Republican Representative Blake Farenthold of Texas has decided to not seek re-election for his position in the upcoming 2018 elections. He is accused of sexually harassing female staff members and creating a hostile work environment, according to the Washington Post.

His office had previously settled with former communications director Lauren Greene for $84,000 in 2014 after she accused Farenthold of sexual harassment. That settlement came from taxpayer money, by the way. Other staff members have since accused him of inappropriate behavior in the workplace.

His decision to resign comes alongside a growing number of sexual harassment allegations being made against various congressmen and government officials — including recent allegations against Omar Ashmawy, the staff director of the Congressional Ethics Committee (which is in charge of investigating allegations against these government officials.) Some congress members, like House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, a democratic representative from California, and chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee, Representative Steve Stivers from Ohio have condemned the behavior described in these allegations.

According to the Washington Post, House Speaker Paul D. Ryan said about Farenthold: “I think he’s making the right decision to retire. I think he’s made the right decision that he’s going to be leaving Congress.”

The Post also reported that Greene’s Attorney, Les Aldernman, said Greene is “heartened by the fact that other former employees are coming forward with their accounts.”

Although Farenthold is resigning at the end of his term in 2018, his staff members will still need to work with him until then, if they choose to continue with their current positions. Farenthold has publicly apologized for his past behavior and office culture —but let’s hope there are actual changes made for the rest of his term.

And, as always, props to all the “silence-breakers." Your stories inspire other women to come forward and a culture of change.

Whether it be from watching "Super Size Me" during your high school health class or fan-girling over your favorite boy-band in the documentary "One Direction: This Is Us," you're probably familiar with writer, actor and director Morgan Spurlock.

Unfortunately, Spurlock is not making his rounds in the news recently for his efforts in the filmmaking world. The Washington Post reports that on Wednesday, Spurlock went "against the grain" and admitted to years of his sexual harassment and misconduct against colleagues and classmates, co-workers and his two wives, tweeting a blog post and writing "I am part of the problem."

After months of witnessing woman upon woman coming forward with her story, Spurlock explains in his blog post that he wondered, "when will they come for me?" Realizing that he's not some innocent bystander, Spurlock took it upon himself to call out his own sexual misconduct. Detailing each account from his own perspective, whether it had been verbal or physical, Spurlock repeats "I am part of the problem" after each account. 

In one instance, Spurlock writes about what he remembers from a "hook-up" from his college days, where the girl later accused him of rape. 

"In my mind, we’d been drinking all night and went back to my room," Spurlock writes. "We began fooling around, she pushed me off, then we laid in the bed and talked and laughed some more, and then began fooling around again. We took off our clothes. She said she didn’t want to have sex, so we laid together, and talked, and kissed, and laughed, and then we started having sex."

"'Light Bright,' she said," Spurlock remembers. "'What?' 'Light bright. That kids toy, that’s all I can see and think about,' she said... and then she started to cry. I didn’t know what to do. We stopped having sex and I rolled beside her. I tried to comfort her. To make her feel better. I thought I was doing ok, I believed she was feeling better. She believed she was raped. That’s why I’m part of the problem."

Spurlock goes on to recall an incident that occurred at work about 8 years ago, where he verbally harassed a co-worker by calling her "hot pants" or "sex pants." Additionally, he remembers the mistreatment of his previous girlfriends and wives.

"And then there’s the infidelity," Spurlock writes. "I have been unfaithful to every wife and girlfriend I have ever had. Over the years, I would look each of them in the eye and proclaim my love and then have sex with other people behind their backs."

Spurlock questions his history of sexual misconduct, speculating where exactly it roots from. Ultimately, Spurlock acknowledges that just as much as he is part of the problem, he can also be a part of the solution. 

"The only individual I have control over is me. So starting today, I’m going to be more honest with you and myself," Spurlock wrote. "I’m going to lay it all out in the open. Maybe that will be a start. Who knows. But I do know I've talked enough in my life... I'm finally ready to listen."

Although Spurlock's confession comes as a major change of pace compared to other other allegations in Hollywood (and some Twitter users thanked him for his honesty), many were not quick to praise Spurlock for his coming forward: "Morgan Spurlock is not brave, he’s trying to get ahead of the story and give you a reason so when you hear about how garbage he is, you think of the reason," comedian Peter Coffin wrote on Twitter, as The Washington Post notes.

While not everyone can agree on the motive behind Spurlock's confession, hopefully it can serve as an example for those who have committed sexual harassment and misconduct but won't admit the problem.

As the temperatures outside fall, it’s likely the last thing on your mind is baring it all in a super sexy dress — but hear us out. The winter party season is the perfect opportunity to go all-out in a plunging neckline or open-backed dress — and when you add trends like sequins, velvet and statement hues into the mix, you’ll end up with a seriously amazing ~look~ for whatever occasion this winter throws at you. Read on for the sexy going out dress you need in your life, based on your personality.

1. Bold and confident

Ruffle One Shoulder Cocktail Mini Dress ($83 at ASOS)

There’s only one color that could possibly live up to your bold, vivacious personality: red, obviously! *Cue frequent use of the fire emoji* A sculptural, one-shouldered look is sexy in a way that’s not overdone and will make you stand out from the crowd wherever your night may take you.

2. Edgy and mysterious

Applique Strap Mini Bodycon Dress ($68 at Topshop)

Your edgy style already probably causes you to gravitate toward all-black-everything on a pretty regular basis — but this isn’t your average LBD. With a hot AF lace-up front and a body-con fit, the velvety material of this dress makes in the perfect pick for winter. Toss a leather jacket on top and ankle booties on bottom, and your cold weather party-going look is settled.

Related: 5 Unintimidating Places to Shop When You're New to Buying Lingerie

3. Bubbly and outgoing

Romance White Sequin Shift ($59 at Tobi)

As a bubbly, outgoing kind of gal, chances are you’ll be stunning in sequins. The winter white shimmer will make you feel like Cinderella, but the plunging neckline and sheer back are more badass than Disney princess. Pair with nude heels to let this standout dress shine.

4. Cool and collected

Pretty Little Thing High Neck Open Back Velvet Midi Dress ($40 at ASOS)

Your practical personality shouldn’t prevent you from rocking something that makes you feel special and sexy this winter! Opt for a midi-length body-con dress in navy velvet with a cutout back — which is subtly sexy while still keeping things as low-key as you like them.

5. Fashion-forward and trendy

Metal Mesh Dress ($49.90 at Zara)

Remember that ‘00s Paris Hilton-esque dress Kendall Jenner rocked to her 21st birthday party? That’s what you need in your life. This sexy, slinky metallic shape with a hint of cleavage and a bare back has basically reached fashion *icon* status — which is a no-brainer when it comes to your trendsetting, fashion-forward style.

As Olivia Pope would say, your sexy going out look for the winter party season? It's handled.

The first Hollywood awards season since the #MeToo movement broke and film industry moguls such as producer Harvey Weinstein were outed as sexual predators is approaching, and so far, it seems that women will not let pre-Oscar ceremonies like the Golden Globes and the SAG Awards avoid these major changes. In addition to Jan. 21's SAG Awards only featuring female presenters in honor of those who have shared their experiences with sexual harassment, many actresses are reportedly planning to wear black to the Golden Globes on Jan. 7 to protest against sexual misconduct and gender inequality in Hollywood. PEOPLE reports that the specific fashion choice could reappear throughout awards season.

"All female actresses attending the Globes are protesting by just wearing black gowns," a source told the magazine. The mass decision marks the first time actresses have fully banded together behind a cause. In the past, award show attendees have often worn pins to commemorate terror attacks or support organizations such as the ACLU. While many actors wore black at the 2001 Emmy Awards to honor the victims of 9/11, it was not an organized movement. So, basically, if someone has managed to miss out on the severity of sexual assault allegations in 2017, they'll definitely catch up this winter by watching award shows.

According to E! News, more than 30 women are actively planning to don black dresses at the Globes. Rumor has it that the decision originated from Meryl Streep, who, as unofficial Queen of Hollywood, is totally fit to call these women to arms. 

As The Hollywood Reporter points out, the symbolic fashion decision adds fire to the #AskHerMore movement, an effort recently championed by stars like Reese Witherspoon to promote red carpet reporters asking actresses about more than just their gowns. Described on its website as a method to "re-focus on women's achievements," #AskHerMore offers actresses a chance to particularly emphasize their industry's inequalities this year.

"AskHerMore is fundamentally about treating women as full human beings rather than objects. And I think #MeToo is about the same thing," Jennifer Siebel Newsom, founder and CEO of The Representation Project, said to THR. "I hope red carpet interviewers ask about the power the media has to make a difference in the world, how those involved in creating it can set a better example and the importance of broadening who gets to have a say in creating that media. For instance, the Golden Globes nominated five white men in the director category. White men are not the only people making good films. They are just the ones being recognized. Let's talk about that on the red carpet."

Given Hollywood's current climate, actresses joining together to promote this message is needed now more than ever. 

When it comes to Disney Channel stars growing up and finding a second wind in their careers, Cole Sprouse has definitely become one of the more successful actors of the bunch. For a while, I thought we'd never see the former Suite Life of Zack and Cody star in the public eye again, but since Sprouse ended up on the surprise CW hit Riverdale, he seems to have developed into someone totally in control of balancing his personal and public life. From reportedly serving as a leader in the cast to staying sweetly private about his possible costar romance, Sprouse comes across as a normal guy who knows what's best for him.

The actor also regularly uses his Instagram account to share his own photography, and while his acting may take center stage, Sprouse recently shared just how important the craft has been to his well being. In a recent interview with YouTuber Duan Mackenzie, Sprouse discussed how embracing the art helped him cope with depression, Cosmopolitan reports. 

"I was sad and in a dark place and I turned to a hobby to sort of take me out of that," he explained in the video. "I found photography, and I've been doing photography for awhile, but I really used it as an outlet of a way to create and feel better and it took off."

"Most of my work took place in landscape," he said. "There was something profoundly serene in those landscapes and I sort of used those adventures as an attempt to separate from not just the virtual world, but from a world that I felt paranoid was watching me quite a bit."

Having worked on such a highly public platform for his life's formative years, Sprouse's worries of being watched are totally understandable. Also resonating with so many artists and creative people out there, he spilled on being his own worst critic when it comes to his photos. "I'm not really good with self-criticism," he said. "I'm consistently looking at the work I've done in the past or the work I've done now and feeling, 'eh, I can do better.' I try to create as many opportunities for myself to do photography as an attempt to placate some side of myself that needs to grow."

The intimate conversation notably focuses more on Sprouse's experiences with photography than acting, further emphasizing that there's always a little-known side to our most well-known actors. The side hustle has even brought Sprouse gigs such as photographing Kendall Jenner for The Sunday Times and Sam Smith for L'uomo Vogue. Check out the full interview below for more insight into your favorite Martin twin's artistic passion.

By Hannah Luke

Content warning: Descriptions of disordered eating, BMI and body weight

Weight gain is an inevitable part of life, but as I watched the number on the scale rise higher than ever, I was compelled to shift my carefree lifestyle into one fixated on “health and fitness." It wasn’t until I had completely broken down, exhausted and starving after a calm day of shopping with friends, that I realized how far from healthy I had gone.

The holidays are a time of joy, spending time with friends and family, celebrations and of course, food. For me, this was especially true and given my history of a high metabolism, I was able to chow down without giving a second thought to my caloric intake. To my dismay, my metabolism wasn’t able to withstand the massive amounts of stuffing and pie I was consuming for weeks on end and eventually, my body showed this. Having always had a petite figure, I was alarmed and disappointed to find that my once flat stomach had begun to protrude. My decrease in self-confidence eventually led me to social media for fitness inspiration.

I have always actively taken part in sports and other physically demanding activities—not to stay in shape or to burn calories, but because I enjoyed it. Yet as I saw my body transform from its previously fit form, I turned to exercise as a means of trimming down and punishment for eating too much rather than as a fun pastime. When I first started to show interest in fitness, I turned to one of my best friends for help. Her goal was to become a personal trainer and to major in exercise science; it seemed to me that her body was evidence of her expertise. Starting in the midst of winter, she and I would peel ourselves out of bed at 4 a.m. before school every day and head to the gym. We followed popular fitness Instagram accounts for suggestions and inspirations to get our bodies into what we thought was the perfect shape. Eventually, the lack of sleep stopped her from coming, but I continued to go alone.  

In addition to increased exercise, I also created a strict diet plan for myself. With the aid of the app MyFitnessPal I strictly logged everything I consumed down to chewing gum and breath mints. I remember reading online that Victoria’s Secret models ate fewer than 1000 calories a day and decided that in order to have a desirable body, I would have to adhere to this diet, sometimes going to as low as 500 calories a day.  

For almost six months I was able to stick to my diet plan and lost over twenty pounds. My immense weight loss was especially alarming considering that my BMI was never in the overweight category. In fact, even at my peak weight, my BMI was in the center of the healthy range, at 21. At the lowest, on the other hand, my BMI had dropped to 16, and was in a high health risk range. I began to feel weak and my bones ached. Sleeping on my sides became painful as my hip bones pressed against my mattress, so I started sleeping on my back.  

Despite this, I liked how my body looked. Many of my friends even compared it to those of popular models and social media stars. I took great pride in this. I constantly checked social media and tried the newest exercises, juice cleanses and other diet trends. I knew that I didn’t need to lose weight, but I rationalized it by telling myself that the girls on social media didn’t either—and yet they seemed so healthy and happy!

At this point it had been several months since my last period, but it was just one less thing to worry about. Because I had always been thin, my bony appearance wasn’t shocking and no one seemed alarmed at my sudden weight loss. I never refused foods that I deemed “healthy," like fruits and vegetables, and I never skipped meals. I assume that this deterred others from questioning my well-being.  

Eventually, I was unable to keep up my energy levels, and activities that were once enjoyable became a chore. When I collapsed into tears after a few hours of walking downtown, I knew I needed to make a change.

Deleting my calorie counting apps was the first big change I made. It was hard at first to allow myself to eat the foods and meals which I once restricted, but it made it easier to stop comparing my diet to others. Eating more became less stressful over time, but I still found myself comparing my body to others.

 My biggest problem wasn’t necessarily my diet, but my self-esteem. In order to overcome this and grow stronger physically, I knew that I would have to grow mentally. Unfollowing models and “health and fitness” Instagram accounts was one of the best decisions I’ve made. By doing this, I’ve realized that I don’t need to compare myself to anyone. My confidence has skyrocketed. My weight has gone up considerably and I now rely on my body to tell me what I need to be healthy. I am mentally and physically healthier and happier than ever, because I look within myself for confidence and validation.  

The driver accused of plowing into a crowd protesting at the Charlottesville white supremacist rally this past summer and killing one woman will now face a more serious murder charge, CNN reports. James Alex Fields Jr. originally received a charge of second-degree murder and other offenses for fatally hitting 32-year-old Heather Heyer with his car in August, but now has a charge of first-degree murder, which is often defined as a premeditated, unlawful killing, according to FindLaw. 

Fields drove into the throng of counterprotesters at the "Unite the Right" rally on Aug. 12, injuring 19 others in addition to killing Heyer. The rally and its initial participants gained nationwide attention for a violent response to the city of Charlottesville planning the removal of a statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee. Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe even declared a state of emergency when the rally grew out of control.

Prosecutors did not publicize reasons for changing Fields' charge on Thursday, but shared two videos in a court hearing that led authorities to believe that Fields stopped his car down the street from where counterprotesters were and then drove straight toward them. After making contact with the crowd, Fields sped away in his vehicle. When he was apprehended following the deadly incident, Fields reportedly sobbed when he learned of Heyer's death. 

To honor Heyer's memory, more than two dozen of her friends and family attended the court hearing, and two friends wore purple shirts with Heyer's photo and a quote she once shared on Facebook that went viral after her death, saying, "if you're not outraged, you're not paying attention."

Fields will appear before a grand jury for his case on Monday. 

Once a month, your body tries to kill you, just to let you know you're not pregnant. Instead of just getting a text or something from the gods above that says, "Congrats, you're not with child!" you ruin all your cute undies and feel like you're dying for a whole week. The best part of getting your period is definitely PMS. Not only do you get to bleed out of your vagina, but your hormones go crazy, you want to eat everything in sight, and if someone gives you the side eye, you're probably going to rip their head off and take it home in your purse—no biggie, right? If your PMS is terrible, you'll get these things. 

1. You make sure nothing important is happening during your period

I just need this week off to myself. I can't handle being around people. 

2. Sweatpants are the only thing that fits you

Also why would you want to wear anything else? 

3. Food is bae

How many salmon avocado rolls do you think I can fit in my mouth? 

4. Motrin and your hot pack can get you through anything

@myuterus, please stop trying to kill me.

5. If you do go out, your best friend is going to have to hear "Can you check me?" more than once

Not trying to deal with that embarrassment today.

6. No matter how nice someone is to you, you might still growl at them

7. Everyone needs to be quiet and just pet your hair

8. And if someone DARES ask if you're being nasty cause you're on your period…RIP

Back-to-back New Girl gifs but I strongly identify with both.

9. If you take three naps in one day, it's fine—your body is getting tired cause it's trying to kill you

10. When someone asks why you don't feel well

Not gonna lie and say I have a stomachache. Periods are normal! They happen once a month! Let's grow up. 

11. You will not be leaving your couch/bed today

Can food be delivered to my bed? 

12. When no one understands why you're in such a bad mood

13. When your period isn't here yet and you're just waiting and being grumpy

14. When you feel all gross and bloated but your period hasn't arrived yet

15. When someone pisses you off and you threaten them but you know you're not getting up

16. When you remember eating chocolate and crying at dog videos is a perfectly normal way to spend your time

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.)

Matt Lauer Had an Affair With 'TODAY' Production Assistant

A former production assistant at TODAY has spoken about her secret relationship with a newly married Matt Lauer in the early 2000s, Variety reports. Addie Collins Zinone began at NBC in 1999 as an intern, eventually becoming a production assistant and growing close to the show's anchors. Lauer, however, didn't show any interest in her until she was preparing to leave the show for another job. In July 2000, he invited her to lunch and Zinone, hoping to ask him for professional advice, found herself hit on instead. Zinone, then 24, began a month-long, consensual relationship with Lauer, then in his 40s. 

Zinone shared instant messages from Lauer at the time, in which the former TODAY anchor complimented her on her looks and openly tried to flirt. She also admitted to having a "consensual exchange" with Lauer in his office. 

"This man who I'd held on a pedestal had made me feel like my looks and my body were my true assets," she said. "He made it clear that he wasn't interested in my skills or my talent. It just shattered everything...I had no idea there were other women out there...He felt like he was untouchable. He lacked so much morality and reality, because he had people enabling him. I see the common threads and how he preyed on women, and I was one of them."

NYPD Opens Investigation on Russell Simmons and Rape Allegations

CNN reports that the NYPD has begun an investigation into Russell Simmons and multiple women accusing him of sexual misconduct, including rape. Earlier this week, nine women shared allegations of sexual harassment and assault against music producer Simmons, and four mentioned rape in their claims. These reports follow an accusation made in November against Simmons and movie producer Brett Ratner. 

Simmons has denied the claims, saying in a statement, "I am blessed to have shared extraordinary relationships, whether through work or love, with many great women; and I have enormous respect for the women's movement worldwide and their struggle for respect, dignity, equality and power. I am devastated by any reason I may have given to anyone to say or think of me in the ways that are currently being described."

Simmons also took to Instagram to defend himself, saying "NotMe."

Chips Ahoy & Nutter Butter Cereals Are Coming to Walmart

TBH, the best part about being an adult is disobeying your mom's longtime role of no cookies for breakfast and having those cookies whenever you please. Now, Walmart will soon stock Chips Ahoy! and Nutter Butter cereals, meaning that you can totally get away with having cookies before lunch! With the Chips Ahoy! type applying its classic cookie recipe to cereal puffs and Nutter Butter including a coating made with real peanut butter, this news has made me ridiculously excited for breakfast again. Cereal brand Post will debut the new flavors on Dec. 26 online and in stores. 

What to look out for...

Today is the ending date of the 2018 Open Enrollment Period for health insurance, so if you haven't already, look into your options and what kind of health care fits your needs best. 

There's officially T-minus 16 days until Bachelor season is finally upon us — and the question on pretty much everyone's minds right now is whether or not Arie Luyendyk Jr. was successful in finding love on his return to the show after having his heart broken by Emily Maynard in season eight of The Bachelorette.

While he's remaining tight-lipped about her identity, in a press conference call with Her Campus, Arie revealed that he *did* find love on season 22 — twice.

"The journey was a great experience and I did find love," he said. "I actually fell in love with two people." 

So, clearly the finale will feature a happy ending for Arie — but it sounds like the journey to true love will definitely not be without drama and some tough choices. (I mean, would it still be The Bachelor if this weren't the case?)

And in case you want to try to spot Arie's future fiancé among the 29 contestants getting out of the limos on January 1, he also offered up some hints about what he was looking for throughout his time on the show.

"I just really wanted someone, first and foremost, who is ready for marriage," Arie said. "To be a team with someone — that's a big thing with me — and to have someone who has their own independence, who doesn't just depend on me, but who I can also root for in their career and in their life just as much as they root for me."

Could this be a clue about who Arie chose this season? Let the super sleuthing begin — meanwhile, I'll just be over here stalking all 29 contestants on social media to see who fits the bill.

The highlight of my week––or if I’m being more realistic, my month––will be seeing Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Last year, when Han Solo died, after an impatient 60 seconds my friend nudged me and said “OK enough crying, you’re being embarrassing.” Needless to say, I am HYPED. 

For big premiers like this, dressing up is pretty common. Sometimes it feels like our options are limited to strictly Leia buns, but thanks to ASOS, the ladies just got a lot more options. 

Everyone's fave clothing brand just released a collab with Star Wars and Disney in anticipation of the latest film, and unlike other women’s movie merch, this release is wearable outside of the theater (and Halloween… and the bedroom). While the collection is inspired by key parts of the Star Wars universe, it also draws from street-wear and current trends. The result is something that pays homage to the iconic series without making people look like they belong at a convention for super fans. Here are some of the most space-shic pieces from the collection: 

1. Scuba Printed Mini Dress ($79 at ASOS)

2. Printed Oversized Long Sleeve T-Shirt ($35 at ASOS)

3. Printed Long Sleeve Hanky Hem Dress ($76 at ASOS)

4. ASOS X Star Wars Printed Leggings ($35 at ASOS) 

5. Galaxy Printed Full Dress ($95 at ASOS)

6. Funnel Neck Burnout Dress ($79 at ASOS)

BRB, going to grab my credit card. 

The moment we've been waiting for is here: on Friday morning, Kensington Palace announced the official date of the royal wedding.

According to a tweet made from the official Kensington Palace account, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry will marry on May 19, 2018. While we knew the wedding would be sometime in the spring and that they'd be getting married at St. George's Chapel at Windsor Castle, we now know the official date we'll need to set our alarm clocks super early to get a glimpse of the royal wedding (which, if we're lucky, will be televised like William and Kate's was). 

ICYMI, other royal wedding details released so far include the cake flavor (probably banana), the couple's Christmas plans (the royal family's official celebration at the Sandringham estate), and the famous guests we may be seeing at Windsor Castle (Priyanka Chopra and Serena Williams). While questions about who will be designing Meghan's gown and who will be in the wedding party remain, now that we have an official date, we're sure we'll be getting some answers soon.

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

By Kimberly Kim

When the #MeToo posts began to appear on my news feed, they hit me hard and ignited feelings I had been suppressing for years. There had been countless times I’d drafted a teary-eyed post of my own, only to never hit "post." When the horror stories of Harvey Weinstein, Ed Westwick, Matt Lauer, and other big names came pouring in, the feelings became even harder to keep to myself. Again, I began to work up the courage to type out my story. Then I started reading the scathing comments that seemed to accompany every story and retreated back to the safety of complete silence. I’m not only a victim of sexual assault, I’ve also been subject to victim-blaming, and I hate myself for it.

Related: How To Help a Friend Who May Have Been Sexually Assaulted

I haven’t told many people in my life about my #MeToo story, but I’ve been met with reactions of “Why didn’t you tell someone sooner?” or “It was so long ago. Are you sure you remembered it correctly?” This has happened enough to the point where I am beginning to doubt myself. Am I doing this as a cry for attention? Did this really happen to me? I’ve lived with this secret for years and am what most people would consider successful as a twenty-something. There’s no way anyone would really believe me. So I keep to myself. Silent, yet internally tearing myself apart for not having the courage to speak up.

These past few months, I’ve watched my news feed fill with stories and every day it feels like there’s another public figure I am disappointed and disgusted by. When these stories are brought up in conversation, I have to hold back tears. No one knows this is a trigger for me. No one knows that I listen to Kesha’s “Praying” on repeat when I’m alone. No one knows the terrible memories in my head. The more I hear about sexual assault in the news, the more I'm afraid to tell my story. I continue to be angry with myself for not being a silence breaker.

I woke up this morning to find that The Silence Breakers were named as TIME’s People of the Year, and now I feel I can no longer stay silent. I am grateful for the attention that many celebrities and public figures have brought to sexual assault, rape culture and victim-blaming––but I have my fears. I pray that this is just not a social media trend that will die out. The conversations have only started. We still need solutions for this sickening epidemic. Many victims don't necessarily have the network or resources to get the help we need to heal. When we have a president who has been known to perpetuate rape culture, I fear that we will not make progress in helping victims. If we just leave these stories as water cooler conversations and don’t find solutions, we will have failed as a society. What good is there in bringing these triggers into victims’ daily lives if we don’t help them?

Still, for every victim who has come forward with their #MeToo story, there are countless others who feel even more intimidated and less validated now that these stories are trending in the media. I don’t owe anyone my story and neither does anyone else. All you need to know is that there are so many people are silently fighting their demons and probably will continue to. They say silence is only perpetuating the issue, but who are we to judge? 

Emotions were running high during the mid-season finale of Jane the Virgin last Friday. As the Villanueva women head out on a road trip for the Snow Falling book tour, viewers were reminded of several crucial moments in Jane's life. Throughout the series, our heroine has not always been the confident badass we aspire to resemble. But every time Jane is at her most vulnerable, there is always one person around to offer a boost of encouragement: Rafael.

Jane and Rafael's relationship may be unconventional, to say the least, but her accidental inseminator has turned out to be a significant force in her life. For starters, Rafael was the first person to whom Jane ever admitted that she is a writer. Before they even knew each other, Rafael encouraged Jane to pursue her passion, thus the beginning of Snow Falling. After Michael's death, Jane almost called it quits on her first novel, especially when Michael's mother denied approval. Once again, Rafael was there to give her the push that she didn't know she needed, by single handedly fighting for Jane's manuscript and gaining Patricia's blessing. And this week, when Jane was nervous about going on her first ever book tour, Rafael reassured her of how great she is, as a writer and as a person. Do you see a pattern here?

So let's talk about that kiss. Spoiler alert: "Chapter Seventy-One" left fans with a much anticipated, whirlwind kiss between Jane and Rafael. The romantic moment got me thinking, is Rafael Solano the man Jane is destined to be with? Aside from the fact that the characters have a son together, the mid-season finale proved that Raf has remained consistent during the highest and lowest points of Jane's life. No matter how far Jane wanders into other romances, whether it be a marriage or testing an old flame, she always finds her way back to Rafael. Plus, the pair are an incredible co-parenting team who make adorable children. I don't want to get ahead of myself, but how awesome would it be if Mateo had a sibling?

Since we met her, all the event's of Jane's life have been leading to her happy ending: a telenovela love story of her own. We thought she found that love with Michael, and then with her baby daddy, Rafael, and again with a ghost from relationship's past, Adam. If the first half of season four has taught us anything, it's that Jane is still very much mourning over Michael, Adam is clearly not the man for her, and a romance with Rafael is still a possibility. Snow Falling seems like a prequel to the love that sticks. Pun intended.

Two months, one week and three days. That’s exactly how long we were––well, whatever we were. But it doesn’t mean I cried any less when he told me he didn’t think we would work. A label may determine what the world sees, but it doesn’t affect what youalready see and feel, what you hope for.

The relationship (and I use that term loosely) may not have lasted very long, but the connection was real and I deserve time to get over it. In fact, I’m still getting over it, and that’s okay too.

After starting my career in a new (and lonely) city, I pretty much accepted the idea that I would be single forever. Melodramatic, I know, but with an intense schedule and constant need to feel productive, I didn’t think the stars would ever align. I accepted that I was a “career woman,” and my 20s would be spent climbing the ranks and having wine nights with my girlfriends.

Then I met him.

He was charming, whip-smart, worldly, chivalrous and had the perfect amount of scruff. On our first date, I said something along the likes of  “I could drown in your eyes,” and I’m still embarrassed about it TBH. He made me swoon and I didn't resist it. I’m the first to admit that I fell hard and fast. 

Related: 5 Ways to Let Go of a Relationship That Ended Before it Started

One date turned into seeing each other nearly every night, and right when I thought we were going to become “official,” he told me we had to end. He mentioned moving for a promotion, but I didn’t think it was anything we couldn’t make work. He would only be a few hours away and we could see each other on weekends, so I thought. But he didn’t want to make it work and that’s what hurts the most––the idea that I wasn’t worth the effort. This "situationship" triggered many unhealthy thoughts. I buried negative feelings about my worth and ability to be loved where I thought they couldn’t find me, and this person walked away and turned the lights on in my darkest place.

It’s okay to want to share your life with someone and let your walls down to let them in. It’s also okay for them (and you) to walk away because love is a choice. And it’s perfectly okay to cry about it, to mourn the loss of what you thought would be. What’s not okay is talking down to yourself or feeling like you’re not worth a relationship because one person doesn’t want one with you. You are worth it, and I am too.

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If there’s one trend that we really hope explodes in 2018, it’s the growth of unretouched ads and inclusive casting by style brands. Missguided has officially joined the league of body-positive campaigns, and their newest winter launch, #MakeYourMark, not only features gorgeous women of different races and body types, but there's no fake airbrushing. “Because f**k perfection. It doesn't exist,” the retailer's website reads. 

Another fun tidbit is that the “Babes of Missguided” are a band of fierce female bloggers, activists and people just like us––no career models here. Obviously, the internet has fallen in love with the campaign, and everyone is calling for other companies to follow suit.  

We exist in a time when posting completely real photos without alteration is considered "revolutionary," and that honestly speaks to how important it is that influential fashion brands like Missguided are changing the status quo to normalize and celebrate natural bodies. Other retailers like American Eagle have also initiated their own body-positive campaigns, and that keeps us hopeful that this trend isn't going away any time soon.  

You can check out the rest of Missguided’s fierce #MakeYourMark campaign here, and fingers crossed that 2018 will be the year women can own their bodies and "f*ck perfection" with ease.

Rep Image: Felicity Hayward / Missguided

Oh, the joys of being a student leader. Being a role model for other students is an amazing feeling, but sometimes we just want to crawl into a corner and hide from the stress and responsibilities that come with it. What stress, you ask? Read on for eight of the biggest struggles that all student leaders deal with. #relatable

1. You check your email way more than you check social media

And you expect everyone else to do the same, too. Admit it. “I am constantly responding to emails,” says Reilly Tuccinard, a junior at the University of South Carolina. “I think I check my email more than I check Instagram. Taking the time to sit and respond to 10+ emails a day can be pretty stressful.”

While it’s a hard habit to break, try not checking your email all the time, especially if you’re with friends or working on schoolwork. It’ll just stress you out more. Take 30 minutes out of your day two to four times per day to answer your emails, and that’s it. No one else responds with lightning speed, so you don’t need to either.

2. When your members are sad and tired, you’re sad and tired

When something goes wrong with your group or organization, it’s easy for members and leaders to get into a slump. “It can be a real struggle when morale is low,” says Sarah Self, a sophomore at Belmont University, “Regardless of why, you have to remind them why they're doing this in the first place. Things may be hard in this moment, but you've got to go uphill to get to the top of the mountain, and that mountain is worth it.”

As the leader, try to stay positive through the tough times. You’re a role model; your members are reflective of your actions. “Make sure they know their problems are heard too. If they feel valued, they'll give you so much more,” says Sarah. Make time during meetings to listen to feedback so you know how to keep your group running smoothly.

3. Schoolwork is the last thing on your to-do list

Often, as a student leader, you have so many things to do for your organization(s) that academics get put on the back burner. Plus, most of the time, answering emails and talking to your executive board is way more fun (and feels more important, let’s be honest) than finishing your biology lab report. “Whenever I sit down to do homework, I usually end up spending at least an hour working on leadership stuff before I even get to schoolwork,” says Reilly.

Prioritizing your groups and organizations isn’t inherently bad, but you are in college for a reason. Try setting a timer for 25 minutes and doing academic work for that amount of time, and then take 25 minutes to work on extracurricular tasks. It’s all about balance!

4. Over-scheduling is your middle name

You told your friend you would get lunch today. You told three others the same thing. You also didn’t realize that it was impossible to go from class to the city for a photo gig in 10 minutes. “Overscheduling restricts the soul. It makes it seem like college is just a to-do list,” says Jacqui Fricke, a sophomore at Temple University. “You just end up getting more stressed when you realize how many things you signed up for. Be spontaneous, but when it comes to your organization, get a planner so you know what times you can be spontaneous.”

Writing in your planner might seem tedious, but in the end, it’s a tool of freedom. It organizes everything and keeps all of your obligations in check. Plus, there are just so many cute planners in this world, so why not buy one?

Related: 15 Things Only Student Leaders Understand

5. You take on everyone else’s jobs instead of just doing your own

Doing everyone else’s work is a common practice of all perfectionists. You want to make sure everything is the best it can be, which isn’t bad in itself, but it can be perceived negatively by your group members. It can also lead to unnecessary stress on your end.

“I try to do everyone’s job for them and then I end up overworking myself,” says Tiara Curow, a junior at Central Washington University. “I don’t know if it’s because I have control issues or I just don’t want to put too much burden on my executive team. I usually end up getting stressed out or not completing my other tasks to my full potential. What I try to remember is that my executive team would not have taken their positions if they weren’t aware of what the jobs entailed.” Remember that your organization is a team effort; it’s not every woman for herself. Pitch in when others need help, but try not to take on everyone else’s tasks.

6. What’s a social life?

While your girls get ready to go out on the weekends, you’re holed up in your room, answering emails, meeting deadlines, contacting event coordinators and just trying to keep everything in line. Sometimes it’s nice to stay in, but you’re definitely tired of scrolling through Instagram and having FOMO every single weekend.

“Having to stay in every weekend to do work for my organizations and homework that I neglected during the week due to said organizations gets old,” says Emily Miller, a senior at Temple University. “I’m not a huge party girl, but I would like to hang out with my friends and visit the city during the weekends.” It’s tough when there are only 24 hours in a day, but we suggest picking one night or day out of the weekend to socialize, and then using the rest of the weekend to focus. While academics and leadership are incredibly important, you can’t restrict yourself from a college experience. We know you; you’ll get your work done.

7. You never give yourself “you” time

You’re so busy trying to make everyone happy that you forget about what matters most: your happiness. “One of the things I find really difficult as a student leader at my university is being able to balance the time I spend on that and time I spend doing things for myself,” says Emma Hoey, a freshman at the University of Vermont. “I feel that after I put so much of my free time into something that takes a lot out of me I deserve to relax and de-stress. But my commitment to being a leader for all these girls is so time-consuming that I find myself skipping yoga class again to read more current events, or missing out on a group outing because I'm planning so much stuff in my head to get done.”

Remember that an empty cup can’t pour into others. You need time to fill yourself up with what makes you happy, whether that means watching The Office on Netflix for two hours, journaling or getting your nails done. If you’re a spiritual person, take time out of your day to meditate or pray. Keeping your happiness in check is more beneficial than running yourself dry.

8. Your planner stresses you out way more than it needs to

What’s a leader without her planner? Nothing. Planners can be the most beautiful organizational tool, but they can also cause issues. “As a student leader my biggest struggle has been overlooking my schoolwork and relying too much on my planner,” says Tiara. “Usually if something isn’t written in my agenda it doesn’t exist and that has created issues.”

We’ve all written down events, assignments and deadlines that get canceled or changed and we forget to fix them. That’s why it’s important to write in pencil. Or use different colors to mean different things, like “definitely happening,” “possibly happening,” etc. And remember, you have a planner for a reason—use it! Carry it with you everywhere, or else you run the risk of overscheduling yourself (see #4).

Being a student leader can be a major struggle, but if we didn’t want the hustle, we wouldn’t have taken the position. Be proud of your leadership positions, but above all, make sure that you’re happy. Your well being is worth more than any position.

We already knew Zendaya is a killer actress and that her style regularly slays the game— but it turns out that she's also really good at giving relationship advice too.

In a new video on her app, Zendaya sat down with her assistant Darnell to get real about everything from being friends with someone before dating them, to dating someone in another country — and she has one piece of dating advice that you need to hear before the holidays if you're considering bringing your new S.O. home to meet the fam.

It can be hard to decide when it's the right time to introduce the person you're dating to your family. When you've been dating for six months? A year? According to Zendaya, there's no specific length of time you should have been dating — but rather, it should be when you feel committed enough to know that your relationship is more than just a fling

"If you guys both agree that this is a long term relationship that you both want to invest your time in," she says when asked about the right time for your S.O. to meet your family. "Because otherwise it’s just embarrassing to bring someone home and you’re like, 'we broke up.' I don’t know a specific time. I think you should just bring them home when you think for sure that you’re going to spend a lot of time with this person and you feel comfortable bringing them home."

Considering her rumored boyfriend Tom Holland reportedly recently met her family (and they apparently love him), we'll be taking all the dating advice we can get from Zendaya.

Fall is the perfect time to experiment with new beauty looks, whether it’s a dark matte lip or a subtle rose gold highlight. That’s why Her Campus and L’Oréal Paris hit the road earlier this year for the Glam Tailgate Tour, bringing the ultimate Colorista 1-Day Spray pop-up hair salon and Infallible® Paints lip lounge to four lucky campuses!

If you’re headed out to a football game and want to support your team in the most glamourous way possible or just want a quick change to spice up your beauty routine, L’Oréal Paris Colorista 1-Day Spray is the perfect temporary hair color. Match your new locks with lacquered matte or metallic lips and you’re good to go! 

Glam Tailgate Tour didn’t hit your campus this fall? No sweat! L’Oréal Paris is giving three lucky winners an exclusive Her Campus x L’Oréal Paris makeup bag filled with their Infallible® Paints lip products. Get ready for #beautygoals!  

Each prize pack includes fall’s hottest lip shades, such as:

• L'Oréal Paris Infallible® Paints/Lips Matte in Cinna-Bomb
• L'Oréal Paris Infallible® Paints/Lips Matte in Tongue Tied
• L'Oréal Paris Infallible® Paints/Lips Metallic in Moon Lust
• L'Oréal Paris Infallible® Paints/Lip in Lilac Lust
• and so much more!

Enter here for your chance to win!

L’Oréal Paris Is Giving You These Glam Essentials!

2017 brought us many new and inspiring faces in fashion, and with a fresh year around the corner we're forecasting the people to watch in 2018. Some are already models or well established in the industry, but these women are continuing to pioneer diversity, body positivity and generally chic aesthetics like never before. Take a look at some of these influencers you must add to your Insta feed. 

Adwoa Aboah

Aboah first graced the cover of Vogue Italia in 2016, and has been making a name for herself ever since. She has gone beyond the limits of fashion and uses her platform to discuss addiction and depression with young women everywhere, even creating Gurls Talk, and outlet for honest conversation surrounding these issues. She has devoted herself to use her rise in the fashion industry to help those who have fallen, and she shows no signs of slowing down in 2018.