File under yet another reason the Senate's latest health care bill could be extremely damaging: teen pregnancy rates have hit a record low. And the reason? Many teens are using long-term birth control methods.

According to a new report by the CDC, for every 1000 girls between the ages of 15 and 19, 20.3 gave birth in 2016 - compared with 41.5 in 2007. It's not because teens are having less sex, either - instead the CDC is attributing the declining pregnancy rates to the fact that teens are increasingly likely to use super-effective long-term birth control methods like the IUD or implant.

Teen mothers are more likely to miss out on educational opportunities and deal with poverty and pregnancy complications, so this is amazing news. It's also important to note that the number of pregnant teens in the U.S. is also still much higher than in other developed countries - but these declining numbers are a good start.

Considering IUD insertion can cost up to $1,000 without insurance according to Planned Parenthood, this new data also serves as a friendly reminder that it's more important than ever to support women's (and especially young women's!) access to low-cost, easy-to-access contraception. If the numbers are any indication, access to effective birth control is key for women who wouldn't be able to support an unplanned pregnancy.

While they've admittedly come up with some questionable special edition flavors as of late (I'm looking at you, Swedish Fish), Oreo's newest fancy flavor combines two of the most important food groups - chocolate and coffee - and there's literally no possible way it could be anything other than delicious.

According to Cosmopolitan, Oreo and Dunkin Donuts have teamed up on a mocha-flavored Oreo, combining Dunkin' Donuts's insanely addictive coffee with everyone's fave cookie. Instead of a regular creme filling, the limited-edition cookies are stuffed with coffee-flavored creme - a.k.a. it's basically everything our caffeine-loving selves never knew we needed.

While I highly doubt they'll give you the same kick as your regular Dunkin' coffee order (I only wish), they'll definitely pair perfectly with it. Or, you could always switch your milk glass out for a large iced coffee to dip your Oreos in - the possibilities are seriously endless here.

The mocha flavor drops in stores today, but it's only available for a limited time - so if you want to get your hands on it, I'd suggest doing so sooner rather than later.

For those of us who love the beach (or the pool), the perfect summer day would consist of spending the day by the water with our girls, and our only care in the world centering around the flavor of ice cream we’re going to get later. Unfortunately, not having the right bag for the beach can make packing for a day on the shore way more stressful than it needs to be (read: not stressful at all). So, we hunted down 9 bags perfect for a day at the beach to keep your summer as chill as possible.

1. Boho Vibes

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We’re so into this classic straw carry-all ($22). It’s big enough to store all of your essentials (and then some!), making it ideal for the over packer in your squad.

2. Fashion Forward

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Perfect for the girl who likes her life a little extra fashionable, this nylon tote ($29) is perfect for the beach since the material won’t absorb water, making it water-resistant.

3. Less is More

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This cinch-close backpack ($45) is the perfect beach bag for the girl who can leave the house with just her phone, wallet, and keys in tow. Add in a towel and a tube of sunscreen, and you have all of the essentials for a relaxing day by the water.

4. Artsy Canvas

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A canvas bag is a beach-goer’s essential. Express yourself with this Andy Warhol tribute tote ($20) and rest easy knowing that the durable canvas will probably last for seasons to come.

5. Nautical Necessity

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Another roomy bag, this cute crossbody ($35) has us fantasizing about sailing the high seas. This one is actually perfect for boating, since you can pack an extra outfit, towel, and a cozy hoody for when the sea breeze picks up.

6. Adventure State of Mind

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If you’re hiking to mountain waterfalls or traipsing tropical islands this summer, you need this backpack ($99). It’s engineered for maximum comfort, water repellent, and has tons of room to hold whatever equipment you need for the day.

7. Sporty Chic

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Whether you’re hitting the beach to relax, or the hitting pool for a workout, this Adidas exclusive ($45) can bring your gear wherever you need to go.

8. American Dream

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We could imagine styling this insulated Coca-Cola tote ($80) with a high-waisted swimsuit and a pair of cutoffs. An interior key ring, storage pockets, and durable handles give this bag the functionality you need.

9. No Wet Suits, Please!

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Whatever beach bag you choose, keep it (and your phone) dry at the end of the day by bringing along a cute Baggu tote ($9) to store your wet swimsuit. 

We found the perfect bags, now get packing for your ultimate summer beach day!

It might seem like one of the biggest transitions you’ve had to make in your early adult life is going from high school to college, but it’s the transition from undergrad to graduate school that’s the toughest. Whether you took a couple years in between to start working or you only have a summer separating the two, grad school can be a daunting, all-time-consuming feat.

As you anticipate the start of your first fall semester as a grad student, take advantage of the time you have now during the summer to make the transition as seamless as possible. Here are a few tips to get you started and improve both your productivity and well-being: 

1. Travel while you still can

Summer is the ideal time for anyone to take some time off for a vacation, but it’s especially worthwhile for someone about to enter grad school, which is very demanding of a person’s time.

Treat this period as if it’s a semester abroad—whether you are going overseas or staying in the U.S. Take time for yourself to have fun, try new things in a different city or country, and escape for a little while.

Sydney Post, a recent graduate of Emerson College, went straight from undergrad to grad school, so she used her summer in between to travel to the UK and try new hobbies. “I was lucky enough, financially speaking, that my parents told me that I didn't need to get a job that summer, so that helped a lot with having the time to have some fun. But I'd definitely recommend that people try and relax as much as possible, even if they are working, because grad school sucks up your free time in ways that college definitely did not!” 

2. Make sure your finances are in check

Just like undergrad, graduate school can be an equally daunting financial undertaking, if not more so. Spend your free time this summer doing everything you can to set yourself up for financial stability.

Set up your financial aid so that you have a plan for paying off your grad school tuition. Put together a monthly budget plan if you don’t have one already, so that money staples like rent and food don’t become an issue for you. Think about ways you can make money, whether that’s during the summer or working as a research assistant for your grad school program.

Related: How To Go To Grad School For Free

3. Get organized for school

You might not be taking your annual trip to Staples with your parents like you did when you were young, but it’s still important that you start off the year on a good foot and stress free.

Pick a workspace that allows you to focus on your assignments, whether that’s at a desk in your room, your favorite coffee shop or the library. Make your physical space clutter-free and stock up on any school supply essentials, including books, to avoid that hassle at the beginning of the year. Also, make sure that your digital devices, such as your laptop and cell phone, are organized so that you don’t have a hundred apps or files scattered across your screen.

Krysta Loftis, a Central Michigan University graduate about to start grad school in the fall, understands the importance of getting organized early. She says, “I know grad school is going to be tough, so I am preparing a space that is going to help me succeed. I think it's really important to go in strong, so you don't fall behind or become overwhelmed.”

Related: 4 Signs You're Not Ready for Grad School

4. Enjoy your freedom and relax

Who says that you necessarily have to do anything this summer? While vacations are nice, nothing beats an extended stay-cation with your family and friends close by.

Take the time to do the things that you truly enjoy, but won’t have much time for once school starts. Have you always wanted to take a class related to a hobby, like cooking or surfing? Ever wanted to Netflix binge five shows in a month? What about some light summer reading? Allowing time for yourself will put you in the headspace to get ready for the commitment that is grad school. 

Lauryn Higgins, a graduate student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, enjoyed her freedom during her last summer before school. “Truly take advantage of the free time you have, because as wonderful as continuing your education is, it’s a massive time commitment. I made a point to make more plans with friends, visit my family who lived three hours away, because I knew I wouldn't be seeing them as much and overall just focused on my self by treating myself."

5. Get a head start on your career

Whether you worked a year or two prior to grad school or are starting immediately after undergrad, the summer prior is the perfect time to take charge of your career goals and start to boost your resume.

A summer internship will allow you to gain experience in your field, develop mentors in your more senior coworkers and start to narrow down the aspects of your field that really make you tick. Unless it's a requirement for your master's degree, it's much harder to find time to intern during the year while juggling your course load. You'll likely have a greater chance of finding an appealing internship simply due to the fact that you've already graduated from college.

Additionally, there are endless opportunities during the summer to network with other professionals in your industry. Look up networking events hosted by your dream companies or Q&A's and general events in your field. You can go even more broad and find 20-somethings networking clubs for your city, where you'll meet people in several industries! Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and broaden your circles early.

6. Secure your housing

You know where you'll be attending school, but where are you going to live?

Use this time to nail down an apartment, whether there are options for student housing for grad students, or you need to find a place elsewhere in your new city. You can join Facebook groups for your degree program, where people are likely posting leads about finding roommates.

If you are living fairly remote from campus, make sure that you have the tools to make that work. Will you need a car or bike? Are you close enough to public transportation? Can you schedule your day so that you don't have to make frequent trips back and forth from campus and waste time? These are all questions to consider as you decide where to live.

Before entering this new chapter in your life, there are different things you can do to prepare yourself that are both strategic and relaxing. Like with everything in life, it’s important to have balance. By setting yourself up for success and de-stressing at the same time, you will be better equipped to handle the highs and lows that come with grad school.

Life is full of embarrassing moments—and sex is no exception. According to Dorian Solot, sex educator and co-author of I Love Female Orgasm: An Extraordinary Orgasm Guide, “In movies sex is so smooth and perfect, but in real life some awkward, unexpected or downright mortifying moments are almost unavoidable.” Luckily, you can bounce back from these embarrassing incidents. Rather than pretending these moments don’t happen, we want to talk about them. Here are five embarrassing things that can occur during sex, plus tips on how to recover if they happen to you.

1. Weird noises

Bodies make noise; that’s just a fact. If your (or your partner’s!) body emits an embarrassing sound during sex, there’s no need to feel mortified. “It’s dangerous to take sex too seriously,” says Solot. “The best solution is to laugh and keep a sense of humor. If you smile and say, ‘Oh my gosh, that was so embarrassing!’ chances are your partner will laugh, too. It might even draw you closer!” In the moment, it might feel like the biggest deal—but you’ll forget about it quickly, and maybe even laugh about it later!

2. Falling

Falling off the bed, hitting your head on the wall…we’ve all been there. The same advice applies here. “If something goes wrong, your best bet is to laugh and acknowledge it,” says Solot. “Pretending all is well—when it’s obviously not—sets the stage for major awkwardness. But if you can laugh together, moments like these become just part of the fun.” If your partner makes a big deal about it, they’re probably not someone you want to spend time with, anyway.

3. Blood

One collegiette shares her hook up horror story: “I was hooking up with a guy in his car, and suddenly something tasted salty…so I pulled away and he looked down on me horrified and said, ‘Oh my god you're bleeding.’ I thought I had gotten my period or something but I had a bloody nose! It was all over my face, my body, his body and face. I sat there naked while he wiped it off me then got dressed and went home. He asked if we could continue, so he really wasn't rattled, but I was. I apologized profusely but he never really seemed to care.”

Just remember, it’s not your fault if something like this happens. And again, the way your partner handles the situation says a lot about him or her as a person. Once you’ve acknowledged the awkwardness, Solot suggests making a plan “for how to avoid the same pitfall in the future.” It’s as simple as saying, “Maybe we used a little too much lube that time,” or “Maybe we need to be more aware about staying more toward the middle of the bed." Life is a learning experience, after all!

4. Orgasms coming too early, too late or not at all

Unfortunately, orgasms don’t always happen at the right time—or even at all. Climaxing before you or your partner would like is a relatively common occurrence. If your partner comes too soon, but you want to keep going, Solot suggests saying, “No big deal, but don’t leave me hanging!” She also recommends helping them “find other ways to help you: mouth, fingers, sex toys or making out with you while your own fingers carry you to orgasm-land.”

If your partner is taking a while to orgasm, ask them to change it up. You can suggest a new position or approach that may work better. If you’re starting to feel sore, let them know, and reassure them that it’s no big deal if it doesn’t happen for one or both of you this time.

In the case that your male partner can’t come at all, Solot says, “This is more common than you’d think! Often men who have trouble reaching orgasm are the best, most attentive partners you’ll ever find. Guys like this often need permission to be a little selfish and focus on their own pleasure some of the time. If you suspect your partner is embarrassed, reassure them that it’s no big deal, and move on.”

Finally, if you can’t reach orgasm while you’re with your partner, Solot suggest trying one or more of the following:

• “Incorporating fantasy into the sensations of your partner—superimpose your favorite hot images or watch little movies in your mind. You don’t have to tell your partner—chances are good they do the same thing sometimes.” 
• “Give your partner some suggestions to help you get there.”
• “Give yourself a hand. Most women find it MUCH easier to climax from masturbation than with a partner. Luckily, most partners say they think it’s hot to see a woman touch herself. As you reach down, say, ‘I think I need my own fingers to get over the edge, but this feels so good. You know what would be really hot? If you [give them some specific way to touch you] at the same time.’”
• “Remember—and tell your partner—that most women don’t need an orgasm 100% of the time to be satisfied. Tell them you had a great time but it’s just not gonna happen tonight. You might need to repeat this a few times to convince them.”
• “Most of all, don’t fake! If you fake, you’re teaching your partner all wrong. Take the pledge: I am one of those women who does not fake orgasms! It might mean you’re disappointed from time to time, but when your orgasms are real your partner is learning exactly what does and doesn’t work for you.”

Like Solot says, “Bodies aren’t machines. Penises, clitorises and vaginas don’t work exactly the way we want them to every time. We all need to be gentle with ourselves and our partners, be willing to shrug and try again next time.” Sometimes our bodies have minds of their own (so to speak). Just remember—there’s always tomorrow!

Related: Why You’re Not Having Orgasms (& How to Fix It!)

5. Discussing safe sex

While this shouldn’t feel embarrassing, sometimes these topics are difficult to approach—especially for the first time or with a new partner. “A lot of times there are things both partners want to discuss but neither one knows how to bring it up,” says Solot. “Women should feel totally comfortable asking at the key moment, ‘Do you have a condom with you, or should I pull one out?’” Still feeling shy? “Sometimes it helps to start off with, ‘Okay, this is really awkward, but I know we’re supposed to [talk about STIs, check in about condoms etc.],’” says Solot. “You’d be surprised how often your partner will be relieved if you take a deep breath and get the conversation started!” Having the conversation beforehand can prevent problems down the road. So even though you may be embarrassed, it’s worth it in the long run!

Related: 7 Myths About Safe Sex, Debunked

Sex is not without its embarrassing moments, but it’s all part of the fun. If something awkward happens while you’re hooking up, don’t take it too seriously. Laugh it off, and your partner will too. Have fun and be safe, collegiettes!

In an candid interview with Harper’s Bazaar Australia, the multi-talented Emily Ratajkowski opened up about the backlash she’s received for being a feminist who’s proud of her sexuality. Especially on social media, she loves to show off her model-esque body, which is something the public has a hard time taking seriously.

“There’s this thing that happens to me: ‘Oh, she’s too sexy.’ It’s like an anti-woman thing, people don’t want to work with me because my boobs are too big,” she explained. “What’s wrong with boobs? They’re a beautiful, feminine thing that needs to be celebrated. Like, who cares? They are great big, they are great small. Why should that be an issue?”

Ratajkowski's long-term boyfriend Jeff Madrid supports her decision to post nude photos on social media. “My boyfriend is super confident and was raised by his mum, so he also genuinely loves and admires women,” she said. “Not just ‘Oh yeah, women are cool.’ He deeply loves and respects women, so he loves what I’m all about.”

The 26-year-old will continue to post photos of herself because she feels “it illustrates [her] point over and over." She should have the right to celebrate the feminine body without receiving backlash, especially not from women, because that’s what feminism is all about. Be kind and support every woman.  

With the Season 7 premiere of Game of Thrones quickly approaching (hurry up, July 16!), I'm sure fans will be surprised to find that Sophie Turner’s recent interview with the Sunday Times is more of an honest confession about the sexual education she’s received from the show than a standard publicity push. The 21-year-old HBO actress began playing Sansa Stark when she was only 13 years old, so many of the scripts doubled as informal health classes.  

“The first time I found out about oral sex was reading the Game of Thrones script,” she said. “I was 13. I said, ‘Wow! People do that? That’s fascinating.’ I guess that was my sex education. Being on the Game of Thrones.”

Besides maturing at a much faster rate than most teenagers, Sophie also dealt with the controversy surrounding a sexual assault scene in Season 5. “Sexual assault wasn’t something that had affected me or anybody I knew, so I was pretty blasé about the whole thing,” she said. “Naively so. And then I shot the scene, and in the aftermath there was this huge uproar that we would depict something like that on television. My first response was like, maybe we shouldn’t have put that on the screen at all.”

Despite some backlash, Sophie decided it was high time to address the issue head on. "The more we talk about sexual assault the better, and screw the people who are saying we shouldn’t be putting this on TV and screw the people who are saying they’re going to boycott the show because of it," she said.

"This sort of thing used to happen and it continues to happen now, and if we treat it as such a taboo and precious subject, then how are people going to have the strength to come out and feel comfortable saying that this has happened to them?” Turner added.

I couldn’t agree more. Count me in for a season that hopefully delivers even more solid content.  

Summertime calls for hanging by the pool, weekend road trips and a wide array of yummy foods to eat. There’s nothing like digging in to barbecue straight off the grill, biting into a hot dog at a baseball game or licking up the last drips of an ice cream cone. Enjoying all of your favorite summer foods is a fun way to celebrate the changing season, but they may leave you feeling bloated or sick later on. If you’re trying to watch your waistline or have more energy this summer, it is possible to still have food that is delicious and have fun with loved ones.

We consulted Jason Boehm, Board Certified Nutrition Specialist and Joanne Larson, dietitian at www.dietitian.com for their best tips and tricks on nourishing alternatives to classic summertime staples. With a few small modifications or swaps, you can savor all your favorite summer foods in a delicious, but still nutritious way.

If you love hot dogs or corn dogs…

If you’re a meat lover, there are many higher quality cuts of meat that are healthier to enjoy this summer. Make this the summer you learn to use a grill! “Grilling allows fat to drain off meat, poultry and fish during cooking,” says Larson. “Grilling at a lower temperature keeps meat more moist and less likely to burn on the outside.”

For your next dinner, try firing up your grill to make meat kabobs instead of a hot dog. Larsen recommends marinating lean chicken, pork or beef with spices or herbs for one hour in lemon, vinegar or soy sauce before spearing them on a kabob stick with vegetables. She also suggests trying turkey kielbasa sausage as a lean substitute to a hot or corn dog.

If you love cheeseburgers…

Cheeseburgers may be a staple at any BBQ, baseball game or carnival, but try making your burger with something other than non-lean beef. One mouthwatering option is to make a sweet potato patty. Find a simple recipe to follow here. Add avocado on top to get the same creamy effect as cheese, with a boost of healthy fats.

If you still find yourself craving a juicy hamburger, Boehm suggests eating your burger on a lettuce wrap or Paleo coconut wrap instead of a traditional bread bun. You could even forgo the bun all together to skimp on some carbs.

If you love ice cream sundaes…

As kids, there was nothing better than the sound of the ice cream truck coming down the street on a hot summer afternoon. And let’s be honest, it’s a stage we never grew out of! Although tasty, ice cream is full of fats and sugars, especially once you add the cookie pieces and other toppings. If you find yourself craving a scoop of ice cream after every single dinner, have it in moderation by swapping out other cool treats some nights.

There are so many ice cream substitutions on the market these days such as HALO TOP, which is low calorie and sugar. Boehm says no-sugar-added coconut ice cream is a delicious trade.  Larson also proposes having frozen yogurt with chopped fresh fruit, fruit ices made with real fruit (check that ingredients list!) or a homemade fruit smoothie, such as one with plain yogurt and frozen fruit chunks.

If you really can’t pass up the ice cream, get it in a cup instead of a cone to save on some calories.

If you love potato chips…

Although they’re an easy snack to pass around during movie night or munch on during a family potluck, potato chips are empty calories loaded with salt. For the same crunchy sensation, Boehm says to try snacking on roasted or raw almonds.

Larson says, “If you are going to eat chips and dip, at least make the dip guacamole or salsa. An easy guacamole recipe is to mash an avocado with juice from 1 lime and mix in a couple tablespoons of fresh salsa.” Opt for baked chips as opposed to fried or tortilla chips, as these contain two teaspoons of fat in a 3/4 ounce bag.

Related: 5 Easy Cooking Swaps for Instantly Healthier Food

If you love Frappuccinos…

Starbucks is the perfect place to catch up with old friends, stop at on the way to work, or finish up an assignment for a summer class. But who are you kidding? You know that Vanilla Bean Frappuccino is just a fancy way to eat multiple scoops of ice cream and a dollop of whipped cream.

Healthier drink options to try are iced vanilla lattes with nonfat milk, which have less than 15 grams of sugar or a Carmel Frappuccino ‘Light’ as a guilt free dessert at only 100 calories.

If you love potato salad…

A typical side dish at any backyard barbeque, potato salad usually contains large amounts of mayonnaise and oily dressing. Boehm advises trying no-sugar-added broccoli slaw in place of potato salad to cut out fat and get extra vegetables. A Paleo-diet friendly recipe can be found here.

Another healthier side dish to bring to your next gathering is bean salad. According to Larsen, half a cup of potato salad is like eating a slice of bread with 2 tablespoons of butter on it. She suggests mixing any type of lentil or dried bean you like, such as kidney, garbanzo, lima, or black beans with a vinegar and oil dressing for an extra boost of fiber!

If you love sugary cocktails…

Nothing screams summer like a fancy frozen concoction with a tiny umbrella. However, these fruity boozy drinks tend to be filled with sugar, so try swapping for a DIY wine spritzer. Mix chilled wine and sparkling water in a glass, adding slices of fresh fruits for even more flavor. You’ll get all of the party, while staying hydrated and regret-free. Boehm also recommends trading that sugary sangria for a glass of light chardonnay.

It is possible to make healthy food and lifestyle choices without missing out on the social gatherings that come along with summer. Try to make a few of these healthy, simple swaps throughout the week so you feel confident rocking your favorite bathing suit or crop top this summer!

​Now, I loveHigh School Musical as much as the next girl. After all, who didn't learn the "We're All in This Together" dance? But there are more than a few things in these movies that just seem a little…off. Here are 17 things that STILL bother me about HSM.

1. The huge basketball photos in the hallways

So extra. Also, basketball seems to be the only sport at this school???

2. How we actually know nothing about the musical itself​

Who are Arnold and Minnie, the roles Troy and Gabriella are auditioning for? Kelsi wrote an entire musical, and we don't even know what time period it's set in, let alone any salient plot points? HSM? More like SMH.

3. The overly laid-back basketball practices

If basketball is such a big deal at this school, why are their practices so chill? Coach Bolton isn't even there at the first practice while they break into song and choreographed dance numbers two weeks before the championship game. Practice lasts all of five minutes. Also, somehow no one seems to get sweaty.

4. How lax detention is at East High

One second they're painting and the next they're…napping?

5. Coach Bolton's kind of terrible parenting

We get it, Coach—you want your son to reach his full potential. But pressuring and micromanaging him isn't the way to do it.

6. The way Troy's friends won't support him off the court

​Probably because your team is lowkey bullying you, Troy. Forget getcha head in the game. Getcha some new, more positive friends.

​7. Darbus keeps saying "musicale" instead of "musical"​

The cover of my well-loved DVD doesn't say High School MUSICALE. 

8. The rooftop garden

In the middle of the desert (okay, Albuquerque), do they really have the water to spare on this? 

9. Sharpay and Ryan's mysterious roles as "co-presidents of the drama club"​

Though we never really get any information about this club, it seems their main function is to create drama offstage as well as on.

10. The fact that NO ONE is thrilled that Zeke bakes​

Let's be real: The high school boys I know would be all over Zeke's creations, and he'd be begged to cater their team practices ASAP. At least Sharpay finally appreciates his cookies.

11. When the entire school changed its mind and started being supportive​

Character development, but very abrupt character development nonetheless. You guys JUST hijacked an entire cafeteria to sing "Stick to the Status Quo."

12. Troy sneaking up to Gabriella's balcony ​

Tbh, major Edward Cullen stalker vibes. At least Romeo waited for Juliet to invite him up.​

13. Chad Danforth's multiple watches

Really, Chad?

14. Taylor and Chad's strangely complex plan to stop Troy and Gabriella from going to callbacks

Sure, Troy's oblivious…but not that oblivious.

15. How everyone acts like you can't do sports AND theater

Colleges like to see well-rounded applicants, guys! Believe it or not, there's more to life than hoops.

16. Why are East High's passing periods so long?

The passing period to class time ratio is like 100 to 1.

17. The fact that Sharpay and Ryan have supposedly starred in 17 school productions

​HSM starts halfway through their junior year, so they've only been at East High for two-and-a-half years—meaning they'd have to perform in a whopping 3.4 shows a semester. Since it takes an entire movie just to get to callbacks, this seems like a stretch.

The truth is, though, High School Musical could have 17,000 plot holes and it'd still be my movie version of comfort food. After all…

WILDCATS!

A lot of people’s parents, grandparents, or even a whole line of family members attended a college they passionately advocate for. We’ve all seen the family that has school stickers on the back of each car and a plethora of attire with the university’s name on it. Perhaps this is your family, and there is already a shirt waiting for you in your size—even if you have your sights set on other schools. If so, how do you say no? Here are the factors to consider before making your college decision.

1. Treat the application like every other one

In reality, it is not uncommon to attend a college you didn’t intend on going to originally, so even if you’re set on attending a school other than your parents’ alma maters from the start, you still have to go through the applications with equal care. When it comes to college applications, it is always better to be safe than sorry; apply to plenty of schools, but not too many so that you can’t put adequate effort into each application. Before ruling out schools where other family members attended, it’s important to know that, depending on your test scores and your overall application, you may have a pretty good chance of being accepted.

Related: 7 Ways to Get a Head Start On College Apps the Summer Before Senior Year

2. Your acceptance may come with an exception

Your family may be more excited than you are upon your acceptance to one of their long-standing alma maters. A study done by Princeton University graduate, Thomas Espenshade, “found that the legacy advantage was equivalent to a 160-point swing on an SAT score.” You would be just as more likely to get into Princeton or get a scholarship by having a parent who graduated, as you would by scoring 160 points higher on the SAT—a pretty definitive factor. This has proven to be the case at other exclusive Ivy Leagues; Harvard’s legacy admissions rate was about 30 percent in 2011, while their overall acceptance rate is 5.4 percent.

While the nation’s universities with the most challenging admissions processes favor the applicants related to an alumni, it’s safe to say it plays a role in most colleges’ decisions. Keeping this in mind will allow you to forecast the probability of your acceptance in advance, and plan your reaction accordingly. Be sure it’s a positive one regardless of whether or not you want to attend!

Refraining from hurting your family’s feelings isn’t the only thing to be cautious of, of course. College is getting more and more expensive, so you want to refrain from hurting their pockets as well. Most colleges offer a sort of legacy fund or scholarship, money toward the price of tuition given to students’ whose family members graduated from the school.

3. You might not be able to avoid the awkward, but you can be prepared for it

It seems to turn out this way for a lot of people. You end up getting the most money offered from the schools that are toward the bottom of your list of preference, commonly a parent’s alma mater.

An admissions assistant at Pace University’s NYC campus says they regard the applicants related to alumni as “promising students,” meaning they’re positive they’ll graduate. For this reason, “every student related to an alumni receives an extra amount of tuition aid.”

A deducted tuition is great news, but can make it more difficult to convince your family to let you attend the school you really want to attend if they didn’t give you as much.

Jacob Howie, now a sophomore at George Washington University, was one of these people; he was offered a full ride to Temple University, which happens to be the alma mater of several of his family members. He recalls being “super proud and ecstatic” upon his offer, but remembers it as “nothing compared to the feeling of opening his acceptance from GW.” He was fortunate that he knew what he wanted his political career path to look like, and that GW had to ability to assist it in ways Temple could not. This was the premise upon which his family allowed him to attend.

So, if it’s been proven possible to convince your family to let you turn down not only an acceptance to their alma mater, but one that would allow you to go for free, it’s not as hard as you think to get out of. A free ride is most likely not a factor in most situations (a win and lose in this case), so you just have to make sure you have the one key argument down pat.

Related: 7 Ways to Get a Head Start on College Apps the Summer Before Senior Year

4. Know yourself best

Don’t get too flustered. The transition to college is a milestone in not only the lives of those of us actually going, but just as much in the lives of our parents. The newfound freedom is exciting for the new high school graduate, but scary for parents. They would feel much better if you were going to a college they knew the in and outs of themselves.

Breaking free from an alma mater may seem stressful, but the real stress is in knowing that it really isn’t the school for you. None of us go into college knowing exactly what we want to do, but you should have an idea of it to be certain of which schools will help you get there.

Being able to list the ways in which your preferred school will benefit you as a person and enhance your career, more specifically in ways your undesired school will not, is essential.

No matter where your decision lands you, it is important to remember that even though family members may enjoy the idea of you following their footsteps and may be comforted by the thought of you attending a college in a familiar setting, above all else, they want you to be happy. You have to know what makes you happy first, and that wearing the university shirt they have waiting for you isn't on the list.

With summer comes time spent outside, whether that means going on bike rides, sipping on cold cocktails, or swimming in the ocean. But with more hours underneath the sun’s strong rays, we have to make a few changes in our daily routines—especially if those include lying on the beach. To keep your skin looking healthy, make sure you aren’t running into these common mistakes during the sunny months ahead.

1. "I work inside, so I don't need to wear sunscreen."

Just because you spend most of your day hiding from the sun, you aren’t immune to sun damage. “Sunscreen should be worn year round for anti-aging benefits,” says Dr. Carl Thornfeldt, dermatologist and founder of Epionce Skin Care. “UVA exposure occurs even through windows or on a cloudy day.”

Don’t work near a window? You’re still not safe! Fluorescent bulbs also give off UV rays (who knew?!) so unless you're typing away in the dark, sunscreen up!

2. "I don't need to reapply."

“I don’t always reapply,” admits Reilly Tuccinard, a rising junior at the University of South Carolina. “Sometimes I forget, and sometimes it’s just annoying.”

If you’re playing in the pool, amidst an intense game of beach volleyball, or just too lazy to reach for that tube of Coppertone, reapplying can seem like a burden—and one we often choose to ignore. 

3. "Once I get tan, my skin is less likely to get damaged by the sun."

A lot us believe that once we get our “base tan,” meaning our skin has gotten a shade or two darker, that we don’t need to worry as much about getting burnt. According to Dr. Thornfeldt, this actually means you have more to worry about.

“Sunscreen works best by binding to the skin's surface,” he says. “If your skin barrier is damaged, the sunscreen won’t work as well because it doesn’t have as much surface area to bind to.”

So don’t forget to use a good post-sun product to repair your bronzed bod before getting back under the rays. Dr. Thornfeldt recommends the Epionce Renewal Facial products to ward off effects of sun damage.

4. "Spray or lotion? I don't care. It's all basically the same."

Applying spray sunscreen can give you a quarter of the SPF protection that the label promises, whereas lotion tends to give you about a half. So unless you plan on spraying your body four times over, you might be better off going for the rub-down.

If it’s any further incentive, applying lotion makes covering your entire body evenly much easier. You may get your hands oily, but at least you won’t leave the beach looking like a tanned zebra.

5. "I spend about a half hour outside before I put sunscreen on."

“I spend 30 minutes on each side before putting sunscreen on,” says Katie, a rising junior at Northwestern University. “[It’s] so I have something to show for my day in the sun.”

Like Katie, many women may believe that the short time window without sunscreen allows for a quick tan with little damage, but lying out before putting on sunscreen actually makes the sunscreen itself pretty useless. Dr. Thornfeldt says that in order for sunscreen to work best, you need to apply it when your skin is cool and dry, not hot and sweaty.

Be sure to lather up before you step outside. If you’re already out and looking to reapply, jump in a pool or the ocean to cool down your skin, dry off with a towel, and you’ll be ready to absorb that sun protector.  

6. "I don't need sunglasses."

Majorly false. Not only will sunglasses help you see better underneath bright sunlight, but they will actually protect your eyes from a variety of diseases that can be brought on by too much UV exposure.

Since sunglasses are a must-have on your summer adventures, you have an excuse to treat yourself to a great new accessory. Snag a cute new pair of shades to ensure your eyes are haute, not hot.

7. "I found this tube of sunscreen from middle school! Now I don’t need to buy more."

Uh, let’s think twice about this one. If you’re going toss pretty much every makeup product you own after two years, then you shouldn’t treat sunscreen any differently. Once three years have passed, it’s time to take a trip to your nearest drugstore.

Don’t know how long you’ve had that half-used bottle of spray sunblock? Check for an expiration date on the bottle. If you can’t remember the last time you bought sunscreen, you’re better off trashing it and buying some new stuff. Here’s a tip: label all your new purchases with the date you bought them, so you don’t find yourself wasting perfectly good sunscreen next summer.

8. "The sunscreen in my makeup is enough."

Although your tinted moisturizer may be SPF 15, your daily makeup routine isn’t totally protecting your skin.

Before you start evening out your skin tone, apply a layer of sunscreen to your face. Let it soak in—blot away the excess with a tissue to keep skin from appearing oily—and then go ahead and reach for your cosmetics bag. The more protected your skin is now, the less cover up you’ll need later in life!

Taking on the summer sun can be tons of fun, just don’t forget to make sure you’re fully protected before you do!

Dozens of state parks and public recreational facilities in New Jersey were closed this holiday weekend due to a government shutdown. When politicians were unable to reach an agreement regarding the state’s budget, Gov. Chris Christie declared that some NJ public services, including the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission and some areas of the Department of Health, would be out of commission. The list also included summer hotspots like Island Beach State Park, where holiday beach-goers were greeted by police barricades. Unless of course, they were the governor or a member of his family.

Photos of the governor and his family soaking up some sun on the empty beach on Sunday, taken by a photographer for NJ.com, have spread like wildfire, eliciting an unsurprising uproar from the public. Why is the governor allowed to relax and celebrate July 4 on an empty beach, when his constituents are blocked out because of government failure? But Christie didn't appear to be too concerned. "Well, I’m sorry, they’re not the governor. We have a residence in Princeton, and that place is a place where people can go and tour, but they can’t if the government is closed. Am I supposed to move out and stay in a hotel?" he told Fox 29’s Good Day Philadelphia, according to the Associated Press.

Christie apparently appeared at a press conference shortly after the photos were taken, where he publicly stated that he hadn’t been in the sun that day. Since the photos were released, a spokesperson has corrected the governor's blunder, saying, "He did not get any sun. He had a baseball hat on." That's...a bit of a stretch. Naturally, members of the media and the general public took to social media to further express their outrage. One Twitter user even dubbed the incident "an evocative metaphor for our era of politics." 

“That’s just the way it goes,” Christie told reporters, according toThe New York Times. “Run for governor, and you can have a residence.” That's not very apologetic, and in fact, is very disrespectful to the people of New Jersey. Both the act and the governor’s response seem like an obvious slap in the face to his constituents—so Christie should probably get used to low favorability ratings in the future.

Going braless isn’t entirely new—celebrities like Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner are constantly rocking braless looks on and off the catwalk. But the model-type girls aren’t the only ones who should get to go bra-free. Choosing what you wear is a source of empowerment and expression, and the only person who should decide to bra or not to bra is you. So we put together a list of why you shouldn’t give AF about not wearing a bra, no matter what your size or shape, because society shouldn't get to decide what you do with your boobs.

1. It's comfortable

Let's get real here, there is nothing more satisfying than taking off your bra after a long day, so why not just start out braless to begin with? Instead of dealing with uneven bra straps and annoying clasps, just go bra-free and be comfortable all day.

2. Boob sweat is gross

Whether you’re size AAA or DDD, you can’t escape boob sweat, and wearing a bra only makes it worse. Save yourself the sweat stains and leave the bra at home. Plus, boob sweat can actually cause breakouts. No thanks.

3. No one should be staring at your boobs regardless

Eyes up here! Don’t worry about any judgment, because whether you're sporting a fully padded push-up or just the bare necessities, no one should be staring at your chest anyway. The only opinion you need to worry about is your own, and you’ll be surprised at the confidence letting loose will give you.

4. Unsightly bra straps

Nothing ruins an outfit quicker than a rogue bra strap, and the only other options are strapless bras (uncomfortable) or sticky boobs (even more uncomfortable). Who knew going braless would be exactly what you needed to prevent a fashion faux pas?

5. They're ridiculously expensive

Any girl with boobs can tell you that a decent bra does not come cheap. No matter what size, the ratio of fabric to price doesn’t quite add up. So skip the bra altogether and save money that you can use to buy more important things, like...you know, food.

6. They're actually pretty gross

Be honest, when was the last time you actually washed your bra? Unfortunately, bras don’t always make it in the wash as often as they should. Mary Begovic Johnson, a senior scientific communications manager at Procter & Gamble, told Buzzfeed that "Since bras are in intimate contact with your body, we recommend washing bras after three wears at the most. And after each wear if you’re perspiring heavily."

So basically that bra that you’ve worn 35 times straight is pretty disgusting. Easy fix: don’t wear one! And bonus, No bra = less laundry. 

7. Because you don't want to wear a bra

This might possibly be the best reason because at the end of the day, what you do with your body is your decision. So take a break from being a bra-abiding citizen, let loose, and experience the empowerment of being bra-free.

On Tuesday, North Korea claimed to have successfully tested the launch of its first intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) that the country says can "reach anywhere in the world," according to CNN. The "reaching anywhere in the world" part isn't really true—but this is still a big deal.

CNN reports that Tuesday's missile test was North Korea's 11th test so far this year, and that this one was the most successful one yet. The missile, called KN-14, appeared to travel more than 500 miles in 40 minutes. The test came shortly after President Donald Trump spoke with Chinese and Japanese leaders about the nuclear threat, and amplifies concerns about international security just before Trump leaves this weekend to join other world leaders at the annual G-20 Summit in Germany.

President Trump took to Twitter Tuesday to announce that North Korea conducted its missile test, saying, "Does this guy have anything better to do with his life?"—most likely referring to North Korea leader Kim Jong-un. 

So, what could happen if this missile is actually launched? In an interview with the BBC, physicist David Wright says that the missile would be able to reach Alaska but would not hit Hawaii or the other 48 states. North Korea still hasn't created a nuclear warhead small enough to fit on a missile, and we're also not sure if their missiles can survive re-entry into the atmosphere—so we're not in imminent danger.

According to Reuters, China and South Korea are currently opposed to the U.S. Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) anti-ballistic missile defense system operating in South Korea, which is a system that would shoot down ballistic missiles in the region. However, South Korea’s newly elected president Moon Jae-In condemned North Korea’s actions, and, according to the BBC, Russia and China have deemed the missile tests as “unacceptable.”

CNN reports that during Russian President Vladimir Putin's joint conference with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Putin declared Russia's plan to convince North Korea to "immediately freeze its ballistic missile strikes."

International security remains an incredibly sensitive issue, and Tuesday's missile test launch only adds to the already-sticky situation. Over the past few years, the United States has been unable to stop Pyongyang from expanding its nuclear missile program, and this latest development makes the possibility of peace seem pretty unlikely—at least in the near future. We're just hoping President Trump can do more than tweet about this all-too-real global problem.

Fasten your seatbelts—Rob Kardashian and Blac Chyna’s wild roller coaster of a relationship has taken another plunge. Kardashian took to Instagram earlier today to go on a rant about his ex-fiancée and mother of his daughter. Rob posted explicit photos of Blac Chyna as well as text conversations between the two of them and a picture of her alleged lover.

The photos were accompanied by paragraph-long details of Blac Chyna’s apparent infidelity and how much money Kardashian has spent on her. “I prob spent a million alone in the past 2 months,” he wrote in one caption. “90K necklaces. 70K watch. The Ferrari that u pretend u got yourself.”

He proceeded to go into excruciating detail as to how many men Blac Chyna has had sex with and also revealed that he paid for her to get weight loss surgery after the birth of their daughter, Dream. Kardashian even said Chyna sent him messages (including a video of her kissing another man) before having sex with someone else on July 4. "Hahahaha Chyna just sent me this video saying happy 4th of July what a crazy person. Come spend time with your daughter instead of f--king me and then this dude right after. U need help," Kardashian wrote. It's all TOO much to handle.  

Rob also invoked Dream's well-being throughout his emotional rant, criticizing Blac Chyna’s actions, priorities and overall ability to be a mother. “Get it together for your daughter. It was your daughters first 4th of July yesterday and u chose drugs and sex in our bed rather then spending it with your daughter,” he wrote. Several of the more graphic photos Rob posted, including naked pictures of Blac, were deleted shortly after he shared them. After Instagram shut down Kardashian's account, he picked the drama right back up on Twitter. 

In response to Rob’s many accusations, Blac Chyna posted a Snapchat that accused him of beating her. “Rob u did all this but u beat me up and try act it never happen!!!!!” Chyna posted. “U put hand on me I swear on god!!!! On my kids but I’m supposed to be quiet because you’re a Kardashian.” In a second post, she simply wrote, “The light will come to the light.”

Here’s hoping the pair figure things out face-to-face so their daughter doesn’t have to see these harsh accusations and cruel words when she's old enough to deep dive into her parents' social media histories. Although, Kardashian already said he hopes Dream does see it all one day. “All u may think my daughter may see this one day and I hope she does cuz this isn’t love,” he wrote in another Instagram post. “I never want my daughter to be raised by a woman like Chyna who cheats and does drugs and alcohol with my baby in the house.”

Wow. We'll have to see if this feud has cooled off or if there are more fireworks to come.

A NYPD police officer was fatally shot early Wednesday while on patrol in the Bronx borough of New York City, the Associated Press reports.

Miosotis Familia and her partner were sitting in a marked patrol vehicle when the gunman, Alexander Bonds, shot and killed Familia with a revolver through the window before running from the scene. Her partner immediatey radioed in about the shooting, prompting officers to chase and eventually shoot the ex-convict about a block away from the initial scene. A bystander was also wounded, but is reported to be in stable condition. NYPD Police Commissioner James P. O'Neill told reports the attack was "unprovoked." 

While the shooter's motive isn't totally clear, he posted a rant about police brutality on Facebook in September, saying "It's time for people to wisen up," according to the AP. Tension between cops and citizens has led to a lot of disturbing violence over the past few years, and this conflict likely contributed in part to the tragic shooting of Officer Familia.

The New York Times reports that Bonds had a long history of arrests, and was released from prison on parole in 2013 after spending eight years there for robbery.

Mayor Bill de Blasio spoke at a news conference at the hospital where Familia was pronounced dead, according to the AP, saying, “She was on duty serving this city, protecting people, doing what she believed in and doing the job she loved." Familia had spent her 12 years with the NYPD in the Bronx, and leaves behind three children.

Today’s society is focused on perfection—especially when it comes to our bodies. And of course celebrities are not immune to constant criticism of their looks. But body shaming has not and never will be okay; life is too short to focus on being perfect. It seems like Twitter trolls still haven't gotten that memo, though. 

Our favorite American Idol star, Kelly Clarkson, was recently slammed for her appearance. On July 4, Kelly shared her appreciation for veterans on Twitter…

…only to be called "fat" by some coward hiding behind a computer. Luckily the superstar fought back and responded with some sass of her own. She was not taking sly comments from anyone. After the troll tweeted, "You're fat," Kelly responded, "....and still fucking awesome."

Being a plus-sized singer, this is not the first time Kelly has received hate about her body. In 2015, FOX anchor Chris Wallace said she should lay off the deep-dish pizza—as if it's any of his business. The same year, after being shamed for “carrot cake weight,” Kelly responded by taking the high road, with USA Today calling her “classy Clarkson.” 

"I don't obsess about my weight, which is probably one of the reasons why other people have such a problem with it…I've just never cared what people think. It's more if I'm happy and I'm confident and feeling good," Kelly previously told Redbook.

She also told Ellen DeGeneres, "I yo-yo. Sometimes I'm more fit and I get into kickboxing and hardcore, and then sometimes I don't and go, 'Nope, I'd rather have wine!'"

Kelly’s fans responded with glee when she put her most recent hater in his place. According to CNN, one fan tweeted her support, saying, "Haters need to get a life." I couldn’t agree more. Kelly doesn't deserve that hate, especially while paying respect to American soldiers on Independence Day. Why does her body shape matter? She’s a versatile singer-songwriter, philanthropist, author of children’s books, actress, mother, wife and, most importantly, a person.

No person deserves to be stigmatized, especially for how they look. We can stop body shaming together by changing the way we look at and treat each other. Tell somebody that they’re beautiful just because they are. The more positive words we speak, the less toxic our society will become. And if someone’s standing in your way? Follow Kelly Clarkson's lead and put them in their place.

NPR really shook up the internet when they tweeted the Declaration of Independence line by line in celebration of the Fourth of July. Just a reminder: Indepence Day is a celebration of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, so tweeting it for the holiday is a totally reasonable and appropriate thing to do. But not everyone saw it that way.

Some ~enthusiastic~ individuals saw some of the tweets, specifically the ones attacking a "Prince" or "Tyrant," as a direct attack on the current President of the United States. Ironically, many seemed not to understand that NPR was tweeting the Declaration—and, presumably upon the realization of their mistake, have deleted their tweets. Shocker. But some gems still remain.

One account simply replied "Stop" to each tweet.

On the flipside, others saw the dated wording of the Declaration as slightly hypocritical given that the original document left out women and people of color.

Overall, many saw the tweets as a good reminder of the ideals our country was founded upon at a time when some of these basic tenets seem to be forgotten. 

In the end, it's awfully hard to argue that NPR's Twitter spree was unwarranted given the historical context of the Fourth of July. Maybe some people need to take a history lesson about our founding documents.

I love a good conspiracy theory as much as the next girl. I'm also wildly in love with Friends. So this latest fan theory should be right up my alley, but instead I'm just confused. 

We already know Friends has taught us valuable lessons, given us relationship advice and is basically better than having real friends. I mean, six friends struggling to adult in NYC? It's so relatable. But apparently it's also fueling my Starbucks addiction.

Twitter user Alex Baker came up with this elaborate theory that the whole premise of Friends was created to convince us to hang out at coffee shops like Starbucks instead of bars. The popular sitcom Cheers, which aired mostly in the 1980s, took place at a bar in Boston. Baker thinks Starbucks wanted to compete by devising a show about friends at a coffee shop to get viewers hooked on the social aspect of cute cafes. I mean, it worked in the sense that I wish Central Perk was real, but I'm not so convinced by this detailed theory about the show. 

Here's the evidence: 

1. Rachel's last name is Green, and the Starbucks logo is green

…so?

2. Rachel's hair makes her look like the mermaid in the Starbucks logo

I guess?

3. Ross and Monica's last name, Geller, is derived from the German word "Gellen"

Gellen means "one who yells," and they yell out your name when your drink is ready at Starbucks. AHA!

4. On Cheers, Frasier Crane moves to Seattle

Which is where Starbucks was founded.

5. The name "Starbucks" is based on the character "Starbuck" in Moby Dick. Chapter 119 of Moby Dick is called "The Candles"

Basically that MUST be where Chandler's name comes from, since Chandler is the British name for someone who makes candles. 

Yeah, that's the evidence. However, Baker wrote that he is going to "sift through" all 10 seasons to find "imagery that proves my story." You go for it, dude, but I'm not buying it yet. After all, Friends wasn't set at Starbucks, and the characters rarely talk about coffee addictions. The shop is more of a backdrop than an influencer. The beloved sitcom is really about pals trying to make it in the world while navigating relationships, jobs and all that other stuff we call life. 

Graduating college is a big deal. That’s why we decorate our caps and celebrate four years of stressful classes, growing friendships and late night partying studying. After the festivities end and you frame your diploma, it’s time for your next step. For some, it’s as simple as deciding between graduate school and job searching. For others, those with many interests, must decide which passions and projects to pursue. Your decision won't be easy, but it doesn’t have to be a painful one either. Career experts and counselors weigh in on how to take your future by storm and live your best life after college.

Experts agree that self-reflection is a huge part of deciding what to do after college. All the advice in the world won’t help if you don’t sit down with your own thoughts and organize them. The best technique that Amy Smith, Associate Director of External Relations at Hofstra University’s Career Center, can recommend is to keep your values in mind. You might have a passion for multiple things, but ask yourself how many of those things align with what you really want in life. 

“It’s easy to feel swayed in a certain direction by classmates, professors and family," she says. “By starting this process with a lot of self-reflection, you set the tone for each subsequent decision you make, and will be a lot more efficient (and happy!) in the process.”

Hillary Kerr, author of The Career Code, has similar advice with a practical twist. “You spend a ton of time at work, so it’s really important to find a job that you enjoy – at least most of the time,” she says. “In an ideal world, figure out what you love, and then figure out a way to get paid for it.”

Related: 7 Key Decisions You’ll Make Throughout College 

After you’ve asked yourself what you really want to see happen for yourself, take a break. Figuring things out can be exhausting and stepping back from constantly refreshing job boards or journaling the pros and cons of a situation can give you a fresh perspective. 

“When you’re looking at multiple job listings, or reading program description after program description, you can sometimes lose sight of what you were looking for in the first place,” says Smith. Remind yourself that there isn’t a single post-grad path that everyone should follow.

Kerr notes that you shouldn’t feel alone in your struggle to decide your next step. “Don’t stress if it seems like your roommate has her whole life figured out and you’re still trying to decide who you are and what you’re going to do,” she says.

On that note, Kerr highly recommends looking for an internship as soon as possible. She urges collegietes to try new internships at different companies. “Internships are so important because you get to know different companies and their different company cultures,” she says. “You can then make an educated decision about the right workplace or career path for you.”

If you’ve already done a few internships, reach out to old bosses and coworkers, or even professionals in your field that you don’t know personally. Smith advises asking for an informational interview with them to see what their perspective or advice would be. Even if they aren’t able to give you specific advice about what path to pursue listening to their stories and insider knowledge will be invaluable. 

Another resource you should take advantage of is your career center. We know, you just graduated, but it’s never too early or too late to speak with a counselor. Counselors have your best interest in mind because when you succeed they succeed. They also have a broad knowledge base which can help you especially if you are considering different paths that are radically opposite. “Talking with a career counselor can really help you not only strategize this process, but also prioritize each task so that it’s as easy as possible for you,” Smith says.

Related: Why It’s Okay to Not Have a Job After Graduation

Graduating college and “adulting” is an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. With some self-reflection, self-care, and help from industry professionals you’ll be on your way to pursuing your passion. Although there isn’t a one-step process to achieving your dreams, it’s the journey that’s supposed to be the fun part. So take some time to dig deep and enjoy the process of pursuing your passions.