Despite the fact that this year's Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, which airs next Tuesday, November 28, is set to be the brand's most diverse yet, featuring more models of color than it ever has before, it goes without saying that the lingerie company is also still seriously lacking in size diversity, featuring pretty much only one body type on its runway — and Ashley Graham isn't here for it.

The body positive model took to Instagram on Sunday (not-so-coincidentally the same day the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show was filmed in Shanghai, China) to call VS out for making exactly zero progress when it comes to size diversity this year. (And every other year before it.)

Graham posted a photo of herself strutting down the runway in lingerie and some (photoshopped) wings — but they weren't Victoria's Secret wings. The photo was actually taken in 2016 when Graham walked the runway for size-inclusive brand Addition Elle, which makes lingerie for sizes 12 to 26.

"Got my wings!... my #AdditionElle wings! #thickthighssavelives," the model captioned the photo, seemingly throwing some major shade at Victoria's Secret.

Despite tons of Victoria's Secret fans that have been asking for more size inclusivity on the brand's annual runway show, and the fact that Graham has previously said she would "absolutely" say yes to walking the VS Fashion Show, Graham was yet again noticeably absent from this year's runway — and many are viewing it as a snub to Victoria's Secret's curvier customers. Here's hoping the brand will get the message next year — after all, Graham has officially already proven that she'd look hot AF on the VS runway.

Whether she's getting herself blocked by President Trump or telling us the hilarious story of that time she wouldn't let her now-husband John Legend break up with her, Chrissy Teigen never fails to entertain us on Twitter. This time, Teigen spent the weekend trolling the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show and we can't stop laughing.

It all started on Saturday afternoon when Teigen tweeted "Crazy nervous to close the Victoria's Secret fashion show tonight!!! Better get one last gym sesh in LOL!!!!." Considering she got her big break as a model, it's not like we'd exactly be surprised (or anything less than thrilled) to see Chrissy on the VS runway.

However, she made it pretty clear that she was just joking around with the rest of her LOL-worthy tweets throughout the weekend:

As photos of the Victoria's Secret Angels hanging out in Shanghai started hitting the 'gram, things got even better when Chrissy called on fans to photoshop her into the photos.

And then, there was the fan who went a little crazy and decided to just turn every single model into Chrissy and we can't say we're against it.

Of course, Teigen had the perfect and totally plausible explanation for why she never actually appeared on the runway in Shanghai.

While Teigen was clearly just being her hilarious self with the two day long bit, in all seriousness, we would have absolutely loved to see her join the Victoria's Secret Angels on the runway last weekend. There's always next year though!

So, you’re into this new guy or girl. You get along great, you’re attracted to him/her, and you’re ready to put a label on it. But, then, this new love interest reveals that he or she has an STD. First, just relax. This doesn’t necessarily mean it needs to be the end of things and a lot of the negative stereotypes about STDs (thanks to our nation’s lack of sex education programs in schools) are complete BS. However, this is understandably something you will need to think about and talk to your partner about before moving forward. Here’s some advice if you find yourself in this sticky situation. And rest assured you’re not alone; 1 in 4 college students has an STD.

1. Don’t freak out  

Hearing this information can be very shocking at first. Those overwhelming feelings are completely valid, but it’s best to try not to completely freak out when you hear your partner has an STD. Contracting an STD is no one’s “fault,” so you don’t want to belittle or humiliate your partner. The more calmly and maturely you approach this situation, the better the outcome will be. “My boyfriend told me he had an STD when we first started seriously talking and getting closer, and I reacted harshly and got really upset, which hurt him a lot,” says Colleen*, a third-year in college. “I think the better thing to do would have been to take some time to myself after hearing this and calm down and then talk to him.”

2. Get informed

It is absolutely essential for you and your partner to research and discuss having safe sex, regardless of having an STD. You need to know about the necessary preventative measures you need to take, and how your partner can/is treating his/her STD, or if the STD is contagious despite treatment. “If your partner shares with you that he or she has an STD, I would recommend making an appointment with Planned Parenthood, another women’s clinic or trusted doctor to discuss how and if you can still have safe sex. Online can be a great place to find out information on this, but there’s also a lot of false information online,” Sara*, a fourth-year in college whose significant other has an STD, recommends. Those are the steps she took after to protect herself after finding out.

3. Consider when and how you found out

Your partner should be honest with you about his or her sexual health status before you commit to a relationship or have sex. If he or she is honest with you before any of this, he or she did the right thing in a really tough situation, and you should be honest about your feelings.  However, if your partner admits this to you after you commit to a relationship or sex, that’s not having your best interests in mind, because that is behavior that possibly puts you at risk and did not give you the opportunity to consent knowing he/she had an STD. “If my boyfriend and I had sex before he told me about his STD, I would have been really mad and probably ended things,” Colleen says. “If someone does that, that means they don’t respect you, because you deserve to make an informed decision with this information.”

4. Don’t let negative stereotypes affect your decisions

So much negative stigma is attached to STDs, and most of the stigma is unfortunately based on myths, not facts. Try to not let negative stereotypes about STDs play into your decision about how to handle this situation and proceed in your relationship. Additionally, if friends or family try to push these stereotypes on you to sway you against staying with this person, stick to your own gut feeling. “Listen to what other people have to say and make up your own mind. Make your own conclusion. You can learn a lot from listening to other people or you can be negatively influenced, so if you start to hear people speaking from emotion and not logic, then you close the door on that conversation,” advises Patrick Wannis PhD, a human behavior and relationship expert and celebrity life coach. He also explained that the term sexually transmitted diseases is changing to sexually transmitted infections to discourage negative stereotypes and language around the infections.  

5. You have a right to end or stay in the relationship

No matter what the circumstances, you always have a right to end or stay in a relationship. You also always have the right to consent or not consent to having sex with another willing person. You are not a bad person if you choose to end the relationship over a partner having an STD – as long as you communicate with your partner about it in a mature and respectful way. “I think everyone has the choice and right to say I don’t want to date this person for whatever the reason is. I think everyone has a right to say I don’t want to go out with this person based on my own values and morality,” says Dr. Wannis.

6. Always practice safe sex despite the circumstances

Practicing safe sex is always important, especially during college, whether or not your partner(s) has an STD. If you do decide to stay in a relationship with someone who has an STD, practicing safe sex is essential. Safe sex also helps prevent pregnancy. However, it’s important to understand that any form of contraception besides condoms, including birth control pills and IUDs, do not prevent against STDs. Make sure to use condoms even if you use another form of birth control. It’s also always okay to ask someone about their sexual health status before engaging in any type of sexual activity, even if it’s just a hook-up.

Planned Parenthood and the Center For Young Women’s Health are informative websites where you can learn more about STDs and safe sex methods.*

*Names have been changed to protect anonymity 

Good morning Her Campus! With a break-neck news cycle, there is no possible way for you to stay on top of every story that comes across your feeds—we’re all only human, after all.

But, life comes at you fast. So grab a cup of coffee and settle in for this quick and dirty guide to stories you might’ve been sleeping on (like, literally. It’s early.)

The New York Times Suspends White House Correspondent Over Sexual Misconduct Claims

Following a report published by Vox on Monday, the New York Times's White House correspondent Glenn Thrush has been suspended over multiple sexual misconduct allegations. Laura McGann, the author of the Vox article, interviewed 40 people working in the media, many of whom were young women in their twenties just beginning their careers when Thrush made inappropriate advances on them, usually fueled by alcohol.

"The behavior attributed to Glenn in this Vox story is very concerning and not in keeping with the standards and values of The New York Times," Eileen Murphy, the senior vice president of communications at the Times said in a statement to Vox after the release of the report. "We intend to fully investigate and while we do, Glenn will be suspended. We support his decision to enter a substance abuse program. In the meantime, we will not be commenting further."

Kellyanne Conway Suggested That the Senate Needs Roy Moore's Tax Plan Vote

On Monday during an interview on Fox & Friends, Kellyanne Conway made the suggestion that Roy Moore's potential vote for the GOP tax plan outweighed the sexual assault allegations against him — and, yikes. "So vote Roy Moore?" Brian Kilmeade, the host of the show, asked her. "I’m telling you that we want the votes in the Senate to get this tax bill through,” Conway said in response. Conway's suggestion that voters should still elect Moore was a major departure from her statement last week in which she said that, "there is no Senate seat worth more than a child."

Starbucks Is Catching Heat for This Year's Red Cups... Again

Just when you thought Starbucks would make it through red cup season this year without criticism for their cup design, well, not so fast. As the New York Times reports, some conservatives are under the impression that the "androgynous" hands on this year's version are meant to be a lesbian couple, and have accused the company of having a "gay agenda." *cue eye roll* Meanwhile, Starbucks has said in a statement that, "it would let customers decide for themselves what the cup was about," which is probably a good idea since they can't seem to create a red cup without someone having a problem with it in some way.

What to look out for...

Black Friday is coming for all of our wallets at the end of this week! Get up-to-date on all the upcoming deals and prepare your style and beauty shopping lists.

‘Tis the season to break out the warmer clothes, indulge in your favorite treats and snuggle up while watching reruns of classic holiday movies. It’s easy to love this time of year, as it’s often filled with joy, but as we grow older it can become difficult to decide whether or not to go home for the holidays. For many, it’s a no brainer. Who could pass up the chance to eat grandma’s apple pie? Well, if it comes with a side of judgment or is accompanied by an expensive plane ticket, you can start to understand why some people choose to opt out of their family gatherings.

If you’re feeling conflicted about whether or not to go home this holiday season, you’re not alone. We spoke to former and current collegiettes who feel the same way with hopes of helping you navigate your decision. Here are some factors to consider before choosing where to spend your holidays.

Understand that every family is different

When making this decision for yourself, you must remember to not compare your home situation to others’. Every family operates in very unique ways. What may be an important tradition for your friend’s family may seem like a silly idea to yours. We were all raised differently and therefore hold different values, especially when it comes to the holidays.

Teri Bradford, a senior at Chatham University, says, “I’m very independent and my family isn’t super close (I’ve never been homesick). It’s very simple and my situation is probably different than many others.” Teri continues, “My parents are used to me staying on campus so I usually tell them when I do want to come home, so it’s not hard to break the news.”

Make your holiday plans according to what is best for you, despite what that may look like to others.

Caitlyn Durant, a recent grad of Colby-Sawyer College, says, “In my household it is not an expectation to go home at all. Having three other siblings takes the pressure off me personally feeling obligated to go home because I know the table will still be filled with family.” Some families are more than understanding if you don’t go home. Shout out to the siblings who help give each other a little leeway.

Related: 19 Signs Your Friend Group is Actually More like Family

Weigh your travel options

It’s no secret travel expenses aren’t exactly cheap, especially if you live far away from home. Finances can be a touchy subject for us college students/post grads because let’s be honest, we’re not exactly made of money at the moment. Teri explains how money factors into her holiday plans, “I am not financially supported by my parents and buy my own plane tickets, so I usually decide based on money [if I want to go home] and if I feel like traveling.”

Flying home is usually ideal because it’s often faster but it can end up being more expensive. Try seeking out cheaper travel alternatives if you’re able to, such as taking a train or carpooling with a friend. This could save you money but still get where you want to go. Another option could be to ask for a ticket home as part of your holiday gift from your family—they’re always asking for gift ideas anyway and this could be a great one. And finally, if expenses for getting home are simply too costly (especially internationally) perhaps choose your favorite holiday to go home for and celebrate the others with your friends, wherever that may be.

Prioritize your obligations—it’s part of growing up

Entering new stages of life means taking on various responsibilities and making choices for yourself. This is usually followed by obligations, advanced planning and sometimes sacrifices.

Desiree Bourque, a recent graduate of the University of Southern Maine, has learned that part of growing older means making tough decisions when it comes to work. “Last year was the first time I had to work on a holiday. Obviously I would have rather been with my family but it’s part of growing up & having a job,” she says. “I had a choice between having Thanksgiving or Christmas off. I chose Christmas because it’s more special to my family, in remembrance of my grandmother.”

Nobody wants to spend the holidays at work and away from their loved ones, but sometimes you don’t have a choice. It takes a strong person to recognize what they want but make a decision based on what they need to do instead.

“My mom was more understanding than my dad,” Desiree says about telling her parents, “but overall they were both okay. They understood that I had bills to pay.” It’s beneficial to be upfront with your parents about your holiday decisions, especially if your reasons for not going home are legitimate. Although they might not like what you have to say, your parents will at least respect you for standing by what you want. Keep in mind it can be difficult for family members to accept when their ‘babies’ are all grown up. Show sympathy while breaking the news to them and maybe even make plans to visit in the near future.

Think of how your decision will affect you

Going home is not everyone’s cup of tea. People tend to associate the holidays with happy family time, but this isn’t always the case. Ean Anderson, a junior at Emmanuel College, opens up about why the decision to venture home isn’t necessarily an easy one.

“As I get older, the holidays get harder for me,” he says. “College has opened my mind in endless ways. My family, on the other hand, did not share in this awakening of sorts. Many members of my family and I now have very different and dueling thoughts, beliefs and opinions.” We can all relate to biting our tongues at the dinner table when it comes to unpleasant conversations. Ean continues, “All things considered, though, I couldn’t not go home for the holidays. The holidays, to me, are a time to set our differences aside and still come together as a family to celebrate and enjoy each other’s presence.”

Even if you feel obligated to go home, remember to put your best interest first. If you are able to put the differences in your family aside, props to you. But don’t feel ashamed if you decide to stay put and not go home for the holidays because you’d be happier somewhere else.

Define the meaning of ‘home’ for yourself

Home is a word we often associate with childhood and ‘the good ole days.’ As we grow up, however, home can take on many different forms.

Olivia Jones, a recent graduate of Colby-Sawyer College, shares her thoughts on what the holidays mean to her. “When deciding whether or not to go home for the holidays, I take a moment to define where ‘home’ is. While it's easy to think of the traditional ‘home’ as the place where you grew up or the place where your family lives, at some point you realize you've created a new home as an adult.” You may begin to feel more at home with your partner than you do with your parents and that’s okay.

Olivia continues, “I find that saying no to travel during the holiday allows me to relax into my home life with my close family—both literally and figuratively—by staying present with the few around me. Holidays shouldn't be an obligation to travel home, but rather, a mindful exercise of finding home where you are."

It’s a beautiful thought and a classic saying, “home is where the heart is.” As long as you’re thankful for what you have, surrounded by people you care about, and honest with what you want, your holidays will surely make you smile. Cheers!

Follow Autumn K. Dube on Instagram.

December is coming soon, which means a whole new set of TV shows and movies will be arriving on Netflix. Unfortunately, in order to have the new, we must toss out the old. It's never easy to part ways with some of the shows on our watch list, but the new stuff will be worth a few goodbyes. Here's what's  coming to and leaving Netflix this December.

Coming to Netflix

Dec. 1

• 8 Mile
• Ace Ventura: Pet Detective
• Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls
• All Hail King Julien (Season 5)
• A StoryBots Christmas
• August Rush
• Chef & My Fridge: 2017
• Dark (Season 1)
• Diana: In Her Own Words
• Dreamcatcher
• DreamWorks Home: For the Holidays
• Easy (Season 2)
• Exporting Raymond
• Forbidden Games: The Justin Fashanu Story
• Full Metal Jacket
• Hitch
• My Happy Family
• Nacho Libre
• Sahara
• The Farthest – Voyager in Space
• The Little Rascals
• The Wackness
• The Young Victoria
• Tyson
• V for Vendetta
• TURN: Washington’s Spies (Season 4)
• Voyeur
• While You Were Sleeping

Dec. 4

• When Calls the Heart (Season 4)

Dec. 5

• Craig Ferguson: Tickle Fight
• Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

Dec. 6

• Trolls Holiday Special

Dec. 8

• El Camino Christmas
• The Crown (Season 2)

Dec. 11

• Catwoman
• The Magicians (Season 2)

Dec. 12

• Disney’s The Santa Clause
• Disney’s The Santa Clause 2
• Disney’s The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause
• Judd Apatow: The Return

Dec. 14

• 41 Dogs in My Home
• A&E: When Patients Attack
• Ainsley Eats the Streets (Season 1)
• Halt and Catch Fire (Season 4)

Dec. 15

• A Five Star Life
• Christmas Inheritance
• Discovering Bigfoot
• El Señor de los Cielos (Season 5)
• Erased (Season 1)
• Freeway: Crack In The System
• Neverlake
• Pottersville
• Reggie Yates Outside Man: Volume 2
• The Haunting of Helena
• The Mafia Kills Only in Summer
• The Ranch (Part 4)
• Trollhunters (Part 2)
• Ultimate Beastmaster
• Wormwood

Dec. 18

• Hello, My Twenties! (Season 2)

Dec. 19

• Miss Me This Christmas
• Russell Howard: Recalibrate
• The Indian Detective (Season 1)
• You Can’t Fight Christmas

Dec. 20

• La Casa de Papel (Season 1)

Dec. 21

• Peaky Blinders (Season 4)

Dec. 22

• 72 Dangerous Animals: Latin America (Season 1)
• Bright
• Dope (Season 1)
• Fuller House (Season 3, New Episodes)
• Rosario Tijeras (Season 1)
• The Toys That Made Us (Season 1)

Dec. 23

• Creep 2
• Myths & Monsters (Season 1)

Dec. 25

• Cable Girls (Season 2)
• Planet Earth II

Dec. 26

• Todd Barry: Spicy Honey
• Travelers (Season 2)
• All Hail King Julien: New Year’s Eve Countdown 2018
• Beat Bugs: New Year’s Eve Countdown 2018
• Larva: New Year’s Eve Countdown 2018
• Pororo: New Year’s Eve Countdown 2018
• Puffin Rock: New Year’s Eve Countdown 2018
• Skylanders Academy: New Year’s Eve Countdown 2018
• Trollhunters: New Year’s Eve Countdown 2018
• True and The Rainbow Kingdom: New Year’s Eve Countdown 2018
• Word Party: New Year’s Eve Countdown 2018

Dec. 27

• Pusher

Dec. 29

• Bill Nye Saves the World (Season 2: Part 1)
• Killer Legends
• La Mante (Season 1)
• Shelter
• The Climb

Dec. 31

• Dave Chappelle: Equanimity
• Fun Mom Dinner

Leaving Netflix

Dec. 1

• All I Want for Christmas
• Bedazzled
• Black Snake Moan
• Compulsion
• Cousin Bette
• Hoffa
• La Viuda Negra (Season 1)
• Picture Perfect
• Practical Magic
• Rebelde
• Scary Movie 2
• Scary Movie 3
• Super Size Me
• Terriers (Season 1)
• The Crucible
• The Gospel Road: A Story of Jesus
• The Man from Snowy River
• Touch (Season 2)
• Toys
• Two Girls and a Guy
• Waking Life
• Young Frankenstein
• Yu-Gi-Oh! Bonds Beyond Time
• Yu-Gi-Oh! Zexal (Seasons 1-2)

Dec. 5

• Holes

Dec. 9

• It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia (Seasons 1-11)

Dec. 10

• Lucky Number Slevin
• Nightcrawler
• The Rite

Dec. 11

• Dollhouse (Season 2)

Dec. 13

• The Queen of Versailles

Dec. 15

• America’s Funniest Home Video Kids: Holidazed
• America’s Funniest Home Videos Kids: Animals with Attitude (Season 1)
• America’s Funniest Home Videos Kids: It’s Tough Being a Kid (Season 1)
• America’s Funniest Home Videos Kids: Playtime Ain’t for Wimps (Season 1)
• America’s Funniest Home Videos: New Collection D: Nincompoop Nation
• Jeff Dunham: Arguing with Myself

Dec. 19

• Dance Academy (Series 1-3)

Dec. 20

• Che (Parts 1 & 2)

Dec. 24

• Amores Perros

Dec. 25

• Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl

More than 50 people have been confirmed dead due to a teenage suicide bomber in Nigeria, The Guardian reports. The bomber blew himself up in a mosque in Mubi, a town in northeast Nigeria. Notorious militant group Boko Haram, which has killed tens of thousands of people in the region and displaced millions, is thought to be behind the act but has not yet claimed responsibility.

Pictures have surfaced on social media showing the mosque in the aftermath of the attack, which CNN reports took place during a dawn prayer service around 5:20 a.m., with blood stains on the floor and a large, gaping hole in the wall.           

“I was there when the rescue was on and 40 people died on the spot and several others were taken to hospital with severe and life-threatening injuries,” said Abubakr Sule, a Nigerian man who lives near the mosque. He had just returned home when he heard the blast and returned to the mosque to help. “The roof was blown off.  People near the mosque said the prayer was mid-way when the bomber, who was obviously in the congregation, detonated his explosives.”

Police spokesman Othman Abukar also spoke to the press, saying that authorities were “still trying to ascertain to the number of injured because they are in various hospitals.” When asked who was responsible, Abubakar said “We all know the trend. We don’t suspect anyone specifically, but we know those behind such kind of attacks.”

Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari claimed last year that the terrorist group had been “crushed,” with the Nigerian military arguing they have won the war against Boko Haram after killing its most prominent leader, Abubakar Shekau. These claims, however, seem to be untrue after watching Boko Haram’s recent trend of activity, especially in the far north of the Adamawa state, where Mubi is located.

Muhammad U. Jibrilla, the governor of Adamawa state, took to twitter to address the situation in a thread and said "We have engaged all security agencies to do the need and take all necessary measures. We call for calm as security has been stepped up in Mubi and environs. We will not rest until those behind this wicked act are brought to book. May the souls of the departed rest in peace. I urge our people to come forward with any information that will help the security agencies in apprehending the culprits. It is unfortunate that people will be killed in cold blood in the place of worship. We are mourning and my heart bleeds."

Boko Haram is perhaps most well-known for the abduction of hundreds of Chibok schoolgirls three years ago. Many celebrities campaigned to have the girls released, supporting the #BringBackOurGirls campaign. Many of the girls were eventually released, but over 100 still remain missing.

In recent years Boko Haram has been pushed out of its former strongholds, resulting in a shift to their main tactic of bombing. Many young girls and women who walk alone are frequently accusing of carrying bombs underneath their clothing. Boko Haram’s insurgency has lasted nearly a decade, and more than 20,000 deaths have been attributed to the terrorist group. The conflict also affected neighboring countries, displacing millions of people.

This is also not the first time Boko Haram targeted Mubi. In 2014 fighters overran the town while rampaging across the North East of Nigeria. They were attempting to establish an Islamic state, seizing all towns and villages in their path. Military and civilian militia eventually expelled terrorists, and the town of Mubi has been peaceful since. 

White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders continues to confuse the White House press, this time by bafflingly calling on the spirit of Thanksgiving. During the Monday press briefing, Huckabee Sanders told the journalists assembled that if they wished to ask a question they must first announce what they were thankful for (you know, like you have to do in kindergarten.)

 “So this is how it’s going to work today, since I’m here and I get to call on you,” she said. “If you want to ask a question, I think it’s only fair, since I’ve shared what I’m thankful for, that you start off with what you’re thankful for.”

Huckabee Sanders got the ball rolling by stating what she was thankful for first, per Mediaite:

“Obviously you probably know, and it’s clearly no secret, that I’m clearly very thankful for all of you,” she told the journalists assembled, and was met with laughter. She also listed her family, her faith, soldiers currently serving in the military, policemen, fireman and first responders.

Most of the reporters complied with Huckabee Sanders’ strange rule of the day, and she answered questions of those who refrained from sharing. Zeke Miller of The Associated Press was reprimanded for breaking the rule when asking about Donald Trump’s possible Supreme Court candidates, and Miller quickly replied that he was grateful for the question.

The first reporter called on for questions, April Ryan of American Urban Radio Networks, was sure to give a snarky answer. After listing her life, children, and 20 years on the job, Ryan said she was thankful “to be able to talk to [Huckabee Sanders] and question you every single day.” Huckabee Sanders was quick with a response: “I feel the gratefulness there,” she said, and Ryan shot right back at her. “I hope you felt the passion of my thankfulness.”

Ryan wasn’t the only one to give a snappy response. Cecilia Vega of ABC News said that she was thankful for the First Amendment, prompting a round of “oohs” from others in the room.

Journalists on Twitter also participated, with many taking the opportunity to express their disdain for President Donald Trump and Huckabee Sanders’ rule. 

As Huckabee Sanders has a track record for evading questions and being combative with the press, this latest incident appeared to be more of an exercise in frustration than gratitude. 

Each day approximately 35 women in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer––that’s about 12,990 women a year! Cervical cancer can happen when a female is infected with certain types of HPV, and then abnormal cells develop on the cervix. From there, precancer and cancer can develop if the cells aren’t found through regular screening and treated. What you might not know is that most of these women may have been exposed to HPV in their teens and 20s. No one wants to think about cancer, but as college women, now is the time to get educated on ways to help prevent certain HPVrelated cancers that can develop later in life.

We’ve partnered with Merck to educate you on HPV. The information below is important, so make sure to listen up and take notes!

About HPV and how the virus spreads

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 79 million people in the United States currently have HPV, and 14 million new infections occur each year. For most people, HPV clears on its own. But for others who don’t clear the virus, it can cause certain cancers and diseases in women and men. There is no way to know who will or won't clear the virus.

While more than 40 types of HPV infect the genital area, some types can have more serious consequences than others. Certain types of HPV are responsible for nearly all cases of cervical cancer, 30 percent of vulvar cancer, 70 to 75 percent of vaginal cancer, 85 to 90 percent of anal cancer AND other types of HPV are responsible for more than 90 percent of genital warts. That's why it’s important to learn about any and all preventative steps now.

HPV can be transmitted though any sort of sexual activity with someone who has HPV. While intercourse isn’t necessary, it’s definitely the most common way to contract the virus. It may take only one sexual encounter to become infected with HPV. The hard thing about the infection is that it often has no visible signs or symptoms, so you could have HPV and not even know it.

Who can get infected with HPV

Anyone can be infected with HPV, meaning both women AND men. And with nearly half of new infections occuring in people ages 15-24, it's likely that many may be exposed to HPV during college. Plus, with no visible signs and symptoms, students can pass HPV among one another without even realizing it. That's why, as college-aged women, now is an important time to educate yourself and your friends (yes, even the guys!) about HPV.

You may procrastinate on a lot of things in college, but talking to your doctor about HPV or visiting the campus health center should not be one of them.

How to protect yourself from HPV

As we said before, many people may be exposed to HPV in their teens and 20s. This is one of the reasons why it's so important to practice safe sex habits.

While there may be treatments available for the diseases HPV causes, there is no treatment for the HPV infection. However, there is a lot you can do to minimize the risk of contracting HPV in the first place. Obviously, abstaining from sex is the best way to protect yourself, but if you're not abstaining, it’s best to keep sex monogamous with an uninfected partner. Using protection correctly and consistently can also help limit your risk, so a physical barrier such as condoms is important to have on hand. But remember, HPV can affect areas that aren’t covered by a condom—so it may not fully protect against HPV.

Being proactive by getting regular pap tests, as recommended by your doctor, is also an important part of protecting yourself. By being proactive now, you can help protect yourself from certain HPVrelated cancers and diseases.

Now that you’re equipped with more information, talk to your doctor or visit your campus health center to learn more about ways to help protect yourself from certain HPV-related cancers and diseases, including regular screening and vaccination.

For more information about HPV visit takeastanagainsthpv.com

Several of your life’s biggest moments have been your first time doing something – your first word, your first birthday, your first kiss, your first love, and of course, your first time having sex. There is such an emphasis on your first time having sex in society that it can be a nerve-wracking experience because of the anticipation. Overthinking can make an already stressful experience overwhelming. Whether it’s your first time having sex in life or your first time with someone new, here are four ways that you can feel less nervous when it comes to that climactic moment.

1. Don’t go in with (high) expectations

When you’re with someone for the first time, it’s impossible to foresee your sexual chemistry, what things you are comfortable doing and how to pleasure them. You may automatically connect with each other in the bedroom, but there’s also the possibility that you are not sexually compatible.

To overcome the nerves you may feel because you’re unsure of the situation, don’t go in with high expectations. Don’t expect it to be a bad experience, but at the same time, don’t automatically think things are going to be as perfect and romantic as the movies.

Kristy*, a senior at Georgia Institute of Technology, shares her advice. “You shouldn’t overthink how something will feel,” she says. “Don’t go in with the mindset that it will be uncomfortable, that it will hurt, or even that it will be the best experience on the planet. Sex won’t be great with everyone, but you very easily could have the greatest experience too.”

2. Openly communicate

As dozens of celebrity women come forward to share their stories of sexual harassment and assault, Jennifer Lawrence has decided to revisit a past scandal of her own. In 2014, nude photos of the actress were stolen from her phone and leaked online. Years after the hack went viral, the actress continues to struggle with the disgusting invasion of her privacy, Marie Claire reports.

Speaking with The Hollywood Reporter, Jennifer admitted that the aftermath of the nude photo leak still stings to this day. "When the hacking thing happened, it was so unbelievably violating that you can’t even put it into words. I think that I’m still actually processing it," she said. "And, I don’t know, I feel like I got gang-banged by the f--king planet—like, there's not one person in the world that is not capable of seeing these intimate photos of me. You can just be at a barbecue and somebody can just pull them up on their phone. That was a really impossible thing to process." 

Flashback to 2014—the intimate photos were taken for J. Law's long-distance boyfriend at the time, Nicholas Hoult. After the photos were released, she kept her composure and refused to take legal action because "I was just interested in healing," she explained. "None of that was gonna really bring me peace, none of that was gonna bring my nude body back to me and Nic, the person that they were intended for. It wasn’t gonna bring any of that back. So I wasn’t interested in suing everybody."

Lawrence still struggles to make peace with the incident. A single click turned into years of unnecessary heartache for the victim, and the healing process is far from over. "I think, like, a year and a half ago, somebody said something to me about how I was 'a good role model for girls,' and I had to go into the bathroom and sob because I felt like an impostor—I felt like, 'I can’t believe somebody still feels that way after what happened.' It’s so many different things to process when you’ve been violated like that."

No one deserves for their privacy to be compromised, even the most famous of celebrities. What happened to J. Law is heartbreakingly unfair, to say the least, but by the looks of her impressive career and stellar personality, her spirits have not shattered. 

Guys, the holidays are a truly magical time. Pretty much every beauty babe is already obsessed with Benefit Cosmetics’ POREfessional primer, and as a special Thanksgiving week treat, Benefit just launched an additional primer––and this one is gooooooood. Introducing the The POREfessional Pearl Primer, the primer you know and love with a little extra added glow. 

The POREfessional Pearl Primer still has the same basic formula as Benefit’s original primer, just with an extra pinkish pearl-tint to make sure everyone knows you’re one of Ariel’s long lost sisters. Plus, you’ll get the same lightweight, cruelty-free and oil-free priming power as with the original. Basically, this is a win in every way.

We can only hope that Benefit releases a family-sized option of this pearl primer, because how cute would it look in a shelfie? Get the new priming sidekick online now for $31, and grab it from store shelves starting December 8. 

ICYMI, the 2017 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show filmed over the weekend in Shanghai, China. Photos of the stunning show are already circling the web, including swoon-worthy pictures of Harry Styles' performance. While we wait ever-so-impatiently to watch the former Directioner tear up the angels' stage, there are two things that need to be addressed: 1) Harry is an absolute stud in that gray suit, and 2) Was it awkward for the singer to perform in front of not one, not two, but three of his rumored former flames? 

First The Weeknd and Bella Hadid, now Harry Styles and…multiple angels? As The Daily Mail reports, Harry has been linked to three of the models—Sara Sampaio, Georgia Fowler, and Nadine Leopold—participating in this year's show. Despite the potentially awkward reunion, photos of the British star show him absolutely thriving on stage. While his former love connections strutted their stuff, Harry blessed the angels and their adoring audience with hits from his debut album, and he looked damn good doing it. 

Still, fans couldn't help but find the humor in Harry sharing the stage with multiple exes. As cool and collected as he seemed, social media flooded with reactions to the #awk situation, Teen Vogue reports.

The Victoria's Secret Fashion Show airs Tuesday, Nov. 28 at 10/9c on CBS. In the meantime, here's another picture of Harry doing his thing to hold us over:

Now someone get this boy the wings he so deserves.

Hands down the best time of the year is when beauty brands start to announce their yearly holiday sets. Advent calendars, lip kits and skincare packs galore make their debut, and it's truly a #blessed season for makeup. This year, we're helping you out with a handy guide of this year's must-have beauty sets. And hey, it may still be November, but we’re already living for these holiday collections. 

Benefit Cosmetics

This year, benefit has six different holiday gift sets and all of them are next level amazing. With the Erase Case Concealer Kit, B.Right! By The Bay, Beauty & the Bay, They’re Real! BIG Sexy Lip Kit, Cha-Cha-Rama! and City Lights, Party Nights, Benefit has a set for nearly everyone. We recommend the B.Right! By The Bay––not only do you get some immensely hydrating products to help you combat the bitter winter, but the collection is also packaged in a snow globe inspired by the Ferry Building in San Francisco. Clearly, Benefit has thought of everything this year.

NYX Cosmetics 

NYX Cosmetics has plenty of collections will make any lipstick lover grin during the holidays. The Soft Matte Lip Cream Vault II ($65) is teeming with 36 different soft matte shades, plus there's a vault filled with their liquid suede lipsticks ($65) and a miniature vault for the NYX metallic lipsticks ($25) too. Although a girl only needs so much in her makeup collection, it looks like you're clearly just going to have to add more organizers and shelves to your wishlist to accommodate for these gorgeous products.

The Body Shop

In addition to being able to personalize your body butters, The Body Shop also has three advent calendars––which is basically a holiday gift in itself. The most luxurious advent calendar, priced at $200 might be a bit unattainable for college students on a budget (though that won't stop us from begging our parents for it). But don’t worry, you don’t need to skip out on paying your utilities for the month, because The Body Shop also has the 25 Days Of Game Changing Advent-ures Advent Calendar ($105) and the 24 Days Of Beauty Advent Calendar ($55). Each calendar is packaged with a ton of skincare, bath and makeup products that a meant to keep your skin flawless as 2017 comes to a close. 

Essence Makeup

Essence is an extremely budget-friendly beauty brand, and they’re selling an equally affordable advent calendar this year. Unlike other advent calendars that either have solely bath, makeup or nail products, the Bring the Bashadvent calendar ($39.99) has 24 full-sized products including lipsticks, hand lotions, nail polishes and hair ties.

But we get it, not everyone needs or wants a beauty variety pack, and that's why Essence prepared nearly a dozen holiday gift sets for the most particular beauty aficionados. Did we mention all of these are each only $10?

Regardless of what beauty products you’re obsessed with, it’s never too early to start thinking about what holiday gifts you’re going to get (for yourself). After all, it’s still almost impossible to narrow down your choices to just one, so start adding the items in your carts before any of the holiday collections and calendars sell out.

Rep Image: Benefit Cosmetcs

Riverdalehas taken quite a dark turn this season. With serial killer The Black Hood on the loose, Betty and her friends are being torn apart by the mystery of the killer's identity. Who is The Black Hood? If you're thinking we probably won't know until the end of the season, think again. The cast just revealed it won't be long at all, actually.

In an interview with Glamour, Madelaine Petsch, who plays Cheryl, eased our minds. "I didn’t guess it," Madelaine said about The Black Hood's identity. "When I read it, it shocked me, but you won’t have to wait much longer. A couple more episodes and the mystery will be revealed." Omg. So what's going to happen to Riverdale when the secret's out? Will the town fall apart, or will this bring everyone together?

Though we don't have any particular leads on who The Black Hood is, I'm sure it's going to be a huge reveal. I mean, there are only so many people it could be, right? 

As for what else is in store, Madelaine shared, "Cheryl has an unexpected love interest coming into the picture very soon." Another big reveal? This is all too good.

Riverdale returns Nov. 29, hopefully with a few more leads as to who The Black Hood is. I can't wait.

In last week’s winter finale episode of Grey's Anatomy, titled “Out of Nowhere,” an anonymous person (or persons) hacked into the digital systems at Grey Sloan, including but not limited to cardiac monitors, medical records and the lock to the blood banks. The person(s) demanded 4,932 bitcoin in exchange for the encryption keys needed to access their systems again, which roughly translates to $20 million (thanks Tim Ruggles, random ass IT guy!).

The feds noted that in hacks such as these, the perpetrators always ask for an amount they believe can actually be paid. Bailey theorized that the hackers demanded so much money because of the new surgical contest the hospital had recently announced, thanks to Avery’s “anonymous” donation. This is definitely the most plausible explanation, but I have another idea. A crazy, unrealistic idea. But, this is Grey’s Anatomy, so I guess I have at least an 80 percent chance of being right.

Hear me out, okay?

I think that Dr. Paul Stadler, Jo’s husband, had something to do with the hack. Stadler, who showed up in the last seconds of the finale, surprised Jo as she was rushing to stop Alex from administering the wrong medication to a little boy. Is the hack not the perfect cover for him to sneak into the hospital and track her down? While everything is in chaos, running from one end of the hospital to the other in desperation to get things done, he could just casually walk in and observe his surroundings until he found her, just outside an elevator. How could that possibly be a coincidence????

Oh man, am I losing my mind over this—his timing is just too perfect.

Back in August, Matthew Morrison told The Argonaut that he would be coming back to Grey's Anatomy in a big way, and given that entrance there are no surprises here. 

In a world where, historically, abusers have gotten off lightly and are just now starting to come under actual fire for their crimes, let’s hope Dr. Stadler, who is decidedly unworthy of that title, comes to swift justice. Knowing Shonda Rhimes, he’s going to get what’s coming to him sooner or later. They always do.  

FYI, This is what happens when you let the internet handle things. 

In Boaty McBoatface-fashion, Doncaster Council left it up to the residents of South Yorkshire to come up with names for two road gritters, Daily Mail reports. And just as the British public came up with the name "Boaty McBoatface" when asked to name a polar research ship (it went on to be called "Sir David Attenborough" but remains Boaty McBoatface in our hearts), residents of South Yorkshire came up with names will leave you rolling, including Spready Mercury, Basil Salty, Grit Van Dyke, True Grit, Rule Grittania, Salt Disney and Gritney Houston. 

The top 16 names were compiled into a Twitter poll on the Doncaster Council Twitter page with the hashtag #DoncasterGrittingWorldCup. These names were then narrowed down to Gritsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Anti-Slip Machiney, Spready Mercury, Basil Salty, and David Plowie.

And what were the two *brilliant* names chosen? Drum roll please...

Yep, that's right. Gritsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Anti-Slip Machiney and David Plowie. Daily Mail reports that Gritsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Anti-Slip Machiney beat Spready Mercury with 53 percent while David Plowie beat Basil Salty with 58 percent. 

And if this whole ordeal couldn't get any more ridiculous(ly awesome), Daily Mail reports that the council broadcasted a live draw on its Twitter page using numbered ping pong balls for the vote.

I didn't know that this was the type of news I needed in my life, but I truly did. 

At a Kennesaw State University football game in Atlanta, Georgia, in late September five cheerleaders took a knee during the National Anthem. They would later become known as the Kennesaw Five, scared but motivated by so many important reasons to exercise their right to protest—a right that would not be shut down by the community, despite their reactions. 

"It was the scariest thing I've ever done," says Michaelyn Wright, one of the Kennesaw Five, VICE Sports reports. "I was shaking." 

The four other young women, Tommia Dean, Taylor Mclver, Kennedy Town, and Shlondra Young, along with Wright, had all talked with their parents prior to the protest, considering the potential backlash and negative reactions they could face. However, their diverse reasoning for protesting outweighed any sort of consequence the Five could be subjected to.

A majority of the girls had specific incidents of police brutality against people of color in mind, the same reason why ex-49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick began protesting by taking a knee last year. Alton Sterling, a black man who was held down and fatally shot by two white police officers, moved Tommia Dean to take action.

"I just don't think people deserve to die like that. I have watched all these events and they touch me," says Dean, according to VICE Sports. "Alton Sterling was killed in my home state of Louisiana. That was close."

Kennedy Town was motivated by an incident captured on a dashcam in their county where a Cobb County police officer joked with a scared white woman he had pulled over, assuring her that she would be okay. "But you're not black. Remember, we only kill black people. Yeah, we only kill black people, right?" the officer was caught saying on camera.

"We go to school in Cobb County and this is where a white cop said we only shoot black people," said Town. "That told me I have to do something in Cobb County to make a change."

On the day of September 30th, Shlondra Young took her message to Facebook, accompanied with a video of their protest. 

"Today, I kneel for equality, I kneel for social injustice and I kneel for those who unjustly lost their lives and are no longer here to kneel for themselves. I kneel in a city where a confederate culture still exists among some and issues such as this are often placed on the back burner. I kneel in a city where I am a minority. But most importantly, I kneel for unity in a country that needs it the most right now. 'Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you, he will never leave or forsake you.' (Deuteronomy 31:6) #TaketheKnee"

In an unsurprisingly disgusting move, Raw Story reports that Breitbart editor-in-chief Alex Marlow argued Tuesday in an interview that women have changed the definition of “rape” to mean “any sex that the woman ends up regretting.”

Marlow made the comment during an interview on Sirius XM Patriot’s Breitbart News Daily.

Marlow has been with Breitbart since 2008, and has gotten comfortable in the news outlet’s way of making inflammatory comments as easily as breathing. In recent times, the comments are coming even faster.
 
Monday, on the same radio show, he discussed whether or not Leigh Corfman, who is accusing Roy Moore of sexually assaulting her when she was only 14, is lying about how old she was at the time of the alleged assault and that she may have been older.

Now he’s saying that rape has lost all meaning as an accusation because women use it in a “false” manner too often. If only this kind of victim-blaming wasn't something we see way too often from people who don’t have the first clue about these things or basic sensitivity.

“We don’t know what’s credible and what’s not,” he complained, “and now everyone is going to come forward.”

If every woman who is a victim of sexual harassment or assault finds the courage in this changing climate to come forward, face her accuser and tell him “no more” for the sake of her own peace, then so much the better.

Nowadays, anyone has the power to work closely with what they love and make a living from it. Beauty brand Avon has provided thousands of women with the opportunity to nurture a passion for makeup through its representative program, in which participants can sell products, mentor others and grow their own business as either a side hustle or a full-time career. While it works with celebrity brand ambassadors such as Pretty Little Liars star Lucy Hale, Avon also values everyday, relatable women who appreciate both the flexibility and the opportunity a representative position can bring.

Celebrating these Beauty Bosses at a recent lunch and panel discussion co-hosted by Marie Claire, Avon had reps such as Ivanna Diaz Hansen and Lydia Osolinsky serving as strong examples of the inspiring women that embody the brand. For Diaz Hansen, Avon has been in the family since her mother began as a representative nearly 20 years ago. Now having worked with the company since she was 18, 25-year-old Diaz Hansen has helped to bring a millennial perspective to Avon’s approach to selling. Osolinsky also comes from an Avon family, working as a full-time Beauty Boss while raising two children. She prides herself on being her own boss in an adaptable environment.  

Her Campus spoke with Diaz Hansen and Osolinsky at the Beauty Boss event about trying out a side hustle, taking risks in life and what Avon means to them.

You, Ivanna, have said in an interview with USA Today that you don’t think many people realize the flexibility of being an Avon rep and what that flexibility means in the long run. What would either of you like millennial readers to know about this kind of position and finding success from it?

Ivanna Diaz Hansen: I think when you think about what you really want out of life, whether it’s a long career or if you want to settle down and have a family, people need to think about that now in the present. I know I want to be a stay-at-home mom, so I’m taking actions earlier. I started [representing Avon] at 18 years old because I knew eventually I want to work from home, even if I have kids or not. Now that I’m married, I do want to have kids. Not now, but I know down the line I’m going to want that flexibility to really be there and spend my time enjoying life while making money—not having to be somewhere every day, not having to be afraid to ask for time off and be judged by my employer. I think having that flexibility is so wonderful because you can really focus on the important things.

My grandma passed away last year from breast cancer, and my mom is also in the business. She was able to step away from doing Avon for two full months just taking care of [my grandma] at home during her last time. We were talking about how great is it that we can do that in this business because anywhere else, you’d have to leave your job to do that. My mom has many brothers and sisters—they were having such a hard time not being able to be there during her last moments…When you think about those moments, those crucial moments in life with your family or when loved ones are sick, you really do need to have a flexible job in order to be there for them. Otherwise, you’re going to be missing out on so much.

Lydia Osolinsky: The other piece of flexibility is that so much [of it] is flexible. It’s how you work, it’s when you work, it’s where you work, and you get to make those choices when you’re your own boss. You can really pick the parts of life that you like the most and build your business around them, build it around your strengths. And as you grow and discover new parts about yourself, this business is adaptable. You can bring that in, and it actually strengthens what you do. As I grow and as I’ve aged, my business has changed, and it’s changed with me. I love knowing that as I continue to age, it will always reflect the stage of life that I’m in because I’m the boss. I get to build it on my terms, and [Avon] is a company that celebrates that. With social media and the different ways that we reach people with our business, people are drawn to that. Flexibility means so much.

What advice would either of you have for new graduates who may be afraid to look into side jobs or take this kind of work on as a full-time job, when they’re not really sure what the best path is for them to take?

IDH: I think it’s important to do something that you love. I mean, even if it’s not being an Avon rep, if you are curious about doing a side hustle, do it as a side hustle while you’re trying something else. I went to school for art, and so I wanted to be an artist or [in] some form that related to art. I still was looking for work in that field because it’s what I’m also passionate about. But at the same time, I was building up my Avon career because I knew that, in case I don’t have a job in the art world, I’m going to have this business to back me up because I nurtured it and I grew it over the years. Even if it’s something that you’re not totally sure on, you’re still going to learn something and you’re going to build very valuable skills. When nothing else is out there for you, this is going to be your baby. This is your business and you have to take care of it, and I think with all side hustles, they give you that ability to create something of your own. You don’t have to be doing something that you don’t love. If it’s something that you love, you should nurture it and keep it growing, even if it’s just a side hustle or a full-time career. Keep true to what you want and even if it’s small or big, as long as it’s yours and you’re happy.

LO: One thing I’ve learned is that things surprise you. You surprise you, right? What’s nice about this is that there’s money in your pocket right away. It can help you do whatever you want to do today, and it may end up being much more than that. I also went to school for something different. I was studying women’s issues and wanted to help women, and at the time I did not realize that having my own business would be so fulfilling in relation to that as well. Now I help women start their own businesses, and it’s just surprising how rewarding it was beyond just the money. I wouldn’t have known that unless I was in it and tried it, and so I’m so thankful that I did.

IDH: I think you really have to take risks. A lot of people after college want to do something that’s safe and they think that a job is going to be guaranteed to you, but that’s not always the case. We just had the recession, and you may have a Masters degree, but that doesn’t mean you’re going to get a job. I think with life, taking risks will allow you to be bigger than ever, but if you’re always going to play it safe, then you’re just going to have a safe life. If you kind of step out of your comfort zone, then you’re going to surprise yourself, like Lydia said. You may find yourself in New York on a panel with celebrities! So that’s something that I wouldn’t have in any other field and any other job, and it’s only because I nurtured my business and I kept pushing it and believed in myself and I had people that believed in me.

Going off of that, I read that Ivanna has over 200 people working under her at the moment?

IDH: So they don’t work for me—they work for themselves, but I mentor them. They are on my team, and actually Lydia and I are part of the same team, too! Her mom is my mom’s mentor…

LO: You’re like my Avon aunt!

IDH: Yeah, so, we all work together and I earn a commission off my team, but the only way that’s going to happen is if I guide them and I give them the proper teaching, and I’m only where I am because of them. They grow if I do a good job, and I don’t grow if I’m not doing a good job, so we definitely work together as a whole unit.

LO: It’s a great structure, so instead of everyone competing, we’re all invested in each other’s success. If they don’t do good, we don’t do good. It’s mutually beneficial. They get someone who’s really invested in their success and we’re rewarded for our efforts, so it’s really great.

To go back to your last question, when I was graduating college, I remember talking to a mentor of mine and saying how afraid I was that I wouldn’t get a job. It was very nerve-wracking, like, “Oh my goodness, what now?” I remember thinking, “What if no one will hire me?,” and I remember her saying, “Or you could just create a job.” And it was one of those moments—an aha moment where I thought, “Wow.” That’s what this is. You don’t have to convince someone to hire you. You can build whatever job you want, and when you start looking at that as a possibility, you start to see opportunities in places you didn’t see before, and that’s when the magic happens.  

If either of you could sum up Avon’s message as a brand in a couple of words, what would they be?

IDH: I always think of “empowering” because it just is. Being your own boss [and] the makeup makes me feel empowered. Helping other people make their own businesses makes you feel empowered. The way we give back to causes, like domestic violence, natural disasters, breast cancer awareness, it’s all empowering to be part of something that’s so big and gives back to so [many] different things and the people that are in it. Us as representatives, we get to be heard, and I’m so humbled because [Avon is] like, “Thank you for coming out!” and we’re like, “No, thank you guys!” They treat us very well and make us feel very empowered.

LO: Maybe “dynamic.” The business is constantly changing from all different angles, and even the fact that Avon looked for us—they wanted to hear our point of view. We can see places where our influences [are] in the company. They listen, and it’s really exciting to be part of a company that wants to listen and that sees our voices as part of being successful for the future.

IDH: I definitely feel like we are seen as worthy, not just “we’re the machines keeping the company going.” Our thoughts and our opinions really do matter, and we’re out there every day interacting with the people, selling to the people, helping our team members grow their businesses. So it’s definitely nice to know that we’re taken care of in our hearts and souls and they want us to be successful…You know, you see other corporations and it’s all about taking, taking, taking. Here, it’s like everyone’s just working together, corporate and representative and customer. It’s just like a great relationship.

LO: They’re all seen as sources of knowledge, and I think that’s very true of the millennials that are part of this business. In other venues, millennials may be [disregarded]. They’re at the table and Avon seeks them out and they see those voices as really important, and not just what they have to say, but how they like to say it, right? That is something Avon wants to nurture and explore and celebrate, so let them be themselves and give them the tools to take it bigger instead of trying to make them fit into some other image of what their business should look like.  

What’s next? Do you have any other projects in store?

LO: I’m going on a cruise to Bermuda! Avon has an incentive right now that we can earn a cruise to Bermuda.

IDH: That’s another great thing—the incentives are so awesome! I went on an all-expense-paid honeymoon to the Bahamas and got to bring my husband with me, and just things like that make you so excited and pumped to really step up your game. You’re growing your business and getting rewarded for it, too. Other than that, I really do want to buy a house and I’m going to keep pushing my business. That way, I can achieve that dream.

All event photos are credited to Astrid Stawiarz.

This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.