Whether it’s crushes, classes or coed bathrooms on your mind, chances are you’ve already started stressing about your freshman year of college. But don’t worry! This collegiette has been there and done that, and she’s passing along her hard-earned wisdom to you lucky pre-collegiettes. Whether you’re daunted by your packing list (you do not need a label maker, promise), college-level classes (Wikipedia is your new best friend), making friends (easier than it sounds) or running into a one-night stand (honestly, just run the other way), Sophie’s likely encountered it all. Just sit back, relax and let her share the best advice she’s picked up along the way.

If you attended an out-of-state college, how did you adjust to being in a new place? – Cara

Cara,

Adjusting to college life is difficult for most freshmen at one point or another, and it can be especially hard if you’re attending an out-of-state college in an area you’re not familiar with. I’m from Rhode Island and I go to school in the middle-of-nowhere Vermont, so I definitely experienced a bit of a rocky transition at first (ocean withdrawals are a thing). But, luckily for you, I picked up some tricks along the way to get over the initial hump of adjusting to college life.

My first tip is probably one you’ve heard from everyone from your older sibs to your guidance counselor, but knowing what to expect really can mean all the difference in the world. Lots of freshmen (and upperclassmen, too!) experience some degree of homesickness during their college years, and it’s completely normal. Expecting to miss your home, family and friends a little bit can make the feeling more manageable and less foreign if it does pop up. 

Another way to minimize that feeling of being in a foreign environment is to familiarize yourself with your college as much as you can before move-in day. I highly recommend visiting campus before the start of the semester if at all possible. Being able to recognize buildings and know your way around campus is one of the fastest ways to feel at home. If your school is super far away or you aren’t able to get to campus before orientation, lots of schools have virtual tours on their websites, and you can check out campus maps to get a feel for the layout. 

Getting a feel for college life doesn’t just mean memorizing the fastest route from your dorm to the dining hall (although I certainly recommend doing this – you’ll thank me later); it also means getting to know your future roomie(s) and other freshmen. Having a few conversations with your roommate about who’s bringing the fridge, what activities you’re involved in or even what kind of music you listen to (Queen Bey, all day erryday) can help you feel a little more at ease about move-in day. Checking out freshmen Facebook groups can also be a great way to ensure that you’ll recognize at least a few faces around campus.

Once you’re actually on campus, there are a few things you can do to help feel more adjusted and at home in your new environment. First, make sure your dorm room is as comforting and homey as possible. Pinning up pictures of your friends and family, proudly displaying your childhood stuffed animal (I’m 20 and I wouldn’t even think about not bringing my rainbow Beanie Baby bear, Mellow, to school) and making sure you have a comfy and cozy place to unwind after a long day can help you create a familiar oasis in a new place.

If you were involved in any activities in high school, consider joining the same clubs or sports teams in college. Having a familiar hobby can be a great way to feel more at home and get involved at your new school. Plus, clubs and organizations can be great places to make friends who share your interests!

Going to an out-of-state school can be an amazing growing experience and put you in touch with a sense of independence you never knew you had. That being said, there’s bound to be an initial adjustment period while you get used to a new place. Being prepared for a few bumps here and there; keeping in mind that this transition period is only temporary will put you on your way to loving life as a fabulous and well-adjusted collegiette before you know it.

It’s the middle of summer (aka swimsuit season!), and you’re pumped to work out every day, eat healthy and become a total beach goddess with a killer bod. You’re super motivated and you promise yourself that you’ll stay on track… which lasts approximately three days. Then you’re bored and back on the couch. What gives?

Most collegiettes give up their summer diet-and-exercise plan because it’s bland and boring. But it doesn’t have to be! Check out Her Campus’s ways to shake up your diet so you’ll be motivated all summer long.

1. Swap ingredients for healthier (but still yummy!) meals

Your Pinterest board is bursting with dessert recipes that you actually have time to try… except you just started your diet. For a lot of collegiettes, the word “diet” is synonymous with salads, no chocolate and general sadness. But just because you’re dedicated to eating healthier doesn’t mean you have to give up all your favorite foods! By swapping out fatty or high-calorie ingredients for healthy ones, you can still enjoy your favorite meals while staying on track with your diet.

“You are what you eat,” says Lauren Miga, a registered dietitian and personal trainer. “Nutrition and fitness go hand in hand; eating healthier results in more effective workouts and overall better health.”

Some of the most common swaps include Greek yogurt for heavy cream or sour cream, avocado puree for butter and spaghetti squash for pasta. Even just switching from white rice to quinoa or ground beef to ground turkey can improve your diet and make you feel better about your meal choices. Here’s a recipe so you can try out your healthy culinary skills!  

Creamy Mac and Cheese (with Greek yogurt instead of cream)

From Cooking ala Mel 

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (about 2 cups) whole-wheat elbow pasta
• 8 ounces (about 2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Directions:

1. Cook macaroni according to the package’s instructions.
2. Place the spinach leaves in the bottom of the strainer and pour pasta over top to drain and wilt the spinach. Save ½ cup of the pasta water.
3. Return cooked macaroni and wilted spinach to the pot. Add ¼ of the reserved pasta water to the pot and stir in cheese until melted.
4. Stir in Greek yogurt, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper until smooth. Stir in remaining pasta water to thin if necessary.

2. Buy some cute workout clothes

Let’s face it: one of the main reasons you started your diet is because it’s an excuse to buy that super-cute leggings/tank combo. No judgment here! Every girl has the right to look hot going to the gym. Buying the right (fashionable) items to work out in can encourage you to actually exercise.

Megan Shuffleton, a junior at Emerson College, knows this firsthand. “Invest in some cute workout clothes!” she suggests. “You’ll be more motivated to show off at the gym and you’ll just feel better, allowing you to perform better.”

Need some fashion inspiration? Rock this Fierce Tank ($24.99) and channel your inner Beyoncé. Pair it with these cool tie-dye shorts (lululemon, $54) and lace up some hot-pink Nike kicks ($100). You’ll be working out and looking great in no time!

3. Grab a buddy and bring on the competition

You know who makes anything more fun? Your friends! Or your mom. Or maybe a sibling. Try working out or sticking to a diet with someone else. Shannon Zhu, a junior at NYU, is currently summer dieting and loves having a buddy. “My mom is my home buddy and we make sure the other doesn’t binge so we stick to our diet,” she says. “I also have a friend that I do INSANITY workouts with. Having someone to hold you accountable really helps!”

Take it to the next level by adding some friendly competition. “Have a fitness challenge with your girlfriends,” suggests registered dietitian Brooke Schantz.“Sign up for a 5K or participate in a charity cyclathon to motivate and push yourself.”

See who can run the fastest mile or swear off ice cream the longest.  Make a bet that the loser has to cook a healthy lunch for everyone or clean the whole apartment, and have a new challenge every week to keep it interesting. Want to step it up even more? Consider joining a summer sports league with your friends. It’s a great way to spend time together, and the competition will motivate you to work hard all summer long!   

4. Switch it up

One reason why collegiettes quit their diet or exercise plan is because they do the same thing. Every. Single. Day. How could you not get bored?

“Trying new foods and new routines is great,” says Julia Flaherty, a junior at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. “Discovering what works for you can sometimes be a process, but once you've figured it out, it's easy to stay there. I love engaging my core and I’m a big fan of walking and jogging!”

With the great summer weather, take your workouts outside! “Some of my favorite outdoor workouts is walking with a friend and doing body-weight exercises every 10 minutes,” says Melanie Ludwig, owner of Prestige Fitness “Lunges, squats and push-ups against a park bench are a great way to be outside and tone up those problem areas.”

Miga suggests researching themed running events, like a Color Run, a mud run or a Glow Run to spice up your workout. Try paddleboarding if you’re near a body of water, or check out hiking trails in your area. Sometimes local recreation facilities and park districts offer free outdoor yoga classes or dance lessons. Even activities like gardening, walking your dog or roller-skating can be forms of exercise. Whatever you decide to do, just get outside and beat your boredom! 

5. Get techy

Looking for something a little more 21^st century? “There have been numerous studies showing that keeping track of your progress increases the likelihood of reaching fitness goals,” Schantz says. “Good thing there are so many fun and user-friendly apps to help us out!”

Check out Fooducate, whose app allows you to scan barcodes at the grocery store for a “health grade,” detailed product info and healthier substitutions. This way, you can make all those new healthy recipes!

Another app, Pact, actually pays you for working out, eating more veggies or logging your food, depending on which Pact you choose. Each week you can set a goal, and every time you track your food, eat your veggies (verified with phone photos) or go to the gym (verified with your phone’s GPS), it pays you! However, if you don’t make your goals, money is taken from your “bank.” Now that’s what we call motivation!

Want to work out for a cause? Download Charity Miles, where you can choose from dozens of different organizations to raise money for. You can earn up to 25 cents for every mile you run, walk or bike.

If you use music to pump yourself up, then definitely check out jog.fm, which finds music to match your pace. We can barely put down our phones as it is, so why not use them to reach your fitness goals?

Whether you’re trying to eat more veggies or you’re training for a half marathon, sticking to a healthy-living plan is hard work. Say goodbye to your boring summer diet and change it up with these tips. And don’t give up! This is the summer of a healthier, happier you. 

Hey collegiettes!

Spots are quickly filling up for Her Campus's 3rd annual National Intercollegiette Conference taking place in NYC July 12 and 13, so be sure to register NOW!

We have an amazing two days of talks, panels, workshops, and activities planned for you that we know you'll love. Saturday July 12 is open to Her Campus team members only, and Sunday July 13 is open to both Her Campus team members and readers.

At this year's conference, you'll get to pick from panels on everything from what life is like as an entry level magazine editor, to how to decide which type of marketing position is right for you, to how to make it as a freelancer, to how to pursue a socially-conscious career, and much more. You'll hear from women who are top entrepreneurs, major players in the tech scene, and leading bloggers, among others. Plus you'll take part in interactive workshops on negotiation skills, fueling your body right, money management, and more.

This year's speakers hail from Seventeen, Cosmopolitan, Lucky, Teen Vogue, Women's Health, Food Network Magazine, The Huffington Post, Southern Living, OK!, Us Weekly, New York Daily News, Kickstarter, Tumblr, Glam Media, Ogilvy, Marina Maher Communications, DoSomething.org, Unilever, Random House, NBC, Levo League, The Muse, and more--talk about amazing networking opps!

We are thrilled to be working with our incredible sponsors Intel, Amtrak, LUNA, and Chipotle to make this year's conference possible (plus you may be in store for some treats from them!).

What are you waiting for? Register NOW before spots fill up!

See you there!

Name: Rachel Harris
Age: 22
Job Title and Description: Owner/Creative Development for Fifty Over Five
College/Major: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design
Website: www.fiftyoverfiveco.com
Instagram Handle: @Fiftyoverfive

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

Rachel Harris: I handle many aspects of the business and it requires me to experience different routines each day. Every week, I spend a couple of days overseeing development and testing new ideas at the Los Angeles factory. The rest of the week is normally spent in our downtown showroom where I create ideas, meet with my representative and manage my artists from all around the world. Any other time I have is dedicated to my personal art. As an artist, I have to keep my work fresh and my mind captivated. 

What is the best part of your job?

RH: The people I work with and creating art. I am truly blessed to have the opportunity to work with such rad individuals. The artists, working in a USA-made factory, are amazing, and my team is passionate and unique. Everyone I work with brings a lot to the table and keeps me on my toes. I am able to make art, and that isn’t something a lot of artists can support themselves doing.
 
What was your first entry-level job in your field and how did you get it?

RH: My first job was an internship for J Brand Jeans, which quickly turned into a full-time job on their design team. Fashion is a great industry because there is always room for young talent looking to work hard.

What is one thing you wish you knew about your industry when you first started out that you know now?

RH: It’s less about your resume and more about whom you know and what you can bring to the table.

Who is one person who changed your professional life for the better?

RH: Ashley Haber. He is an extremely talented photographer and founder of many brands such as SpiritHoods and creative development for Wildfox. He influenced me to be an individual and an entrepreneur without fear.
 
What words of wisdom do you find most valuable?

RH: “If you are going to do something, do it well. And leave something witchy.” – Charles Manson

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

RH: The general response has been amazing. I am now able to work with artists that I have looked up to all my life. Musicians I have seen in [concert] are wearing my art, and stores I shop at are always contacting me! It is a surreal feeling that it has been less than a year.

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

RH: As someone who is reserved, I learned quickly you have to be tough and put yourself out there, because no one is looking for you. Fashion is full of deadlines for trade shows, market weeks and seasons. Your co-workers can get intense and you have to be able to keep up and not take anything personally.

I have put in several hours and not one has gone to waste. It is important to see all aspects of your industry and network. Without networks, none of this would be possible. Be you, be authentic.

Apparently America has a bad boy complex. Well, for one bad boy at least.

Jeremy Meeks, a 30-year-old from Stockton, California, who was arrested on June 20 for firearm possession, gang membership and probation violation, became a national obsession after his attractive mug shot was posted on social media. 

The picture went viral, with “Jeremy Meeks mug shot” receiving six million search results on Google. 

On the Stockton Police Department’s Facebook page, more than 95,000 people “liked” it — the majority of them women. They also commented, mostly praising Meeks’s baby blues and sharp cheekbones. “Criminal or not, HOT is HOT!” said one. Another added, “Mama, I’m in love with a criminal.” 

Meeks’s family is now trying to take advantage of all this adulation. His mother, Katherine Angier, has set up a GoFundMe page with a $25,000 goal, which will help him “get a fair trial.” 

She writes, ”He has old tattoos… which causes him to be stereotyped. He's my son and I'm just trying to raise funds to help him in any way.”

So far, about $3,700 has been donated. 

If Hillary Clinton decides to run for president again in 2016, she can already check one thing off her to-do list: finding a campaign song! According to CNN, after a book signing on Thursday, Katy Perry offered to write Clinton a theme song for her 2016 campaign, should Clinton decide to run again.

The two tweeted back and forth Friday and yesterday. Perry, accompanying her tweet with an Instagram, wrote on June 20, “I told hillaryclinton that I would write her a “theme” song if she needs it…,” and Clinton tweeted back on June 22, “@katyperry Well that’s not a Hard Choice. You already did! Keep letting us hear you Roar.”

In the tweet, Clinton references both her own book, Hard Choices, and Perry's song "Roar."

As a (very) recent graduate of Boston College, I know just what it means to be a true Superfan. The Eagles you’ll find on The Heights pride themselves on their altruism, athleticism, spirit, and smarts, as well as their ability to take an awesome Instagram of Gasson Hall at night. At BC, our dedication to service is only matched by our dedication to tailgating, and the hunt for a cubicle in O’Neill Library during study days is only as cutthroat as the attempt to secure a Modular Apartment for senior year. BC students may be diverse in their passions, but there are a few things that unite us all as Eagles who bleed maroon and gold. If you’re a true Eagle on the Warpath (ooh, ahh!) like myself, you probably will relate to these 38 signs of attending such an incredible school. 

1. You know there is no sandwich more glorious than a New England Classic with a side of frips from Hillside.

2. Except, perhaps, a steak and cheese sub from Lower.

3. You get transported back to the '90s every time you pick a new class schedule.

4. You have TransLoc installed on your phone so you always know where the Comm Ave bus is.

5. And, undoubtedly, you’ve gotten yelled at by the bus driver for having a little bit too much fun on the Comm Ave bus.

6. You’ve had your picture taken with your personal acquaintance Doug Flutie.  

7. And of course you have a picture with your good friend Baldwin the Eagle.    

8. You can’t stand the Fightin’ Irish…

9. …but your loathing for Notre Dame is nothing compared to the feelings you have for Boston University.

10. And nothing gives you greater satisfaction than to see BC win the Beanpot over BU.

11. You know where the best place is to go for a drink…

12. …and you know the best place to get some late-night noms afterwards.

13. You can’t imagine living anywhere better than in the Mods.

14. And you can’t imagine living anywhere worse than Newton Campus.

15. Besides, of course, CoRo.

16. You will never understand what this is supposed to be:

17. You’re still waiting for the day when this is open more than one day out of the school year.  

18. Or when the movie theater in Cleveland Circle will be open… ever.

19. You know that every night out inevitably ends at Late Night for mozzarella sticks.

20. Unless you make a pit stop here first:

21. You’ve experienced what it must feel like to be Harry Potter while studying in Bapst Library.

22. You know the only task more difficult than climbing the Million Dollar Stairs…

 …is surviving a workout at the Plex on a hot day.

23. Or finding a table at Hillside during lunch hours.

24. The only person you look up to more than this guy…

 …is this guy:

25. You know there’s no feeling comparable to buying alcohol at Reservoir for the first time.

26. Except maybe being hoisted up in Alumni Stadium after the Eagles score a touchdown.

27. Or making it on the big screen during a hockey game when “The Devil Went Down To Georgia” plays.

28. You’re no longer fazed by construction.

29. Your favorite day of the year is Marathon Monday.

30. You would never think of wearing anything but your Superfan shirt on game day.

31. You’ve attempted an Eagles Deli Challenge (or you’ve at least seen someone else attempting one).

32. You can spot a CSOM student from a mile away.

33. You know White Mountain has the best ice cream…

34. …but you still get in heated debates over who has the best burrito. (Chipotle? Boloco? El Pelon?) 

35. You will always go insane when you hear this song...

36. ...and you can probably sing this song in your sleep.

37. You can’t imagine a sight more beautiful than this.

38. You know that no matter where you go or what you do after Boston College, you’ll always be an Eagle at heart.

It's that glorious time again, the time that rolls around only once every four years: the FIFA World Cup. For the sporty collegiette, the international soccer tournament is a fantastic display of athletic prowess and an opportunity to show America exactly what they're missing out on by not getting behind the world's favorite game. For the less athletically inclined collegiettes, the World Cup is still an exciting time. Why, you ask? Because hundreds of the world's most talented and fit men convene to bless the world with their faces, and if they're lucky enough to score (and gracious enough to remove their shirts), their killer bods. We now present you with the 11 hottest players of the World Cup, our "dream team," if you will, and concrete evidence that soccer deserves its reputation as "the beautiful game."

1. Olivier Giroud

Team: France

Position: Forward

Why were we not made aware of this man’s existence until now? Those piercing baby blues, that masculine jawline, that perfectly-coiffed hair! And, he speaks French. All we can say is, ooh la la. 

2. Orestis Karnezis

Team: Greece

Position: Goalkeeper

There’s just something about Greek men. Maybe it was our crush on Kostas from The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants in our formative years that started it all, but these Mediterranean men have the whole dark-and-brooding thing going on, and we don’t hate it. Plus, if you stare into Orestis’s eyes long enough, you might just find the path to world peace.

3. Jordan Henderson

Team: England

Position: Midfielder

Making a solid case for blonds, this studly midfielder looks like that hot guy in the business suit whom you always run into at Starbucks. We know he's from England, but there's something all-American about Jordan that we can't help but love.

4. Cristiano Ronaldo

Team: Portugal

Position: Forward

What kind of list would this be if we left off the soccer god himself? There’s a reason Cristiano is one of the most beloved players in the world (at least by the ladies), and one look at that fabulous fauxhawk and self-assured smile will tell you why. Unfortunately for us, he's been dating the stunning Irina Shayk since 2010. Hold on tight, girl.

5. Aleksandr Kerzhakov

Team: Russia

Position: Forward

We're suckers for a good side smile, and Aleksandr's got it down. Plus, there's something about those eyes that makes us want to take him home to Mom. Now, let us also take a moment to notice and admire the way his jersey hugs his pecs. You're welcome. 

6. Jorge Sammir Cruz Campos

Team: Croatia

Position: Midfielder

Those. Lips. We could stare at them all day long. Those lips and those chocolate-brown eyes are basically the cure to any bad day. Plus, the way Sammir's head is tipped ever so slightly to the side makes it look like he's asking us about our day and really listening to all of the horrible things that happened on the subway. We can just picture him saying, "I'm sorry, babe. Can I give you a back rub?"

7. Mensur Mujdža

Team: Bosnia and Herzegovina

Position: Defender

Pay attention, men: this is how to rock barely there facial hair. Having an absolutely smoldering gaze doesn’t hurt either. Is this what all men in Bosnia and Herzegovina look like? If so, book us a one-way ticket.

8. Gerard Piqué

Team: Spain

Position: Defender

What can we say, our girl Shakira knows how to pick ‘em. Gerard has that ultra-sexy dark-hair-and-blue-eyes thing going on, and he's 6'4", which certainly doesn't hurt (although we do have some questions, seeing as Shakira is only 5'2"). Side note: it was unfairly difficult to pick just one member of the Spanish national team for this list, so shout-out to Iker Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Xabi Alonso and David Villa.

9. Marcelo Vieira da Silva Júnior 

Team: Brazil

Position: Defender

That hair! That smile! We dare you to not fall in love with Marcelo. Everything about him makes us just want to squeeze him and then ride around Brazil on a tandem bicycle with him while he shows us all of his favorite beaches. Oh, and he also dedicates every goal he scores to his wife and his grandfather, who paid for him to be able to continue playing football in Brazil. Yup.

10. Fabian Schär

Team: Switzerland

Position: Defender

When you look like you could be one of the Franco brothers (seriously), being a star athlete is really just the icing on the cake. The Swiss soccer stud is only 22 years old, making us feel significantly less accomplished but also explaining that adorably mischievous grin.

11. Claudio Marchisio

Sixteen-year-old Chase Culpepper perfected everything about his driving test—except the picture. After receiving a perfect score on his driver’s test, Chase, a gender non-conforming sixteen-year-old, was asked to remove his makeup by a DMV employee before taking Chase’s photo, according to CNN.

His wearing makeup was a “disguise,” according to the DMV, and, according to their rules, he could not wear makeup, which he wears every day. The DMV argues that Culpepper’s makeup was a misrepresentation of his identity and that he did not look "as a boy should," according to the Washington Post.

“It was degrading. I was in shock,” Culpepper said in a segment for CNN.

Culpepper is currently trying to convince the state to let him retake his picture.

It’s a mantra you’ve probably been hearing since you were old enough to understand that boys don’t actually have cooties: “Opposites attract.” But does this myth truly have merit? Or is it simply a floundering, far-reaching allegation asserted by the masses in an attempt to simplify something as complicated as love?

We talked to the experts, and we found that, in short, the answer is both yes and no. In some aspects, opposites are great together… but in others, they aren’t.  Check out what the experts had to say!

Yes, opposites do attract…

1. …In personality.  

Possessing the exact same personality traits as a potential partner is bound to cause serious conflict somewhere down the road (which, in this case, would be rocky).

“There are some people that love the limelight and attention, so they could never be in a relationship with someone who is exactly the same,” says Suzanne Oshima, matchmaker at Dream Bachelor & Bachelorette. “Otherwise, they would be competing with each other for attention.”

Think about it: You’re the life of the party, and so is he. You may be envisioning yourself as one half of a future beloved power couple, but in actuality, your dreams would be short-lived — it would never work out. It works equally amongst the introverted as well, Oshima says.

“Two passive, shy people may not work together, because then no one would ever talk or take the lead,” she explains. “So in this case, she or he would need someone who is more proactive and outgoing because they're going to complement each other.”

All of you stubborn ladies, listen up: If you meet a potential suitor with the same type of vigorous resolution, red flags should raise. Imagine the power struggles that could (and most likely would) ensue. Therefore, take note: Finding someone different is awesome! As Oshima says, it’ll work out if you’re with someone who complements your personality — someone who inspires you and brings out the best in you.

2. …In looks.

This one may come as a bit of a surprise — not all blondes go for blondes, brunettes for brunettes and redheads for redheads. In fact, people tend to gravitate toward the opposite.

“In my experience of over a decade as a matchmaker, I have found that people seek opposites in looks,” says matchmaker, author and speaker Marla Martenson. “I have had countless black, Asian, Middle Eastern and Latin men that are wild about blond-haired, blue-eyed ladies, and blonde women seeking a smoldering, dark-haired man. Humans seem to be attracted to the opposite of what we look like.”

Have you ever seen a couple and remarked what a strange pair they made? It’s not uncommon to go for someone who’s your opposite in looks — and it can work out fabulously! According to a study by Columbia University, couples that are too alike in both personality and appearance have a decreased chance of a long-lasting relationship. So going for that cutie who’s totally not your doppelganger? Great idea.

3. …In interests.

While having common ground is always essential, having all matching interests is not actually a good thing.

“[Singles] look for people with similar values, similar backgrounds, similar goals and passions for the same activities, such as golf, skiing, travel and more,” says Julie Spira, dating/relationship expert and founder of Cyber-Dating Expert. “They find someone that fits what they’re looking for, [and] often they find that there’s absolutely no chemistry.”

So, what should you look for? It’s not so much focusing on specific attributes in a potential partner as allowing yourself to go beyond your comfort zone, which Spira recommends. Don’t be afraid to go for someone who isn’t your type! Think about it: If you go for someone with different interests than you, chances are you’ll both always have a lot to share with each other.

However, EXACT opposites don’t attract.  

Some opposites can be good, but if both parties are totally opposite in every aspect, it means imminent destruction.

“Where it gets tricky is when their lifetime goals, such as work priorities or how you save and spend money, come into play,” Spira says. “It’s these areas that I believe couples need to be on the same page. If one is a workaholic, the other might get resentful of being left alone too often. If both couples are career-oriented, they can share their work challenges and goals with each other to have a support system in place.”

Oshima also believes that being on the same page in some regards is necessary.

“There still needs to be some common ground, such as common values,” Oshima says. “Otherwise, it will never work.”

If you’re a girl who’s into lengthy relationships and you plan on engaging in something serious with your college’s biggest player, you might want to rethink the idea. Keep in mind religious values, too. If you’re extremely spiritual and you’re falling for somebody who isn’t, or vice versa, there could be some serious issues.

The final verdict is this, collegiettes: Attempting a romantic endeavor with someone who’s your opposite in every regard is just a bad idea. However, we are attracted to people who have somewhat differing personalities, interests and physical appearances. So don’t be afraid to go outside of your comfort zone!

20-year-old David Monlux is hoping to become the youngest person ever to serve as a representative for the state of Oklahoma.

The Rose State College sophomore is not asking for donations to his campaign, but is instead trying to fulfill his promise to knock on every door in his district before the primary election on Tuesday. Monlux will not turn 21 until after the election, but received a special ruling by the Oklahoma Attorney General in order to run. 

“The government told me I was too young and I had to quote their laws against them to prove that I was old enough,” he says. 

Monlux's proposed plans include improving the state budget, putting storm shelters in all schools and creating more college scholarships for Oklahoma students. 

“I realize I’m a dark horse candidate but that doesn’t stop me from getting my message to the voters,” he says. 

Summer is the perfect time to embrace a relaxed style — between the ice cream runs and lazy days at the pool, it's time for your clothes to be as casual as your lifestyle!  When it comes to my summer style, I’m most interested in keeping tan lines at minimum while being comfortable and looking cute.  My 5 summer staples are simple and I would not be able to live (well, not literally) without them.

1.     “Jorts”

Jean shorts are the perfect staple to wear over your bathing suit or while out and about.  They’re inexpensive (depending on where you get them), stylish and comfortable if you buy the right pair.  I wear jean shorts almost anywhere — babysitting, dinner, even to concerts.  The key is to find a pair that fits you right without being too loose or tight.  American Eagle has a ton of options.

2.     Cropped tank top

To go with my jean shorts, a cropped tank is perfect for looking cute in hot weather.  I love funky designs and patterns but I also like getting tanks in black or white so I’ll be able to wear them with more things.  I love this tribal print crop top from Forever 21.

3.     Birkenstocks

Rather than flip-flops, my sandals of choice happen to be Birkenstocks.  I like wearing the classic Arizona style in a neutral color like taupe.  They’re extremely comfortable and match almost everything.  Birkenstocks come in a ton of different styles and colors, so find the ones that are right for you!  It’s unlikely you’ll catch me without these!

4.     Favorite bikini

We all have that one bikini that makes us feel like Beyonce (well, almost).  I love spending my summer days by the pool or at the beach, so that bikini is a must have.  I like bra-style bikinis that don’t give me horrible tan lines.  I got this one from Volcom a couple years ago and it’s still one of my faves.  PacSun has a lot of cool styles and patterns.

5.     Maxi dress

Maxi dresses are perfect for barbeques, shopping days or even date nights.  They’re comfortable and look effortlessly cute.  I got a striped one from Marshalls that I love- it’s very similar to this one from Forever 21.

What are your summer style staples?  Let us know in the comments below!

Even the classiest collegiettes find themselves in an argument or two. Whether it’s with your mom over your spending habits (she’s usually right about this one) or with your boyfriend over plans that he definitely forgot about (you specifically said Friday night, not Saturday), some situations just make your blood boil! However, the idea of fighting takes a dramatic turn when it’s between you and your best friend. It may sound childish, but you really don’t know how to spend a few days without telling your best friend everything. Without your partner in crime, who would you talk to about your mom’s financial lectures or your boyfriend’s forgetfulness?

Though you and your BFF are bound to have small disagreements—she might not love Iggy Azalea’s “Fancy” as much as you do—a more serious argument equals panic mode. How do you effectively solve the issue without reenacting a scene from The Hills? And how do you truly move on without fostering a pinch of resentment towards your BFF? While every fight and dynamic duo differs, we’re here to offeradvice for getting through a debacle with your bestie.

The First Signs of Anger 

Maybe it’s “that time of the month,” but your best friend has really been getting on your nerves. Maybe you’ve noticed that your partner in crime is flying solo lately. She takes forever to text you back and doesn’t say much. Whether she’s flaking out on your weekend plans or doesn’t go to class but expects you to give her all your notes, you’re pissed off! This isn’t unheard of; we all tend to lash out at the people we love most. “The closer we feel to people, the more able they are to hurt our feelings,” says Patti Criswell, a clinical social worker. “When our feelings or our pride is hurt, we lash out. That anger comes from a very visceral and emotional place—often causing us to say things we regret.”

You Can Get Mad, but Don’t Get Even

This may seem like common knowledge; however, we all say angry things in the heat of the moment. If your gal pal made out with your crush, should you call her a wh*re and then kiss her ex-boyfriend? Or what about if she spilled the beans and told someone your deepest, darkest secret—do you now have the OK to do the same? Absolutely not! Though getting some revenge may sound appealing at the time, you’ll regret betraying her after the two of you have patched things up.

Don’t Publicize Your Fight

We all need a vent session every now and then, but there’s a major difference between quickly mentioning your latest feud to your mom or roomie and causing a major scene. If you feel the urge to talk to a third party about your fight, avoid getting too dramatic. While it may feel good at the time, how will your mom view your BFF once the two of you have solved your issues? Instead, just tell your confidant that you and your bestie are going through a rough patch. If you’re social media savvy, we beg of you—please don’t tweet, tumble, blog, or make a Facebook status about your latest fight. Not only will you receive negative attention, but also it’ll only add fuel to the fire. It’s never okay to dish about your drama on social media —leave that for Keeping Up With the Kardashians! “A much better alternative would be to exercise the 24-hour rule and do nothing for 24 hours, then re-evaluate, and, if need be, talk to the person directly,” says Criswell. If you really need to write down every single thought and feeling you have during this trying time, invest in a diary.

The Confrontation

After days, weeks, or maybe even months of walking on eggshells around your BFF, the moment you’ve been waiting for is finally here: the big talk. Regardless of whether the two of you are chilling at your house or having a Laguna Beach-esque meet-up at your local café (sunglasses and all), now is your chance to get it all off your chest. But how exactly should you do that? As if we’d leave you hanging at a time like this!

Address the Problem

Bringing up a problem is never fun. In fact, it’s painfully awkward. But you need to talk out your feelings and issues. Not to sound too dramatic, but think of the alternative! Sometimes the best way to approach the situation is by being blunt. “My best friend and I have a really open relationship, so if one of us is pissed at the other, we just say, ‘You’re really annoying me right now,’” says Hannah Franke, a collegiette from Boston University. “Then the other person just shuts up for a few minutes until the other is ready to talk.” Not as confrontational? Solving your issues is as easy as calling your BFF and asking if the two of you can meet for coffee and talk about whatever the issue is. Though a cappuccino won’t fix all your problems (we’re just as upset as you are), the proactive effort shows that you truly want to mend your friendship. Acknowledging that an argument needs to end is the first step towards a successful recovery.

No Yelling Allowed 

Is it just us, or does screaming make any situation a thousand times worse? Even though you may want to start yelling at your best friend when she doesn’t understand why you’re angry, it’s important to keep your cool; throwing a temper tantrum will only make matters worse. If you’re afraid you’ll reach your boiling point, agree to meet in a public place. Neither of you will want to have a Real Housewives moment at your local froyo shop! If that doesn’t do the trick, try writing letters to each other. The idea may sound clichéd, but you’ll both be able to get your points across to each other without any interruptions. Not only is a handwritten letter more personal (and more genuine) than a Facebook message, but you can also take your time reading it in order to truly understand your friend’s feelings.

Bury Your Stubbornness

Deny it all you want, but fights sometimes bring out the worst in us. Does “I’m not the one who has to apologize” sound familiar? What about “I’m not going to make the first move”? I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but this attitude has to go. “It’s not easy to see the other person’s side because we are blinded by our own emotions,” says Criswell. “It’s important to see past this, though, and it’s part of being in a healthy relationship—any healthy relationship. That includes marriage, work, family, and friendships.” You probably don’t realize it, but your BFF may be feeling the same way as you are. And if neither of you buries the hatchet, you can kiss your best friendship goodbye. Even though you and your bestie aren’t seeing eye-to-eye right now, “If someone is your best friend, it means that sucking it up and throwing away the ‘It’s not my fault’ attitude is worth a fixed friendship,” says Erin Nemeth, a recent grad of Quinnipiac University.

Apologize… and Mean It! 

Everyone knows that a fight isn’t over until the two of you wave your white flags and apologize. “If you’ve crossed that line and humiliated a friend, or said something that is personal and cruel, you’ve got to make it right,” says Criswell. However, this step shouldn’t be taken lightly—an attitude-filled apology can lead to more problems. To show your friend just how sorry you are, be sure to address what you’re apologizing for. Sometimes, simply saying ‘I’m sorry’ may seem impersonal and not genuine. How much more authentic does ‘I’m sorry that I’m spending too much time with my boyfriend, I’ll try to consider your needs, too’ sound? Much better, right?

All’s Well That Ends Well

Now that the two of you have sorted out your problems, let the healing begin. So how can you say adios to this feud and move on?

Reflect, Reflect, Reflect!

Everything’s back to normal now that the two of you have talked it out, right? Not necessarily. Even though you’ve both apologized, the situation won’t be solved until you turn this fight into a learning experience. “It’s really important to explain why you’re mad, because if you don’t explain the reason for your anger, there can be tension in your friendship,” says Taliah Ahdut from Brandeis University. Make sure you and your partner in crime understand what made each other upset and how to avoid this issue in the future. Maybe your best friend hates how you never text her back, or perhaps you’re upset that your BFF bailed on your plans. Talking about the fight is also necessary if you want to improve your friendship skills. “Reflecting on fights helps us learn what we should’ve done differently and when the fight went from productive to ridiculous,” says Criswell. To prevent the same fight from happening again, it’s important to tell each other why these quirks make you upset and how he or she should prevent this issue moving forward.

Plan Some BFF Time

When it comes to your other half, it’s important to forgive and forget. Now that you and your BFF are two peas in a pod once again, it’s time to put that best friendship into high gear. Say sayonara to the former feud by planning a friend date to see that new Channing Tatum movie (you know, the one where he’s not wearing a shirt) or have a bake-a-thon and make those cupcakes you saw on Pinterest. Before you know it, your friendship will be just as good as before (only stronger)!

Unless it’s an issue where you’re seriously doubting your BFF’s loyalty and character, it’s important to remember that your other half always has your back and hates fighting just as much as you do. “We can always move on because we know that no matter what disagreements we get into, each of us really cares about the other,” says Hannah Franke of her best friend. Though confrontation and apologizing are never fun, you have to remember that it’ll only help your friendship. The sooner you utilize our tips and tricks, the better; just don’t forget to thank us when the two of you have patched things up!

Summer is a great time to hit the beach with friends, have a picnic with your beau and work on your tan. Unfortunately, there are some days where it’s simply too hot to do anything outside. And naturally, when it’s too hot, we resort to napping, Netflix bingeing and planning our dream wedding on Pinterest. But if you want to keep your summer days fun and productive, we have some tips for you! Here are nine activities for those sweltering summer days to keep your boredom (and sweating) at bay.

1. Hit the gym

It’s that time of year again: bikini season! What better time to work on those abs than when you’ll be showing them off at the beach?

“On days when it’s too hot to run outside, I force myself to go to the gym,” says Alexis Watson, a sophomore at Simmons College. “That way, I’m still being productive instead of sitting inside and watching TV.”

Now’s the time to try out a yoga class or get back on the elliptical machine. Take advantage of the sweltering days and escape to your local air-conditioned gym – no excuses!

2. Head to the library

Air conditioning and romance novels – what could be better? When it’s too hot to do much else, consider taking a trip to your local library. “If I'm really dying when it's too hot out, I like to find a quiet spot in the library and read whatever catches my interest for several hours,” says Angie Lorden, a student at the Defense Information School in Fort George G. Meade, Maryland. “I find the library to be more peaceful in the summer anyway because more people are out and about doing summer things.”

So instead of sweating it out, rent some DVDs, check out magazines and stock up on juicy beach reads!

3. Pick up a hobby

You may not have much free time in the fall, so take advantage of your free days and teach yourself something new! Always wanted to learn the guitar? Try out music lessons.Planning to study abroad in Italy? Invest in Rosetta Stone. Since you have a good chunk of free time, summer is perfect for learning a new language or picking up a hobby. So if you’re bored and overheating, consider taking up that interest that you haven’t had time for throughout the school year. There are tons of different ways to pick up a new hobby, so start researching!

4. Try some new recipes

It’s about time you stopped pinning recipes on Pinterest and actually started cooking them! Hot days are the perfect time to make those delicious smoothiesand homemade popsicles you’ve been dreaming of all spring.

“I love to cook, but I hate the heat, so when it comes to trying something new in the summer, I try to steer clear of the oven,” says Hannah Davis, a junior at Massachusetts College of Art and Design. “I love mixing fresh fruits into smoothies and making homemade sorbets as well. It's both entertaining and refreshing!”

Need somewhere to start? Take a look at our favorite smoothie recipes!

5. Get ahead on work

Okay, okay—we know that summer is supposed to be reserved for relaxing, but it never hurts to get a head start! If you’re feeling productive (and sweaty), head inside and start working on your to-do list for the fall. Look up the books you have to buy for class, start searching for an internship for the fall or update your resume. You may be hesitant now, but you’ll thank yourself in a few months.

6. See a summer blockbuster

With all the big-action blockbusters and cheesy rom-coms coming out, summer is arguably the best time for movies. If it’s too hot outside to do anything, move your party to the movie theater and have a relaxing afternoon!

“You get to live in a different place for a while and get away from work and the mundane parts of summer,” says Ivy Stafford, a junior at Keene State College. “Not to mention that the A/C is a major plus!”

7. Have a girls’ night (or day)

Summer is the best time to catch up with your high school friends, and those hot days are the best for manis, s’mores and chick flicks. “I love getting together with my girlfriends in the summer,” Alexis says. “Since we’re all home for the break, it’s a great time to catch up and do fun summer-y activities that you can’t do while we’re at school.”

So rent some movies, stock up on junk food, break out the face masks and have a good, old-fashioned girls’ night! Alternatively, you can stir up some ice-cold lemonade, fill some water balloons and have a girls’ day to beat the heat.

8. Take a class

We know you’re probably not in the mood for school, but taking a class can be a super-enriching summer experience! Not to mention it can get you ahead on your credits for school. Even if you’re not interested in anything academic, there are tons of fun and creative classes out there.

“Last summer I joined my mom at a ceramics studio she went to,” Alexis says. “It was really fun and relaxed, and it was cool to see our progress throughout the summer.”

Even if you’re not so keen on spending your summer in a classroom, do some research and find a fun art class or something else that piques your interest!

9. Play tourist for a day

Though you’re probably not a big fan of those summer tourists who invade your town every weekend, you might take a hint from them and enjoy the sights. “Last summer, when my friends and I got bored, we drove down to the nearest city and acted like tourists for the day,” says Christina Moore, a senior at the University of New Hampshire. “We went out to lunch, took a boat tour and visited the aquarium. Normally I hate doing touristy things, but it’s fun to do every once in a while!”

Spend the day acting as a tourist with your friends and visit whatever indoor attractions your town has to offer, like museums or aquariums. And if you don’t think your hometown (or anywhere nearby) has anything too special, hit the road and play tourist elsewhere! A nice, long road trip accompanied by friends and air conditioning is never a bad idea.

We may long to spend our sunny days outside, but sometimes it’s good to relax and recuperate inside, especially when the weather’s super hot. And while being stuck indoors on a sunny summer day may not seem ideal, it still has potential for fun! Instead of spending your summer inside watching TV and lazing around, try a few of these fun and productive activities.

The chemistry classroom isn’t the only place where college girls are experimenting. It's not uncommon for girls to hit the sheets with another girl, even when they've considered themselves heterosexual all their lives. So what's a queer girl to do when a straight-identifying girl approaches her wanting to hook up? Here's a list of some dos and don'ts to keep in mind before you hook up with a bi-curious girl.

DO set boundaries

You don't want to accidentally make her uncomfortable! Find out ahead of time what she is and isn’t comfortable doing so you can be sure not to overstep any boundaries. If she tells you she wants to stay above the waist or she doesn't feel comfortable with certain positions, respect that. It's always a good idea to ask about boundaries early on in a calm and casual manner to avoid making her nervous, because if she's too nervous, she may not be honest, and the last thing you want to do is make her uncomfortable without even meaning to.

DO be patient

Patience is a virtue, and it's absolutely vital when hooking up with a girl who's used to only being intimate with men. Girls may pull back due feeling vulnerable, but this doesn't necessarily mean they want to stop. She might just be nervous, so don't give up or freak out on her! Just slow down and ask if she wants to continue. Remember, consent and open communication are always important.

DO educate her

Teach her the ways of same-sex relationships and queer-girl etiquette. Show her the ropes so that if she does in fact turn out to like girls, she'll have a good introduction to the LGBTQ+ community. This can be an opportunity to enrich her with your queer-girl perspective and discuss what she hopes to get out of experimenting with you. If she's trying to find a category to label her sexuality, inform her about sexual fluidity and the wide array of different sexual orientations.

DON’T get your hopes up that she'll magically turn bisexual

Experimenting is just that: an experiment. There's a good chance she may come out of the experience realizing she's only attracted to men, so don't expect hooking up to turn into anything more serious. Don't get her hopes up either, for that matter. If all you're looking for is a hook-up, don't lead her to believe you're going to pursue a relationship with her.

Abbie Garcia, a queer collegiette from Florida State University, can attest to the dangers of getting your hopes up too high.

"My experience was a little rough, because I get attached very easily,” she says. “Becoming attached to someone who wasn't fully comfortable with herself isn't fun. It was like a huge game of hide-and-seek, and in the end, I just ended up with nothing but pain.”

DO keep safety in mind

If she's experimenting, there's a chance she's not just experimenting with one person. Just be safe and openly communicate about current and previous partners. The last thing you want is an STI!

Gay-dating coach Mary G. Malia recommends talking about STIs before you hook up. "If she's having sex with men and with you, then that becomes really important,” she says.

DON’T out her

If a girl trusts you enough to experiment with you, don't break her trust by going around blabbing about it. If she figures out she’s interested in girls, she'll come out on her own terms when she's ready. Outing her is not only disrespectful, it could also be dangerous for her. It’s a violation of her privacy, and it could even result in her being alienated from disapproving friends and family and open her up to bullying and opposition she isn’t prepared to face.

As with any hook-up, do what feels right and keep your communication open. Be sure to have fun, but keep these dos and don’ts in mind!

Every girl deserves a good guy, but let’s be realistic–there’s only one Ryan Gosling, and he’s not available to most of us. No, it’s not wrong to have standards, but are your standards impossible to reach? Are you so focused on your path to the perfect guy that you can’t see the imperfect-but-perfect-for-you guy outside your blinders?

Gillian*, a recent graduate of Kwantlen Polytechnic University, is familiar with friends who have sky-high expectations and says seeing them pass up good guys is frustrating.

“I think that people today are so fixated on finding Mr. or Mrs. Right... that we completely overlook the wonderful people who are right there in front of us,” she says. “One [of my friends] has been alone for as long as I've known her because no one meets her physical standards. And I have another who has dated everyone she knows for a short period of time, but she's constantly trying to 'upgrade,' so she's never happy.”

But what are some signs that you, like Gillian’s friends, have sky-high expectations preventing you from seeing the great guy right in front of you?

1. You Can’t Put Your Finger on Why He’s Not Good Enough

You say “he’s just not my type,” but you can’t come up with concrete reasons why. You might not even have a defined “type,” you just know that whatever it is, he’s not it. Translation? You don’t actually know what you want, and not knowing what you want means you’ll never be satisfied in a relationship.

Kim Sarrasin, a Vancouver-based dating and relationship expert, says it’s necessary to be aware of your needs, acknowledge them, and not be afraid to ask for them. “Every woman is individual,” she says. “It’s more about how in tune you are to what it is that you want and how much courage you have to ask a man to fulfill on the needs that you have.”

If this is you, ask yourself what kind of guy you see yourself with. What would make you happy? What are the things you need from a relationship? Make a list, but make sure it’s not too specific...

2. You Stick to Your Specific List of Must-Haves

You’ve written up a list of qualities that defines your dream guy, from a specific down-to-the-decimal number in his bank account, to the placement of the dimple on his left cheek (okay, well, maybe not that specific). If your list says things like “a full head of hair,” “comes from a big family,” “likes alternative rock,” “aspires to have a career in the medical industry,” or “dresses like a hipster but doesn’t act like one,” chances are, you won’t find a guy who ticks off all these boxes (unless you’re really lucky).

This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t have expectations, but unless all the stars magically align and the universe conjures up a guy who fits your specifications, you’re never going to be happy because there will be no guy who fulfills your detailed wish list.

Rewrite criteria on your list to be less specific, all while staying true to what you truly desire. Ask yourself why you want that specific quality, and rephrase your criteria to say what you really want. For example, if you wrote, “must have a full head of hair,” the reason you probably wrote this is because you don’t think you could be attracted to a bald man. Instead, put: “must be attractive to me.”

Or, if you wrote that he must make a certain amount of money, it might be because you desire a guy who works hard to achieve his ambitions (in other words, no couch potatoes wanted!). Instead, put “must be passionate about his career and have a great work ethic.”

You will still have a list of what you want, just less stringent, which leaves room for a great guy to squeeze through!

3. You Put Too Much Weight on the Little Things

You’re out the second that he does something “wrong,” whether it is scratching his nose at the dinner table or finding out he used a Groupon deal for date. If his distaste for Game of Thrones is an immediate deal-breaker, you might need to re-examine your priorities.

Re-evaluate your list of deal-breakers. Just like it’s important to know what you want, it’s also important to know what you don’t want. What are the top things you would absolutely not be able to tolerate in a guy?

Limit the number of deal-breakers so that you can count them on one hand (or two, max). Understandable deal-breakers are ones related to disagreement on moral issues, values, and how he treats you (any kind of abuse, neglect, cheating, etc. is obviously not okay!). Whatever deal-breakers you won’t bend on, make sure that they’re big enough issues that they truly define who the guy is as a person.

Okay, he might have insisted you pay separately for the first date, going against your belief that men should always pay for everything. But maybe he’s going through a tough time financially at the moment. If everything else was fine up until the moment he asked you to cover your part of the bill, ask yourself if you could overlook this imperfection.

Ask yourself what is most important to you and what you want out of the relationship. If it’s essential that he’s a family guy, the fact that he is close to his mom and wants kids one day might be enough of a reason to overlook his crooked nose.

No one is perfect, but when you do find a good guy who possesses none of your serious deal-breaker qualities, you’ll like him enough to overlook that crooked nose or the fact that he is a frequent Groupon user.

4. Your Friends Have Stopped Trying to Set You Up

You rely on online dating because your friends gave up on introducing you to potential guys a long time ago. You might have turned down every one of their suggestions, and the ones who you didn’t turn down barely lasted half a date.

Okay, maybe your friends have bad taste in guys or aren’t natural born matchmakers. But if they’ve tried multiple times, with a variety of different guys... at the end of the day, you have to examine the common denominator (you).

If they’re your good friends, they probably wouldn’t set you up with someone they thought wasn’t worthy or wouldn’t be a good match for you. So if you want to give your friends another chance, let them know you’re willing to be more open to their suggestions and let them know what your absolute deal-breakers are.

5. You Haven’t Had a Long-Term Relationship in a While (Or Ever)

Your oldest friends can’t remember the last time you’ve had a boyfriend, and it’s not because guys don’t try to pursue you.

Maybe your last real relationship ended in heartbreak and you’re scared of experiencing that again. Being picky could be your own way of protecting yourself and making sure you don’t get hurt again.

As an expert, Sarrasin recognizes that if a woman is nitpicking down to the littlest things, it might stem from her fear of being in a relationship. “Generally, she’s got her walls up,” she says. “She has a fear around men. That’s a woman who is afraid of actually being in a relationship.”

Have you been burned before? Acknowledging that the fear of getting hurt is the root of your pickiness is the first step to healing (and moving on to a better guy!).

6. You’re Waiting for That Head-Over-Heels Crazy Chemistry Feeling

Just like you can’t expect life to be an episode of Friends, you can’t always expect an overwhelming, magical attraction akin to that of Edward and Bella. As much as you want to experience an enchanting love story right out of a romance novel, you have to have realistic expectations. After all, the butterflies-in-the-stomach feeling eventually fades.

Don’t disregard attraction; that is important. But sometimes attraction doesn’t come instantly—it can reveal itself after getting to know a person better. If he seems like a decent guy, give him a chance before dismissing him over a lack of Fourth of July-worthy fireworks. Sometimes a spark takes a while to build before turning into a flame.

Remember: Standards are Important, but in the End, the Little Things Don’t Matter

Estefania*, a rising junior at British Columbia Institute of Technology, didn’t ever imagine she would end up with her current boyfriend. However, even though he didn’t fit the criteria of her ideal guy, he ended up changing her idea of who her ideal guy would be.

“I think everyone has a certain expectation when it comes to a partner: ‘they have to be funny and tall and play a sport,’” says Estefania. “But then one day, someone comes along who is nothing like your expectations, and then you realize how stupid this list really is, because even though they don’t check off most or any of your criteria, they are somehow better.”

Sometimes, the strength of your expectations will go by the wayside when you meet someone so great that they don’t have to be everything on your list. So examine your priorities, deal-breakers and expectations. You never know—your perfect-for-you guy could be right in front of you!

It’s almost the 10-year anniversary of one of the greatest love stories of all time, so what better time to reminisce? The Notebook is a classic movie we could watch over and over again despite the roller coaster of emotions we experience every time. It's all worth it to vicariously live through Rachel McAdams getting to kiss the world's perfect man. We're sure Ryan Gosling will realize he's madly in love with us one day, but until then, let's all laugh, cry and swoon together over nine reasons Noah and Allie had the perfect relationship.

1. They’re equally in lust as they are in love.

The Notebook set the bar high for our dreams of being kissed in the rain, and just about every moment when Noah and Allie are together, they’re electrifying. Watching their sexual tension, we just wanna scream, "Come on and make out already!" But we patiently wait, and when the moment comes, we politely ignore Rachel McAdams while we pretend we're Allie. Don’t mind us; we’ll just sit here and swoon from our couches at home.

2. They’re also hopeless romantics.

Three hundred and sixty-five love letters from the world’s most beautiful man? Sign us up! Allie and Noah are relentless and unyielding when it comes to being together. After watching The Notebook, we were all convinced that love conquers all because, duh. It wasn’t over. It still isn’t over. *Melting into puddles*

3. They have fun together.

Nothing holds a relationship together better than a sense of humor and adventure. Noah and Allie know how to laugh and love together, and there's a beautiful innocence to their infatuation. From the very beginning of it all when Noah hung from the Ferris wheel, we fell in love with their constant playfulness. 

4. They’re honest with each other.

They’re not afraid to lay it all out on the table and be vulnerable, and that's what makes them a perfect match. Honesty is the best policy, right? They aren't afraid to say what's on their mind, even if it makes them vulnerable, and that's what makes their love so strong.

5. They overcome forbidden love.

A poor country boy and a privileged city girl? It’s like a modern-day Romeo and Juliet, only better. Despite coming from completely different sides of the track, the two transform a summer fling to a love story for the books. Even with Allie’s mom hiding all of Noah’s letters and just about all the odds being against them, they find happiness in each other.

6. Even though they fight, they make up.

Sure, they have their rough patches, but every couple does. They're two passionate people who are able to hash out their issues. They may fight a lot, but it's because they want what's best for each other. Besides, it’s worth the steamy make-up sex.

7. They share an unconditional love.

Noah’s unconditional love for Allie is all we could ask for out of a dream man. He stays with her even when she no longer remembers their lifetime of love. Day in and day out, he retells their beautiful story. There’s something so heartbreaking yet romantic about it that keeps us watching even 10 years later.

8. They love each other until the very end.

Not only is The Notebook a beautiful love story, but it has a beautiful ending. We didn’t know we were capable of crying so many tears until Noah and Allie died in each other’s arms. Our hearts ached, our eyes swelled up, and we rocked back and forth in the fetal position for a little too long. Their love truly did overcome every obstacle they faced. BRB, just sobbing into our pillows for the rest of eternity.

9. But at the end of the day, Allie and Noah’s relationship is perfect because: Ryan Gosling.

Praise the heavens for this beautiful creature.

If you were excited by the upcoming release of 250 new emojis, this piece of smartphone news is going to make you feel like you just scored tickets to Queen Bey’s "On the Run" tour. Soon, you’ll be able to text smells. Yes, smells.

David Edwards, a Harvard engineering professor, has invented a gadget called the oPhone that can send and receive scents. Using an “aromatic vocabulary” of 32 basic fragrances in the complementary "oSnap" app, you can create up to 30,000 unique smells.

“Think of it as a kind of telephone for aromas,” the creators explain on their IndieGoGo site. 

On June 17, Edwards sent the first transatlantic smell text. According the Huffington Post, it was the smell of New York. Not what we would have chosen (what about fresh flowers or designer perfume?), but super cool nonetheless!

“Scent is the world’s natural tweet, because it takes just a few seconds to get a scent,” he told Fast Company. “The notion of people saying, “I miss you in New York,” by sending a scent is really interesting and powerful. Or imagine taking a scent selfie and posting it on Facebook.” 

To get in on the virtual fragrance game, you’ll need the app oSnap, which is now available on iTunes. And, obviously, you’ll need an oPhone. They’re coming out next fall at $199 for a pair, but we have good news for you early-adapters: if you finance the oPhone IndieGoGo campaign, you can get the duo for a “mere” $149.

Check out the onotes website for more details! Would you use it? Tell us in the comments!

One of the best things about college is that you get to be whoever you want to be. You meet all sorts of people from different backgrounds with different aspirations, and, unlike high school, being different is okay. More than okay – it's encouraged! This is your time to find yourself, emotionally, socially, professionally... but also sexually.

Casual sex, sex with multiple partners or sex out of wedlock isn't stigmatized like it might have been a few decades ago, but there can be a stigma around being a virgin, unfortunately. At Her Campus, we believe that having sex or not is your decision entirely, and that it's completely okay either way. That's why we put together the reasons why being a virgin in college is nothing to worry about. Read on if you've ever doubted your choices, if you’ve felt judged for them or even if you're perfectly happy!

1. You know what you want and you stand by it.

Whatever your reasons are for staying a virgin thus far, your first time obviously means a lot to you. And with good reason! You absolutely should feel comfortable with the person to whom you lose your virginity, whether you’re simply waiting for someone you like enough, or you want to be in a committed relationship first. You have a right to be picky! You deserve only the best.

“College is all about making personal decisions, and is often the first time we make so many at once,” says Jenna*, a senior at Florida State University. “Choosing to remain a virgin until I was ready went against not only the stereotype of a college student, but of a sorority girl, but I was okay with it and I was proud of my decision.”

2. There are no deadlines.

Society often makes us feel like there’s a perfect age for every romantic milestone: for our first kiss, our first time having sex or our wedding day, for instance. This is so not the case! You should feel free to take things at your own pace without worrying about what others have to say about it. You’re in college, and you have all the time in the world ahead of you. Besides, waiting makes everything better – think being reunited with your mom's famous lasagna after a semester in school! Drool.

“I don't want sex to just be a ‘thing’ that happens,” says Rose*, a junior at the University of Texas at Austin. “I want it to be special and meaningful … (contrary to popular belief,) there's absolutely no rush. Saying ‘no’ isn't a bad thing!”

3. Your true friends will support you.

If you decide to talk about your virginity with your friends, their support of you will say a lot about them. The people around you should never make you doubt your choices, and if you’re happy with being a virgin, that’s truly all that matters.

“I have been dating my boyfriend since senior year of high school,” says Leila*, a senior at the University of California, San Diego. “We have decided to remain virgins until marriage. The feedback that I hear from people who discover this about me is supportive and encouraging.

“I feel very proud of myself and my boyfriend for our decision to wait,” Leila adds. And so should you!

4. You are not alone.

Although it may feel like you’re the only collegiette on campus still carrying her V-card, that’s not the case!

“According to one study, only 32 percent of college students say they've had sex with more than one person in the previous year, and as many as one in four college students is still a virgin,” says Julie Zeilinger, a blogger and author of College 101: A Girl’s Guide to Freshman Year.

Still not convinced? Many celebrities waited relatively late to lose their virginities! Tina Fey was 24 years old when she lost her virginity, Lisa Kudrow was 32 and Adriana Lima was 27.

5. In the end, it’s not THAT big of a deal.

The concept of virginity is truly only what you make of it. “Virginity is a social construct,” says Kelsey Pomeroy, a junior at Ohio State. “It is this idea that our society has built up into this overly important, life-defining thing.”

Your virginity doesn't define who you are in any way. Your personality and accomplishments matter a thousand times more, and anyone who can't see that just isn't worth your time.

“Essentially, the concept of virginity is almost used to shame girls for their sexual experience, or lack thereof, and that just shouldn't be the case,” Kelsey says. “Calling someone a virgin is defining them by one thing, when they're so much more than that.”

Remember: not having sex is part of your life, not all of it.

College is your time to create your own path, and if virginity is a part of that, then that’s totally okay! Nobody has the right to make you feel like your decisions aren't worthy, or like you’re different or strange in any way. Many collegiettes are virgins and perfectly happy with it – be it by choice or by chance. Embrace the diversity present on your campus, be happy and be confident.

*Names have been changed.

There will come a day when we Millenials have to answer a lot of tough questions for our children. No, not the "where do babies come from?" ones, but the "what is a selfie?" and "who is Kim Kardashian and why is she in my history book?" ones.

We remember the days when our parents used to tell us the tales of their bell-bottoms and the exact day they nailed every move of The Hustle, but before we know it, 25 years will have come and gone and we are going to owe our kids a whole lot of explanations for the ridiculous things we do and love now. 

1. Our super classy and appropriate dance moves

“No, I swear the Wop was a real dance! It was a lot more complicated than it looks. Want me to show you how I used to do it?”

2. Ombre Hair

“No, honey, my roots weren’t grown out. It was just the style, you know, like dark at the top, light at the bottom.”

3. Leggings and UGGs

“I mean, they weren’t technically pants… but if you just tucked them into your UGGs and wore a big sweater, you could barely tell.”

4. Reality TV

“They would take eight people, stick them in a house, pay for all of their alcohol and put cameras in the corners to see what happened next.”

5. Our deep, sentimental music

*2 Chainz comes on radio*“Oh, honey, this was my jam when I was your age! An oldie but goodie! In fact, it was almost my wedding song…”

6. Selfies

“Our cameras even had these settings where you could flip the screen so you could see what your picture would look like before you took it!”

7. Vampire romances

“One day, they just ran out of ideas. Then this thing Twilight happened."

8. Instagram

“No, first you took the picture and picked the filter, then you ate the food. Get it now?”

9. The duck face

“If you were really serious, you would throw up a peace sign, too.”

10. Hashtags

“You see, way back even before I was a kid, the pound sign was something we used on a phone. Then it became so, so much more.”

11. The sloth/cat/corgi epidemic

“And then we would spend hours watching these things called YouTube videos of them doing things like dancing and riding scooters. It was so funny.”

12. Tweeting

“Honey… explaining your entire day in 140 characters isn’t as easy as it sounds.”

13. YOLO, FOMO, swag, ratchet, SMH, cray, crunk, and other lingo

“When I was in college, everyone used to go get crunk at the bar and it was always so cray - some girls would get pretty ratchet. Sometimes I would think about not going, but then I knew I would have serious FOMO. That’s when I would just say YOLO and go. Luckily I did, because that’s when I met your dad. Let me tell you, he had so much swag.”

14. Fifty Shades of Grey

“No, it wasn’t porn, it was fine literature!”

15. Everything about the Kardashians

“Well, there was this guy named Ray J…”