In case you've been holding out hope that any of Taylor Swift's upcoming music might leak onto the Internet any time soon, you may want to give up.
In a recent interview with the Spanish website Capricho, Taylor's bestie and music collab partner Ed Sheeran explained that Taylor is so worried about possible music leaks (as she should be), that he never hears any of her unreleased tracks unless he's actually in the room when she plays them.
Apparently, there was one exception though: the duo's song "Everything Has Changed," which appeared on Taylor's album Red, was "sent" to Ed prior to its release - but not in the way you might think. To stay on the safe side, Taylor sent the song to Ed via an in-person delivery.
"When I did a song with her for her album, I was in San Francisco, and they sent someone with a locked briefcase with an iPad with one song on it," Ed told Capricho. "And they flew to San Francisco, and they played me the song that I'd done with her. And they were like, 'Do you like it?' And I was like, 'Yeah.' And then they took it back."
Considering how outspoken Taylor has been about ensuring artists are paid fairly for their work, this isn't much of a surprise. But seriously, who carried that brief case, and what exactly is their job description? Celebs, they're ~just~ like us.
Fifty Shades Darker has barely been out for 24 hours and we're already getting a glimpse of the final film in the trilogy, Fifty Shades Freed - but if you watch to see the teaser, you'll have to head to the theater.
According to Us Weekly, the credits for the newest Fifty Shades movie includes a sneak peek of the next movie - and while you'll have to be patient and stick around to see it, it sounds like it's totally worth it. Spoiler alert: so far, we know that the teaser shows Anastasia Steele (Dakota Johnson), in a wedding dress and veil and the back of a man's head - possibly Christian's? It seems likely considering Jamie Dornan's voice can be heard reading wedding vows.
A photo posted by Fifty Shades Darker (@fiftyshadesmovie) on
Also in the teaser? The couple on a private jet, at the beach and a steamy shower makeout scene. Oh, and Christian's voice saying, "I solemnly vow to keep you safe for as long as we both shall live," at the end of it all. Need we say more?
We still have so many questions! While we'll have to wait until next Valentine's Day (the movie drops February 9, 2018), Fifty Shades Free is already shaping up to be well worth the wait.
File under: who exactly decided this was okay? A member of Central Michigan University's College Republicans chapter allegedly handed out some pretty awful anti-semitic Valentine's Day cards to members during a Valentine's Day party - and obviously, students were not happy about it.
Refinery29 reports that a photo of the cards that were distributed was posted to Facebook by student Madison Rodriguez - and it immediately spread. The card reads, "my love 4 u burns like 6,000 jews," alongside a picture of Adolf Hitler. As Refinery29 notes, it's not only disturbing, but completely understates the amount of Jewish people killed during the Holocaust (which was 6 million, not 6,000).
CMU's College Republicans president Mackenzie Flynn told the school's newspaper Central Michigan Life that the cards were handed out only to members present at the event. (Because that makes it so much better?) According to Flynn, a member of the organization gave away his bag, which is how someone outside of the organization saw the card.
According to the Washington Post, CMU issued a statement apologizing for the card, alleging that the person who distributed it was not a student.
"The grossly offensive action of one individual, a nonstudent, has deeply distressed our campus community and others across the nation," CMU's president George Ross said. "With heavy hearts and great embarrassment, we apologize. To those of Jewish descent, rest assured that we stand with you and vow to continue the effort to educate others."
CMU students also hosted an anti-hate speech rally Thursday in response. While it's great that the school and students are reacting swiftly to the issue, it's still disturbing that someone found humor in distributing the card in the first place, especially considering Holocaust Remembrance Day was only a few weeks ago.
February 26 to March 4 is National Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2017. We'll be sharing information about this important issue throughout the week, from what to do if you or a friend is suffering from an eating disorder to how to love your body just the way it is! Be sure to check out all of our past content about this week here.
If you’ve recently noticed that your friend’s eating patterns have been off and you think that she might have an eating disorder, you might feel powerless. This could be a difficult situation for both you and your friend, but with the correct information and the right tools, you’ll be well equipped to get her through it. Experts told us the telling signs that your friend’s relationship with food is unhealthy, and they explained what you can do to help.
With all the fitness and nutrition fads we see in college, it can sometimes be hard to tell if your friend is adopting wholesome habits or an unhealthy relationship with food. You might notice radical changes in her behavior straight away because you know her so well, but you could be missing more subtle indicators of anorexia, bulimia and other eating disorders.
Vanessa Richard, a registered dietitian and nutritionist at Louisiana State University’s student health center, recommends browsing the National Eating Disorder Association website for more information, but she lists the following as some of the most common warning signs:
All of these symptoms could suggest that your friend has an eating disorder, whether she only displays one of them or a combination.
“My best friend had an eating disorder for about three years,” says Robin*, a senior at the University of Tampa. “When I noticed she was losing a lot of weight at first, I didn't know what to say to her. I didn't want to hurt her feelings or make her feel uncomfortable, so I chose not to say anything.”
Although telling your friend that you are worried about her is scary, you should gather up the courage to do it; you could really help her. For Mary Anne Knapp, a staff therapist at Pennsylvania State University’s Counseling and Psychological Services, “the most important things to do are to show you care in a supportive and non-judgmental way, know campus resources and offer to support your friend to get help.”
If she is getting progressively thinner, this could be a cause for concern. However, you should be aware that “someone with an eating disorder can look healthy, be in a normal weight range or even be overweight,” Richard says. “Someone experiencing anorexia may be underweight, but those struggling with binge eating and purging or disordered eating are likely not underweight.”
How to approach her if you think she has an eating disorder
If, like Robin, you feel powerless upon noticing your friend’s struggle, know that you do have the tools to support her. Paige*, a junior collegiette at the University of Texas at Austin who suffered from an eating disorder, says her friend was crucial to her recovery.
“Had my roommate—who also doubles as my best friend—not intervened, I definitely would not be where I am today,” Paige says. “The first extremely helpful thing she did was (strongly) suggest that I see a therapist. While I was highly against it and terrified of speaking to someone, she never stopped bringing it up.”
Richard agrees that you should “be armed with resources to help that person get to professional help on campus or in the community” and offer to accompany her, but warns that you should “be prepared for defensiveness or denial. [However,] doing something is better than doing nothing, even if your friendship is on the rocks.”
With this in mind, Richard recommends that you first show your friend that you are there for her. “Your goal is to say, ‘I love you,’ ‘It hurts me to see you suffer’ and, ‘I’m here to support you and help you get the help you need,’” Richard says. “Sit down with [your friend] privately at a neutral time and share your concerns with [her].”
Richard says you should talk to your friend in person and when the two of you are alone, except in the case of an emergency. “I suggest avoiding a high-stress time, such as right before a big test or project is due, unless you see your friend engaging in high-risk behaviors and you are concerned for your friend’s safety,” she says. “If you feel like someone is at risk to harm oneself or others, addressing the concern immediately or involving someone else who can help is always best.”
This is a difficult situation for both you and your friend: She could get very offended when you bring up the subject, and you might not know how to deal. The best way to approach her is to focus the conversation on your concern for her and never to make personal attacks or statements that she could interpret the wrong way.
“Address specific behaviors about what you have seen, not the person as a whole,” Richard says. “Use ‘I’ statements rather than ‘you’ statements. Avoid accusations and questions like, ‘Why are you doing this to yourself?’” Make sure she knows that you are worried about her and ready to help her in any way she needs.
Paige’s friend insisted that she talk to someone about her issues, and it was the best thing she could have done. “She knew that I needed help and that I was past the point of being able to help myself,” Paige says. “So, despite how embarrassed or scared I felt, I went. I didn’t know it then because I was so wrapped up in my problems, but, looking back, I desperately needed therapy. She, as someone I love and trust, made it her responsibility to get me there—and she did.”
Since this is such a sensitive subject, you will need to be very gentle, Richard says. For instance, “if you have heard your roommate purging after meals, you could say, ‘I have heard you throwing up after you eat, and I am worried that it is going to hurt you. Would you be willing to talk to someone about it to find a healthier way to lose weight and deal with stress?’” Richard says. Or, more generally, try using a variation of, “‘There are resources on campus and I am glad to go with you to an appointment.’” Your friend’s situation is difficult to understand, but you should always try to be as kind and supportive as you can.
As a close friend, you’re in the best position to notice her concerning habits and make her realize that she needs help. We promise that in time she will understand, even if she’s originally angry.
How to react if your friend tells you about her eating disorder
For many of us, understanding eating disorders is difficult. That’s why you should do everything you can to not judge your friend and to encourage her to talk to you about her illness if and when she wants to.
“It was really hard for me to put myself in [my friend’s] shoes, and it still is even to this day,” Robin says. “Since I'm a person who loves myself, food and life, it was so hard to try and understand what she was going through. My friend would always tell me, ‘I know you probably don't understand how I feel, but that's okay. Just be here for me.’” So Robin found it in herself to help her friend in every way possible, even though she couldn’t relate to what her friend was going through.
It’s important to acknowledge that “if a friend comes to you for help, she has probably been thinking about getting help for a long time, and it is a huge step,” Richard says. “Sit and listen. Tell your friend you are glad [she] shared [her] struggle with you and you are here to support her. Try not to problem-solve, but let her know that you will help her find the right help and be there along the way, that she is not in this alone. Make sure she knows you will respect her privacy.”
This situation is primarily about your friend, but don’t forget to look out for yourself as well, because you will be affected emotionally, too. “One of the things I've struggled the most with as the sister of someone with an eating disorder is realizing that it is not really a choice,” says Sophie*, a recent graduate from Boston University. “I see my emaciated sister and want to shake her and say, ‘Just eat something!’ but I have to remind myself that it is not that simple.”
Family and friends of eating disorder patients often suffer from seeing their loved one harm him or herself, so “it's important to monitor your own feelings as you try to help,” Knapp says. “Being patient with yourself and your friend can help you stay centered. It's normal to feel some frustration if you experience roadblocks. Your friend may come and go from therapy and have relapses under stress. It can be hard to witness these fluctuations in motivation and recovery.”
If you start to feel helpless, sad or angry, take a step back and remind yourself that these emotions are completely normal. Although your friend’s recovery can be a long process, it will be well worth it when you see your friend healthy again.
What resources should you and your friend turn to?
You, her other close friends and her family are your friend’s first resources. If she doesn’t feel ready to seek out therapy, you could see a counselor yourself, like Sophie. “My sister has struggled with anorexia for the past seven years—she’s been to treatment twice and continues to struggle with it today,” Sophie says. “The best advice I could give would be to see a professional yourself and ask how best you could help in the situation.”
As for finding professional help, “do some research about what resources are on campus and in the community,” Richard says. “Check to see if your campus has a counseling service or eating disorder treatment program. If there is not a campus treatment program, a counseling center can connect you to the right community resources.”
You have the ability to help your friend follow a counselor’s advice. “During my recovery time, there was a phrase my therapist wanted me to constantly reinforce in my head: ‘If you don’t love it, don’t eat it. If you love it, savor it,’” Paige says. “After sharing this with my roommate, she always made an effort to remind me of it. If she saw me hesitate about eating something she knew I really wanted, she would give me an encouraging look.”
If your friend doesn’t feel comfortable speaking to a counselor in person, “calling a hotline, such as the National Eating Disorder Association Helpline, can also be a tremendous resource,” Richard says.
Whether your friend trusted you with her disorder or you confronted her, don’t tell anyone else about it unless it’s absolutely necessary. “It is important to respect someone’s privacy,” Richard says. “However, if you suspect things are worse than the person is letting on, or if you see a problem worsening, talk to a family member of your friend, RA, campus counselor or someone from your campus care team. Let [your friend] know when you talk to someone else about it so they do not feel betrayed.”
Finally, you should be aware that your friend’s disorder could be extremely harmful to her health. “Unless the situation is life-threatening, you can't make someone enter treatment against their will,” Knapp says. “However, in a life-threatening emergency, you may need to act immediately to get your friend to a help center if they are suicidal or appear to be losing consciousness.” As long as you know that these very serious consequences are possible, you will know to keep an eye out for signs and react quickly if needed.
For extra information and support, you can turn to the following websites and helplines:
Unfortunately, eating disorders are all too common, with 25 percent of college-aged women reporting that they use bingeing and purging to manage their weight. For this reason, you might find yourself having to assist a close friend in her internal struggle with food. With these guidelines, you should have the tools necessary to support her and get her through this difficult time in her life.
*Names have been changed.
Think you might be suffering from an eating disorder? The National Eating Disorders Association has a free and confidential screening to help you determine next steps. If you're looking for more information, be sure to call the NEDA helpline. Looking for ways to help spread the word? Find out how you can get involved on your campus.
Hallmark is filling the stores with colorful packages of chocolate and countless plush animals waiting to scream "I love you." As cutesy as this commercialized day of love is, not everyone has a valentine. So instead of going out and waiting for some Romeo to throw rocks at your window or show up with roses on your doorstep, buy yourself a giant box of chocolates, get comfortable and snuggle up close with your real bae—yes, Netflix.
1. Parks and Recreation
Parks and Rec is the show that will make you feel complete. Because of the mockumentary and conversational style of filming, the show allows you to develop a true relationship with its characters. As much as you will love and hate them all, it will provide you with stomach-aching laughs and tears, wishing you had your own Leslie Knope.
2. Crazy Ex-Girlfriend
No, this show isn’t about you, your sister or your best friend. But if you enjoy characters that are sarcastically blunt, fantastic musical numbers and knowing you aren’t the only one probably stalking your ex, then this is the show for you.
3. Pretty Little Liars
If you can’t tell, we are obsessed with PLL. Why waste your time getting pretty and primped when you can relive the torture of adolescence—love, sex and cyberbullying from someone who is bound to be a murderer?
4. Grey’s Anatomy
Grey’s provides the perfect emotional roller coaster of drama, heartbreak and medical knowledge to make you want to go to school for an additional five years in order to become an actual doctor. Using Valentine’s Day to binge will have you caught up in no time.
There are many shows that you can get queued up on Netflix or anywhere on the internet for the upcoming Valentine season. The ones listed here are just a few with enough comedy, drama and variation of season length to get you through Feb. 14. Don’t worry if you end up curled up alone in bed with your chocolate and tea. It just means there's more room for pillows and your furry friends!
Despite plenty of opposition, Betsy DeVos has officially been confirmed as Secretary of Education - and a lot of people are not happy about it. So it was no surprise when DeVos asked a question on Twitter and users took the opportunity to tweet some savage responses.
On Wednesday, which was her first day on the job, DeVos tweeted, "Day 1 on the job is done, but we're only getting started. Now where do I find the pencils? :)"
Day 1 on the job is done, but we’re only getting started. Now where do I find the pencils? :) pic.twitter.com/0vRKF1opE9
Considering that DeVos has been criticized for sounding tone-deaf about the needs of public schools during her confirmation hearing and the fact that many public school teachers are required to purchase school supplies like pencils with their own money, it didn't go over well.
@BetsyDeVos At the store. Something you should know: we teachers buy pencils and supplies for our classes with our OWN money.
One user even brought grizzly bears into it, referencing the fact that DeVos said schools needed to be armed in order to protect students from grizzly bears.
Other users took the opportunity to remind DeVos of the massive donations she made to the GOP. (Which some argue she used in order to get the position.)
@BetsyDeVos You gave the @GOP $200 million and not one of them will help you find supplies? @marcorubio?
A clean desk can lead to a successful life, but that doesn't mean your desk can't be super stylish at the same time. These DIY tips can help you on your way to a successful year and life!
This may seem like something a ton of people do, but creating your own calendar and hanging it up is the perfect way to organize your desk! This My Fabuless Life idea makes for a chic wall decoration and organization technique in one!
Leah Remillet proves that it’s important to stick with a color scheme when dressing up your desk. Choose two or three colors that work well together, and make sure to find (or DIY!) a few odds and ends that match.
You’ll never forget what day it is again! Thanks to Annabode + CO., you don’t have to buy a new calendar every year. All you need is an old frame, some rub-on letters and patterned paper. In about an hour, you’ll have a calendar to keep for years to come.
File holders can be not only functional but decorative if you're willing to give them some TLC. Find some stencils and spray paint the designs whatever color you'd like. Once these dry, hang them on your wall, just like Emily Henderson did! No need to have your papers scattered all over your desk; elevate them and gain some much-needed space!
We’ve all been known to spend way too much money at Anthropologie, but if you’re trying to jazz up your desk on a budget, View From the Fridge has the perfect solution. Make your own version of this insanely popular Anthro pencil holder for under five dollars. See, you don't have to break the bank for a nice accessory.
The struggle to keep the inside of your desk organized is one we all feel. Good Housekeeping suggests labeling your drawer organizers. That way you’ll never have to wonder where your things are hiding.
So your desk doesn’t have any shelving? No problem! It's time to finally find a use for all those shoeboxes that are littering your apartment. Lifehack recommends simply stacking and pinning multiple shoeboxes together to create your own shelving unit.
If your best friend is your computer mouse, then Kitty Cotten is here to give your pal a home. Cut out a piece of cork and accent the exposed edges with gold flakes. In no time, you’ll have a stylish mouse pad.
Need a way to store your most important papers? Just Destiny Mag has the cutest DIY version of a Kate Spade letter holder that should do the trick. Find some colorful cardstock and attach it to the front of each drawer. Label the drawers as desired, and you're done!
Go through cereal like it’s your job? Aunt Peaches has an upcycle you'll be dying to try. Save a few empty boxes and duct tape them together for an all-in-one storage container!
If you have zero wall space, this StageTecture DIY is the ideal solution. Pick out some of your favorite pictures and place them on your desk. Put down a clear acrylic sheet, and you have your own custom nook.
12. Tape frames
Frames can get expensive, and nails can severely damage your walls. Why not hang up your art with some washi (or electrical) tape, like Katherine Elizabeth did. These custom frames will not only make your walls really pop, but they’ll come off without a problem.
Get your sewing machine ready. Apartment Apothecary proves that you don’t have to spend tons of money at the craft store on fabric containers. You can make and personalize your own. Say hello to a warm, inviting and classy desk.
Does your printer take up way too much room on your small desk? Fear no more, because with a little help from Idle Hands Awake, it’s super easy to make this rollable printer tray. Yes, you might need some power tools to accomplish this, but it’ll be well worth it for the extra space!
15. Spray paint your accessories
Jill Cimorelli proves that spray painting your accessories can give your desk a more unified look. There's no need to go out and buy new things, trying to perfectly match your color scheme. Rather, spray paint your favorite odds and ends. It’ll look like you spent hundreds on your desk accessories, when you really upgraded your fave trinkets from the flea market.
16. Revamp a cheap desk with fake marble vinyl
You can definitely find a cheap desk at the local thrift store. Want to make it look like you spent more than $15? Apply fake marble vinyl, as Anneorshine has done in the video above. Your friends will think you spent way too much money on your desk. But don’t worry—we’ll keep your secret!
In case you've already binge-watched your way through Netflix and Hulu (ahem, all of us), Snapchat just may become your new procrastination tool - and we don't mean watching your friends' stories or flipping through Discover.
Refinery29 reports that 45th & Dean, which is part of cable network A&E, has announced that it will be creating original shows for Snapchat. The first show we'll be able to get our hands on? A reality show called Second Chance, in which ex-couples will reunite face-to-face to talk about and understand why they broke up. Basically, it sounds pretty juicy.
The show is set to launch in April and will offer eight episodes available to those of us in the US, UK, Canada and Australia. According to Business Insider, the new shows will be separate from Stories or Discover content, and won't disappear after 24 hours, unlike a lot of other content on the app.
Considering the fact that 45th & Dean is set to open a new studio in New York City, it's looking like this show is only just the beginning - meaning Snapchat might soon be the newest place to find your next TV addiction. You might want to think about upping that data subscription.
In case you're missing the Obamas as much as we are by now (which, FYI, is a lot), there is now a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get to spend time with them.
According to Cosmopolitan, the Office of Barack and Michelle Obama sent an email blast out to all the former White House interns which announed their new 16-week internship program in Washington D.C.
The program will apparently run from February 27 to June 16, and according to the email, the Obamas are looking for interns that, "take initiative, manage their time well, have strong attention to detail, solid writing skills and an utmost commitment to public service."
The email didn't state what interns would be needed for other than, "a variety of tasks," but TBH, we don't even need to know - we'd take any opportunity to work for the Obamas even if it just meant being an unpaid intern going on coffee runs.
Unfortunately for us, the email says that the deadline to apply for this specific program was February 8 - and they did want full-time commitment, meaning it's probably out of our reach (for now!) as college students. While this opportunity might have passed, we'll definitely be keeping our eyes peeled for the next time Barack and Michelle need interns. Can you say coolest summer job ever?
It looks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame is officially the place where celebs introduce the newest members of their families to the world. In a move similar to that of Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds back in December, Adam Levine and Behati Prinsloo debuted their 4-month-old daughter Dusty Rose at Adam's star ceremony on Friday night - and Dusty Rose was just as perfect as you'd expect.
The mother and daughter duo even showed up in coordinating outfits - Dusty Rose wore a black cardigan and fuzzy knit cap to match Behati's black gown and pink fur look. The couple even gave their daughter a chance to take some (assisted) adorable little baby steps on Dad's star.
Behati posted a photo from the event, captioning it, "A very surreal and amazing day for our family. I'm so proud of all your accomplishments, but mostly I'm proud of the amazing person you are. Best dad best husband, we love you." AWW!
While Dusty Rose has made some prior appearances on her parents' social media feeds, Friday night was her first public appearance, where she also got to meet attendees like Gwen Stefani, Blake Shelton and the rest of Maroon 5.
Every friend group has them: the one who's always making dad jokes, the one who reminds you of your drunk Uncle Earl, and the one who's just like your sweet old grandma. If you don't know who the grandma of your friend group is, it might just be you. Do you find yourself turning down weekend plans to stay home and knit? Do your friends turn to you as a shoulder to cry on? Read on and see if you might just be the grandma among your friends.
1. You have a scheduled bed time.
2. You probably wear nightgowns.
3. Your friends can always count on you for a hug.
As winter breaks across the country come to their bittersweet end, many collegiettes find themselves in a rut. Getting back to school is a fun-filled experience; however, many students feel the stress of the oncoming semester overwhelming. Here are 18 signs you need another break already.
1. You were stressing about finals during syllabus week
2. You're having serious trouble adjusting to a normal sleeping schedule
3. You're WAY too exhausted from getting less than 12 hours of sleep to do any unnecessary activities
4. You have already reached the allotted unexcused absences in all of your classes
5. You don’t understand how anyone can go out and party during this period of mourning break
6. Your excitement lasted for approximately one night of drunken shenanigans
7. Putting all of your assignments into your schedule feels like signing a DNR
8. You can’t get through more than a couple of hours without texting your hometown group chat
9. You're already out of money and have yet to buy your textbooks
10. You and your friends are already making a bucket list for spring break
11. You realize how bad dining hall food actually is
12. You would trade in last semester’s As for just one last home-cooked meal
13. You're re-watching the Netflix series you watched at home just to reminisce of the good old days
14. After one glance of a picture of your dog you’re ready to burst into tears
15. You call the housing office to see if you can bring you dog to school with you if you make your roommate move out
16. You get into fights with your mom when she goes to your favorite restaurants at home without you
17. The thought of getting your shit together for the semester makes you want to crawl under your XL twin bed and never come out
18. But you know you have to so you just keep calm and fill your spare time with Netflix
For someone with a killer resume and on-point interview skills, you probably think you’ve got this job or internship in the bag. There can’t be much more to it than that, right? Wrong. You’ve still got to thank the interviewer!
A lot of us remember writing thank you notes to all of our friends after our birthday parties when we were little, and we still might send one Grandma’s way after she sends us a birthday check. An interview thank you note isn’t much different! Interview thank you notes are quick notes, most often sent by email, that you send to follow up after interviews.
While many of us have heard about sending thank you notes following an interview, they can still be an enigma. How long should you wait to send them? Whom should you send them to? And what do you even write in them?
We talked with Shannon Curtis, the assistant director of Assumption College’s Career Development and Internship Center, as well as Barry Drexler, expert interview coach, to answer any questions you may have about writing the perfect thank you note.
You might not think that a simple note could be important, but believe us, it is. According to Curtis, thank you notes are crucial, and for a bunch of different reasons.
“Following up with a well-written thank you note reaffirms your interest in the role and your excitement to be considered for the opportunity,” she says. “It also makes the interviewer think of you after you leave the office.”
Have you ever worried about making a strong impression on an interviewer? What about the number of other candidates for the job? Writing an awesome thank you note is a great way to tell an interviewer why you want this job more than anyone else and why you’ll do it better than anyone else. Thank you notes also show that you respect and value other people’s time, which is always an attractive quality in a prospective employee. By thanking the interviewer for their time, you’re making yourself stand out for understanding the importance of someone’s time.
We know what you’re thinking: Thank you notes do seem important, so after acing your interview, when should you send your thank you note out?
Curtis suggests doing so within a 48-hour period and being conscious of the hiring timeline. You want to make sure your thank you note reminds the interviewer of who you are and how awesome you are, so sending it a day after the interview, when you may have slipped a bit from the interviewer’s mind, is a good idea. Remember that some companies want quick turnaround on the hiring process—you don’t want to send your thank you note after they’ve hired someone else for the position!
If you specifically heard something about the hiring timeline, go off that. For instance, if the company is looking to hire someone within 24 hours, you should definitely get your thank you note out ASAP, according to Curtis.
Because you are being mindful of the hiring timeline, it’s usually safer to stick with email thank you notes. This ensures that the hiring manager will receive your thank you note before the hiring decision is made and that it’s not lost in transit on the way to their office. It’s usually best to send the email out during work hours (between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.). Not only does this ensure that the hiring manager will see the email as soon as it arrives in his or her inbox, but it will show that you respect the boundary between the interviewer’s work and personal lives.
For a lot of cases, that 48-hour time period provides the perfect time frame to make sure you’re accomplishing both things: reminding the interviewer of your credentials and still getting it to him or her before it might be too late.
It might seem pretty basic that you’d send your thank you note to the hiring manager who interviewed you, but don’t forget to thank the people who helped you on the way to that interview.
“You should always send a thank you note directly to anyone who has helped you in the interview process,” Curtis says. “If you obtained the interview as a result of networking, thank the person who gave you the connection.”
That’s to say, you should be sending out an email to each individual person who interviewed you. It shouldn’t be a mass email—instead, personalize it. Remember, these people work in the same office and for the same company, and if you send them all an identical thank you note, they’ll know, and it will look completely impersonal and detached. Be sure to make your thank you emails unique to each individual!
Curtis suggests grabbing a business card from each person you talk to on the day of your interview to keep everyone you’ll be writing to straight. This is also a great way to obtain their contact information and to double-check that you have the spellings of their names correct.
Curtis also says that many interviewers ask for feedback from other people within the company, including secretaries, recruiters and anyone else who may have interacted with you throughout the application process. While you probably don’t need to send a thank you email to the secretary who signed you into the building, genuinely thanking him or her in person after he or she helps you is definitely a good idea. You never know who will be talking to the hiring manager, so it’s best to leave the most professional and gracious impression on everyone you encounter.
How much should you talk about yourself and your credentials?
We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again—your thank you note is one more chance to remind your interviewer of how great you are! Take this chance and run with it.
This isn’t to say you should regurgitate your resume on your thank you note; the interviewer already has your resume. Instead, touch upon a few of your skills that are really specific to the job you’re applying for.
Drexler suggests you say something like this: “As we discussed, I believe my [specific background] will enable me to contribute to your efforts to [cite key job responsibility]. I’m certain that I will add value quickly and have a significant impact at [company].”
Where he puts “specific background” in brackets, pick out what you think are the best traits you have for this specific job. You could mention your leadership skills from your time in student government or your experience with accounting from your internship last summer. This is your chance to highlight the skills that you have that some of the other candidates may not!
Where he puts “cite key job responsibility” in brackets, choose two or three of the many responsibilities the job listing probably provides you with. Following the interview, choose what you believe is both the most important responsibility of the job and that you feel you can accomplish the best.
Chances are, you’re not the only person applying for this job. You could be one of 10 or one of 100 applicants. Because of this, you need to remind the interviewer of the time you spent with him or her.
“The interviewer might not immediately remember who each candidate is,” Curtis says. “Reminding them about a conversation or something specific that you discussed can be helpful to the interviewer to make the connection.”
If you really hit it off with the interviewer about your passion for the company’s message, mention that conversation. If he or she gave you a really great answer to one of your questions, make sure to mention that you learned a lot about the job and the industry from him or her.
When writing this, you could say something like, “I loved discussing [this common interest] with you. I learned a lot about it, and feel I could learn even more and contribute [skills X,Y and Z] if given this opportunity.” Reiterate to the interviewer that an aspect of the job that came up in your interview is something that excites you and that you want to explore deeper.
Just like there are tons of things you should do in the thank you note, there are also plenty of things you shouldn’t do. There are the easy things to check for, like checking for proper grammar and spelling, as well as the use of informal language, but Curtis says there are many other practices to be wary of.
“Do not assume that you are moving forward in the interview process or receiving an offer,” she says. “Never discuss salary, benefits or any other compensation.”
Talking about salary and benefits before being offered the job is like asking someone you just met how much she makes at her job; it’s just a distasteful thing to do. It also shows that you’re assuming you’ll be getting the job, which might make the hiring manager think that you’re conceited. Nobody likes the overly presumptuous job candidate, so avoid saying things like, “I’d like to discuss the benefits package that goes along with this job,” or, “I’m open to salary negotiation.”
You don’t need to be sheepish or shy in your thank you note, either! Even if you’re avoiding subjects of compensation and assuming a job offer, you should still express an interest in continuing the application process.
Curtis suggests that you tell the interviewer that you’ll stay in touch with him or her, and that you look forward to hearing back from him or her.
Saying things like, “it was great speaking with you, and I look forward to talking again,” or, “I plan on keeping in touch, and am excited for further correspondence,” to conclude your note is not rude; it actually shows how excited you are for the opportunity and that you are confident that you can contribute something to the company. Close your note by being confident in your own abilities, and you’ll make the interviewer confident in your abilities.
How it should read
With all of this said, what should your thank you note say? It should appear something like this:
“Dear Mr./Ms. [interviewer’s name],
Thank you so much for meeting with me on [indicate date here]. You provided a lot of great information regarding [insert company name here] and [the job position], which makes me even more eager to join your team.
I really enjoyed discussing [insert common interest here]; it was really interesting when you said [insert anecdote here] and it made me think [insert thought here] about the job. [Use this space to connect your common interests to the job for which you’re applying]
As we discussed, I believe I offer [skills A, B and C] to your team. My experiences with [specific background experience] will truly shine in [insert specific job responsibilities here], and I would prove an asset to the company.
Once again, thank you so much for your time and your consideration. I plan on keeping in touch and am excited for further correspondence. As always, you can reach me by the below email and cell phone number.
When it comes to post-interview thank you notes, the key is to be sincere and enthusiastic. Remind the interviewer of why you’re a great fit for the job, why the company is a good fit for you and why you’re so enthusiastic. If you remember all of that, you’re good to go!
I think it's safe to say that with Donald Trump has President, "Saturday Night Live" will never run out of content. Especially with the way he is using his Twitter account.
After his Muslim ban suffered another loss thanks to the Ninth Circuit Court, Trump tweeted out "SEE YOU IN COURT" and SNL is truly taking him up on that, according to Esquire.
SEE YOU IN COURT, THE SECURITY OF OUR NATION IS AT STAKE!
In last night's episode, Trump, aka Alec Baldwin, went to "The People's Court" to try and argue for the immigration ban and as one would think, it did not go as planned. Even Putin showed up to try and help him out!
Lol, can't wait to see what Trump tweets about this one.
Although "Fifty Shades Darker" came out on Friday, I still can not get over this incredible Nick Jonas and Nicki Minaj song that is in it. I mean, can you name a more iconic duo? Nah, didn't think so.
Titled "Bom Bidi Bom," the song has a similar sexy vibe to "I Don't Want to Live Forever" and once you hear it, you will never be able to get the tune out of your head. It is THAT good.
Listen to the song above and I dare you to not ~feel~ things.
Just a week after Nordstrom's pulled all Ivanka Trump products from their stores and website, a few more stores are following along. This time, it's Kmart and Sears.
According to Glamour, both stores have pulled all Trump Home products as a part of a "streamlining effort," a spokesperson for Sears Holdings said. Why now, you ask? Apparently, the company wants to focus on more "profitable items" and that does not include the Trump ones.
The spokesperson said that "amid that streamlining effort, 31 Trump Home items were among the items removed online this week," but the products are still offered via third-party "marketplace vendors."
Trump has not spoken out against the move but knowing him, his statement via Twitter is probably coming soon.
When it comes to British royalty, Kate Middleton will always be my favorite. I mean, between her poise, personality, and her ability to give back, she really seems like she would make the perfect best friend. Oh and I also wouldn't mind borrowing her clothes.
In her latest "wow" ensemble, Middleton looked absolutely flawless on the BAFTAs red carpet wearing a black floral gown by Alexander McQueen.
According to Cosmopolitan, there were rumors going around that the royal couple would not attend because the "organizers feared she would detract attention" from the actors and nominees" but luckily for us, that was not the case.
Contrary to what some stereotypes might say, sorority girls are just like every other girl—except our schedules probably include more philanthropy and social events than most. When it comes to dating a girl who is pledged to Greek-life, though, there are certain things you can definitely expect to encounter. What are they? Read below to find out:
1. We get that you might not get it
You may even make fun of it at first, but it will grow on you.
2. We have the Greek alphabet memorized
And could probably sing it to you on command.
3. You'll definitely be attending a formal
Plus several date parties, so you better have your dress clothes ready.
4. Our Greek family feels like our real family
You'll certainly get to know our Bigs and Littles.
5. You'll learn the importance and intensity of recruitment
When we go MIA for a week, it's not because we don't love you.
6. You might even wind up at several themed events
It comes with the territory.
7. You'll see just how much Greek apparel we have
From tanks, to tees, to crew necks, to Frockets—never underestimate a sorority girl's wardrobe.
8. Crafting isn't a hobby—it's a passion
And we're fucking good at it, too.
9. We'll remind you how important philanthropy is
In fact, we might even recruit you to participate in some philanthropy events.
10. Sometimes, sorority events will take over our schedules
We really can't help it, so we hope you understand.
11. We have a lot of friends
Some closer than others, of course. But, you'll appreciate that while we're busy at a birthday dinner or girls' night in, you'll get some free time.
12. We most likely love to take pictures
Sorry, we aren't sorry.
13. We know how to balance life
Seriously. We juggle schoolwork, internships, part-time jobs, philanthropy events, parties, family and more.
14. We're social
You'll never have to worry about introducing us to new people. We've nailed the art of small talk.
15. We're committed
Whether it be to our sorority or to our relationship, we know the importance of staying committed to something.
Strong morals, perfect hair—what more could you want from a Disney protagonist? While we love Belle’s intelligence and Jasmine’s sense of adventure, there’s something about Mulan that sets her apart from the other Disney princesses. Unlike a lot of female characters in older Disney movies, Mulan demonstrates some pure badass talent. We could all learn a lesson or two from Disney’s fiercest warrior princess!
1. She’ll do anything to protect her loved ones
She takes her father’s place in the war, passes as a man, undergoes hard physical training and defeats the Huns…yeah, it’s safe to say she’ll do anything to protect her family.
2. She rejects outdated traditions—without being rude
Mulan isn’t afraid to stand up for herself when it comes to her role in society, but she’s sure not to offend her family and community in the process. It can be easy to oppose what others think, but it takes class to express your opposing opinion without offending others.
3. Three words: strong eyebrow game
She gives Cara Delevingne a run for her money.
4. She stands up for what she believes in—at any cost
Mulan has strong morals and sticks to them no matter what, even if the whole country disagrees.
5. She defies common gender roles
While she does have gorgeous straight hair and perfect eyebrows like the other single women in her community, Mulan’s priorities lie elsewhere. She dedicates her time to learning, helping others and doing what she’s most interested in, even if it’s not what’s expected of her.
6. She’s outspoken
It’s one thing to defy society, but it’s a whole lot harder to speak up about it. Mulan isn’t afraid to voice her opinion, even when she knows it’s not a popular one.
7. She rocks a middle part
And, let’s be honest, that’s not easy to do.
8. She never gives up
Even when she’s told she can’t replace her father in the war, she does it. Even when the physical training seems impossible, she conquers it. Even when the Huns seem unbeatable, she thinks ahead and defeats them. And even when it seems her whole country is against what she stands for, she sticks up for herself.
9. She stands up for women who don’t fit into traditional female stereotypes
It’s one thing to reject traditional roles yourself, but it’s another thing to stand up for others in the same position. Mulan isn’t afraid to stick up for the women who value things that don’t necessarily go along with traditional views.
10. She doesn’t need a man
Unlike many protagonists in Disney movies, Mulan’s mission isn’t to get the prince. On the contrary, her goal is to protect her family and save China—the guy is just a plus!
11. She has a great singing voice
Don’t even try to deny it—you know you sang along every time.
12. She makes friends, even in difficult situations
Though her fellow warriors weren’t exactly welcoming at the beginning of Mulan’s training, she overcame their harsh words and actions and befriended them. She shows that being the bigger person can often pay off.
13. She keeps things in perspective
It’s one thing to save the whole country of China, but it’s another to do so and stay humble. Mulan keeps things in perspective and always knows what is most important to her.
Needless to say, we need Disney to pump out some more badass female role models like Mulan. Not only can she rock the middle part, but she can fight a war and change the minds of China while she’s at it. If that’s not badass, we don’t know what is.
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