Name: Claudia Chan
Job Title and Description: Founder of S.H.E. Globl Media, a purposeful women’s media education company.
Website: http://www.claudiachan.com 
Twitter Handle: @claudiachan 

What does your current job entail, and is there such a thing as a typical day?

Claudia Chan: As the founder of a company and the creator of something, having a clear vision and envisioning what the brand and business are is a large part of the job. This is the third company that I’ve founded or co-founded in my journey, so I know from those experiences that the vision is a huge piece of it. S.H.E. Globl Media is a purposeful women’s media education company, and we create content, conferences, and curricula that empower women in their careers and their lives, so that’s where the vision comes into practice.

Overall, if I had to break down what I do, it’s envisioning clearly and extremely well the problems that I’m solving and why this brand matters. Another piece is just really empowering my team and being very clear with them about their purposes in this organization. I need to make sure that their work is aligned with their skills and their passions too, so that what they end up achieving just blows everybody’s minds away. So there’s a lot of “culture building” in that way.

The third thing that I do is act as the facilitator, especially because I have my hands in everything. I’m just making sure that everything is orchestrated and moving forward in a beautiful, successful way. There is an overall “project” [for the founder], and it’s overseeing the company. You have to have an operational mind.

The other part I work on is business development and networking. You really have to love relationship-building and being the brand ambassador. You have to love explaining to people what the brand is all about and why it matters. I’m constantly finding synergies and creating room to grow.

What’s the best part of your job?

CC: I think it’s really just the good that we’re creating; I know that we’re creating consciousness. I mean, we’re helping women through the stories we’re telling, and that’s also important because [these stories] can help them progress through their lives with more ease and confidence. But the huge [things] that I’m proud of [are] the consciousness and helping women see that a core value needs to be elevating other women.

If you look at where we are, with only 4.8 percent of Fortune 500 CEOs [being women], women still making less than men and the things happening to women and girls across the world, there’s so far to go. And if women aren’t going to fight for women, then we’re going to continue to progress at the slow pace we’re at now. I think that the idea of women helping women has modernized and needs to become more relevant, and everything we do [at S.H.E. Globl Media] plants the seeds into women about empowerment.

To me, the more women we empower, the more I’m making a dent in the universe.

Was there any one event that inspired you to start S.H.E. Globl Media, or was it a series of events?

CC: It was sort of the culmination of a bunch of things! I ran a company called Shecky’s[a woman’s lifestyle company] for nine years when the culture was so obsessed with chick flicks and fashion and the shop ‘til you drop phenomenon. And while it was very successful, I felt like I lacked purpose even though I’d achieved material success. There was no greater meaning to what I was doing, and I wanted to feel fulfilled.

That’s when I started getting more involved with women’s organizations, because I realized I’d really gotten disconnected from feminism and women empowerment. I think a lot of that comes from media; we get out of school and we’re told what we’re supposed to want, what we’re supposed to get and what we’re supposed to acquire through our 20s and into our 30s.

Overall, I’d just lost touch with the feminist in me. It just sort of hit me when I was 34 years old and the Shecky’s journey was ending. I was just sort of like, “Oh gosh, is this really where the women are in the world and I didn’t think about it?” That made me believe that media really needs to change. So I really wanted to create a modern media platform with events and content that would change that. I also wanted something accessible and inclusive out there, since so many the feminist events I attended at the time were VIP only or very exclusive.

The S.H.E. Summit is coming up this week! What’s your favorite part of the event every year?

CC: My favorite part is that the content is so beyond ridiculously amazing. [laughs] I just get to bring together these amazing leaders to share their incredible stories that bring tears to your eyes. That’s what makes me love what I do. It’s more modern Oprah than a Fortune Most Powerful Women [Summit]. If we have powerful women on stage, they’re not talking about politics; we’re having a very female conversation. It’s just more like therapy, and I’m so excited about their year’s agenda. There’s just a mix of everything.

After content, my other favorite piece of the conference is the networking that happens, since you’re amongst women who share similar values. I’ve heard success stories from our networking component, like when a woman found her book agent that changed her life. Another person got six speaking opportunities from networking at the conference and that helped her career. So I do think that the networking is so powerful, especially in an environment like this.

What’s one obstacle you had to overcome during the planning of this conference?

CC: There were countless obstacles when planning this conference, just as there are countless obstacles when pursuing any dream in life. That’s one message I think is so important: Don’t get brought down by the obstacles; celebrate the imperfections.

With the conference, I think the obstacle is that there are just so many aspects that have to come together. And when the crescendo happens, you want everything to be perfect. There’s just so much behind-the-scenes logistical planning that has to happen. It’s a lot of different things, and no matter how much you can plan and control and foresee, there are unpredictable things that are going to happen. And I think realizing that it’s going to be okay is the big thing. The universe is going to make things happen a certain way for a reason. But this massive undertaking is the biggest obstacle.

What advice do you have for 20-somethings just coming into the workforce?

CC: Overall, I think you have to believe in [the] best thing that is possible for your life. You have to believe in the greatest thing that is possible for yourself. You deserve the best. Just have that confidence in yourself!

Buying graduation gifts for your friends and family can be a daunting task, especially when there are so many amazing gifts out there to choose from! We’re keeping ourselves organized (and doing a LOT of online shopping) by browsing eBay’s Gifts for Grads page and adding our favorite gift ideas to our eBay Collections, and basically, we’re getting way more gift ideas than we would have had we just shown up to our local department store. Purses, jewelry, electronics, athletic wear—there are gifts on eBay’s Gifts for Grads page for pretty much everyone on our list!

To keep ourselves organized, we made a #GiftsForGrads – For the Girls collection and a #GiftsForGrads - For the Guys collection.  Check out some of our favorite picks (and keep reading to find how out to win $500)!

For the Girls:

Coach Bleecker Mini Preston Pebbled Leather Satchel Bag

It’s a hot pink purse. And it’s pretty. Need we say more?

Alex and Ani Graduation Cap in Shiny Gold Finish

This adorable graduation cap bangle is the perfect addition to a recently graduated friend’s Alex and Ani collection!

For the Guys:

Under Armour Alter Ego Batman Crew Socks

What guy doesn’t want to feel like a superhero when he works out?

Pizza Cutting and Serving Board

We know at least 10 guys who absolutely need this (read: guys who eat pizza at least once a day).

If you make your own #GiftsForGrads collection on eBay, you could enter to win $500 to shop on eBay! The sweeps ends June 15—find out more details here.

Broadview Networks has designed a map to show the largest employers by state, and your school may have made the cut.

To create the map, Broadview Networks, an information technology and cloud services provider, gathered data from CareerOneStop, a job database sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor. Not including government or military employers, the Massachussets organization with the most number of employees is Massachusetts General Hospital. According to the data, the hospital supplies 14,000 jobs.

In many states, major universities (such as the University of Michigan and Texas A&M University) employ the most residents. Surprisingly, only two of the top 10 largest employers in America, IBM and Walmart, were big enough to earn a spot on the map.

Moving to a new city can be rough. Once you’ve found an apartment and have gone through the grueling pack-unpack-decorate process, you’re still faced with the daunting task of meeting new people --especially guys. If thinking about trying to find a date in a new city makes your palms start to sweat, then keep reading—Her Campus is here with a list of easy ways to help you meet guys after you move!

1. Join a club or a sports team

Just after a big move is the perfect time to branch out and try something new! Whether you’re athletic or creative, it’s likely that classes are offered in something you’ve always wanted to try right in your new hometown. Taking a class or joining a recreational sports team could be the perfect way to meet the man of your dreams! Hit a pottery class at the local community center, or join a fitness class at the gym on your block.

There are likely soccer, kickball, or softball leagues in your new hometown, too, along with loads of other sports. Whether you’ve played before or not, joining these teams can give you a great opportunity to meet athletic, fun guys at the practices and games (and to celebrate with them after a big win!).  

If you want to get the ball rolling early, join a social networking site like MeetUp.com that will help you find people in your area who share your interests. Doing what you love will help you find a guy who likes rock-climbing, photography, or whatever else you enjoy just as much as you do!

2. Go out alone

It’s harder for guys to gather the courage to approach you when you’re dancing with a bunch of your girls or when you’re out to dinner with your best friend. So instead of taking along your pals next time, try going out alone! Bring a book to the coffee shop and sit at a table for two, or sit at a two-person table for lunch at a little café in your new town.

Try not to be on your laptop or phone, though—guys might feel like you’re waiting for someone if you’re constantly texting or like they’re interrupting your hard work if you’re typing away on your computer. You’ll come off as mysterious if you’re sitting alone and reading, and it will be easier for guys to approach you if you’re by yourself. Be sure to keep an eye out for guys sitting alone doing the same thing! 

Additionally, if one of your new friends in the area invites you to a party at their place, you shouldn’t drag a bunch of your female friends along with you. Going alone will force you to make conversation with new people since you won’t have a friend you already know keeping you occupied. It may sound intimidating, but since showing up solo requires confidence, it will make you exponentially more attractive to guys and will draw them to you (so you won’t be alone for long!).

3. Make an online dating profile

Online dating doesn’t carry the same stigma that it used to have. In the past, it felt like online dating was a last resort—now, it’s just too convenient an option to pass up! Everyone’s constantly attached to their smartphones and laptops anyway, so why not use yours to meet a potential date?

“Online dating makes it so much easier for college students to find a date or [a] new boyfriend when they move to a new city,” says online dating expert Julie Spira.

Whether you go for Match.com, OKCupid, or any other popular online dating website, make sure you’re being safe in how you use it.  “It’s best to keep dates in a new city casual in the beginning,” Spira says. “No late night booty calls for drinks should be added to your date card. Always let a friend know who you are meeting and where you’re going.”

The key here is to remember that if someone else has an online dating profile, then clearly they’re looking to meet people, too—so don’t be nervous! Though meeting each other in person may be uncomfortable at first, as long as you come off as confident, friendly, and open, meeting people through an online profile can be a huge success.

4. Have your friends introduce you to guys

Maybe you haven’t meant any guys yet, but if you’ve made female friends since your move, they could be the key to finding the man of your dreams. Once you make some female friends, they’ll be able to introduce you to (or even set you up with) their guy friends!

“Let neighbors and new friends know that you’d like to be fixed up,” Spira says. “You just never know; your next door neighbor might have a cute cousin that just became available. Keep all your options open and cast a wide net.”

Clara Beyer from Brown University used this tactic to find a great guy last summer.  “I knew basically one person in the city I was staying in,” she says. “He introduced me to a friend of his, she invited me to a party, and I met a guy at that party who I ended up casually dating for most of the summer.”

Though Clara hadn’t really wanted to go to the party originally, she broke out of her comfort zone and ended up having fun and meeting a great guy! “Basically, the best way to meet guys is to meet people,” Clara says. “The best way to meet people is to get out there and go do things! If someone invites you to do something (you know, within reason), say yes. It might pay off!”

The most important thing to remember is that there are loads of guys roaming around your new hometown just waiting to meet the right girl. If you’re open-minded and confident enough, there are limitless ways that you could meet the guy of your dreams in your area! 

Tired of signing on to Twitter and seeing the same thing over and over - parody accounts all tweeting the same thing and kids you went to high school with complaining about something trivial? Need to bring some laughter in your life? Follow @DennysDiner for the most random and funny tweets that you never thought you'd ever see from a restaurant. Still skeptical to bring Denny's into your life? Here are 13 reasons why you should:

1. It's up-to-date with the latest slang:

pancakes or nah?

— Denny's (@DennysDiner) May 13, 2014

2. It offers sound advice:

If you can't say anything nice, then eat a burger. That'll occupy you for a bit.

— Denny's (@DennysDiner) May 1, 2014

3. It's not afraid to ask the tough questions:

if you are brave enough to wear a fanny pack and you don't keep it full of hardboiled eggs then why?

— Denny's (@DennysDiner) May 21, 2014

4. Need fashion advice? No problem:

The best Coachella look is french toast remnants all over yr face while not appropriating any other cultures.

— Denny's (@DennysDiner) April 13, 2014

5. It references pop culture:

~cause it's 11:30 and denny's is jumpin, jumpin~ (#tbt to 13 minutes ago when it was 11:30a)

— Denny's (@DennysDiner) May 22, 2014

6. It gets deep, man:

do you ever think about this guy's life: ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

— Denny's (@DennysDiner) May 10, 2014

7. Aw, it’s even a little sweet:

~may all yr parties be shadeless this weekend~

— Denny's (@DennysDiner) May 25, 2014

8. It paraphrases popular songs somewhat successfully:

first things first i'm a skillet

— Denny's (@DennysDiner) April 29, 2014

And if they hate then let 'em hate and watch the pancakes pile up.

— Denny's (@DennysDiner) April 24, 2014

~talk denny's to me~ pic.twitter.com/wdvb4aN3OC

— Denny's (@DennysDiner) May 8, 2014

9. It promotes loving relationships:

~maybe buy a sundae for your fun bae~

— Denny's (@DennysDiner) April 20, 2014

10. Just like your best friend, it always knows the right thing to say:

Here's a tip if you're trying to slim down for ~bikini season~: you look great already.

— Denny's (@DennysDiner) April 16, 2014

11. It is accepting of all species:

Teenage mutants of any variety welcome at Denny's 24/7.

— Denny's (@DennysDiner) March 27, 2014

12. It loves Kim Possible as much as you do:

call me, beep me, when you wanna reach me, when you wanna eat w/ me it's okay

— Denny's (@DennysDiner) May 14, 2014

13. And it will always welcome you with open arms:

If someone is shading you and your clique just remember that Denny's is all about you and your clique.

— Denny's (@DennysDiner) April 23, 2014

Two Wisconsin preteens were arrested Monday night after viciously stabbing a 12-year-old classmate 19 times. 

The two suspects, who have now been identified as Morgan Geyser and Anissa Weier, have been charged with attempted first-degree murder after attacking their still unidentified friend, telling police that they did so because of their fascination with a demonic creature named Slender Man who they learned about online.

After inviting the victim to a sleepover at the home of one of the suspects on Friday night, Geyser and Weier lured their friend to a wooded area Saturday morning, telling her that they wanted to play hide-and-seek, before attacking her.

The girls allegedly left the victim in the woods to crawl to her own rescue. She crawled to a nearby road where a bicyclist found her lying on the sidewalk. According to the criminal complaint, the victim was “one millimeter away from certain death” as one of the stab wounds nearly ruptured a major artery.

Geyser and Weier told police that they had been planning to kill their friend for months in order to impress Slender Man, a mythical Internet character who preys on children. The girls say that they read about the character on Creepypasta Wiki, a website where users can publish short horror stories. According to the girls, in order to join the demon’s army, a user must kill someone. They planned on running away to the creature’s realm in the woods after the murder.

The two girls were charged as adults after being arrested Monday night and, if convicted, could serve up to 65 years in prison.

The victim is currently in stable condition while the suspects are being held in jail on a $500,000 cash bond. 

Summer love isn’t necessarily all it’s cracked up to be. We see it in the movies and read about it in cheesy novels, but are summer flings really worth it? Even the hottest of summertime love affairs feel rushed and usually end with someone getting hurt by September. We can’t all have a love story written by Nicholas Sparks, so who’s to say that we should waste this summer on love (even if there are no strings attached)?

We asked relationship expert, psychologist and author Dr. Carole Lieberman to weigh in on why having a summer fling may not be right for you.

1. You don’t like being tied down

During summer break, being tied down could end up holding you back. “Summer, even if you have a job or other responsibilities, is more carefree than the school year,” Lieberman says. “Being single allows you to meet more people and make more spontaneous plans. You don't have to feel tied down to a relationship.”

2. You put your social life first

Another downfall to a summer fling is the possibility of it negatively affecting your friendships.

“I spent a lot of time with [my summer fling] and canceled plans with my friends whenever he called me,” says Olivia, a junior at Michigan State University. “I let him control my summer, which I definitely regret. Not only was there hurt when things ended, but there was also hurt between my friends and I because I blew them off all the time.”

It’s easy to ditch your girlfriends for a new romance, but remember that they’ll be the ones who’ll support you if your fling doesn’t end well!

3. You love summer love stories (a little too much)

Movies like The Last Song or even Grease can influence our expectations about finding love during the summer season. According to Lieberman, “these films and books romanticize the idea of summer flings and make you believe that yours will be as thrilling.”

Summer romance movies try to tell us what summer love should be, which means we can’t help but have high expectations for our own flings—which they may not be able to meet. Instead of obsessing over having a perfect summer romance, save yourself the impending letdown and focus on other ways to make your summer great.

4. You’re worried about getting attached

There seems to be an expiration date on relationships that begin when school gets out. “Summer flings don't usually last, because when summer ends, one or both of you go back to a different life often separated by geography, lifestyle and goals,” Lieberman says. “The joy of a summer fling comes from it being a lighthearted interlude and escape from your regular life.” However, it’s normal to get attached to someone you develop feelings for.

Kelsey*, a senior at Bowling Green State University, has experienced this firsthand. “He decided not to continue our fling because he was going off to school,” she says of a past summer fling. “So, yes, distance was the main reason, but it was really just an excuse for not wanting to commit. I saw it coming, but that didn't make it hurt less.”

5. You don’t like feeling rushed

If you’re looking for a relationship, don’t rely on summer romance to find The One. As Lieberman says, “summer flings can be a great way to experience someone new who is ‘not your type’ and who introduces you to some exciting experiences, but there can be a downside if you rush into things and are not careful. Girls feel pressured to find summer love because they want to have something exciting.”

Don’t go looking for summer love if it’s for the wrong reasons. These seasonal flings seem to be stuck on fast-forward, so don’t feel pressured to find a special someone to spend the summer with. When the clock runs out, it’s just a matter of time before one or both of you end up trying to mend a broken heart.

There are other ways to have an exciting summer, so don’t feel bad about not wanting a summer love! Whether you’re spending the summer working, taking classes, interning at your dream company or just hanging out with your friends and family, there’s no need to have a summer fling if you’re already having an amazing time. Focus on yourself and just have fun this summer. Summer flings aren’t for everyone!

When it comes to guys who have any or all of these 19 traits, we literally can't even. 

1. Having close relationships with the females in his life (mom, sisters, cousins, aunts, grandmas).

A sure sign of a prince is a man who treats the women in his life like queens.

2. Being a Mr. Fix-It

Clogged toilets, flat tires, squeaky door hinges… you name it, and he’s there with his tool box, ready to get his hands dirty and save his damsel in domestic distress. Even if he can’t fix it, it’s still hot when he tries.

3. Loving furry creatures

Nothing is sexier than a man nuzzling a puppy. Nothing.

4. Being a baby magnet who's amazing with children

Actually, that’s a lie. The only thing sexier than a man nuzzling a puppy is a man nuzzling a baby. It shows his nurturing, paternal side, and to us, that boosts his man points by 200.

5. Well-groomed facial hair

*sexy chin stroke*

6. Having an accent

And when he says things like “britches” and “g’day.”

7. Dressing up

A guy who cleans up well can make any woman all hot and bothered.

8. A nice, solid handshake

One that makes everything he does look like a business deal.

9. The fresh-out-of-the-shower look

That dewy skin…

10. Smelling good

Not that overpowering “I swallowed an entire bottle of AXE” smell, but the “I just naturally smell this; Burberry just comes out of my pores and dusts everything around me” smell.

11. Always being willing to lend a helping hand

Like when 80-year-old Betty needs help carrying in her groceries, or when your dad needs help unloading the luggage from the car.

12. Glasses

They give every guy an “I enjoy reading Tolstoy in the sunny courtyard outside the law building” look.

13. Quirky gestures

A wink, an upwards nod of the head, hands running through the hair, a stroke of the chin… anything. Holy crap.

14.  Wearing jeans that fit perfectly

No distressed rips or bleach stains; a solid pair of dark, perfectly butt-hugging jeans.

15.  An adorably mysterious laugh

 *melting*

16. Liking to dance

And not making you feel stupid if you have no fricken’ idea what you're doing.

17. A long, serious stare

It’s like he’s looking straight into the soul of whatever his eyes are on. And those eyes…

18. Acting like a gentleman to everyone he meets

A guy who's polite to every person he interacts with shows how well he was raised. It show's he's a man who values respect for every human, no matter the social, physical, gender, financial or intellectual differences.

19.  Musical talent

Even if he’s singing your grocery list, it’s instantly hot when a guitar is involved.

Bad Girl Rihanna has always had an eye for over-the-top fashion and never fails to keep us on our toes, whether she’s stepping out on the streets of SoHo or strutting her stuff on the red carpet. The superstar’s killer style caught the attention of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, who honored RiRi Monday with the Fashion Icon Award at the CFDA Awards. Her daring style may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but there’s no denying the girl knows how to make a statement.

The prestigious award was presented by none other than the queen of fashion herself, Vogue’s Anna Wintour.

“Incredible style can help take a talented young woman from a small island to the world stage, and along the way spark a lot of conversation about elegance and empowerment,” Wintour said about the singer.

In honor of the fashion darling’s most recent award, we’ve rounded up Rihanna’s top five red carpet looks: 

1. Armani Privé at the 2012 Grammy Awards

Jaws dropped when Rihanna stepped onto the red carpet in this sleek and sexy black gown with plunging neckline and front slit to show off the star's gorgeous gams.

2. Tom Ford at the 2012 Met Gala

This exotic number brought major drama to the Met Gala and highlighted RiRi's envious (and Instagram famous!) curves while showing off her signature edgy look.

3. Azzedine Alaïa at the 2013 Grammy Awards

This showstopping red gown was classically elegant but still sexy and glamorous. Paired with soft, unfussy waves and a matching red lip, Rihanna's natural beauty took center stage.

4. Stella McCartney at the 2014 Met Gala

This white gown showed off all of RiRi's best, ahem, assets, while still being fashion forward and landing her on many a best dressed list. The star balanced the dramatic midriff-revealing gown with a high neckline and messy updo to perfect effect.

5. Adam Selman at the 2014 CFDA Awards

It's only fitting that Rihanna received her CFDA award in this absolutely showstopping sheer gown. The fashionista took advantage of the fact that toplessness is perfectly legal in NYC by leaving her bra at home in favor of a fabulously outrageous look that left little to the imagination.

Love her or hate her, we totally think Rihanna deserved the Fashion Icon Award for her fearlessness and groundbreaking sense of style. Whether she’s rocking a gorgeous gown or an out-of-this-world street ensemble, it’s clear that Rihanna isn’t afraid to take a style risk. In the fashionista’s own words: “There are rules, but rules are meant to be broken.”

Going to college with your high school friends can be awesome. They’ll get all of your inside jokes, they make college feel a bit more comfortable, and you’re guaranteed to have a good friend the moment you step on campus for the first time. A lot of collegiettes go to college with a friend or two from high school, and some take it a step further: they room with them. Her Campus talked to collegiettes across the country about the pros and cons of rooming with their high school friends in college.

Pros

You can discuss the rooming situation in person

Since you and your classmate likely live close-by, you can actually sit down together and plan out your room! Because you’re avoiding the random housing lottery altogether, you won’t need to worry about the preferences of someone you haven’t even met yet. So go ahead, talk about decorating your room and coordinate who’s bringing what. It will be way easier to figure this out with someone you already know.

You’ll already have common ground

Rooming with an old classmate means they know your background and what your hometown is like. You won’t have to defend your giant Chicago Bulls poster or get confused looks when you talk about your crazy high school teachers. These girls have experienced a similar high school experience as you and can commiserate over homesickness with you.  

This was a huge plus for Paige, a collegiette at Boston College. “We went to a really a small, Catholic all girls high school, but we were never best friends. So now it's like we already have a ton of common ground,” she says. “It's been really great, I wouldn't trade it for anything.”

Alyssa, a student at Ohio University, roomed with a high school friend and loved it for the same reason as Paige. “I'd say the nicest thing was having someone who had a clue about your past life. Sometimes you come to college and no one really understands you because they don't know where you come from. Having someone who shares history with you is comforting,” she says.

There’s no awkward “getting to know you” period

Entering the random roommate lottery can be nerve-wracking. Living in small quarters with someone else for the first time inevitably means you’ll have to compromise and sort things out as you get to know your roommate. Living with someone you already know and like skips this stage altogether. “Living with my friend from high school was great because we already knew each other so well, so it wasn't nerve-wracking or uncomfortable moving in like it could be with a stranger. We already knew what each other's personalities and habits were like so it was easier to adjust to living with each other,” says Michelle from the University of North Carolina. However, this is only true if you’re rooming with a close friend. You might not have the same comfort level with a mere acquaintance from high school!

You won't get a weird random roommate

Most girls want a roommate who will respect their social, sleeping and cleaning habits. But unfortunately, with a random lottery system, you may get bad luck and end up with someone who has a completely different lifestyle than you. Many colleges have you fill out a brief survey prior to matching, but those can be overly simplistic. “The questions they ask you on matching surveys [at my college] don't ask about sleeping schedules so my roommate and I went to bed and woke up at completely different times. It was a nightmare,” says Emma, a student at Purdue. Living with someone you already know allows you to bypass this system, if you have similar habits.

Cons

It can be awkward to turn down a classmate

If your classmate asks to room with you and you don’t want to, it can be really awkward to say no. “I didn’t want to ask my classmate, because I was afraid they might say no,” says Justine, a collegiette at Johns Hopkins. “And I’m glad I didn’t because I became great friends with my roommate!”

If your classmate asks you to live together and you aren't feeling it, be honest. Tell her you’re really excited to just try the random lottery and meet someone totally new. Or if you want to ask someone but are nervous that they’ll say no, don’t be afraid to ask! Suggest it casually to test the waters, and take it from there.

It might be harder to meet other people

Getting a random roommate or choosing to live with someone you meet on Facebook can be a good idea because you can meet new people and learn how to be flexible— both great life skills. Especially if you’re entering your first year of college, meeting new people is essential and can be really fun! Rooming with someone you already know makes it easier to feel content and miss out on all of the fun dorm activities that let you mingle.

Vanessa, a student at Johns Hopkins, came to college with a classmate but decided to use the random lottery system. “I wanted to meet new people. That’s why I came to school across the country. I wanted a different experience. I wanted to get to know new people and get out of my comfort zone and meet people from a different background. Diversity is something I value,” she says.

There is such a thing as “too much of a good thing”

You’ve probably heard advice not to room with your best friend. And there’s some truth to that: many collegiettes worry that they’ll get sick of their high school BFF in college, and for good reason.  Great friends and great roommates are not the same thing.

“I love my [roommate] but the little things are frustrating. You can get annoyed with their personal habits, like cleanliness or sleep schedules. My roommate goes to bed at four in the morning. It can be ridiculous,” says Andrea, a student at the Peabody Conservatory.

Living with your friend is a whole other game than just being friends. With 24/7 contact, there’s a lot of time for drama and conflict.

“I would live with a friend again as long as I knew that we would be compatible roommates – just because you're good friends doesn't mean that you'll be good roommates!” Michelle says.

You might not feel comfortable confronting her

Unlike with some girl you have no obligation to like, it can be really awkward to bring up conflicts with your friend, like all of the hair in the shower drain or her loud friends when you're trying to study. “It’s awkward to confront her because we’re so close,” says Lisa*, a collegiette at Johns Hopkins University who lives with her best friend from high school. Lisa says communication is essential. Any roommate, previous friends or not, can benefit from signing a roommate contract or discussing ground rules first in case conflicts do arise. And if conflicts do arise, contact your resident advisor (RA). They’re a great resource.  

All in all, there are many perks and cons to rooming with a classmate from high school. But according to these collegiettes, who you room with is only one facet of college life. You’ll undoubtedly have new, interesting experiences whether you live with your old classmate or a new friend.

*Name has been changed

Let’s be honest—once classes and the torturous finals week wrap up, nothing sounds better than sleeping in and lounging around the house. Who has the motivation to work out when it’s scorching hot outside and a Netflix binge session is just a few clicks away? However, as summer finally sets in, you don’t want to let your workout routine take a hit. Here’s why!

1. With all of your free time, you can keep a routine

For most collegiettes, summer is much more relaxing than the school year. Yes, internships and summer jobs are thrown into the mix, but there’s less pressure in terms of classwork and juggling extracurriculars.

For Kasia, a senior at Villanova University, working out throughout the summer helps her build a routine so she has a schedule to follow (and doesn’t get sucked into too many Netflix series).

“Even with a job or internship, summer is a lot more flexible than the school year, so for me, it's helpful to have something extra to give my life some structure,” she says. “And of course, I want to be in tip-top bikini shape!”

In order to keep track of your workouts and log your progress, there are tons of inexpensive (and even free) apps to try out! Gym Hero helps you keep track of what you’ve done. Another popular option, Nike+ Move, is the perfect app for tracking your activity while comparing it to other people in your area.

Jen, a junior at Messiah College, also finds that without extra stressors, working out regularly becomes much easier. “I go to the gym often during the summer because I finally have more time to focus on my health and fitness,” she says. “Sure, I have my summer jobs, but I don't have to stay up late studying or worrying about classes and grades. Not having that extra stressor is awesome and gives me more motivation to go work out.”

2. The gym is air-conditioned

With the warm summer months come the stifling heat and humidity that can make being outside anything but enjoyable. On some days it can be hard to sit outside, let alone go for an intense run! But there are ways to work around the heat and still have a butt-kicking workout.

Jen says going to the gym routinely is an awesome excuse to beat the heat by working out in a place that you know will be air-conditioned. You know you’re going to want to avoid the hot weather from time to time, so why not make your inside time worth it and work out at the gym?

3. It’s finally nice outside

On the days when the heat is bearable, you can venture outside (without freezing!) and try an exercise or two under the summer rays. Chances are you’ll get a great workout and some vitamin D as a result!

“Working out in the summer is great because you have the option to go outside for your workout too without freezing,” Jen says. “I love taking walks outside or playing beach volleyball because it's so much fun and lighthearted. Plus, there's always swimming to do, too, and that's an awesome full-body workout!”

4. You can use it as a time to bond with old friends

You and the girls are used to grabbing lunch or going to the bars at the end of a long week, but why not mix things up and find a workout buddy (or two)? Seeing friends and getting that summer bod you’ve always dreamed of is another great reason to work out this summer. Plus, now that you’re home for the summer, you’ll have plenty of time to catch up with friends back home whom you don’t have the chance to see during the school year!

"My friends and I love to go to the gym together when it's too hot to do anything outside, but we don't want to spend all day glued to the couch,” Aja, a freshman at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, says. “We'll hit up the cardio machines, lift some weights and then grab iced coffee or tea at Starbucks afterwards."

After your workout, grabbing coffee or going on a cooldown walk with your friends will help wrap up the workout session and give you an incentive to make it through the routine in the first place! You’ll also have some extra time to catch up that way, especially since it’s hard to have in-depth conversations about your roomie drama or latest crush mid-squat.

5. You can feel more confident

Ah, swimsuit season. After stress eating your way through finals and skipping the gym to get some much-needed shut-eye, the last thing you want to do is squeeze into a bathing suit in public. But with a consistent summer workout routine, you’ll feel more confident!

Iris, a sophomore at UCLA, says a fun perk of working out in the summer months is that you’ll start to look even better in your bikini pics. Now, that doesn’t mean you should go ahead and post Instagram #selfies every day, but there’s no harm in feeling good about yourself!

6. You’ll burn off those summer treats

Summertime means ice-cream runs, froyo to cool off and fruity drinks by the pool. By working out in the summer, you can enjoy these treats without stressing about your beach body. Iris says that you don’t want to “lose all the fitness and hard work you've acquired throughout the year,” and a workout every now and then will keep you on track.

On top of maintaining a healthy body, good exercise can work wonders on your self-confidence and mental health. Although we only offered a few reasons, every collegiette will have her own motivations for hitting the gym or working out from home! We’d love to hear yours, so leave a comment below. 

The concept that only thin girls should wear bikinis this summer is being fought by a plus-size swimsuit company -- and the brand is making its message loud and clear.

Swimsuits for All, a company that aims to provide plus-size women with cute and comfortable swimsuits, partnered with fashion blogger Gabi Gregg to recreate Sports Illustrated's 2014 swimsuit issue cover. But instead of employing the models you typically see on magazines and down runways, they completed the photo shoot with plus-size models.

The picture is a part of a swimsuit calendar, titled "Sexy at Every Curve," that Swimsuits for All has posted on its website. Plus-size models Jada Sezer, Robyn Lawley and Shareefa J are featured in the calendar alongside Gregg.

"I think it's sad that the representatives of women in mainstream culture are usually so small just because we have such a diversity of sizes in the real world,"Gregg says. "What happens is, I think, so many women see those girls and think they have to look like them. And I know plus-size models and bloggers, like myself, are really helping change that."

Swimsuits for All president Moshe Laniado decided to make the calendar after three thin models were featured on Sports Illustrated's cover, despite having heard rumors a curvy woman would be pictured for the swimsuit edition. 

"When the issue came out and that didn’t happen, we were disappointed and decided to do our own calendar shoot around the idea that curvy women — and all women — are sexy in swimwear,"Laniado says.

"We've come to a point as a society where we've realized that there is no ideal woman's shape or body,"he adds. "Women come in all different sizes and shapes."

We should all take a message from this: no matter what size you are, you can wear what you want and still look beautiful. You don’t need to be skinny to attract people, feel good about yourself or look hot at the beach. So ditch societal standards and rock your bikini this summer -- you'll be in good company!

Why choose between the mobility of a tablet and the power of a laptop when you can have both? Thanks to Intel-powered 2 in 1 devices, you no longer need to make an “and/or” decision when it comes to deciding which technology to buy next.

Check out the Intel-based Sony VAIO Duo 13. The innovative sliding design of this 2 in 1 device easily transforms the system from laptop to tablet mode, which makes going from work to play a breeze! Powered by the 4th generation Intel^® Core^™ processor, the device offers 10 hours of battery life, allowing you to run full versions of the most advanced photo and video editing software, use popular programs that help get tasks done, enjoy your favorite media applications, sync MP3 devices and playlists and more without worrying about finding the nearest power outlet to charge the device halfway through the day. 

Starting at $1,399.99, this must-have device offers plenty of bang for your buck, but Her Campus has teamed up with Intel to give away one Sony VAIO Duo 13 Ultrabook 2 in 1 device for free!

Enter below to win by Friday, June 13 at 11:59 p.m. EST.  The winner will be announced in the June 17 STUDY BREAK.

Good luck, collegiettes!

We totally get it: break-ups are tough. When it comes to bad break-ups, we collegiettes have all been there–curled up on the couch with a pint of Ben and Jerry’s, moping about our (now ex-) boyfriend and browsing though the newly posted pictures of him and his new girlfriend on Facebook. Getting over a break-up with your boyfriend is hard enough, but figuring out how to stop obsessing over him can be even harder. Maybe you constantly find yourself reaching for your cell phone to text him or you can’t seem to go anywhere without hearing Adele’s “Someone Like You” on the radio, but either way, you can’t get over him.

Regardless of what caused the split between you and your boyfriend, it’s understandable when you start to have hurt feelings and a sense of loss. Sometimes, you can fall into the trap of obsessing over the break-up, or even worse–reaching back out to him. But no matter what happened between you and your ex, it's time to move on. So how do you start getting over the break-up (and him)? We consulted founder of Pink Kisses and expert on break-ups, Ellie Scarborough, to bring you the HC-approved guide to stop obsessing over your ex.

Unsubscribe to him on Facebook… or un-friend him altogether.

We social media-savvy collegiettes like to keep connected, checking sites like Twitter and Facebook multiple times a day. But there’s nothing that’s more of a downer than seeing your ex (in a picture with his new girlfriend) pop up in your newsfeed. While stalking your ex on his Facebook wall can be tempting, this only lets you desperately obsess over him. That’s why you should block or, at the very least, unsubscribe from your ex-boyfriend on Facebook.

Annie Pei from UChicago says that for her friend, breaking up with an ex online was an important first step to moving on with her life post-break-up. “A friend of mine unsubscribed to her ex's updates on Facebook so he wouldn't appear in her newsfeed,” Annie says. “This basically took away a lot of the incentive to look at his profile. She still did so once in a while, but the fact that he didn't appear on her newsfeed took away most of the temptation.”

Evelyn, a collegiette from Amherst College, says that although it can take a lot of self-discipline, going on a digital hiatus for a while can be a great way to get over him. “When my ex and I broke up, I made a pact with myself that I'm not allowed to Facebook stalk him until I can be 100 percent sure that I won't care if I see pictures of him with another girl (which will probably be in like another 5 years),” Evelyn says. “I still haven't gone on his profile once!”

Delete his number from your phone.

You know that each time that you pass his past texts in your inbox, you’ll feel the heartbreak all over again. So, why put yourself through that angst? Delete his number from your phone and don’t give it a second thought. This will stop you from being tempted to draft a text to him in your phone or worse–drunk text him over the weekend. You may think you have self-control, but it's better to be safe than sorry, right?

Penn State University collegiette Rachel Lytle puts it bluntly: “Just literally stop any form of communication altogether. No Facebook, no Skype, no texting or phone calls. Nothing for a few months. You're left with no choice but to move forward!”

For Erin, a student at Emerson College, breaking up with her boyfriend of two years was made easier by removing all reminders of him.

“At first it was difficult because I was so crushed by the break-up,” Erin says. “Eventually, I knew I had to quit torturing and ‘testing’ myself to see how I was doing. I blocked my ex on Facebook, made a separate file in my computer for old photos of us, put reminders of him in a box under my bed and deleted his number from my phone. I didn't have the heart to throw all my memories away but I needed it all out of sight to help my heart heal.”

Scarborough says to take it a step further, “Make sure you clean out your voicemails. And while you're at it, make it a clean sweep. Get rid of any old emails from him and purge your texts.

This may seem harsh, but you need to start creating your own life without your ex in it. The sooner you create a clean slate for yourself, the better. You've got a whole new life to start living!”

Avoid running into him, whether you mean to or not.

Admittedly, it can be hard not to run into your ex on a small college campus and you can’t help it if you happen to enroll in the same marketing class (ouch), but avoiding the places you used to go as a couple can help you get over him faster. Whether it’s that café where you always met for a cup of coffee or that theater where you met for movie dates every Thursday, those are the spots to avoid.

“You should stop making excuses to walk by his favorite bar ‘just to see’ if he’s there,” says Kate Miller from the University of San Francisco. “My roommate did that all the time when she broke up with her boyfriend and it just made things harder for her. I’m sure running into him all the time didn’t help.”

If you have a mutual friend, ask about when your ex will be at certain places so you can avoid going there around that time. Try not to overdo this, though—constantly planning your life around him could make it hard to forget him. If you go to the same fitness center, switch up your routine by going for a run around the neighborhood instead of doing the elliptical at the gym. If you're trying to get over him, seeing him everywhere only makes you hurt more. You can take this opportunity to find new hangout spots and make new circles of friends.

Call up your best friend.

When you break up with your boyfriend, one of the absolute worst things you can do is sit at home alone with nothing to do. And that’s why you’re obsessing over him in the first place, right? You’re still thinking about the relationship that could have been. Whenever you feel like reaching for the phone to text him on a Thursday night, resist the urge and call up your best friend instead. Girl talk will never let you down.

And don’t just leave it at that. Go out and keep busy! The more time you spend alone, the more likely your thoughts will wander back to what your ex-boyfriend is up to.

“Go out on the town or have a movie night,” suggests Laura Baugh from Virginia Tech. “It sounds so clichéd and stupid, but it really does wonders. Tip: bring a camera. Nothing is better than taking a look at funny pictures from a fun night.”

“Listen, whether you like it or not, you're in the midst of a big transition and you're going to need support,” Scarborough says. “That's why I believe it's best to have more than one friend or family member at the ready and to tell them what you're going to need from them. And don't you dare try to do this alone because you're too proud to ask for help. This is exactly what friends are for.”

Hang out with your friends and family, hit the gym or go shopping at the mall. Take the time to pamper yourself with an at-home mani pedi. Whatever it is you decide to do, do something that gets your mind off of the break-up.

Keep reminding yourself why the two of you broke up… and why maybe, it was a good thing!

Most importantly, you shouldn’t forget why the two of you broke up in the first place. It’s easy to be nostalgic for a past relationship, but thinking back to the not-so good times will remind you of why you didn’t work out as a couple in the first place and will help you move on. Stop and think realistically about why you’re better off without him– maybe he didn’t support your goals or was obnoxiously immature. Either way, once you’ve gotten past the post-break-up obsession, you’ll come to realize that you’re better off without him.

Sure, break-ups can be brutal. But instead of wallowing in the past, take this time to get to know yourself again!

“One of the great things about getting out of a relationship is all of the free time you have,” Scarborough says. “So, instead of just focusing on your ex, take some time to really focus on you and what you want. A break-up is the perfect chance to take a good look at your priorities, your goals and your dreams. Start thinking about what you want your life to be now and what you want your first solo adventure to look like.”

While it's important to remember the good times we might have had with our ex, it’s just as important to remind yourself of the bad times and consider the lessons learned. In the meantime, take our tips to heart—they’ll help you get through that post-break-up misery and get over him sooner!

In addition to creating stunning clothes, accessories and fragrances, Gucci announced that it will be launching a cosmetics collection to be released in September.

The makeup line will feature products for the face, such as lipstick and eyeshadow, as well as nail polish and brushes. 

Charlotte Casiraghi, fifth in line to the throne of Monaco, will be the face of the collection. She is usually seen with natural-looking makeup and dark lips, which leads us to believe that Gucci will use this as inspiration for its line.

Blake Lively, who is the celeb spokesperson for Gucci Premiere fragrance, wears similar makeup to Casiraghi. This gives us more reason to believe that the collection will include natural makeup for the face and darker colors for lips and eyes. Gucci says the campaign will be "highly sensuous and feminine," which will definitely call for dewy skin and red lipstick.

We can't wait to see what Gucci has in store for us this fall!

We all love a quick fix for life's everyday problems, but when do quick fixes stop being convenient and start becoming dangerous? We've compiled a list of life hacks from this AskReddit thread that are either completely ridiculous or perhaps just crazy enough to work. 

(Do not try these at home.)

1. Save money on expensive binoculars by just standing closer to the object you want to look at.

Why didn't we think of that?

2. When you're downloading a file, flip your screen sideways so gravity helps the download.

You could also try repeatedly screaming at your computer, "WHY DON'T YOU DO WHAT I SAY?" It has the same effect. 

3. When your carton of milk starts getting old, leave it in the sun to spruce it up.

This will also turn your milk from liquid to solid for easy drinking—erm, eating? 

4. Assert dominance in an interview by opening with an interpretive song-and-dance routine. Choreograph all moves to the song "Takin' Care Of Business."

Depending on the job you're interviewing for... this might just work.

5. If your plugs keep bending, try straightening out the outlet with a fork. This also works better if the fork is wet so it can slide in easier.

Sounds legit.

6. When standing on the subway or in line for food, hold hands with the person closest to you. It's the best way to make new friends.

Your true love awaits! Just think of the missed opportunities!

7. You can ensure that your computer will never get a virus by always wearing latex gloves before touching it.

Hey, safety first, am I right?

8. Add a touch of magic to your cold by putting glitter in your mouth before you sneeze.

To be fair, this one might actually be fun... is that what Tinkerbell feels like? 

9. Delete everything off your laptop if it's getting too heavy.

Your bag will be so much lighter... because you'll throw your laptop out of the window upon realizing what you've done. 

10. Instead of carpeting your house, glue two carpet squares to your feet. Voila! Carpet all the time for a fraction of the price.

I know, your mind is blown. Ours, too. 

11. Microwave your phone so it will charge faster. The microwave will shake the molecules in the phone and spark a charge.

It'll spark something, alright.

Really, please don't try these at home. If you do, you've got no one to blame but yourself... you've been warned. 

InternMatch, a LookSharp company, conducted one of the largest student internship surveys of all time and found that a key to getting hired is not just internship experience, but paid internships.

The survey, which received more than 9,000 student respondents, reveals several interesting statistics regarding internships. For one, paid internships are a key to gaining full-time employment after college. Students with paid internships are three times more likely to have job offers than students with unpaid internships (which can still be incredibly valuable!) 

Not only are paid internships crucial, but so is having multiple internships throughout college. Students with three or more internships are twice as likely to have a job offer than students with just one internship. Surprisingly or not, just a small number of graduates are employed. Only 16.6% of seniors received a job offer as of April 15. 

The report also reveals that, due to increasing student debt, 72.6% of students work a side job during school, which limits time and opportunities for internships. 

Read the full report here and then check out our Jobs & Internships section to get a head start on applying for (and scoring) your dream fall internship!

A recent article about "tech neck" surgery released by ELLE Magazine has us strangely intrigued yet also a bit disturbed.

This new plastic surgery option is designed to fix the loose skin and double chin that appear while you're using your fave tech device, like an iPhone or laptop. As ELLE points out, it's hard to say whether our gadgets are causing this "problem," or we have begun to notice "tech neck" because of our increase in social media use.

As an alternative to neck lifts or liposuction, Dr. James Marotta, a Long-Island based plastic surgeon, suggests a procedure called Ultherapy. Ultherapy uses the power ultrasound to encourage the body to produce collagen and therefore prevent wrinkles. It may sound harmless, but it costs a whopping $2,000 and lasts for only a year or two. 

The fact that someone even noticed "tech neck" and decided to make it something to worry about is ridiculous. Will this be the next thigh gap trend, with people obsessing over something that comes with being human? 

There's no need for this plastic surgery, ladies, and there are so many other aspects of life that are much more important than worrying about "tech neck." Plus, that $2,000 could be put toward a vacation, student loans or savings.

So, collegiettes, keep on keeping on with your social media habits, and don't let the "tech neck" craze stop you from enjoying the Internet and all of its wonders!

So, you’re dating a great guy you totally dig, but… fill in the blank: He chews with his mouth open. He’s always late. He only texts you back once a day. He never lets you take care of the check. He takes an hour to get ready. Whatever it is, it’s grating on your nerves like crazy, and you’re starting to question if it’s worth putting up with. Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

Anyone you date is going to come equipped with one annoying habit or another. The question is: how do you decide whether or not his quirk is a deal-breaker? Read on to find out how to deal with your partner’s annoying habits and when to move on.

Know the difference between a habit and a problem.

When you’re starting to feel critical of your partner or your relationship, it’s important to make sure that what you’re labeling an annoying habit isn’t actually a bigger problem. You might be tempted to brush your boyfriend’s affinity for drinking every night, his “jokingly” making fun of you in front of his friends, his flirting with other girls or him pushing you when he’s angry as “bad habits,” but Dr. Alexandra Solomon, licensed clinical psychologist at The Family Institute at Northwestern University, warns against this mindset.

“There are bad habits, and then there are massive red flags,” she says. “The question becomes, is [his] habit just [his] quirk, or does it have an impact on me? Public shaming, substance abuse, infidelity, violence – these aren’t habits.”

Anything in your relationship that has an impact on your safety, emotional and physical well-being or dignity is a sign of an unhealthy relationship and should be a deal-breaker, but what about the smaller things? Idiosyncrasies and behaviors that trigger feelings of annoyance or irritation can wear you down, too, so where do you draw the line? Read on to find out.

Figure out your side of the equation first.

If what’s bothering you does qualify as an annoying habit, one of the first things you can do to ease the problem is to remember that you have quirks you’re bringing to the table, too. According to Dr. Solomon, having this perspective is a great first step in curbing and dealing with critical thoughts.

“Reminding ourselves that this guy sitting across from you might be having similar thoughts about our habits is important,” she says. “You can be critical of the fact he chews with his mouth open, but you can also remember that he can be critical of the fact that you tend to run 10 minutes late. You have to leave a place for that humility.”

With this dash of humility, you might start to realize that your reaction to your guy’s bad habit is a sign of your issues, not his – and that’s not a bad thing! Before tossing a partner aside because of a bad habit, consider your reaction an opportunity to self-reflect. You might be surprised by what you discover about yourself.

Maybe you fear that his habit of being late is a sign of a deeper inconsiderateness. Or maybe his bad texting habitsmake you think that you care more about him than he does about you. Or his sloppiness triggers your own neuroticism. Or maybe something else entirely. 

“Something that bugs you about someone else is very often a reflection of an unhealed part of yourself,” Dr. Solomon says. “If you see it in him and you judge it in him, it may be an invitation for you to look at the ways that you also operate.”

If it bothers you, talk it out

Even if your introspection leaves you feeling more Zen about your boyfriend’s habits, Dr. Solomon stresses the importance of having a conversation with him no matter what. Without opening lines of communication, you risk breeding inner resentment, disengagement, anger and a victim mentality.

After all, what’s the point of being with your guy if you can’t talk to him openly about your feelings?

“That’s the beauty of being in a relationship,” Dr. Solomon says. “You can put something out there, even something that feels scary, like feeling critical of a partner. I think a healthy relationship can handle that and will grow from that.”

However, keeping your silence isn’t the only way you can exacerbate the issue; on the opposite end of the spectrum is voicing every nitpicky thought you have. Open communication does not authorize you to criticize him constantly.

So how do you strike the balance between swallowing your problems and nagging your partner to death?

Dr. Solomon suggests saying something like this: “Hey, this is kind of tricky to talk about… I like how we’re building this relationship and I have a concern I want to raise. I don’t know how much of it is me needing to get over this versus me asking you to change, but I’m hoping we can put this on the table and look at it together.”

Then, as diplomatically as you can, describe the habit you find annoying – and, more importantly, your reaction to it.

“It’s important to own, ‘I have a problem, this is my problem, I’m being critical of this thing,’” Dr. Solomon says. “His answer might very well be, ‘Oh my gosh, I had no idea that I even [have that habit]; thanks for telling me.’ Then, the issue is done. If the person says something like, ‘How could you be so critical; you’re just like my mother,’ then they’re showing you another side of them, and that is good to know, too.”

After you have this conversation, you might decide that while a certain habit wasn’t a deal-breaker, your partner’s reaction definitely was. Either way, airing your grievances will tell you how to move forward. 

“When I started spending more time at my boyfriend’s apartment, I became aware of so many of his annoying habits. It was crazy,” says Jennifer*, a sophomore at Emerson College. “He didn’t make his bed in the morning, his room was a mess, he ate standing in front of the fridge, he let his dishes pile up. When I talked to him about it, I found out he wasn’t about to change his entire lifestyle for me, and I had to decide which of his habits really affected me and which I could deal with. Like, his messy room made me not want to spend time in there, so that had an impact on our relationship, but him drinking out of the carton—that’s his own business. He changed some things and I got over others.”

Know your bottom line – and stick to it

However, there are some things that no amount of mature conversation can make bearable. We all have those things that will annoy us beyond repair – the pet peeves specific to us alone – and that’s okay. There’s a difference between being too picky and knowing what you can’t deal with. What’s important is sitting down with yourself and figuring out your personal distinction between what’s necessary and what’s preferable in a partner. For some, an annoying habit might be intolerable, but for others, it might just be the price of admission. But only you can know what’s in each category.

It may be unique to every person, but having that list of intolerable habits in your back pocket will help you navigate your relationships with more confidence.

Sound vague enough? Dr. Solomon admits that figuring out your bottom line about your guy’s annoying habit might very well be just a gut feeling, but luckily, there’s a good rule of thumb to help you figure it out.

“Every relationship has an energy to it,” she says. “Some things about your relationship will energize you and some things will drain you, so take the time to assess the credit-debit relationship there. How much are you getting from this relationship versus how much you are being depleted in this relationship?”

Chances are, assessing this question with your partner’s bad habit in mind will give you one of two answers: Either you’ll find that the annoyance you get from it drains you too much or that the good of your relationship outweighs the bad habit.

“At the end of the day, I know I have a great guy who makes me really happy,” Jennifer says. “I might get annoyed sometimes, but I’m not about to break up with him because he’s messy and I’m clean.”

No matter what, there’s no shame in doing what’s right for you in your relationship, whether that’s deciding that you can’t look past a bad habit and releasing your guy to someone whose imperfections are more compatible with his or opening yourself up to your partner to discuss what can be changed and what you can embrace.

“You won’t know the outcome until you face it head on,” Dr. Solomon says. “Know that you’ll both learn something by navigating it together.”