President Donald Trump is signing an executive order Tuesday that, if all goes as planned, will basically destroy the majority of the environmental protections put into place by President Barack Obama, The Washington Post reports.

The latest executive order isn’t the first time Trump has moved to undo the Obama's work on climate change, but it is biggest step by far. The Post notes that just two months into his presidency, Trump "nullified a regulation barring surface-mining companies from polluting waterways." He's also moved to restart construction on the Keystone XL and Dakota Access pipelines—projects that were shut down due to environmental worries.

Like pretty much every other action the Trump administration has tried to push through so far, the goal with this executive order is to get it implemented as soon as possible. But Obama’s regulations aren’t going down without a fight. The main goal of the executive order alone—to get “the Environmental Protection Agency to begin rewriting the 2015 legislation that limits greenhouse-gas emissions from existing power plants"—is wrapped up in all kinds of legal issues that’ll take some serious time and detangling to undo. Even though Trump would probably like to just pull the plug on the Clean Power Act and move on, Jeffrey Holmstead, who is a lawyer against the Act, told the Post that the president simply “doesn’t have the legal authority to do that.”

There are some who stand to benefit from this order—mostly coal companies that have taken hard hits with the increasing focus on promoting clean energy and restricting fossil fuels. Trump made promises during his campaign that he would fight for coal workers' jobs. But right now, we don't know if any jobs will even be created as a result of this order.

Trump’s track record on pushing through complex policy makes us wonder if the Clean Power Act will also be left to "explode."

Can we just take a moment to reminisce about the beginning of the semester? Everyone was returning to campus full of excitement and hope. Now? Not so much. You haven’t even had time to notice that the weather is starting to change because you’ve been holed up in the library. Yes, the semester is officially coming to an end. With this conclusion comes a plethora of problems. Don’t worry, though—we’re here to provide solutions. While we can’t guarantee your life will be as easy as it was during syllabus week, if you’re dealing with any of the following, we’ve got you covered.

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1. Running out of money

Are those cute budgeting printouts that you found on Pinterest still sitting on your desk, unused? Don’t feel bad—it’s easy to plan on carefully handling your money throughout the semester, but unless you actually get in the habit of doing so, you’ll end up spending until your bank account says zero. “There is no universe in which budgeting is fun,” says Julie Zeilinger, author of College 101: A Girl’s Guide to Freshman Year. “But it’s truly necessary.”

Zeilinger recommends a couple of different approaches, like taking advantage of budgeting apps such as Mint. With Mint, you can connect your debit and credit cards, checking and savings accounts and even monitor your student loans and interest. The point is to track your spending, and Mint makes it super easy with a variety of graphs and lists. Mint isn’t the only app of its kind, though. There are plenty of other money saving apps worth checking out! “It’s worth noting, [they’re only helpful] when you actually use and stay on top of them,” Zeilinger says.

The second method that Zeilinger suggests is calculating how much money you can comfortably spend in a week, taking out that amount in cash at the beginning of each week and trying to avoid the use of a debit or credit card. Only try this if you have a safe and secure place to keep the cash!

Related: 15 Hard Decisions You Make Every Day in College

2. Studying for finals

No matter how overstated it is, the fact remains that finals are the worst. If you find yourself frustrated because you don’t know how to study, it’s important to understand that you’re not the only one. “Most people seem to take for granted that students inherently know how to study in a way best suited to their particular learning style,” Zeilinger says. “The truth is, knowing how to study is an individualized skill that’s hardly self-evident and should be approached as such.”

That being said, each time you study, try out a different method and a new location. Attempt to study the following ways to see which works the best: alone, with a friend or with a group. The main thing to figure out is how and where you’re most productive. Experiment with study groups, use flashcards on your own, visit a coffee shop—anything that you think might be beneficial when preparing for finals. “There’s no perfectly effective way to approach studying, and holding yourself to some universal standard you think is ‘right’ could very well be the least effective for you,” Zeilinger says.

While everyone may have different study habits, Zeilinger says that there’s one thing that shouldn’t be negotiable: when you start studying. “Cramming always seems like a good idea but is never effective,” she says. “Start early and try to break up studying into manageable chunks of time so that it never feels overwhelming and you have time to reach out to professors or peers with questions.” It’s time to ditch those last-minute all-nighters!

3. Staying on track

Motivation? We’re not sure if that’s even a real thing at this point in the school year (especially when it comes to attending morning classes). However much it sucks, we still have to finish the semester strong. There’s no point in doing damage to your GPA when you’ve worked so hard to maintain it.

One way to motivate yourself actually has to do with treating yourself. Caitlin, a junior at the University of New Haven, created a genius way to ensure she gets her work done. “I try to make myself daily lists of things I need to accomplish,” she says. “Surprisingly, this motivates me a lot more since I see what needs to get done, rather than just thinking about it. If I accomplish everything on my list, I treat myself to a relaxing night of binge-watching Law and Order: SVU!” #TreatYourself

Abigail, a junior at the University of West Florida, finds planners and apps to be useful for staying on track with school. “I’ve been a big fan of Google Calendar,” she says. “It reminds me when I have to do things automatically on my phone, which means I can devote more brainpower to my exams!” Wunderlist, JotNot and other organization apps are also extremely helpful!

Related: How You Feel on Exam Day, As Told by ‘Parks and Recreation’ 

4. Waiting to hear back from internships

You crafted the perfect resume and mastered every cover letter, collected a worthy amount of recommendations and maybe even nailed a couple of interviews. So why haven’t you heard back from any companies? The waiting game can be super stressful, especially when you want to start planning your summer right away. Obsessively checking your email every day isn’t helping, either.

Before you consider following up, check if the position has a rolling deadline. If that’s the case, the company has tons of applications to sort through, so give them time! Also, if you applied before the deadline, wait until after the deadline has passed to reach out to the company.

If neither of these applies to your situation, you should definitely follow up with whomever you submitted the application to or the company’s HR team. “You might feel annoying, but following up on a position shows that you’re determined,” says Jessica, a junior at Ohio State University. “I usually wait at least two weeks before emailing or calling, but after that, I check in at least once a week.” Just remember to be polite, and reiterate your interest for the position!

5. Asking for extra credit

The key word with this is “asking,” as opposed to “receiving.” As the semester’s end draws closer, more and more students are beginning to show up to their professor’s office asking for extra credit. To say it’s not guaranteed is an understatement!

If you do want to take a risk for a little grade boost, though, you should try. Hannah, a teaching assistant at the University of Kansas, recommends first reaching out to your professor over email to schedule an in-person meeting. “Doing this is much better than just showing up to their office hours—especially when you haven’t been once all semester,” Hannah says.

You should also come prepared. “Don’t just say, ‘Can I have some extra credit?’ Think of a couple things that are similar to the assignments you’ve been doing in class and suggest those,” Hannah says. Be ready to have a conversation, not just a quick exchange.

6. Self-care

Trying to pack up your dorm room or find a sublease for your apartment on top of the pressure of finals may lead to neglect, both of your physical and mental health. “‘Self-care’ has become something of a buzzword recently, but I’ve found that consciously taking the time to do something relaxing and even mindless is key to being at your best and sharpest when it’s most crucial,” Zeilinger says. 

With that in mind, it’s not only acceptable, but actually recommended that you spoil yourself with a relaxing Netflix night! If you can’t do that without feeling like you’re wasting time, do some yoga or visit the campus gym. Exercise is a great way to relieve stress and better your overall health.

If you don’t take care of yourself during these last few weeks of school, you’ll only be left much worse off by the time summer hits. “Don’t wait until you’re completely burnt out; make sure to incorporate relaxing, self care practices into your routine,” Zeilinger says. Find what you like, and make the time for it.

As much as we wish we could just fast forward to break, that’s not going to happen. In the meantime, you might as well finish the semester to the best of your ability. Persevere through the next few weeks, and remember: the harder you work now, the more you get to celebrate later!

Rainbow hair colors have been somewhat of a trend for awhile now, but this colorful look just got upgraded with a geode-like touch. 

Looking into a sparkling geode is frickin' mesmerizing—and the same goes for this geode-inspired hair:

Cherin Choi is the L.A.-based hair stylist who pioneered this amazing look. In an interview with Refinery29, she shared her secrets for how to achieve the iridescent color. "The lightened hair is lifted to a pale yellow, then is toned to a blondish white using Redken Shades 9v/clear to eliminate yellow," she told R29. "The hair is completely dried, then the amethyst purple is applied on the mid sections, then the moonstone blue onto the very tips. I use a brush and emulsify with my hands to blend the colors." This is supposed to help make the growing-out process much easier, and helps to blend the color into a beautiful sombre.

You can even add a touch of glitter to enhance the gemstone affect:

Colored hair has always been in, but this trend just might be my favorite. Why, you ask? Because even though purple and blue don't seem like very subtle colors, the overall effect it has on your look is very minimal. If done right, this jewel-toned hair leaves you with just a touch of geode. And who doesn't want to look as beautiful as a gemstone?

President Donald Trump is not exactly having a banner week. First, he failed to gain enough support for the Republican's plan to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act last Friday. Now, his approval rating has dropped to a low of 36 percent, according to TIME.

This probably came as a surprise Trump, because as recently as Friday his ratings were rising, even as the GOP health care bill was failing in the House.

But on the plus side, Trump is winning in this particular area—his lowest rating beats Obama's, which was 38 percent, as well as Bill Clinton's and Gerald Ford's, which were both 37 percent, Gallup says in their report. So, congrats, Mr. President! Now he just has to get his approval rating below 24 percent, and he'll beat President Richard Nixon, who had to resign!

Trump has always struggled with his ratings, as he began the presidency with the lowest approval rating in history, TIME reminds readers. While he might continue to draw thousands of people to supportive rallies, this just shows most of the country is not on board with Trump.

Ask any makeup junkie and they'll tell you that Anastasia Beverly Hills is one of the best all-around brands. From their blindingly beautiful glow kits that cause a stir whenever they're announced, to their liquid lipsticks that give Kylie a run for her money, ABH continually slays the makeup game. What some people don't know, though, is just how amazing their brow products are as well! The whole brow range includes powders, pencils, crayons, and gels, but I'm going to hone in on one product I find particularly amazing: the DipBrow Pomade ($18).

Each little magic pot contains 4 grams of highly pigmented pomade, and thankfully, everyone can find their shade, with 11 options ranging from blonde to black! For application, an angled brush works best, then a spoolie brush can be used to distribute the color evenly throughout the brows.

I appreciate how pigmented and easy to work with the product is—a little actually goes a long way, and you can build up to your desired intensity. Most days I prefer a more natural look, but when I want to have "on-fleek" Instagram-level brows, this is my go-to product as well. I'm wearing the shade "Chocolate" here:

The pomade also glides on so well that you can use it as a gel eyeliner! Apply it over a thin layer of eye primer, and marvel at how long it lasts. Seriously, it does not budge or crease at all.

I love how it gives you the precision of a pencil and the color payoff of a powder, without having to deal with the annoying flakiness and fallout. It's pretty much the best of both worlds.

Each DipBrow Pomade can be found for $18 at most beauty stores and on the Anastasia Beverly Hills website.

On Monday night, Democratic Congresswoman Maxine Waters took to the House floor to give a speech about her distaste for President Donald Trump, Cosmopolitan reports.

"We’re saying to those who say they’re patriotic but they’ve turned a blind eye to the destruction that he’s about to cause this country, ‘You’re not nearly as patriotic as we are,'" Waters said in the speech, according to The Hill. Since Water is a politician, and not, say, a runway model or something, the only thing that should matter about this speech are her words. But that's not how Fox News host Bill O'Reilly saw it.

On the show Fox and Friends the next morning, Bill O'Reilly's only comment about Waters' speech was, "I didn't hear a word she said. I was looking at the James Brown wig."

This remark was in response to a question about his opinion on Water's rhetoric, and there was no reason for him to make a comment about the congresswoman's looks. While O'Reilly's male co-hosts laughed at the joke, his only female in the group, Ainsley Earhardt, was quick to jump to Water's defense saying, "I have to defend her on that. She a—you can't go after a woman's looks."

Cosmo notes that Earhardt's statement, on its own, would have been effective in bringing attention to the tendency of the media, and society in general, to judge women in politics by their looks rather than what they have to say. However, she then attempted to refute O'Reilly by saying, "I think she's very attractive" and "Her hair is pretty," The Hill points out. Although she was trying to defend Waters, she too made the topic of conversation about Water's looks rather than the powerful speech she gave. I think we can all agree that it's time to start questioning our impulse to always comment on women's fashion and beauty choices, and start focusing on what's coming out of their mouths.

A tentative deal may have been reached in the ongoing dispute between the U.S. women’s national hockey team and USA Hockey, USA Today reports. If the players approve the deal, it could bring an end to their boycott of the rapidly approaching IIHF Women’s World Championships. The U.S. team has its first match scheduled for March 31 against Canada.

The boycott stretches back to March 15, when players from the national team announced their intention to skip the World Championships after negotiations over "fair wages and equitable support" stalled. According to NPR, players were asking USA Hockey for a living wage. In the past, players have received “$1,000 a month for six months every Olympic cycle, and "virtually nothing" for the other 3.5 years. That works out to $1,500 a year.” Considering the amount of training that goes into being an Olympic athlete, the players understandably felt that USA Hockey was not doing enough. Many players have been forced to take on second and third jobs, particularly since the NWHL, the only professional women’s hockey league in North America to actually pay its players, was forced to slash salaries going into its second season. As team captain Meghan Duggan puts it, "It's 365 days a year to be an Olympic athlete. It's our life, our everything.” On top of that, the U.S. women’s team has medaled in all five Olympics in which women’s hockey was played and won the world championships seven times since 2000. In contrast, the men’s national team has won two Olympic and two World Championship silvers in the same timeframe.

(Speaking of the men’s team, they receive the same compensation as the women in terms of money. However, they also tend to get better hotel and travel accommodations. Also, most of them play in the NHL and are millionaires.)

According to players and their lawyers, the boycott is about more than just money. They’ve also pointed out that USA Hockey’s youth programs are evidence of systemic gender inequality. "At the younger levels, USA Hockey spends approximately $3.5 million annually to support a schedule of more than 60 games a season for boys participating in its National Team Development Program,” the team’s lawyers said in a statement. “There are no comparable development opportunities for girls, and the Women's National Team plays only nine games in non-Olympic years. Over the course of its yearlong negotiations, the players have made repeated requests of USA Hockey for increased playing opportunities and financial support consistent with the boys' teams."

The boycott has received resounding support on social media and from other athletes, including the U.S. women’s soccer team and the NFL and Major League Baseball players’ associations. According to the Huffington Post, there were even reports that members of the men’s national hockey team were considering boycotting their own world championships in solidarity. And on Monday, 16 Democratic senators wrote a letter to USA Hockey Executive Director Dave Ogrean, stating that “these elite athletes indeed deserve fairness and respect, and we hope you will be a leader on this issue as women continue to push for equality in athletics.”

After the boycott began, USA Hockey announced plans to field an alternate team. However, every player they reached out to turned them down in solidarity. USA Today reports that the organization was considering contacting players from Under-16 and adult leagues, but should this deal go through, that may not be necessary. Either way, it would be a major embarrassment if the United States, as the reigning national champions, was unable to pull together any sort of team. But the players are willing to play, just as long as they get a fair deal. As forward Monique Lamoureux told the Huffington Post, players “will show up the day before the game if we have to.” 

In the current beauty world, no brand is complete without a collection of liquid lipsticks. The trend of the liquid lip blew up just as quickly as Kylie Jenner’s pout, and at around the same time (which is probably not a coincidence). With every brand competing to see who can create the holy-grail liquid lipstick that is a staple in every YouTuber’s “Favorites” video—and makeup junkie’s beauty bag—one brand stands out above the rest: Jeffree Star Cosmetics.

Makeup artist, guru and lover Jeffree Star started the brand two years ago, saying“It’s been a dream of mine since I discovered my first lipstick, to create and own my very own brand.” The first product that Star created was the Velour Liquid Lipstick, which is a vegan and cruelty-free product that is also long-lasting and lightweight, and offers full coverage.

I’ve tried a lot of liquid lipsticks, from a variety of brands. Before I discovered the JSC formula, I found many brands that were almostperfect, but always had something missing. Most of my common complaints, that I’m sure many other makeup fiends can relate to, had to do with the formulas of each product. The liquid lipsticks that lasted all day were so dry I felt uncomfortable and self-conscious about how chapped my lips looked, while the formulas that were hydrating rarely lasted more than a couple of hours, and generally ended up looking patchy and dry after a few touch-ups.

Jeffree’s formula combats both of the major issues that I had with previous liquid lipsticks. The lightweight formula doesn’t dry out my lips, and is so comfortable that I generally forget that I’m even wearing lipstick… which is convenient, since it's so long-lasting, I don’t need to remember to touch it up during the day. I generally find that other brands have inconsistencies with their formulas; many of their darker shades have a poorer quality than their lighter ones. On more than one occasion, I’ve been hesitant to wear a darker shade from other brands to an important event, in fear that any flaws in the formula will be even more visible due to the attention-grabbing shade. One of the greatest things about JSC is that the formula is consistent throughout his light, dark and metallic shades; so dark, vampy shades like the gorgeous "Unicorn Blood" will feel the exact same way as (in my opinion) the ultimate nude, "I’m Nude."

Unlike many other brands, Jeffree designed his formula so that it is unnecessary to use a lip pencil with it. The doe foot applicator makes it easy to paint precise lines, and the formula dries quickly, and does not bleed throughout the day, eliminating the usual step of using another product to line your lips.

Jeffree Star himself is anything but ordinary, so naturally, neither is his brand. Jeffree has created some stunning neutral everyday shades, with my favorites being the girl-next-door pink "Rose Matter," barely-there nude "Mannequin" and the '90s-inspired terracotta "Gemini." That said, some of my other favorites are some of his more “out there,” daring shades, such as the bright orange "Flamethrower," Barbie-pink metallic "Dreamhouse," and the deep purple-gray "Scorpio." Regardless of what color you’re looking for, with an extensive permanent collection, and seasonal limited shades, JSC has something for everyone—and constantly pushes you to get out of your beauty comfort zone.

The Velour Liquid Lipsticks retail for $18, and can be found on the company’s official website. If you’re in the market for the perfect formula, this is the one for you. While I haven’t abandoned all other brands yet, JSC is my go-to for a fuss-free, stunning look—you can’t go wrong!

Be sure to check out the brand’s collaboration with YouTuber Manny MUA that will launch on April 8!

Makeup mavens went berserk for the Moonchild glow kit last July, and now the glow gurus at Anastasia Beverly Hills are back at it again with an absolutely otherworldly palette! Early Tuesday morning, the brand released this video on Instagram revealing a full look at their new Aurora Glow Kit.

Just like Moonchild before it, this highlighter palette will include six blinding shades: Orion (aqua blue), Luna (lavender), Helia (white with mint undertones), Eclipse (pinky peach), Lyra (rose-gold), and Spectra (deep purple). In typical ABH fashion, expect these formulas to be buttery smooth and highly pigmented, with some boasting dual chrome finishes.

Get pumped, collegiettes, because Aurora launches on April 4!

Just when you thought that every possible hair dye trend had been invented, rainbow roots appeared. Perfect for those who either can’t decide on just one hair shade, or for those who want to do something wild to only some of their hair, and don’t want to commit to a full head of color, this is the ultimate trend.

The trend first popped up in the Blondies of Melbourne, a salon that specializes in rainbow hair (welcome to 2017, y’all). The look involves bleaching only the roots of a client’s hair, and dying them a variety (“rainbow”) of colors, while leaving the rest of the hair a natural tone.

Personally, I have been rocking the ombré trend since the second my mother allowed me to dye my hair in the middle of high school. My affection for ombré has always stemmed from my innate laziness and unwillingness to spend an extensive amount of time in a hair salon more than once every few months; so not having to worry about my roots growing out is the ideal dye trend for me. Rainbow roots are essentially the opposite. Before you hit up your local salon (since Melbourne seems a bit far) requesting this look, realize that it will take a lot of upkeep to keep your actual roots from growing out of the rainbow.

The end result of this style is that the roots will be visible at all times, but the full extent of them will only be only visible depending on the way you style your hair. It's perfect for those who want a subtle touch... of bright, eye-catching color.

Would you try out this look? What do you think is going to be next in the world of “crazy hair trends?" Only time will tell!

By Gabrielle Paredes

Throughout my life, I have always had an intense fear of needles. Every doctor's appointment was always coupled with intense anxiety, as my heartbeat accelerated with the anticipation of having to get a shot on my arm, or have my finger pricked. Each yearly checkup always ended in a similar fashion: me, being gently awakened by a nurse after having passed out from getting my blood drawn, her arm outstretched with a glass of orange juice. So at the age of 20, deciding to get a tattoo was a big, huge deal.

On November 2, 2016, my father died from an accidental drug overdose. My world was turned upside down as I grappled with the heartbreaking loss. My father had been my biggest cheerleader, my partner in crime, and my best friend. He was the person who passionately sang Adele’s love songs with me, and my go-to person to spill all the latest family gossip to. From teaching me how to drive, to teaching me how to sneakily movie hop, nothing could ever break the bond and love my dad and I had for each other. November 2 not only forever changed my life, but it also changed who I was.

Image Courtesy of Tattoos Time

Throughout my father’s life, he had gotten several tattoos—covering his arms, and his chest. He even had a portrait of me, right on the side of his stomach. I’ll never forget the day he showed it to me: “I have a surprise to show you!” he excitedly declared as he lifted up his shirt. I studied it for a good minute, only to report that it didn’t really look like me. Her eyes were too almond-shaped. Even at eight years old, I was incredibly sassy. As I grew up, his tattoos had always been something that was naturally a part of my dad. From the fish on his arm to symbolize his star sign, Pisces, to my grandma’s name delicately outlined in cursive, and even the large skull covering his upper arm, all contributed to his uniqueness and identity.

And so, after my dad died, my aunt and I decided to get matching tattoos in his honor. Despite my intense fear of needles, a month of anxiety leading up to the appointment, and constantly reminding myself why I was getting a tattoo in the first place, the big day finally came for me to get my tattoo. I was both a nervous wreck and very excited.

My aunt and I got our tattoos to celebrate my dad’s 45th birthday. I got two tiny birds on my wrist, as a representation of my dad and me. I know he is a beautiful bird in heaven, soaring across the world, watching over me. When I wake up in the morning and head to my car to drive to work, and hear birds chirping or see a flock of birds flying in the late evening, I automatically look down at my wrist and smile to myself. My tattoos are now a part of who I am, and what makes me unique. Losing my dad was the most difficult and painful thing that has ever happened to me, but now I have a beautiful tattoo to remind me of the bond and love that we shared throughout our lives. And despite my intense fear of needles, and the fact that I almost fainted during the actual tattooing process, I know I will never regret it.

By Madeline Bartos

The opinions expressed in this article are the author's own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Nicki Minaj’s "Anaconda"­launched a new wave of body positivity encouraging girls to flaunt their curves. As Minaj had everyone chanting, “my anaconda don’t want none unless you got buns, hun.” It is at this point that I began to think that my womanhood was found in my curves, and that, if this was true, my womanhood was lost. Nonexistent. My less-than-A cups and tiny butt made me the equivalent of a 12-year-old boy trying to wear a bikini.

Body positivity is never a bad thing. Curves are awesome. But, Minaj’s new body positivity anthem was far from inclusive. I felt like I couldn’t even sing along, since I wasn’t curvy. I’m a sophomore in college and still waiting to get those “boobs” Mother Nature bestowed upon literally every other girl on the face of the planet. All my friends who complained about push-up bras and too-tight jeans were suddenly more feminine than me because I was the skinny b*tch everyone hated.

They were stronger than me.

I’m not complaining about being skinny. I’m not even complaining. I’m just tired of the narrative whereby women can only be empowered by putting down other women. Girls with curves can’t feel empowered unless the peach emoji is praised. Girls without curves can’t feel empowered unless the Victoria's Secret Fashion show is on. Woman can’t even go shopping for a swimsuit that makes them feel good without needing a math equation, and the equation isn’t possible unless you tell flat-chested girls that bathing suits without ruffles aren’t flattering.

The truth is, every single female body type is beautiful. As Beyoncé said, we’re “strong enough to bear the children, then get back to business.” It’s wonderful to finally acknowledge that curvy girls are (and always have been) beautiful, but it should be possible to lift them up without shaming skinny girls. My fast metabolism isn’t an insult to girls with curves.

You may think it’s easy to be skinny. And sometimes it is—I can eat a lot of Oreos, I don’t have to wear a bra the majority of the time, and whenever I try to go to the gym, I’m always being told that I’m “already skinny enough.”

But for a long time, I didn’t like my skinny body. My food baby is bigger than my boobs. Jeans fall off my butt. I can’t fill out a push-up bra enough to push anything up at all. I remember riding the bus back from a summer dance competition, sweaty and sitting with the top of my costume pulled down to cool off when my then-best friend tugged at the top of my exposed bra and asked why I had such a huge gap between the cup and my chest.

That was my junior year. Of high school.

I can’t change my flat figure without surgery. Embracing curves while shaming the lack of them is not a productive step towards body positivity, not in my book. The definition of real, inclusive body positivity is simple. Break it down to body, or the outer shell that everybody has, and positivity, or hopefulness and confidence. It’s that easy.

Of course, it may not be so easy in practice. But real, genuine body positivity has taught me to accept that my soul resides in my body. No matter how desperately I dream of growing boobs, that’s not going to change the outside of me, and it’s certainly not going to change what’s on the inside.

That’s okay. I don’t have to sabotage myself and eat a whole sleeve of Thin Mints, hoping they’ll go straight to my butt. I don’t have to google the cost of breast implants. What I can do is nourish my body with healthy foods and stay active. Some women have curves, but I do not. All women are beautiful, and so am I.

When we can realize that “the grass is greener on the other side” is a saying for a reason, maybe I can feel confident in a bathing suit without ruffles. Maybe curvy girls will be able to post nude selfies without the world crumbling. We don’t have to attack fat girls or skinny b*tches. Inclusive body positivity makes that possible.

We’ve all seen some of our favorite celebrities (*ahem* Vanessa Hudgens, Selena Gomez) donning a super cute lob one day, only to see them with long locks at an awards show the next. When you were a little girl, you may not have realized that extensions were even a thing. You probably thought that when celebrities got famous, they automatically received magical powers to grow their hair in days (in our dreams!). But, it turns out that the “magic” was just semi-permanent hair extensions, and no, not the straggly plastic ones that we all tried in middle school. With the help of professional stylist Sonia Hagan, we found out all the details about the glued-in locks, so you can try them out for a fresh new look this spring.

What do I need to know before I get extensions?

First of all, since semi-permanent extensions are glued in for a period of time, they require more knowledge and care than the plastic kind. It’s important to go to a salon that you know is trustworthy when it comes to more serious procedures like extensions. “You need to have an idea of the style you’re looking for, because you need to know if you hair will withstand that style,” says Hagan. “If the extensions are too heavy for your natural hair, it can cause serious breakage.” Hagan also recommends that you’re aware of all of the extension application techniques, even if you’re dead set on one, because your stylist may advise a different technique if it’s better for your hair.

How many trips to Chipotle will I have to sacrifice to pay for them?

Extensions can be a serious investment, so don’t be surprised if you have to shell out $300 for just the hair. “The cost varies; it can depend on the length and the feel of the hair,” says Hagan. “You can have bohemian, Afrocentric, Brazilian wave and many more types, and they all vary in price.” The color and application type of your extensions matter as well. Tape-in extensions can cost between $200 and $500, the most economical choice of all the techniques, while sew-in and keratin bonding extensions can cost more than $600. “It’s tough to give an accurate estimate,” says Hagan. “But many salons will have an extension consultation with you before anything is set in stone and will go over the exact price that you’ll be paying.” Well, that’s comforting...sort of. Just keep in mind that the price isn’t for nothing; semi-permanent locks look and feel much more authentic than their plastic counterpart.

Are semi-permanent extensions made out of real hair?

You can choose whether you want to use extensions made out of real or synthetic hair. Hagan says that choosing synthetic hair is less expensive, but with less cost comes less quality. “You will be able to tell the difference between real and synthetic hair,” says Hagan. “It’s worth the investment to go with the real stuff.” In addition, you can’t use hot tools on synthetic hair (it will melt), so it may not match your hair’s natural texture.

Purchasing extensions made out of real hair, on the other hand, is the better option if you want more natural hair that can be styled any way. “I would recommend doing the real hair extensions,” says Sophia Walker, a senior at Bowdoin College. “You don't have to worry about getting the curly extensions if you have curly hair. Since the extensions are made out of real hair, they'll mold to your curl pattern and look a lot more natural than the fake curled ones.” However, it is important to carefully choose a hair sample that’s almost identical to your natural hair color, unless you intentionally want a different color.

How are the extensions applied?

There are three major types of application techniques: tape-in, sew-in, and fusion. All of these methods can withstand showers and workouts, so don't worry too much about getting your hair wet after the initial application. We know that it can be tough to choose what method is best for your hair, so we broke it down for you.

The tape-in technique uses polyurethane tape to bind the hair to your scalp. "Tape-in extensions are one of the newer kinds, and they've become very popular," says Hagan. "Your stylist simply attaches the skin-safe tape to your scalp and holds it for a few seconds to make sure it'll stay. You just repeat the same process across the crown of your head, making sure to cover up any hints of tape." Tape-in extensions don't take as long to apply and are the cheapest option. Plus, they're pretty easy to DIY if you buy the hair wefts yourself. 

The sew-in technique weaves in hair extensions with thread. "First you start with a weft of hair, which is the extension that you'll be sewing in," says Hagan. "Then your stylist will start creating a cornrow across your head with your natural hair and will lay the weft upon the cornrow they created. Then they'll take the sewing thread and sew along the weft hair and weave it into the cornrow." Then, after your stylist adds a closure to your extensions, you won't be able to see any tracks. Warning: this method can take a few hours (we suggest bringing snacks) and might be a little painful if you have a sensitive head. 

Fusion extensions are similar, to tape-in extensions, except instead of tape, your stylist will use glue. "The glue is skin-safe and made of a protein/keratin blend to bind the weft of hair to your scalp," says Hagan. This process can also take several hours, as you have to glue tiny sections of hair at a time, and then wait for the glue to dry. Many people aren't fond of this method, as it can lead to the most damage and is tough to remove.

Related: 27 Things Only Girls With Thick Hair Understand

How long do they last?

Even before you sit in the salon chair, you should have an idea of how long you want your extensions to last. “Depending on how long you want your extensions for, that can determine the technique that your stylist uses to apply them,” says Hagan. “You don’t have to go with the service your stylist recommends, but you should heavily consider it.” Glued-in extensions, also known as fusion extensions, can safely last up to two months, according to Hagan. The sew-in technique can last for up to 10 weeks. Tape-in hair extensions are similar to fusion extensions and can last up to three months. Tape-in hair is reusable. All you need to do is replace the tape once it’s worn out. You can reuse other hair sometimes, if the quality is still pristine and well taken care of.

Are extensions bad for my hair?

Like we mentioned before, when improperly applied or not cared for, extensions can be seriously damaging. If the new hair is too heavy, it can cause breakage and hair loss with the extensions as well as your actual hair. “The biggest thing is potential damage to your hair from the weight of the extensions,” says Hagan. “It’s just so important to understand your extensions, keep your scalp clean, and follow all instructions about the care and keeping of your new hair.”

How do I take care of them at home?

When you get extensions, you have to rethink your haircare routine right away. “You have to learn what products to use with your extensions and what kind of tools to use, because the new extensions might be made of more sensitive, coarse or silky hair then you’re used to,” says Hagan. Semi-permanent extensions can’t be taken out before you shower, so you have to be careful with how much you wash and condition your hair. Treat your new extensions the way you should be treating your actual hair, and avoid being rough when combing/brushing. “It’s easy for my extensions to get dry, so to keep them looking as healthy and shiny as my actual hair, I apply argan oil to the tips,” says Amy Miller, a junior at Temple University. “I’ve definitely noticed that it keeps the ends from getting dull and split as quickly.” Using hair dryers, curling irons, and straighteners is okay, but try to limit the use as it can shorten the life of your extensions.

Now that you got the low-down on everything you could ever need to know about extensions, consider changing up your usual hairstyle for gorgeous long locks that can be styled dozens of ways.

Bachelor fans have made no secret of their suspicions that things are not going well between former bachelor Nick Viall and season 21 winner Vanessa Grimaldi. But in news that we definitely didn't see coming, Nick and Vanessa have apparently moved in together - as in, yes, they're somehow living in the same household willingly.

According to Refinery29, the couple recently appeared on Ellen's after show to play "How Engaged Are You?" with two of the show's producers. When asked who the messiest was between the two of them, both Vanessa and Nick immediately answered that it was the latter.

And then came the real kicker, "Although, we just moved in together," Nick said in his defense. Woah, what? 

Let's not forget that most of the post-season interviews have been pretty cringe-worthy, not to metion there was the whole rather *large* issue of Vanessa being unsure of wanting to be with Nick through the season's final episode. To top it all off, Nick revealed to Us Weekly that he basically hasn't even thought about wedding plans for the couple yet.

In fairness, the duo has some added complications with the fact that Vanessa isn't U.S. citizen, and their Ellen appearance makes it seem like they've at least warmed up to each other a little more - but we're still skeptical.

Turning 21 is a huge deal. It marks a major milestone in every girl's life, and with that milestone comes certain privileges. You should be sure to make the most out of this very special, once-in-a-lifetime occasion. Here are 21 things you can only get away with on your 21st birthday. You're welcome.

1. Being drunk all day (and night)

Mimosas for breakfast, margs for lunch and shots for dinner.

2. Wearing whatever you want

Tiaras, sashes and checklist signs won't be acceptable again until your bachelorette party, so live it up now.

3. Having your picture taken under the "born on or before today's date" sign in the liquor store

If you don't snap a photo, are you even legal?

4. Not paying for drinks

Whether it's the bartender treating you or your besties, you shouldn't have to spend a dime on your 21st!

5. Having all your friends post Insta collages of you

Because after you turn 21, Instagram photo collages feel a little too young.

6. Making your birthday celebration last all week long

It doesn't really matter what day you were born because this is your birthweek.

7. Drinking so much that you puke

While we don't encourage this, if it is going to happen, your 21st birthday might be the one time that it is excusable.

8. Dancing like nobody is watching

Lose your inhibitions!

9. Dancing with strangers

This may not usually be acceptable behavior, but yelling "It's my birthday!" somehow makes it OK.

10. Making out with strangers

As long as said strangers consent.

11. Making poor decisions in general

Because they probably sounded logical at the time.

12. Eating a ton of cake, ice cream and other junk food

Because you're only young once, right?

13. Falling asleep in the Uber

Just make sure your friends wake you up when you arrive at your destination.

14. Taking a bunch of photos that will never see the light of day

Let alone grace your social media pages.

15. Mixing different types of alcohol

You know you're going to regret it, yet you'll probably do it anyway.

16. Getting as much free stuff as possible

In addition to alcohol, you can pretty much get anything for free just by flashing your ID (and a smile) on your 21st.

17. Partying harder than you ever have before

And probably harder than you ever will again.

18. Being the DJ

It's your birthday, so no one can stop you from playing whatever kind of music you want.

19. Fighting your hangover by continuing to drink

This is a talent that you will most likely lose once you turn 22.

20. Making crazy memories that will last forever

(If you can remember them.)

21. Using "It's my birthday" as an excuse for anything

Because who can argue with that logic?

Happy 21st birthday, collegiette!

Amazing news: if you're one of those people that absolutely detests cardio (*raises hand*), you might be able to replace your weekly sweat sesh with a super hot bath - seriously.

Cosmopolitan reports that Loughborough University researcher Dr. Steve Faulkner has found that taking a long, hot bath has more benefits than we already knew it did - namely, burning calories and preventing type 2 diabetes.

Dr. Faulkner's study examined the effect of an hour-long hot bath (around 104 degrees Fahrenheit) on the amount of calories burned, and found that sitting in a bath burned 140 calories - a similar amount to 30 minutes of walking. (Though, in fairness, researchers found it doesn't burn quite as many calories as more intense forms of cardio like cycling.) And let's be honest here, when faced with the choice, would you rather chill out in a hot bath with candles, a good book and your favorite bath bomb, or spend half an hour walking?

"Passive heating," as the study calls it, also has tons of other benefits too - researchers found that hot baths lower your peak blood sugar (a good thing!) and helps fight chronic inflammation.

"The overall blood sugar response to both conditions was similar, but peak blood sugar after eating was about 10% lower when participants took a hot bath compared with when they exercised," Dr. Faulkner writes in The Conversation.

So yes, this means you have full permission to skip your cardio this week in exchange for a stress-relieving bath - you're welcome.

With Sexual Assault Awareness Month right around the corner in April, there's no better time to remind people of the toxic way we tend to talk about sexual assault - and the progress we still have to make. Luckily, former Vice President Joe Biden's campaign, called It's On Us, which raises awareness about sexual assault released a new video PSA that does exactly this.

Titled "Autocorrect," the video shows a text conversation between two male friends the morning after (presumably) a party. As they use casual language to describe what was actually one friend's attempt at sexually assaulting a woman at the party, autocorrect bubbles pop up to fill in phrases that actually describe what happened the night before.

Examples include one guy writing that he had to "encourage" a woman to have sex with him, and autocorrecting to "forcing." As his story continues, he says her friend knocked on his door "running her mouth," which autocorrects to "asking if she was okay."

Unfortunately, this conversation is all-too-common in real life, especially on college campuses where alcohol and parties aren't exactly hard to find. Part of the reason the video is so powerful is because we can all relate. We've all heard what was really sexual assault talked about in a way that disguises it as nothing more than a drunken hookup - which makes the campaign's message all the more important.

Throughout the month of April, It's On Us will continue to spread awareness about sexual assault by holding over 300 events across the country - you can learn about how to take action or get involved on the campaign's website.

Being an athlete in high school pretty much feels like constantsenioritis, because you’re so stoked to get to college and play already. Whether your passion is on the field, rink, ring or court, there are a few things to know about college athletics before you’re ready to score. Here are seven absolutely necessary steps you need to take to land a spot on the dream team at your future alma mater.

1. Learn about the different divisions and leagues

When you start college, you’ll most likely be playing as part of the National Collegiate Athletics Association, as it’s the largest, most well-known non-profit organization that regulates athletes, and from football to golf, it pretty much rules the college sports world. The NCAA is present at 1,121 colleges and universities, and contains three different divisions you can play for.

Division I is considered the big leagues and grooms you into a professional athlete. It is present on the most campuses, and puts students directly in the sports spotlight. Division II focuses on balance between athletics and academics, so it’s great for any student who’s passionate about their sport but still soaking up the college experience. Division III, though still high-intensity, has the lowest stakes and hones in on the “student” part of student-athlete. Division III is perfect if you want to play sports while you pursue a career related to your major.

Sophia Walker, a senior at Bowdoin College brings up some major considerations when thinking about the division you should pitch yourself for. “Divisions I, II and III are all very different, and club sports are also an option,” she says. “Are you willing to train year-round [like in] Division I and II? Or do you want a break out of season [like in] Division III? Do you want to pursue other things alongside your athletics, like research over the summer? Some programs will let you go abroad, for example, and others won't. These are all things to consider.”

If none of these options sound fitting for you, consider club or intramural sports. Club sports are student-run, but can be just as competitive and rigorous. Intramurals are set up so that students at the same college can compete against one another. Intramurals are the least time-consuming and least competitive, but still offer a lot of fun bonding opportunities.

2. Understand the recruitment process

So, you've decided you want to be a college athlete. What's next? Well, recruitment for any of the three divisions can be difficult, because while it may be your goal to end up in a specific division, there is no guarantee you’ll get your first choice. Instead, you must choose from who contacts you and what these contacts offer. According to the NCAA Eligibility Center, “if a college coach calls you more than once, contacts you off campus, pays your expenses to visit the campus, or in Divisions I and II, issues you a National Letter of Intent or a written offer of financial aid, you are considered to be recruited.”

Faith Mimnaugh, the head coach of women’s basketball at California Polytechnic State University, a Division I school, explains the recruitment process for those wanting to be college athletes. “The recruitment process varies with each division, and there’s a lot of variation between student-athletes,” she says. “[A] student should start by narrowing down a list of schools [she'd] like to attend or play for. Not every sport is available at every college, so it requires a lot of research on the student’s part. Then it generally begins when you make contact with a coach to let [him or her] know you’d like to play for them, unless you’re so well-known that coaches are contacting you and sending you letters and scholarship offers.”

Mimnaugh suggests that the most efficient way to contact a coach is via email. When you do this, make sure to include your high school, expected graduation date, coach's contact information, your positions, athletic resume, sport statistics and any awards you’ve received. The NCAA prohibits coaches from contacting students before their junior year, so once your junior year begins start putting yourself out there. Once you’ve made contact with a coach, keep them up-to-date on your athletic achievements, and even invite them to one of your tournaments or showcases.

If you want to impress a coach even more, include a video compilation of your very best stuff. This way, a prospective coach can get a first-hand experience of just how truly amazing you are. Seven or eight minutes of footage is all it takes to sell yourself.

“By taking recruitment in your own hands, you have more of a chance to end up at the school and in the division you want,” Mimnaugh says. “Then, the rest of recruitment is on the coach. Phone calls, letters, unofficial or official campus visits and a visit from the coach are regular and should be expected.”

Though you ultimately must wait to be recruited for a school and will have to choose from those offers, there is still a lot of proactive work you can be doing to end up where you want.

3. Make sure you meet requirements

Did you know the NCAA has very strict requirements for new college athletes? Not only do you need to have incredible athletic ability, but you also need to be academically equipped for all college is going to throw at you. The best way to ensure success while you’re still in high school is by keeping your grades high and working on your study habits.

More specifically, you’ll need to meet your prospective college’s admission requirements – it depends on the school, but usually maintaining a 3.0 GPA and scoring at least a 1500 on your SAT is acceptable. Then, apply for the NCAA Eligibility Center certification after your junior year. When you take your SAT or ACT, use code 9999 in the recipient section to have your scores sent straight to the Eligibility Center.  If you’re looking for more information, the NCAA has a handy guide.

College athletes need to be in shape physically and academically, because you will be balancing a full course load and full extracurricular schedule in college, which even many normal full-time students can’t handle. Take care of yourself and try hard, and you’ll be an all-star collegiette in no time.

4. Get obsessed with your prospective college

Once you’ve received an offer, find out literally everything you can and get obsessed with your future team. Visit the campus, meet with the coach, talk to current team members, learn how to balance your practice time with your major. Covering all the bases and soaking up information will make you especially prepared come time for school. Most importantly, you want to love the team and school you’ll be spending the next four years at, so it helps to be super prepared now to avoid disappointment later.

Lauryn Higgins, a former student-athlete who ran track and field at Mars Hill University, a Division II school, has some practical advice for checking out if a college’s team is right for you. “Request an overnight stay!” she says. “Visit the campus, attend a practice and stay the night in a dorm room with a current member of the team you're looking to compete on. Most schools will accommodate this, so just ask. It's a great way to get a feel for the team environment, the schedule, the type of practice and if you even like the school.”

When you get the chance to talk with coaches and other players, these are some of the questions you should be asking: What does your typical daily schedule look like? How rigorous is your travel schedule? Approximately how many hours a night do you study? What assistance is available if you have academic problems? Were changes made to any promises once you committed/enrolled? Get the answers to these, and it will feel you’re already part of the team. Knowing everything about your future college will have you next-level obsessed – in the best way.

Related: 7 Things Not To Consider When Deciding where to Apply for College

5. Visualize what you want your college experience to look like

Do you want to double major or add a minor? Do you want spend a semester studying abroad? Are you planning on completing internships related to your degree? Do you want to be involved in Greek life? These are just some of the questions you need to be asking yourself that will help determine the type of athletics you should pursue in college.

Most of us already find it hard to manage our time in college without playing a sport, so as a student-athlete, you need to be prepared to make some social sacrifices for the benefit of your classes and athletic practice. The average college athlete spends 20 hours a week in class and more than 30 hours a week at practice. This sets you up for a lot of stress.

Lauryn has witnessed this stress firsthand. “It was common for two out of the 10 freshman athletes to quit our track and field team by spring semester because they just couldn't handle the workload,” she says. “Also, the excitement of going out and being in college outweighed the excitement of being college athlete. When you're an athlete, you don't have the luxury of eating fast food, drinking at parties or staying up late on weekends. You really have to make sacrifices, and it’s something you need to be aware of before you step into the world of collegiate athletics.”

If you’re more interested in a traditional college experience like being involved in your major, exploring your college town and hanging out with your friends till the sun goes down, realize the hard truth that you can’t have the best of both worlds. Division I and II don’t always flow with the desires of a fun, relaxed college student. It doesn’t mean you must sacrifice athletics entirely – just choose a Division III school or join a club sport to find your own personal balance.

6. Find a scholarship

First, we need to debunk the myth that you’ll be able to get a full-ride scholarship through college. It’s unlikely that your award will cover the full cost of your tuition, but the average athletic scholarship in 2016 still came out to over $5,000 a year. Is it worth it? Definitely, if you love your sport.

Know that a scholarship isn’t guaranteed for all four years, either. It’s usually up to the coach's discretion whether your scholarship will be renewed. If you’re legitimately looking to earn a four-year scholarship, consider a Division III school where you’re more likely to get a merit scholarship for your accomplishments than you would be to earn a full sports scholarship at a Division I or II school.

We recommend checking out the scholarship options available at your college for athletes, and then looking at specific academic scholarships relating to your major. Any amount of financial aid helps, and once you’ve exhausted your scholarship options, don’t forget to fill out your FAFSA.

Related:How To Talk To Your Parents About Paying for College

7. Realize the most important part of college is your education

Don’t let the thrill of sports distract you from the main reason you’re at college: to get an education and earn your college degree. Many college athletes aren’t able to succeed if they are pursuing a time-intensive major, so if your career goal is to become a doctor, being a college athlete may not be in your best interest. It’s likely that if you’re on a Division I sports team, you’ll need to choose a major that requires less class time, leaving more of your day for the field.

Remember that even if you get the chance to go pro, sports careers can end abruptly. Don’t disregard the importance of your degree thinking you won’t need it. It could be a valuable cushion, because your involvement in sports may not continue after college. Your motto should be college first, sports second. That’s why choosing a Division III school where there is less emphasis on sports is a good option if you’re a person that wants balance between the two.

Sophie has a newsflash for those considering the dedicated athlete life. “Varsity athletics can be very challenging to maintain alongside a full course load, so make sure you have an idea of what your life outside of your team will look like before committing to anything.”

We hope you feel a little more prepared to take on the world of college athletics. Trust in your own talent and abilities, and know that you’ll end up on the best college and team for you. Every athlete will have a different experience, and what matters is that you feel fulfilled and not exhausted by your experience. Good luck, collegiette! We’ll be cheering you on from the stands.

You two have your own made up language or talk in fake accents 24/7. Regardless of how foreign the communication between you two is, there are some down-right outrageous things you could ONLY say to your BFF. Maybe it's expressing how badly you must go to the bathroom, or telling her you’d totally be DTF her as she gets dressed for a date with her S.O. Maybe it is even admitting that you’re coming over only for her snack closet. But when it comes down to it, every single word translates to a pure sign of your affection and love. Here are 19 outrageous things you could only say to your best friend forever:

1. I need a good Instagram, please take a picture of me

2. I'm farting and you will smell it

3. I want to marry the boy version of you

4. You have to text me while I go on this date

5. I need your help investigating

6. We need a reality show

7. Can you play with my hair?

8. My children will not be able to take after your example

9. We’d kill each other as roommates

10. Just bring wine

11. I’ll get the coffee order this time, it will just be on your personal tab

12. You're only allowed to date him if he gets my seal of approval

13. I'm posting this picture, I don't care how bad you look

14. Comfort me when I'm an old cat lady

15. We will be the coolest kids in the nursing home

16. I am coming over right now and crashing your family dinner

17. I am going to SH*T!

18. I just took a 20 minute vacation on the toilet

19. I don't have any tampons left so I'm relying on you

College is already a never-ending to-do list, but when you throw in internships, part-time jobs, extracurriculars, sports, volunteering, Greek life, a significant other and oh yeah, a social life—well, let’s just say busy becomes an understatement. So much to do, so little time. Sound familiar? It’s probably cause you’re the busy bee of your friend group. So props to you for even having time to read this article. But then again, let me guess, you’re probably in transit or multi-tasking.

1. You make plans with your friends way in advance

2. You’re never available for spontaneous plans

3. You’re not the easiest person to reach

4. You suck at replying to texts

5. You’re a pro at multi-tasking

6. You don’t know where you’d be without your calendar or planner

You probably own that specific planner. 

7. You can't deal with slow walkers

8. You’ve mastered speed walking

9. You’re an ambitious gal

There's just so many things you want to achieve!

10. You’re not the most patient of people

11. Your time management skills are on point

12. You have yet to experience binge-watching a TV show

13. Procrastination is not a thing—ain’t got time for that

14. Your laptop and phone are your life

15. You don’t get FOMO because tbh, you’re too busy to scroll through Instagram or Snapchat

16. When people ask, “When are you free?”

Isn't that the million dollar question?

17. You have big dreams and you’re set on achieving them

18. You're a fast-paced person

19. You hate getting sick

20. Your SO has gotten used to your busy schedule 

21. Free time is a foreign concept

22. But you still manage to squeeze in a social life and sleep because you’re an overachiever