just as important. Online graduate programs serve as one way for you to earn a degree on your own schedule, in any location, while still having room in your day to gain needed experience in the workplace. To see what the online experience is really like, New York University Distance Learning has created a helpful demonstration of the live classroom environment.

Graduating from college doesn’t mean you have to choose one path and stick with it. Online degrees give you the flexibility to explore new areas of study while maintaining a full-time job. If you’re still unsure, see if your college offers an online course for you to enroll in to assess if you’d be happy in a completely online program. You’ll never know if an online degree is right for you unless you give the virtual experience a try!