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

Warning: The below contains 13 Reasons Why spoilers!

Unless you live under a rock, you've heard of 13 Reasons Why. Originally a teen novel by Jay Asher, the Netflix series is narrated by Hannah Baker, a high school sophomore who commits suicide and leaves 13 tapes explaining why she killed herself. The show follows Hannah's friend Clay as he listens to the tapes. While there was a lot of hype around the show when it originally came out, there are some problems with it that we just can't ignore. 

1. There are no mental health discussions or resources

At the beginning of certain triggering episodes, there are warnings. But this show deals explicitly with mental health, and yet it gives no resources, mental health messages or numbers to call if you need help. Hannah acts like suicide is her only option. She doesn't talk to her parents or her friends. Her only attempt to talk to someone is a last-ditch effort with the continuously oblivious high school guidance counselor. And the show itself doesn't discuss getting help or trying to talk to someone.

13 Reasons Why is marketed to tweens, the 12-15 age group. How can a show that was made for this highly impressionable age group not include any discussion of mental health? Why does it seem to tell tweens suicide is the only option? 

2. The characters in the show are unrealistic

Aside from being underdeveloped, the characters in the show are completely unrealistic. Whoever cast 13 Reasons Why has apparently never seen an actual 15-year-old. The actors who portray these high school sophomores all seem to be around 22.  

3. It doesn't show healthy parent/child relationships

By parroting the stereotypical rhetoric of children and their parents not getting along, the show creates even more distance between parents and children. Instead of featuring attentive parents who talk to and support their children, 13 Reasons Why shows parents who simply don't understand their children. When Clay is obviously distancing himself and struggling, his mother thinks that having family breakfast every morning will solve his problems, not telling him she's there for him or suggesting that he see a mental health professional. Clay is literally hallucinating and having very public panic attacks, but there's no one who seems to notice or talk to him about it. How does this make any sense? 

4. The high school doesn't handle death appropriately

In less than a year, the sophomore class has two deaths. Instead of bringing in crisis counselors after Jay's death—something most schools do following deaths in a student body—this high school decides to pretend nothing's happened. We don't even learn that Jay has died until the penultimate episode, although he was a popular kid and an athlete. How do they not expect something else to happen? Had there been crisis counselors provided after Jay's death, it's very likely Hannah's death would've been prevented.

There also aren't any crisis counselors in the school after Hannah's death. The only person who appears to be a resource for students is the one (still oblivious) guidance counselor. 

5. Hannah's suicide is supposed to punish people

The whole reason Hannah made the tapes is because she blamed those people for her death. Consider this hypothetical scenario: You're in a relationship, but you're not happy. Whenever you try to end the relationship, your significant other threatens to hurt themselves, so you stay with them because you're afraid of what they're going to do. Not only is this disgustingly manipulative, but it's also emotional abuse.

Hannah's tactic is emotionally abusive, even if she doesn't see it that way. In fact, her death sets in motion events that lead to one student planning a school shooting and another student attempting suicide. The show also makes it seem like by killing herself, Hannah is able to enjoy getting revenge on everyone who hurt her—even though in reality, Hannah can't see any of the repercussions of her actions, because she's dead. 

6. It plays with the idea that Clay's love could've saved Hannah

Hannah was Clay's manic pixie dream girl, and oh, if only he had told her he was in love with her, then she would've lived! Hannah's death is Clay's fault! 

No. Hannah's death was her choice, born out of a multitude of factors. Clay could not have saved her. The fact that he blames himself for her death because he, an awkward 15-year-old boy, couldn't profess his love for her is troubling. The main reason Clay has a tape is because he and Hannah kissed at a party, where she freaked out and told him to go away and he did. He did what she asked and listened to her, but somehow he's responsible for her death? And now he has to live with that blame? No thanks. 

7. The Walplex storyline was a waste of time

For a show about mental health, capitalism sure did get a lot of screen time. Instead of showing Hannah having meaningful conversations with her mother or a peer, we got to see how big businesses are destroying towns. Instead of Hannah learning and practicing self-care, we saw multiple scenes of Walplex drama. I know someone will point out that this plot line had to do with the Baker's financial stress, which I acknowledge. But as a parent, if your family is going through a difficult time, you don't just get to stop being a parent and checking in with your children. It's actually more important to pay attention when there is stress in the family. 

8. The glamorization of suicide

By showing Hannah's suicide, not only does the show glamorize suicide and make it entertaining, but it also allows for the copycat effect. Imagine a parent finding out their child hurt themselves and asking why they decided to do it only to hear, "Well, Hannah Baker did it…" There's a reason why news outlets don't tell readers how someone committed suicide. The show also breaks the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's rules on reporting, which exist to prevent copycats and the glamorization of suicide.

So when you hear this show described as the "hottest show of 2017," think about how those who have been affected by suicide feel. Those people who have lost someone to suicide or who are survivors. Think about how it feels to have the hardest thing you've ever gone through described as a "must-watch" or "so eye-opening!" 

9. The show is way too long

Thirteen tapes, 13 episodes. Not only are parts of the show slow and filled with seemingly unnecessary plot lines (see my above complaint about Walplex), but the show also could have been condensed greatly. Had it been a movie, it would've moved more quickly, and there wouldn't have been so much awkward silence. 

10. Many people, especially kids, shouldn't hear this story

As a kid, you're too young to process your emotions. A story as personal as this isn't usually the first thing you want tell a child. Children are (for obvious reasons) protected from the scary things in the world. Suicide is a scary thing. Feeling suicidal, struggling with mental illness, losing someone you love—these are heavy topics. Children should not have such easy access to this show. 

11. No one is shown learning how to deal with their problems

Here's the thing: High school can suck. Thankfully, high school ends and life begins. When you're in high school, everything seems so finite. It seems like there's nothing beyond high school. But after high school, you won't remember every single fight you had with your friends or every single embarrassment you endured. After high school, you really won't remember high school.

At no point in 13 Reasons Why is there any discussion of life after high school, though. There's no one in this show who says, "Hey, I know things suck right now, but trust me, it will get better, and I want you to know you can talk to me when you feel stressed." Where are the role models? Where are the good people? 

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.

There’s no denying that Lorelai Gilmore is the shining star of the cult classic, Gilmore Girls. As a coffee enthusiast and spokeswoman for all things sugar, it is utterly impossible to resist her charm. In honor of the Gilmore Girls Netflix reboot, here’s a list of all the times Lorelai had you staggered by her wisdom and bowing down to her Majesty.

1. When she totally understood your insane coffee addiction.

A perfect example of ~fine dining and breathing~.

2. But felt no shame in encouraging it.

Every morning is a coffee morning, after all.

3. When she validated the errors of your youth.

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Literally so many.

4. When she was a strong advocate for the post-breakup wallow.

Ice cream = closure.

5. When she wasn’t afraid to get what she wanted. 

A Gilmore through and through.

6. When she found inspiration in an American junk food staple.

FREEDOM.  

7. When she highlighted the glory of all junk foods in general. 

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It’s a tradeoff, really.

8. When she managed to turn frustrating moments into brilliant one-liners. 

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Home is where the heart is, eh?

9. When she had no qualms about embracing cynicism. 

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There’s a little bit of evil Lorelai in all of us.

10. When her approach to life’s hardships was clear and simple. 

Clear as the cling film upon which she sat.

11. When she established that weekends are for sleep and sleep only. 

SLEEP ONLY, RORY.

12. When she was passionate about basic human desires. 

Not a lot indeed!

13. When she admitted to being fluent in moron. 

Probably one of the easier languages to learn.

14. When she was an all-knowing prophet and just wanted you to know.

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She has much knowledge, you see.

And lastly,

15. When she had her goddamn priorities in check.

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As if she’d have it any other way.

While she certainly has her faults, the incomparable Lorelai Gilmore is always in our hearts. Here’s hoping that she always stays that way.

In my mind, Cole Sprouse will forever be a small child who gets in trouble on The Suite Life of Zack and Cody. But to the rest of the world, he is an actor, model, and even photographer. 

According to Cosmopolitan, Sprouse shot a spread for the Sunday Times cover starring Kendall Jenner and the photos are actually stunning. In the photos, Kendall is wearing a bohemian flowy shirt and her hair is cut short and wavy. The shoot, set in Malibu, basically screams "California."

Hey Cole, wanna do my new headshots? Kthanks. 

Follow Isabel on Twitter.

Name: Marissa Miller
Job Title: Freelance journalist for The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Guardian, Vogue, Teen Vogue, Cosmopolitan, BBC Travel.
College/Major: Concordia University, Montreal. Major in journalism, minor in creative writing
Website: www.marissa-miller.com
Twitter:@Marissa__Miller 
Instagram:@marissamiller__

What does your current job entail? Is there such a thing as a typical day?

Marissa Miller: The only constant in my day is coffee. Other than that, each day is different from the last. I typically go to bed at a stupid hour, but assignments start coming in as early as 7 a.m. Usually it’s news for Teen Vogue so I need to be super on the ball for that. Then by the time I’ve taken care of timely pieces I have about 100 emails in my inbox to parse through. Some are from my dad asking me dad things, and the rest are from editors and publicists. From there, I’ll work on some pitches and send out several even before I’ve completed other in-progress ones. I’m on my email so often that when I close my eyes I can see my inbox like some sort of inescapable nightmare. Daily yoga is also non-negotiable.

What is the best part of your job?

MM: Not having to wear pants is nice, but truthfully hearing from young women that I’ve inspired them to write, or feel better about themselves or take up a new hobby never gets old. I love knowing my writing has impacted someone in some way. I always think of my writing existing in a vacuum because it’s such a solitary activity, so the feedback makes me feel like a part of something bigger.

What was your first entry-level job in your field and how did you get it?

MM: I completed a really incredible digital editorial internship at Air Canada’s enRoute magazine. My supervisor was an editor named Renee Morrison who’s just so whip-smart and focused and was kind enough to take me to spinning with her a few times at lunch. It was around six months of writing, researching, fact-checking, handling social media, translating, coding, photo sourcing, figuring out how to use the damn scanner (What do you want from me? It’s like a shower. Everyone’s works differently!). After I completed that they hired me as a freelance editor to work on various travel campaigns and travel features, which was super rewarding.

During that time I was nearing the end of my undergrad. I got a LinkedIn message out of all places from CEO at a creative agency who was interested in my portfolio and wanted to talk about onboarding me as a social media manager. I was pretty shocked because other than my stint at enRoute, the only social media I’d done were my dumb tweets during class. I told him I still had exams left and that I’d be going on Birthright a week later, so could he wait for me? “Of course,” he said. Unheard of. I got the job and quickly learned that I was paid to make puns.

What words of wisdom (well-known quotes, an anecdote from your boss) do you find most valuable?

MM: I’m currently my own boss so the words of wisdom are an interior monologue on loop. I like to start my day with a little positivity since the world can be a flaming trash fire sometimes. There’s this newsletter called Thoughts From The Universe and I get it every morning. My favorite one so far is “Thoughts become things. Choose the good ones.” That saying alone has shifted my mindset in almost everything I do.

What is one mistake you made along the way and what did you learn from it?

MM: As for mistakes, I make them constantly, and I totally catastrophize them in my head. It’s obviously so gross when someone’s like “What’s your biggest flaw?” and you’re like “I’m a perfectionist! I work too hard! I care too much!” Nah. Cut the crap, you know? The mistake that sticks out most was when I got a little too comfortable. I was interning at a women’s magazine on the digital side when I got an email from an editor from another vertical who didn’t oversee me. She told me she saw my tweet about being a “slut for SEO” and that it wasn’t professional and that I need to be a better ambassador to the brand. I get it. Don’t tweet something you wouldn’t want splayed on a billboard. At the time I thought it was an A+ tweet because it’s equal parts sex-positive and equal parts nerdy and equal parts a demonstration that I was absorbing all the SEO techniques I was learning on the job, but if you have to defend a joke, it’s probably not very good.

What has been the most surreal moment of your career thus far?

MM: Honestly, everything is so surreal it’s kind of given me an identity crisis, and that’s what my in-progress book is loosely based on. A couple weeks ago The Washington Post sent me to cover the terrorist attack on a Quebec City mosque. I had never covered a mass murder before, but I realize you have to start somewhere. And it’s amazing to think one of the top newspapers in the world trusted me with such a delicate and heinous story. After covering that, I can confidently say I can report on anything. Except hockey. I’m the worst Canadian. I have a few more New York Times features coming out on subjects I really care about like mental health and sustainability. In the general sense, I’ve been put on this earth to experience life and then write about it, and that’s pretty cool.

Anyone who’s known me for like five minutes knows the entire story about how I interviewed Kylie Jenner at her 18^th birthday party for Teen Vogue, so I won’t bore you with the details. Also, this is super lame and sappy, but my fiancé was briefly my editor at the school newspaper, so start pitching away, kids. You never know who might ask you out on a date even though you actually had zero idea it was a date and next thing you know you’re engaged and share a bank account and what?

What do you look for when considering hiring someone?

MM: I don’t do any hiring, but I definitely would like to someday. I was an editor for the magazine insert of a local newspaper a couple years ago where I commissioned freelancers and my main criteria for giving them the green light was if they could entice me with a mean lede and are responsive over email. I can’t tell you how many strands of hair I’ve lost waiting for emails on deadline and then being sent to voicemail, which is actually the ether of technology. I pride myself on responding to emails in a timely manner and I appreciate it so much when others do the same. Did that sound like a subtweet?

What advice would you give to a 20-something with similar aspirations?

MM: Gather ‘round, kiddies. Okay, don’t hook up with a coworker. Kidding but not kidding. But really, be relentless. I can only speak from personal experience, but to succeed in journalism I’ve found you have to make it your entire life. I have terrible work/life balance and that’s directly the reason why I am where I am. If I go out on a Saturday night, I’ll come back home at 2 a.m. and look at my piece with fresh eyes. Leaving my work behind for a bit allows me to process it subconsciously. If I’m trying to take some time off to prevent burnout, I’ll read a book by a journalist or someone whose writing I admire. If you live and breathe writing, it won’t feel like a job at all. Sure, it’ll make you miserable sometimes, but if you can’t imagine doing anything else for the rest of your life, it’s worth it.

This weekend I had the opportunity to cover 102.7 KIIS FM's Wango Tango concert at the StubHub Center in California. Not only did I talk with Aaron Carter and Sofia Carson on the red—er, yellow—carpet, but I also enjoyed listening to pop's top hits in the California sunshine. Here are my seven favorite performances of the night.

1. Katy Perry

Katy Kats really got the full range of work from one of the true queens of pop. Katy Perry started her set with "Chained to the Rhythm" and went on to sing some of her many hits, including "Roar,""E.T." and "Firework." She strutted across the stage in her neon punk outfit, and I was totally digging her edgy, short blonde hair. Many of her numbers included strange backup dancers in bodysuits with their faces obscured, almost like sheet monsters caressing Katy's body. She finished the evening with her new single "Bon Appetit," but the concert was just getting started.

2. Maroon 5

Obviously bae—I mean, Adam Levine—had to make the list. His uber popular band Maroon 5 has practically been around longer than I have. They opened with "Moves Like Jagger" and continued to play their all-time best songs, like "Sugar," to get us all dancing and screaming the lyrics over their electric guitars. 

3. Zedd

I went in without expectations for Zedd, to be honest, because I'm not an expert on DJs. But the German producer was completely LIT at Wango Tango. He played Justin Bieber remixes and had an epic futuristic background display that looked as if he was zooming through a space shuttle tunnel. He even brought out Alessia Cara for his final song, "Stay," which seriously pumped up the crowd.

4. Miley Cyrus

Ms. Miley is back, and she's f l a w l e s s. Her newest single "Malibu" signals her possible shift back toward mellow, country numbers, though I don't think it's exactly her best sound. She performed "Malibu" live for the first time at Wango Tango, with colorful balloons on stage and others bouncing in the audience. She then brought us from Malibu to Tennessee by singing Dolly Parton's rocking song "Jolene." But it was her last number that made me so happy to be there: "We Can't Stop," one of my favorite Miley songs.

5. Niall Horan

Sure, Harry Styles may have released his new album last week, but I was totally caught up obsessing over Niall at Wango Tango. He performed "This Town" and "On the Loose" wearing an adorable newsboy cap that fit his Irish lad vibe. AND he brought along former One Directioner Liam Payne to cheer him on—Liam even introduced Ryan Seacrest later in the night. 

6. Hailee Steinfeld

Hailee took a page out of her pal Taylor Swift's playbook by BRINGING IT to Wango Tango with her strappy outfits, sharp dance moves and go-with-the-flow attitude. She was a spectacle to watch, beyond her singing over her tracks; she was perfectly in sync with her silver-jacketed backup dancers, too.

7. Backstreet Boys

The Backstreet Boys made me think, "This is what One Direction will be like in 20 years." The OG boy band closed Wango Tango with classics like "Larger Than Life" and "I Want It That Way," because are we ever too old to enjoy the best songs of the '90s?! UGH LOVE.

The best part of 102.7 KIIS FM's Wango Tango is that you get a taste of so many artists and you hear them perform the hits you know and love. The concert also has short set times, which is just enough to hear your favorites before moving on to the next talented act. Wango Tango is truly a must-see in Southern California each spring.

Kardashian beauty is universally coveted. Kylie’s lips, the sisters' glow-y skin, Khloé’s hair, and now, Kourtney’s lashes. Out of all the Kardashian-Jenner sisters, Kourt has always had the most laid-back look. While there's no doubt that the countouring queen’s beauty routine must take time and skills, unlike the rest of her sisters, she rarely strays away from the classics, instead subscribing to the beauty equivalent of “if it ain't broke, don't fix it.”

Recently, the eldest Kardashian sister gave her followers an exclusive peak into her personal beauty routine on her app. “If your eyelashes need a little boost, there are a handful of all-natural ways to lengthen and thicken them," she explains. "Including these steps in your nightly skincare routine is especially important if you wear mascara or flash eyelashes, both of which tend to take their toll on your lashes.”

These are the products that Kourtney recommends to keep your eyelashes looking healthy, and feeling strong and invincible as a mascara lover:

1. Vitamin E Oil by GreatFull Skin ($24.97 at Amazon)

Kourtney claims that she and her famous sisters have been using this product since high school—which is a great indicator that this product works in the long run! It is designed to promote growth and condition around the eye area.

2. Certified Organic Castor Oil ($13.50 at RejuveNaturals)

Castor oil naturally enhances the length of your lashes within 7-8 weeks, meaning that you can say goodbye to false lashes and lash extensions just in time for summer!

3. Sephora Collection PRO Brow Comb #21 ($15 at Sephora)

Brush your lashes out with a brow comb to allow for “essential nutrients to reach your hair follicles.” As a bonus, you can use the same comb after you have applied mascara to separate your lashes and avoid any clumping.

4. SheaMoisture Beauty Hack 100% Pure Raw Shea Butter ($3.99 at Ulta)

Kourtney uses this Shea Butter to fix all of her lash problems. She credits its with increasing blood flow, growing lashes, and preventing thinning and breakage. She recommends it to help repair any damage done after lash extensions (which you’ll no longer need after these helpful tips!).

5. Replenishing Face Oil ($42.95 at Manuka Doctor)

Kourtney loves this product, and is even quoted on the brand’s site: ”I use Manuka Doctor's Replenishing Facial Oil under my eyes, on my lids and on my hands before I go to bed. I'll even put it on my body. I love the way it smells."

6. Pure Silk Pillowcase - Pink ($79 at slip)

Silk pillowcases have nothing but benefits. Not only do they prevent hair and lashes from breaking, but they can help reduce the appearance of aging and wrinkles, according to Kourt.

Kourtney definitely has her fair share of good advice when it comes to beauty, but make sure to do your research to figure out if her routine is right for you!

In the world of hair, everything goes. Pastel hair, rainbow roots, mermaid hair... even Unicorn Frappuccino hair have become just as common as your run-of-the-mill brown hair; with pink counting as a “neutral” and nothing being too wild. It seems like every week, beauty and hair influencers are finding a new way to dye hair in different patterns and combinations. The latest? Shine Line hair. 

Unlike Unicorn Frap hair, this trend isn’t one that just appeared out of the blue. The hashtag #shineline started all the way back in 2014, when #hairgoals were just a bit different. Aura Friedman, a New York-based colorist told Allure that she "wanted to create the effect that a laser beam is hitting your hair at a certain spot,” when she bleached a horizontal strip of hair from ear to ear.

However, just like everything in 2017, the louder, and more colorful the better, as colorists have adapted this trend to include a modern, rainbow update. New Hampshire colorist Stephanie Lawrence has taken to Instagram to demonstrate her shine line skills, and I'm sure that plenty of people are showing Stephanie's work to their stylists for them to recreate.

Want shine line hair? Instead of blending colors together, ask your stylist to horizontally stripe each color, to create a blocky effect. Apply any colors of the rainbow so that they appear as though light is hitting them. Generally, the roots and the ends of the hair are the same color.

Don’t worry, Lawrence isn’t the only stylist who’s able to create this effect. Researching the hashtag #shineline on Instagram is sure to give you all the inspiration that you’re looking for.

While shine line hair looks stunning in these Instagram photos, I’d be worried what this trend would look like IRL. Of course the color looks amazing when it's fresh out of the salon. However, I’d be curious to see how it would look on a more casual day, when you haven’t had time to expertly curl your hair, or, even more relatably, on those days where your hair is stuck in a ponytail for the third day in a row (hello, exam season!) There’s no denying that colorful hair, bleach and detailed dye jobs are high maintenance, so you can assume that if you’re sporting the #shineline hair trend, you won’t have the option to skip a month at the salon, or to have too many lazy hair days.

After four long years of undergrad, taking on a graduate degree isn’t for everyone. If you were planning to attend grad school and ended up changing your mind, or if you’ve already started grad school and decided you don’t want to continue, you’re not alone! Changing your mind about grad school may seem like a huge deal, but just know that you have plenty of other options when it comes to your future.

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What to do if you’ve changed your mind about grad school completely

So you’ve decided that you no longer want to attend grad school. Don’t stress yourself out! It’s okay that you changed your mind. Even if you’re unsure of what you want right now, you have time. You can always make the decision to go to grad school later on.

“You should examine your motivation for applying to grad school,” says Lesley Mitler, co-founder of Early Stage Careers.“Do you really want to continue your studies or are you fearful of leaving school?” She explains that “if you accept an offer at a grad school and change your mind about that school or [about] attending grad school at all, you can rescind that acceptance—you are not legally bound to attend.”

Even if you are still considering grad school, it’s important to be aware of your career options as well. “You should research and understand the jobs you qualify for and apply to those that appeal to you,” says Mitler.

Alexandra Whitehead, a senior at SUNY Buffalo State, had been planning on attending grad school since she was a preteen. Once she started undergrad, however, she changed her mind. “Every semester, I was mentally drained from the work and would be fed up with school,” she says. “Until recently, it didn't occur to me that I have been attending school for 17 years. Seventeen years of being an over-achiever who pushed [myself] to excel and receive the best grades possible. Thinking about adding another two years to that made my brain want to implode. I would love to attend grad school but I just don't think I can mentally do it anymore. I'm ready to end this ‘school’ chapter of my life and start a fresh, new one. Maybe this will change in the near future but as of now, I'm very content with not attending.”

While it is important to always keep your options open, it’s essential to do what makes you happy!

Now that you’ve decided to hold off on more schooling, you need to determine what you are going to do instead. “You can delay grad school and work for a few years to confirm your commitment to your field of study,” says Mitler. “This may enable you to save some money while getting real world professional experience. This work experience might be advantageous when finishing graduate school in helping you [to] get a post-graduate job.”

So polish up your resume, and start applying for jobs and internships. Utilize your alma mater—every school has a number of resources available for graduates looking for their first job out of college.

Mitler recommends using social media, specifically LinkedIn and Instagram, as a resource to “identify, research and learn about corporate culture and current job opportunities.” She also suggests browsing company websites, which “allow you to research background information on lines of business, read recent press and learn about specific internship and graduate programs for college and graduate students.”

Related: 6 Antiquated Job Search Rules (& What to Do Instead)

Amber Layfield, a senior at Appalachian State, says that she was completely set on going to grad school right after she finished undergrad. “I had spreadsheets with school names, programs I was interested in, the application due date, everything you could think of,” says Amber. “I was studying for the GRE last summer, but before I knew it the fall semester had started and I was swept up in school, work and my organizations. I was exhausted…so I talked to my mentor and decided taking a year or two off before going back to school would be good for me. I wanted to get some experience in my field and in life too, and so far it's working out well. I'm searching for a job or a paid internship, but I know this was the right choice for me!”

If you don’t want to jump into the workforce right away, consider spending time abroad, enrolling in a service learning program like AmeriCorps or City Year, or applying for The Disney College Program. Change is inevitable; it’s all about how you handle it.

What to do if you’ve decided against the program or college you’re currently in

If you are unhappy in your program or your choice of school in general, consider whether you would still like to attend grad school. You may not want to give up on the degree altogether; maybe you just need to make some changes.

“After starting grad school, some people come to the realization that either the career path or academia is not the right choice,” says Mitler. “It is best to leave as soon as you are no longer committed to that career or to continuing in school.”

Sydnee Lyons, a first year grad student at Florida Atlantic University, is having doubts about completing her program. “As the first year of my program comes to a close, I've noticed myself slipping back to how I'm used to being in school—demanding too much of myself and thinking about school every second of every day,” says Sydnee. “Of course, I want the credentials and the knowledge, but it feels as though it comes at the price of my peace of mind. I just think that, beyond a certain age, school shouldn't be anyone's biggest worry in life. And if it is, like it is for me, then grad school may not be the best choice.”

Take the time to sit down and talk with your advisor, a teacher, mentor, or even a trusted friend or family member. They can assist you in weighing your options and provide information that will help you find a better fit. Mitler suggests contacting the director of admissions as soon as possible if you are having second thoughts. “This dialogue may help you to get more clarity on your decision to determine if you are right to question and change your mind,” she says. If you’re still unsure, try re-researching the program or reaching out to past graduates to find out where they are now. Also, be sure to research career fields that are available to you if you do decide to drop out.

There are other options when it comes to graduate school. For instance, if the cost of grad school is one of your concerns, Mitler recommends enrolling in online courses or online degree programs. “This enables you to obtain a degree without accumulating all the debt of a full time graduate school program,” she says. “Another option is to work for a company that after a few years of employment partially or fully funds graduate school on a part-time basis, post-work hours.”

Whatever you decide, just know that giving up grad school isn’t quitting. You’re simply starting a new chapter of your life—so make the best of it! Don’t get discouraged; always keep moving forward. Set new goals, and go after them. You’ll be killing it in the real world in no time!

Ben Higgins and Lauren Bushnell announced in a statement on Monday that they've broken up, People reports.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce our decision to go our separate ways,” they said. “We feel fortunate for the time we had together, and will remain friends with much love and respect for one another. We wish nothing but the best for each other, and ask for your support and understanding at this time.”

Ben and Lauren met and got engaged on his season of The Bachelor. They later had their own spinoff show on Freeform, Ben and Lauren: Happily Ever After?, which lasted just one season. 

The pair called off their wedding in November but insisted their relationship was still in a great place. Fans noticed they had all but disappeared from each other's social media in recent months, though, aside from posts promoting their gig hosting Freeform's Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings special.

While it's always hard to see a Bachelor couple part ways, we wish Ben and Lauren nothing but the best as they move on.

The mermaid trend has been blowing up lately and I'm loving it. From mermaid hair to mermaid makeup... to mermaid toast, it's been a wild ride! With summer right around the corner, this trend is perfect to take with you to the beach. Check out these awesome mermaid-themed clothes and accessories that will make you feel like a magical sea creature.

Mermaid Vibes Love Tee ($38 at Life Clothing)

Mermaid vibes forever.

Cropped Festival Anorak in Mermaid Metallic ($72 at ASOS)

Perfect!

Geo Mesh Mermaid Dress ($45 at Forever 21)

Graduation dress?

One-Shoulder Mermaid Dress ($29.90 at Forever 21)

So classy.

Outstanding Ordinary Midi Skirt In Metallic Mermaid ($53 at ASOS)

A mermaid tail without the inconvenience.

Mermaid Wing Back One Piece Swimsuit ($39.99 at Swim Outlet)

Yes please!

Mermaid One-Piece Swimsuit ($99 at REVOLVE)

Trend alert.

Mermaid Tail Walkable/Swimmable with Invisible Zipper Bottom ($35 at Etsy)

If you're going for the full commitment.

Mermaid Tail Style Blanket ($21.02 at Twinkle Deals)

This is my favorite! Netflix and snuggle like a mermaid.

The Little Mermaid Custom Nike Roshe ($139 at Etsy)

Best thing I've seen all day.

TheWhiteBrand Mermaid Iridescent Slider Flat Sandals ($32 at ASOS)

How cute??

Mermaid Phone Case ($28 at Society6)

Ugh, art.

PLAYDOUGH MERMAID HAIR​ ($40 at Casetify)

Everyday mood.

Mermaid phone case ($19.95 at Etsy)

Scalin'.

Mermaid Hair Pin ($2 at Etsy)

A life saver on a beach day.

Baja Starfish Hair Clip ($13 at Etsy)

Adorable.

Mermaid stud earrings ($15 at Etsy)

Yes!

Mermaid Ring Wrap ($28 at Alex & Ani)

Something shiny for the mermaid lover in you.

Newly crowned Miss USA Kára McCullough is a beautiful, educated black scientist. She sounds pretty awesome, right? But not even 24 hours after she won the pageant Sunday, the backlash began. 

Along with two other contestants, Kára was asked, “What do you consider feminism to be and do you consider yourself a feminist?” She responded, “As a woman scientist in the government, I'd like to transpose the word feminism to equalism. I try not to consider myself this diehard, like, I don't really care about men. I am going to say one thing though, women are just as equal as men when it comes to opportunity in the workplace. I say first hand I have witnessed the impact that women have in leadership in the medical sciences as well as in the office environment. As Miss USA, I would hope to promote that type of leadership responsibility globally for so many women worldwide." 

Then, when asked whether healthcare was a right or a privilege, she said the latter.

As you can imagine, her answers caused a social media uproar. Viewers immediately tweeted their anger at Kára.

Many viewers rallied around Miss New Jersey after she gave this response to the same question about feminism. "I think it's a misconception when people believe that feminism is women being better than men, but it's really not. It's a fight for equality.”

While Kára might do great things with her new title, we hope she learns a bit more about feminism and healthcare in the process.

Follow Catherine on Twitter.

We all dream of having a celebrity accompany us to prom. For Jalaah Moore, a student at Memphis’s Fairley High School, that dream became a reality.

Jalaah brought Drake to her prom, but not as her date. (It's a good thing because he totally didn’t get the pink sequin memo.) As Jalaah’s cousin, Drake played more of a chaperone figure.  

That’s not all he did. According to ET Online, Drake paid for Jalaah and her date’s coordinating attire, along with a white Rolls Royce. Because that's what family does, right?

Showstopping outfits and a luxury car weren’t enough, though. The “One Dance” singer also arranged for Jalaah and 400 (yes, 400!) friends to have an after-party at the Hard Rock Café.

Drake definitely pulled out all the stops to make sure his cousin had an amazing night. Even though he reportedly didn’t perform, I hope the DJ played “Hotline Bling.” Honestly watching Drake do that dance would be enough.

One thing is for sure: Jalaah definitely had the best prom ever. 

Blackheads are disgusting (think: dirt clogging your skin), but thankfully, there are multiple ways to remove them. If you're anything like me, you've spent hours on YouTube looking for the best way to get rid of them. You have probably tried four different techniques before finding one that works for you... or not. If you fall into the latter category, beauty junkies from YouTube and Reddit have a new solution for you. They swear by a new blackhead removal technique called "Skin Gritting." It is downright disturbing to look at, but I. Can't. Stop.

So how does it works? First, you cleanse your face with an oil cleanser, then apply a clay mask. After rinsing that off, you use more oil cleanser and massage it into the skin. After this, somehow, magically, the impurities surface, visible to the naked eye. All that's left to do then is to tweeze out the blackheads. It's fascinating and, like, really gross.

According to Refinery29, this works because the clay will unclog your pores, while, according to Teen Vogue, the oil cleanser will help remove dirt. So this method may be legit, but it's also vaguely dangerous, especially if you have very sensitive skin. It could leave your skin irritated, and you could scrape off the outer layer of it in the process. Eek. That said, several YouTubers who have tried this method didn't really get any results, aside from making their skin very red from the massaging. So not only does this method probably not work, or at least not for everyone, but it can also damage your pretty face? Looks like you really shouldn't try this at home.

Since President Donald Trump's election, women all over the country are uncertain and concerned about their place in the nation's future, according to a survey by Pew Research Center. According to the survey, only 29 percent of women would say they have "quite a lot" of confidence about the future. Compare that to October 2015, when 43 percent of women had a lot of confidence in the future. Yikes.

It gets better. According to the same research, only 23 percent of women and 36 percent of men are satisfied with the current state of our nation. That makes sense when you think about people's reaction to Trump—who began his presidency with the lowest approval rating of any president from the last 20 years. In a separate survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, public trust in the government in general is at a historic low. Republicans trust the government more than Democrats; even then, the trust is only at 28 percent, as compared to Democrats' 15 percent. 

How can Trump earn back the trust of the American people? Well, he could start by not breaking long-established government norms by doing something like firing an FBI director who's in the middle of investigating him.

Have no fear, though. there is hope for us yet. According to one opinion writer in USA Today, "Trumpism" has a very foggy long-term future, as the predominantly white Christians who supported him are becoming more and more of a minority. 

Only 39 percent of Americans approve of Trump's presidency—and he owes a lot of that bad grade to women. Pew found that 60 percent of women disapprove of Trump. Put THAT in a frame and hang it up in the White House, Mr. President.

Get ready to go down the rabbit hole. Jezebel reports there’s a viral conspiracy theory that beloved teen angst icon and embodiment of the early 2000s Avril Lavigne has actually been dead since 2003. According to conspiracy theorists, Avril committed suicide after her grandfather’s death and was replaced by her friend/doppelganger Melissa, who has been impersonating her ever since.

Seem ridiculous? Internet sleuths who think the theory is anything but ridiculous are digging to find evidence. From the shape of the corner of her eyes, to her nose, to her handwriting, to her red carpet outfit choices, all of Avril’s qualities have been scrutinized.

Theorists believe that before the release of her second album, Under My Skin, Avril was having trouble coping with the limelight and excessive paparazzi, so her record company hired a body double, Melissa, to impersonate her. After Avril died, she was replaced by the double full-time.

People even think the lyrics of songs such as “Slipped Away” hint to the switch. "It wasn't fake / It happened you passed by / Now you're gone, now you're gone / There you go, there you go / Somewhere I can't bring you back / Now you're gone, now you're gone / There you go, there you go / Somewhere you're not coming back / The day you slipped away / Was the day I found it won't be the same, no," the lyrics read.

However convincing these clues may be, the Brazilian website that started the rumor back in 2005 released a statement claiming the blog was created to prove how easily people can be persuaded to believe conspiracy theories. The Metro UK reports the owner of the site wrote, "Many people believe everything they see on the internet, but is this really right?... Avril Lavigne has never died, has never been replaced by a look-alike, I just created this theory and thousands of people believed that this was a fact."

Avril hasn't commented on the rumors, so she's either hiding the fact that she's really Melissa or she realizes it's better to not acknowledge crazy theories like this. But it's understandable that fans are concerned. After all, if Avril died in 2003, who's responsible for "Girlfriend" and "My Happy Ending"? 

I love Urban Decay so much, it probably makes up 50 percent or more of the products in my makeup bag. So when I heard UD was launching an perfume I literally yelled “WHAT?!” out loud.

The perfume is called Go Naked and smells like summer in a bottle. When you roll it onto your skin you’ll immediately pick up notes of citrus like fresh orange and lemon. After a second sniff, you’ll catch whiffs of lavender and jasmine.

It is a perfume oil so it will go on strong and then become softer throughout the day, while still leaving the skin scented. I love perfume oils, especially in the summer, because even if you sweat, the scent stays on you! It’s like magic. AND you can get the oil just in time for summer too, because it will be available on June 7.

Did I mention it’s only $24? All the more reason to get your hands on this baby.

Getting invited to any type of fancy event is exciting – but along with the invite comes a dress code, one that’s often tricky to decode. Black tie? Semi-formal? What do they event mean? Luckily, we’re breaking down what to wear for any and every occasion you could possibly get invited to, so no sweat – all you have to worry about is having fun!

Wedding

Spring or Summer:

 

Summer Wedding by carolinemarie08 featuring a brown shoulder bag

ASOS ruffle dress
$82 - asos.com

Liliana heeled sandals
charlotterusse.com

New York Company brown shoulder bag
nyandcompany.com

Forever 21 white choker necklace
forever21.com
 

While dress codes for weddings can range depending on the venue and the time of day, when in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of being a little too dressed up, rather than not dressed up enough. The one thing to watch out for? White is always off limits. A dress that’s on the longer side in a floaty, sheer fabric ensures you’ll strike the perfect balance between semi-formal and black tie in case you’re unsure of the dress code – and the peach color is perfectly spring and summer wedding-ready.

Pair the look with metallic lace-up sandals with a chunky heel – meaning you’ll avoid sinking into the grass in case of an outdoor venue. Add an edge with a pearl choker and a bucket bag, which is a more unexpected choice than a simple clutch.

Fall or Winter:

 

Winter Wedding by carolinemarie08 featuring a sequin purse

R M Richards formal evening gown
jcpenney.com

ALDO black pumps
$105 - asos.com

From St Xavier sequin purse
$97 - revolve.com

BaubleBar drop earrings
saksoff5th.com
 

For a winter wedding, the same rules apply, but you can definitely open your options to darker colors: think deep plums, reds or even a navy hue. Even if it’s a daytime wedding, you can also get away with a little more ~bling~ when it comes to your accessories – and closed-toed shoes are a must, whether you pick pumps or flats.

Cocktail or Semi-Formal

 

Semi-Formal/Cocktail by carolinemarie08 featuring ankle strap sandals

Topshop dress
$84 - topshop.com

Steve Madden ankle strap sandals
nordstrom.com

Eye Candy ear cuff
nordstromrack.com

Greenwald
aldoshoes.com
 

Cocktail or semi-formal events are the perfect opportunity to lean a little more on the trendy side with your look. An asymmetrical LBD that you’ll want to wear again and again is the perfect pick. Add a pop of powder pink with fun, feathery heels. For jewelry, it doesn’t get more edgy and on-trend than a statement ear cuff, but a classic chain crossbody is simple enough to keep things from looking too busy.

Sorority or Fraternity Formal

 

Sorority or Fraternity Formal by carolinemarie08 featuring white clutches

BCBGeneration high heel pumps
zappos.com

GUESS by Marciano white clutch
guess.com

ASOS chain headwrap
$12 - asos.com

Fall From Heaven
fameandpartners.com
 

Any event with “formal” in the name is the perfect opportunity to go all-out with a red carpet-ready ensemble – and there’s nothing more glammed-up than a red gown with sexy cutouts. Since they won’t be seen, simple nude pumps (that you might already have in your closet) are ideal here. Add to the wow factor with a metallic clutch and eye-catching chain headband.

Work or Internship Event

 

Work or Internship Event by carolinemarie08 featuring a daypack bag

Elliatt dress
renttherunway.com

Miss selfridge shoes
$58 - asos.com

Topshop daypack bag
$38 - topshop.com
 

While you still have to keep it office-appropriate, work events or drinks with coworkers will likely allow you to have a little more fun with your outfit. A blazer-inspired wrap dress is the perfect way to keep it classy, but with an edge. These mid-heeled mules are conservative enough for work, but let’s be honest – they’re chic enough that you’ll be wanting to rock them on your days off too. Upgrade your on-campus backpack with a chicer, smaller version that nails the minimalist vibes of the rest of your outfit.

Fancy events and formals don’t have to involve a what-to-wear crisis. Whether it’s a wedding or a work event, you won’t have to sweat the style stuff the next time you score an invite to a big event.

We all know that our genitals can be super sensitive and what we put down there definitely matters. If you’ve ever tried a new wash or scrub that you thought you’d never recover from, then you’ll totally relate to this lady’s story.

She got into her shower and noticed her usual body wash was empty, so she reached for the next available product, which happened to be Original Source’s Mint and Tea Tree Shower Gel. She says she lathered all around and was having a “positively first class bathing experience.”  Sounds great, right? Unfortunately, things took a turn for the worse when she moved to use the product around her "flaps."

On the front of the bottle, Original Source claims the Mint and Tea Tree gel has “7,929 tingling leaves.” Hmm, what does that mean exactly? For this poor girl, it meant a bush fire. In her post, she claims that it took her 12 hours to feel better down there… yikes!

The whole story is seriously hilarious but it definitely teaches us a big lesson here. Vagina owners: be extra careful what you use for intimate hygiene! You really only need a bar of soap and hot water. Over-the-top products (like bottles that claim to have 7,929 tingling leaves) can irritate your body and could throw off the correct chemical balance you should have down there.

Spice up your life, but maybe don’t spice up your shower.

Last Friday, President Trump had a Twitter meltdown of epic proportions (as he does), which included a tweet about former FBI Director James Comey, who he fired last week. ICYMI, Trump cryptically said that Comey, "better hope that there are no 'tapes' of our conversations before he starts leaking to the press!"

While it's still unclear whether Trump was actually admitting to taping conversations with Comey (which, as the New York Times reports, he has previously been suspected of doing in business), or if he was simply trying to make a rhetorical point, but Congress has been trying since last Friday to get their hands on the 'tapes' - assuming any exist.

It doesn't help that ever since Trump's tweet, the White House has refused to provide any additional information regarding the possible existence of recordings of conversations between Comey and Trump. According to USA Today, Press Secretary Sean Spicer refused to even discuss them on Monday after multiple questions from reporters, saying, "I think I made it clear last week that the president has nothing further on that."

Aside from his tweet, the president has been equally vague on the matter. "Well, that I can't talk about,"USA Today says he told Fox News over the weekend. "I won't talk about that. All I want is for Comey to be honest and I hope he will be and I'm sure he will be, I hope."

Meanwhile, Congress is considering issuing a subpoena for the alleged tapes - which would hold Trump legally accountable for not turning them over. While a subpoena is how Congress obtained documents related to former national security advisor Michael Flynn's relationship with Russia, the Washington Post reports that even Democrats are seemingly less likely to make such an aggressive move toward the president.

If Trump was indeed recording conversations, he would be the first president in over 40 years to use such a tactic - recordings of White House conversations were ultimately what caused President Nixon to resign during Watergate, and Trump's move would be an unprecedented one since the Watergate scandal.

If you’re feeling stressed af and like you just don’t know how to get your life together, we have news for you: you’re not the only one. Luckily, there’s this little thing called art to help you finally get that sense of accomplishment you’re craving. Escape your daily stresses by taking a productive pause, and get more creative (and empowered!) in the process. How? By becoming a DIY expert with Brit + Co’s DIY kits and online classes!

We’ve partnered with Brit + Co to give you the chance to win a $250 Target gift card to buy their crafty DIY Kits, and a $250 gift card for their online classes to teach you how to use them! Brit + Co’s goal is to inspire, educate, and empower real women with a creative spirit. From unique recipes (mermaid toast, anyone?!) to beauty trends, women's rights, and DIY projects, they're going to keep you entertained and informed. Like, YES!

It’s time to treat yourself! By taking one of Brit + Co’s online classes, you’ll get inspired to become a true creative, no matter what your level of skill.  From lettering to photography to fiber arts, you’ll make something truly Insta-worthy, but also that’ll make you feel like a talented badass. With Brit + Co Classes, you'll get to learn a new creative skill from expert instructors, and as an added bonus, you’ll get lifetime and on-demand access to your purchased classes, so you can go back to them whenever you’re dying to get a little artsy. Plus, as a student, you’ll get even more perks!

And you can get all this magic FOR FREE! 

Brit + Co Giveaway

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