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When Is It Okay to Take a Semester Off?

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College isn’t easy. We all know that. We’re pulled in every direction by athletics, academics, our job, internships, extracurricular activities and our social lives. There is little room for anything else. While most times, it’s important to just work through the tough times and push ourselves to the finish line, there are a few good reasons to take a semester off from school. Read on to see if you should consider a break.

1. There’s a family crisis

This is so important! If you find yourself dealing with a serious family emergency like death, divorce or illness, that can take precedence over school. Some people actually cope with illness or death better when they have other things to focus on, like academics. “I had a family crisis last year during the middle of the year, but my family urged me to stay in school,” says Kelsey, a sophomore at Eastern University. “It ended up being for the best because I wasn’t constantly thinking about the situation at home, since I had academics and everything else right in front of me.” However, if you’re not that type of person, consider taking a semester off. If you’re in class but constantly worrying about your family, it is not worth staying in class and getting bad grades. Come back next semester with a clear head and smash those classes. But while you’re at home, don’t slack off. Help your family with whatever they need, think about applying for a part-time job and maybe even consider taking an online class. It’s bound to be less vigorous than a full credit load, and it’ll keep your mind active and ready to go back to campus in a few months. But most importantly, cherish the time you have with your family while you’re home.

2. You run out of money

With college tuition on the rise, debt is a serious issue. Many college students have to pay their own tuition, so they rely fully on loans and their savings. It’s not uncommon for students to run out of money part way through earning their degree. And we aren’t talking the “OMG I’m so broke I can’t even afford guac in my burrito bowl” kind of broke, we’re talking about literally running out of money and having nothing to fall back on. It’s a harsh reality for many students, especially in today’s economy, and taking a semester off is a way to alleviate debt and make some money. “My dad lost his job while I was in my first year, and my parents were paying for my college, so I decided to take a semester off and help my family,” says Kate, a junior at Temple University, “I found a job close-by that paid well and I actually ended up becoming closer to my family members than ever before. Truthfully, I’m so glad I made the decision to take the semester off.” If you’re considering taking a semester off for this reason, we advise that you begin looking and applying for jobs before you leave school. Doing this ahead of time may give you more time to work once you’re actually home.

3. You become seriously depressed, anxious, over-exhausted and/or suicidal at school

It’s so easy for mental health to be pushed to the back burner in college. There are so many other responsibilities that seem to overshadow our mental well-being. If you find yourself becoming depressed, anxious or suicidal, you need to see a mental health professional to talk about your options. They will likely advise you to talk to a professional outside of school, as well as give you advice about how to continue through college. Taking a semester off could be the best option if you’re in this position. See a doctor, find a therapist at home and take the semester to get yourself back on track. Your mental health is always going to be more important than your GPA.

Over-exhaustion is also very real among college students. The often crushing weight of assignments and extracurricular activities leads to burnout. In this situation, taking a semester off is also viable option. We recommend finding a counselor at home to help find new ways to reduce stress and let out frustration. Spend time resting and rejuvenating yourself. Find a new active hobby, like yoga or running, that helps you alleviate anxiety and stress. Another option is travel. “I think if someone does take a semester off they should either travel or have a balance of work and something they love to do,” says Cassandra Balado, a junior at Pace University, “You have to be honest with yourself about why you’re considering it.” Taking time to travel by yourself or with a friend can be the perfect solution to over-exhaustion.

Related: 17 Signs You’re Ready to Get TF Out of College

4. You lose interest in school all together

If you find yourself completely disinterested, apathetic and unmotivated about your studies for a long period of time, we recommend talking to your parents as well as an advisor or guidance counselor at your school to discuss next steps. College isn’t for everyone. That’s why there are hundreds of other options (tech schools, trade schools, etc.) that will land you the career of your dreams without going to a traditional university. “I was in art school for two years before I realized that I hated it,” says Judy, a Lehigh Valley School of Nursing alumna. “I quit the next semester, and took a few months to look into other options. I applied for nursing school and got accepted, and realized that I had such a passion for it. 40 years later, here I am, still in the field.” Taking a semester off to explore other options may be just what you need to spark motivation for your future.

5. You receive a special opportunity

Sometimes, an opportunity arises that you just can't pass up. Especially with the election this year, college students were considering trading their class schedules for internships with political candidates. Sometimes internships are seriously intensive and more like a full-time job than an internship. "I was on an organizing team for Hillary Clinton's campaign in Philadelphia," says Yasmine Hamou, a sophomore at Temple University. "So I spent most of my days organizing voters into specific groups so that they could contact and be contacted by the right people to get them more involved. While organizing was similar to what I had done in the past as a fellow for President Obama, there was a lot more ennui this time around." Other situations can arise, too. Some schools and religious organizations offer programs that span months where students work on service projects in areas of need. Sometimes these programs include cross-cultural classes, but often they are solely for mission work. "I'm planning on taking a year off of school after my sophomore year to do missions abroad," says Morgan, a sophomore at Hesston College. "I've decided to take this step because I want to try and apply what I've been studying to make sure that it is what I want to do for the rest of my life. It also will give my brain a little break after two years of cramming info in there." Opportunities like these don't come around often, so when they do, consider them. You might learn invaluable lessons from a campaign or a mission trip that a professor can't teach you.

Remember: No grade is worth your well-being or your family life. “I think sometimes we put a lot on our plates and a semester off can help clear our heads giving us a new perspective on priorities,” says Cassandra. “You have to know yourself, though, and be aware if you will have motivation to go back finish up your degree.” Like Cassandra says, it can be tough to return to school after a semester off, but remember why you started in the first place. Remember the dream career you had as a little girl that transformed as you grew up, and go back to school to make that little girl proud.


Twitter Explains Why It Won't Block 'World Leaders' as Critics Call for Trump's Removal on the Website

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On Friday, Twitter clarified its policies and posted an explanation of why the social media website will not be blocking “world leaders,” The Washington Post reports.

In the blog post, Twitter wrote, “Elected world leaders play a critical role in that conversation because of their outsized impact on our society.”

While Twitter doesn’t specifically mention President Trump, Twitter added, “Blocking a world leader from Twitter or removing their controversial Tweets would hide important information people should be able to see and debate. It would also not silence that leader, but it would certainly hamper necessary discussion around their words and actions.”

According to ABC News, Twitter’s blog post comes only three days after Trump’s tweet about the “nuclear button.”

“North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un just stated that the ‘Nuclear Button is on his desk at all times,’” Trump wrote. “Will someone from his depleted and food starved regime please inform him that I too have a Nuclear Button, but it is a much bigger & more powerful one than his, and my Button works!”

Since the “nuclear button” tweet, Trump critics were quick to point out that his tweet was in violation of Twitter’s policies and called for Trump to be suspended, ABC News reports.

Just earlier this week, according to The Post, protesters gathered outside of Twitter’s headquarters in San Francisco and projected that either Trump or Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey “must go.”

Similar claims have been previously made against some of Trump’s tweets, but in this case, as well as the previous ones, Twitter said that since the tweets were “newsworthy” and of public interest, they would not be removed from the website, The Post reports. Ultimately, Twitter’s new explanation expands on this idea of “newsworthiness.”

“We review tweets by leaders within the political context that defines them, and enforce our rules accordingly,” Twitter said in its latest explanation. “No one person's account drives Twitter’s growth or influences these decisions. We work hard to remain unbiased with the public interest in mind.”

 

4 Benefits of Moving Back Home After College

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Whether you went to college in a different state or with your parents close by, the idea of moving back to your hometown or city post-graduation is sometimes frowned upon. After all, adulthood is the time to spread your wings and try new things, right? Not necessarily.

Beginning your first steps in the “real world” in a familiar setting can actually provide benefits for your career, social life and overall well being. Here are a few reasons why:

1. You’ll find it easier to save money and find a first apartment you truly like

If you choose to move back with your parents right away, that is a great opportunity to grow your savings and save up for a career location that you’re excited about.

If moving home isn’t the best option for you and you’d prefer an apartment, finding one in your area will be much more feasible than apartment hunting in an unfamiliar new city. You’ll already have a pretty good sense of which areas you gravitate towards and which you don’t.

Additionally, you’ll have an understanding of the housing market in your state to where you’ll know if you’re getting a good deal on rent in a building or being ripped off. Alaina Leary, a book publishing professional finishing her master’s at Emerson College, made the decision to stay put for a little while on her home turf in Boston before seeing out her dream of living in New York City. She says, “It's cheaper, and I know all the best areas and cities just outside Boston that are safe but still inexpensive enough not to need five roommates. I know nothing about NYC, and it would’ve been so much harder for me to start over there, fresh out of college, with only a small amount of savings in the bank.”

Related: The Pros and Cons of Moving Back Home After College

2. You have a built-in support system

Most likely, several of your high school colleagues will disperse to different cities throughout the country post-college. However, it is also likely that a handful of your friends will still be, at the very least, in the same state as you.

Don’t take these nearby friends for granted: they will provide a necessary support system as you navigate the early stages of your career. One of the most difficult aspects of starting fresh in a new city is the struggle to make friends, so by having people to meet up with on weekends, you’ll find your stress and anxiety about socializing slightly diminished and be able to put your focus on your job.

Obviously, having family close by can prove to be a benefit for your emotional well being too. Plus, it’s nice not to have to fork over money for flights home for the holidays!

Colie Lumbreras, a web content administrator from Chicago, knows the value of having family close by. “While sometimes I wish I had moved somewhere far away that is new and exciting, having family close by is everything for me.

"I do dinner on a weekly basis with my mom. I can visit my grandparents at any point. When I am in need of someone to let out and feed my dog last minute, or if I get locked out after my morning run, someone is always close by to help!” 

3. Your career goals align with the job market in your city

If you happened to grow up in or around a major city, such as San Francisco, New York or Boston, it might be a strategic move to stay put at least for a little while.

Depending on your interests, you may find that your industry of choice has a strong presence in your city. You can take advantage of networking opportunities with people you know in your area in order to meet those that will help you excel in your career.

Sarah Enloe, a marketing professional, took advantage of the opportunities in her city by reconnecting with a former employer. She says, “I currently work as a marketing assistant at an assisted living. This is the same assisted living where I had my first job in high school as a dietary aide, and later on as a concierge. I left when I was about halfway through college and always missed it.”

She adds, “This was the first and only job I applied to after college and, had I not gone back home, I never would've been able to apply for this job.”

Related: HC's Guide to Living at Home After College

4. You know your way around, which will reduce stress

This is the most obvious, but probably most beneficial, reason to stay put after graduation. Having a comfort level with your surroundings immediately takes away some of the stress of starting adulthood and can help boost one’s confidence.

When you move to a different city, everything feels new, even foreign for a while, and the adjustment period can be as long as a year or two. Yet when you take that unfamiliarity out of the equation, the only major thing that will take adjusting is your job itself, which will increase your focus and take your mind off of the distractions all around you, because you’ve “been there, done that.”

Starting anew post-graduation is tough for anyone, regardless of where you choose to live. By making the choice to move back to your roots for a little while, you’re ultimately setting yourself up for future success, which is empowering.

5 Career Options With Flexible Schedules

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More frequently, students entering the workforce are searching for career opportunities that offer increased flexibility. No one wants to sit behind a desk in a poorly lit cubicle day in and day out, counting the seconds until it’s time to go home. If the thought of getting dressed up and heading to the office bright and early every day for the rest of your life makes you gag, we’ve got just the list for you. Here are a few career options to consider that aren’t your typical 9-to-5 commitments.

1. Blogger

Creating a blog is easier now than ever before, with online templates and tons of examples to look to for inspiration. But maintaining a blog is hard work! It takes someone truly passionate about a topic—fashion or human rights, literature or sports—to turn a vision board into a scrollable reality. The perks, of course, are that you get to work from home (or your local coffee shop or book store or even outdoor park) and you get to create your own schedule.

Jordan Chapman, a sophomore at Emory University and creator of The Hat Logic, explains that, contrary to popular belief, bloggers don’t just sit around taking selfies. It’s true that, without her blog, she may have never discovered her love for fashion photography, but her job has also allowed her to discover so much more about herself. She has learned to work with others from a remote location and has grown to welcome constructive criticism, all while enjoying the many travel opportunities that have come her way since the launch of her blog, including trips to Paris and Amsterdam.

Like with any other career path, success in the blogosphere doesn’t come overnight and several years can go by before your hard work rewards you with significant financial returns. Jordan says that the key is consistently marketing yourself and your blog as having a clear and identifiable theme or persona. This will help your existing audience relate to you more, attract new and like-minded friends and followers and, hopefully, grab the attention of professional brands you’d like to work with. Lauren Conrad did it and so can you!

2. Freelancer

If you have a special, marketable and in-demand talent, then this is ideal for you. You’ve probably already heard of freelance journalists, but anyone who’s willing to work for more than one brand or company on paid projects of varying lengths can essentially be a freelancer. Maybe you’re good at something highly technical like graphic design, website construction, app development or videography or maybe you speak and read two or more languages fluently.

There are tons of online resources available to connect you with potential clients seeking very specific services. Freelancer.com, for example, is a searchable database that allows freelancers and employers to join a network of more than 20 million users. Employers are able to add their service requests to the archive of more than 10 million jobs while freelancers are able to browse relevant opportunities using pre-determined categories or keyword searches.

Melanie Green, executive editor of Melanie Green Editorial Services, works frequently with freelance writers and other creatives. Beyond job-hosting platforms, she suggests approaching companies that you think have a regular need for the services you offer. As a writer, these may include newspapers, magazines, marketing companies or even universities. Start by asking if there’s anything you can do to help them; then, once you’ve established a relationship and a name for yourself as an expert in your field, start negotiating short-term contracts.

Networking becomes especially important when you are hoping to earn a livable income as a freelancer; you are largely responsible for securing and negotiating every job opportunity you receive. You are your own office manager, keeping up with multiple simultaneous projects, reaching out to potential clients and promoting yourself on relevant professional platforms, all while producing quality work for each individual client.

Freelancing is no easy task, but with an unwavering sense of commitment and excellent time management skills, you can become so renowned for your skills and expertise that clients begin to seek you out. 

3. Personal Trainer or Fitness Instructor

Who says you can’t get paid to work out? If fitness is your ultimate passion and you love helping other people, you just might have a future as a personal trainer or fitness instructor.

Becoming a certified personal trainer is a major commitment, but the long process will pay off in the end. As a certified fitness instructor, you’ll be able to teach classes at full-service health and fitness clubs, specialty studios and even some medical facilities—all of which allow you a much more flexible schedule than a regular 9-5. Plus, you also have the option of going into business on your own. You can offer personal training classes at your home, your clients’ homes, your favorite beach pavilion or even on YouTube. Some personal trainers also offer virtual training packages for remote clients!

4. Photographer

The list of self-taught photographers is, by this time, ceaseless. In fact, we’d be lying to ourselves if we said that we’ve never once listed one of our interests as photography. What may seem like an amateur hobby can actually become an enlightening career—one that not only pays the bills, but also leads you to the most unexpected of places and people.

There are so many ways to strengthen your skills as a photographer—from books to online workshops, college classrooms to apprenticeship opportunities. If you have a camera and a vision, it’s not too early to start curating a portfolio that showcases your talents. Seek out mentors already established in the field and ask them to take a look at your work; be open to feedback and work on your weaknesses. Don’t be afraid to share your work online for feedback from unfamiliar people either and some great exposure (no pun intended). Plus, who doesn’t like sharing her opinions on the Internet.

As a beginner, offer your services at reduced prices to the people closest to you. If you are a recent grad, advertise photo packages for college and high school graduation portraits or even campus events coverage for student organizations. Typically, students have lower budgets and are willing to take a chance on someone they recognize as one of them.

Before you know it, you’ll hone in on your own unique style that people—hopefully clients—will come to appreciate, and your clientele will expand. Your nomadic dreams of traveling across the state or country or world on your own schedule photographing people’s stories, unimaginable landscapes or exotic wildlife will be closer than you think.

5. Interior Designer

If you light up (and cringe a little at the same time) when someone starts talking to you about their “aesthetic” and your Pinterest board is filled with photos of themed rooms with all their unique furnishings, you’re probably an interior design buff. Your creative and colorful mind could never be contained by the seemingly dull existence of a 9-5 job!

As with blogging or freelancing, the first step is to market yourself and your styles appropriately. Social media platforms with an emphasis on photo sharing are a great place to start, escalating later on to a website of your own. In fact, your design genius knows no bounds. Forget websites; aren’t apps the future anyway? That’s what Anne Courtney, wardrobe stylist and interior designer, must have told herself when she created Hutch (formerly Homee)—an app that allows interior designers to work with clients via a text-like service with built-in shopping features.

Even if you think you’re not ready for an app or a website, being an interior designer still affords you the luxury of working in a different space every day. What could be more inspiring for your craft?

Related: 7 Reasons You Should Snag That Startup Job

Whether you work at an office from 9 to 5 or you enjoy a more unconventional work schedule, the expectations aren’t entirely different. Hard work is an important factor of success in any field, on any schedule. In fact, some might argue that it’s even more significant if your schedule is constantly in flux. The burden is on you to stay organized and determined and to put in the extra effort when needed. Whatever you decide to do career-wise, aim to build a life for yourself that is as happy and as fulfilling as you have always imagined it to be. You deserve it.

Links We Love 1.7.18

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What would a Trump impeachment look like? [Refinery29]

The best planners on Amazon. [New York Magazine]

How diet became a dirty word. [Quartz]

High school yearbook photos from this year's Grammy nominees. [Wonderwall]

The secret to perfect cookies. [USA Today]

Is coffee bad for your skin? [Life With Me]

Don't ask Travis Scott about Kylie Jenner's pregnancy. [MTV News]

Golden Globe nominated movies about other movies. [PEOPLE]

These foods from Tokyo Disneyland are almost too cute to eat. [Elite Daily]

suicide hotline is fighting growing despair in Puerto Rico. [The New York Times]

8 Fears You Have About Choosing an Out-of-State School (& How to Deal)

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The thought of going to an out-of-state college might simultaneously sound like the best and worst idea that you have ever had. On one hand, you’re going to have the opportunity to meet a bunch of new people, you’ll get a fresh start and you won’t have to tell your parents where you’re going every time you leave the house. On the other hand, it’s a bit scary to think about heading to a completely new place and leaving your family, friends and even pets behind.

The fact that you’re even considering an out-of-state college shows that you are totally ready to take on the challenge. Luckily, you aren’t the first to be nervous about attending a college far from home. Here are eight common fears that every senior has – and how to deal!

1. You won’t know anyone

We aren’t going to pretend that this isn’t a completely valid fear, because it definitely is — especially if you’re moving to a state where you don’t even have family. The idea of being completely on your own is a bit of a shock to the system, but it might turn out to be one of the best things ever.

First of all, you get a completely clean slate. Now, we’re not saying that you have to go and change everything about yourself the second you step on campus, but you have the opportunity to start fresh and rid yourself of any stereotypes from high school. 

If you want to make sure that you know at least a couple people when the first day rolls around, try to make friends with people at orientation. Although some people might try to play it cool, most freshmen have the same fear of not knowing anyone right off the bat. When you meet someone new or talk to someone that you could see yourself hanging out with, don’t be afraid to ask to exchange numbers – or even Snapchats. What better way to become friends with someone than by exchanging the occasional puppy filter?

It’s also be a good idea to look into the programs or clubs that your future school has. Usually during the first few weeks of classes, there are interest meetings for freshmen to attend. Joining a club with other people who share your interests is the perfect way to bond.

“In high school, I had two best friends that I did everything with,” says Paige VanderLeest, a junior at Iowa State University. “I loved being around them and I felt comfortable around them, so I never felt the need break out of my small social circle. I am extremely thankful for those friends, but I know I wouldn't have expanded my horizons had I gone to an in-state school.”

The fact that you don’t know anyone means that you have plenty of room for everyone you meet to potentially become your new friend. While it would be awesome to have your day one BFFs with you at college, you will be so thankful to have two separate squads who will always have your back.

2. This is the first time you’ll be away from your family  

Sure, you may have gone with your friends on spring break or a summer program for a few weeks, but potentially spending an entire semester away from your family can be tough. It may be hard to believe that you're going to miss things like your parents randomly coming into your room (and not closing the door) or having to be your sibling's personal driver, but you will be fine.

Living far from home might also mean that you have to do things like make your own appointments, pay your own bills and take care of other things that your parents usually take care of. No one leaves home completely ready to enter the adult world, but after you successfully make your first doctors appointment you will totally embrace your inner Olivia Pope and start handling things on your own left and right.

At first, it can be hard to say goodbye to those who know you best, but being on your own will encourage you to move towards being more independent. "Living away from home for the first time is scary," says Ally Deck, a sophomore at the University of Wisconsin. "After your first time away, the hardest part is over — you’ve ripped off the Band-Aid and you realize that you're capable of being independent. Living at home is great, but it will always be there to return to." 

It’s going to take some getting used to, but there are plenty of ways to make sure you feel as close to home as possible. Maybe you can plan a weekly Skype date with your mom or kindly ask your sister to unblock you on Instagram so that you can see what she’s up to (and promise not to snitch). Also, the more you get out of your room and get involved on campus, the less you’ll notice the absence of your family.

3. You won’t be able to adjust to the weather  

If you’re moving one or two states over, you probably won’t experience that much of a weather change. But, if you’re looking to move to a completely different coast, you’re in for a whole new world (or at least a whole new part of the country). It’s probably a good idea to do your research and find out the general temperatures for each season, so you’re not left out in the rain — literally. Fortunately, moving to a different place is definitely a reason for going on a shopping spree, or at least adding a few staple items to your wardrobe, which is never a bad thing.

In terms of knowing what to actually wear on a particular day, watching the weather or checking the weather app on your phone is definitely never a bad idea. "I used to wonder why my parents watched the weather every morning but now it's become part of my own daily routine as well," says Kelsie Savageau, a freshman at Murray State University. "It makes a difference knowing ahead of time, exactly how miserable it's projected to be outside." 

Depending on whether you're moving from a warmer climate to a cooler climate (or vice versa), there are adjustments that you can make in your dorm room that will make you feel more at home. If you're used to cooler temperatures where you're from, make sure to bring a fan so that you stay cool regardless of the toasty temperatures outside.

For those used to warmer temperatures, making the move to a cold environment can be a bit of a shock to the system. It's probably a good idea to invest in a space heater, just in case your roommate isn't thrilled about the idea of turning the entire room into a personal sauna, just make sure your dorm allows it. It also wouldn't hurt to bring along a few blankets that can be your source of warmth day or night. 

It might take a few weeks (or months) to better adjust to the out of state weather, but you will become a master of multiple climates — which is something not many people can say. 

4. It will be expensive for you to go home

If you’re looking forward to moving far from home, it more than likely won’t be an issue if you can’t go home every single weekend. However, there will probably be some moments throughout the semester when you will want to go home, but might not be able to because of the quick turnaround time.

Thanksgiving is a prime example of this. It’s a major holiday that you, of course, want to spend with your family, but it might be a bit costly to go home when Christmas break is right around the corner. Some out of state collegiettes opt to stay on campus during the break but still make the most of it.

Erika Harrell, a junior at Howard University, is one of them. “Just because you are in college does not mean you can't do certain traditional Thanksgiving things,” Erika says. “Watch the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade or A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. It may not be the same as if you were home, but it can still put you in the holiday spirit.”

You can also consider getting a part-time job to help pay for your plane or bus tickets home. Your parents want you to be able to come home for breaks and they will really appreciate it if they see you are trying to step up and help out.

5. You’ll always feel homesick  

This fear is pretty common for almost everyone. It’s not easy to go from seeing your parents and siblings at home everyday to maybe seeing them for a few weeks every couple of months. Feeling homesick isn’t something that is going to go away all at once, but as you settle into college life you will notice it a little less.

Some of the best ways to deal with homesickness include surrounding yourself with new friends, finding a club or organization that your passionate about and making the most of getting to know your new state. The more you can keep your mind on your new experiences, the easier it will be.  

Danie Roberts, a junior at Lasell College, lived in a small town her whole life and was worried about the distance. “I was so scared I would never be able to see my family because of school and the distance, but now being out-of-state is normal to me,” she says. “If you’re worried about missing home, don’t back out just because it’s too far. Your dream school and education is worth it. I’m incredibly happy I moved out-of-state and decided to stay.” Even though it will be a little tough at first, you will more than likely be thankful that you took the plunge. Of course, where your family is will always be home, but who says that your second home can’t be just as great?

6. Your friends at home will forget about you  

It can be hard to be the only one from your friend group going away for college, but you shouldn’t let that keep you from going. Your best friends want the best for you even if that means that you'll be away from them. Just because staying in state is a good fit for some of your friends, it doesn't mean that it's the best option for you. Even though they can't be there in person, don't forget that they are just a phone call or text away. Group messages are a super easy way to make sure that you and your home squad keep in touch throughout the semester. Before you leave home for your first semester, make sure to grab your favorite pictures of you and your friends to decorate your room. Not only will it make your room feel more like home, but it's a great daily reminder of the awesome memories you share with your friends at home. 

"I have pictures plastered on my walls that remind me every day of all the things my friends and I have gone through together," says Moira McCarty, a junior at LeMoyne College. "Even when I get wrapped up in college life, the pictures are a great little reminder of how much I love and miss them." 

Before you come home, make sure to schedule a few days where you and your besties can meet up without other family obligations getting in the way. Absence really does make the heart grow fonder and plus, you will have tons of cool, never before heard stories to share with your BFFs.

Sure you’re going to miss being a locker away from your BFF or being able to drive to your friend’s house after class, but as cliché as it sounds you will find a new squad once you get to college. 

7. Tuition will be really expensive

Why students are punished for choosing to go to a school other than where they live, we have no idea. The best advice we can give for this one is scholarships, scholarships and oh, did we mention scholarships? 

From describing your dream ice cream flavor to writing an essay about how expensive college can be, there are so many opportunities for scholarship money out there — not to mention the scholarship money that you can get from your actual school. It’s never too late to start applying.

Related:4 Ways for Out-of-State Students to Get In-State Tuition 

8. You’ll miss your pet 

Okay, you can put on a brave face and say that you’re not going to miss your parents or siblings, but you can’t tell us that you’re totally fine with leaving your pet behind? While bringing your pet to college with you is a possibility, there are definitely pros and cons to this.

If you’re missing your pet at school, you can always ask one of your parents to put them on Skype or FaceTime — they’ll probably be happy to see your face too. It might also help to see if your family could give you updates, even a random story could make your day. Keeping lots of pictures of your pet around your room is also a great way to feel a little more connected to your pet while you’re away.

Going to school out of state is easier said than done, but don't let your fears prevent you from potentially awesome opportunities. Embracing the challenge will only make you a more independent, well-rounded collegiette.

One of Several Actresses to Bring an Activist as Her Golden Globes Date, Michelle Williams Invited the Original Creator of #MeToo

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Before the 75th Golden Globes even began on Sunday night, the red carpet filled with actresses devoted to reminding viewers of a universal mission far more important than who would take home an award. With many stars dressed in black in protest of sexual harassment, the more somber tone of the night became clear when several actresses appeared with activists as their dates. The New York Times reports that attendees Amy Poehler, Susan Sarandon, Laura Dern, Meryl Streep, Emma Stone, Emma Watson, Michelle Williams and Shailene Woodley were all accompanied by various kinds of activists. Such decisions reflect the new action plan Time's Up, aka Hollywood women's latest effort to highlight marginalized women's experiences with sexual harassment. 

The eight activists participating in the night's celebration released a statement about what their attendance meant, saying, "We believe we are nearing a tipping point in transforming the culture of violence in the countries where we live and work. It's a moment to transform both the written and unwritten rules that devalue the lives and experiences of women."

Among the activists was senior director of the organization Girls for Gender Equality and original founder of the #MeToo movement Tarana Burke. Burke finally spilled about her involvement with the Globes earlier on Sunday and appeared on the red carpet alongside Best Actress in a Drama nominee Williams. 

While I'm in awe of these women linking together Hollywood and the real world to fight sexual harassment, what's particularly amazing is Burke's iconic presence at the Globes. Burke originally coined the phrase #MeToo in 2006, literally more than a decade before it became one of the most common hashtags uttered across the internet. As she previously told the Timesher work lies in making sure survivors are heard, saying, "I think it is selfish for me to try to frame Me Too as something that I own...This is about survivors."

Although many actresses have credited Burke with the phrase's creation, it's safe to say that her name is occasionally lost in the shuffle. Williams made it clear on the red carpet that Burke and her inspirational work is why actresses have joined together to make a powerful statement that goes beyond their own industry.

When host Ryan Seacrest congratulated Williams on her nomination for her work in All the Money in the World, the actress thanked him but quickly turned the focus back to Burke. "The most exciting thing is [that] I thought I would have to raise my daughter to learn how to protect herself in a dangerous world," she said, "and I think because of the work that Tarana has done and the work that I'm learning how to do, we actually have the opportunity to hand our children a different world. I am moved beyond measure to be standing next to this woman."

As reported by PEOPLE, Burke used her moment in the spotlight wisely, telling Seacrest, "This is something I started out of necessity and something my community needed...this moment is so powerful because there is collaboration between these two worlds that people don't put together."

Hear that? That is the sound of women ready to get an important message across. We salute the actresses and activists coming together to promote underlying issues in workplaces across the globe. 

Nicole Kidman's Golden Globes Acceptance Speech Just Connected 'Big Little Lies' to the #MeToo Movement, & It Was Perfect

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It's no surprise that Nicole Kidman is the master of acceptance speeches, and her Golden Globes win for Best Actress in a Limited Series on Sunday night proved no differently. Taking home another award for her role in Big Little Lies, Kidman perfected the task of delivering yet another graceful acceptance speech, which you don't often see at the Globes. After all, there is free alcohol at this ceremony!

Kidman's speech was female-focused from the start, first thanking her daughters and then turning attention to her Big Little Lies co-stars. Addressing Reese Witherspoon, who was also her BLL co-producer, Kidman said, "We did this because of our friendship, our creative union and our support of each other. And I love you."

If we didn't already have confirmation of BLL's second season, this moment alone would've had me begging for one, tbh. 

Recognizing each of the main women in the cast, Kidman said, "Laura Dern, Shailene Woodley, Zoe Kravitz, we sat at a table and pledged allegiance to each other and commitment to each other and this is ours to share. Wow, the power of women."

Kidman also shared her mother's history of working as an activist for women's rights, reminding us that the Time's Up and #MeToo movements are far from being new concepts. "My momma was an advocate for the women’s movement when I was growing up, and because of her I’m standing here. My achievements are her achievements.”

As she did with her Emmys acceptance speech in the fall, Kidman then discussed her BLL character's experience with domestic abuse and how relevant it was to actresses' mission to protest sexual harassment. 

"This character that I played represents something that is the center of our conversation right now, abuse," Kidman said. "I do believe and I hope we can illicit change through the stories we tell and the way we tell them. Let's keep the conversation alive."

Just when I was wiping my eyes from how inspirational this gift of a woman is, she closed off with thanks for her husband Keith Urban. "When my cheek is against yours, everything melts away and that is love." Okay, I will fight anyone who doubts these two's status as one of Hollywood's loveliest couples.

Props to Kidman for always being a classy example of a powerful woman in the film and TV industry. Here's to her and the rest of the Big Little Lies cast surely making more of these inspirational speeches in the future. 


Amy Sherman-Palladino Gave Us Major 'Gilmore Girls' Vibes in Her Golden Globes Acceptance Speech

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We have creator Amy Sherman-Palladino to thank for bringing us the legendary characters of Gilmore Girls, despite the fact that the show never really caught on with award show voters during its run. However, Sherman-Palladino and her husband / co-executive producer Dan Palladino may have finally found a critics' darling with their new Amazon series The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. At Sunday night's Golden Globes ceremony, lead actress Rachel Brosnahan was awarded the trophy for Best TV Comedy Actress, while the entire series won for Best TV Series in the Musical or Comedy genre. 

While I'm thrilled that the Palladinos are finally getting the recognition they deserve for the delightful Mrs. Maisel, it's clear that Sherman-Palladino is basically Lorelai Gilmore in true form. Rocking a high-low skirt and her signature top hat, she led her cast and crew to the stage when their win was announced, seeming a little bewildered about how exactly to get to the stage (I mean, same). When she and her squad finally did, it was like we were instantly zapped into Stars Hollow.

"They make it a little harder to get up here," the Mrs. Maisel creator, writer and executive director said when she reached the microphone. "Oy, the Spanx!"

So, where are her poodles and Luke's coffee cup?

In true Sherman-Palladino fashion, she delivered her speech rapidly, thanking her crew for their transformation of New York City, Amazon for its production and the talented cast for their work. Just when you thought this moment was going to end normally, Sherman-Palladino seriously channeled Lorelai in her sign-off. "I'm going backstage," she told the crowd, looking around. "Is there cheese backstage? Let's go backstage. Bye!" 

Throw in the fact that both Alexis Bledel and Milo Ventimiglia were at the Globes representing The Handmaid's Tale and This Is Us, and the Globes were essentially an unofficial Gilmore Girls reunion. Twitter, of course, praised Sherman-Palladino for being her wonderful old self.

If this is how all of Sherman-Palladino's speeches would be, here's hoping that The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel meets even more success. 

Stop Everything—Oprah Winfrey Just Gave an Amazing Golden Globes Speech Reminding Us Why the #MeToo Movement Matters

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It's safe to say that whenever Oprah Winfrey is involved in something, that thing becomes infinitely better. Such was the case at Sunday night's Golden Globes ceremony, where Oprah received the Cecil B. DeMille Award, given to a Hollywood figure who has contributed extraordinarily to the world of entertainment. Following a pattern of speeches that addressed sexual abuse and its role in Hollywood, Oprah fit the tone of the night in a empowering, impassioned way, turning the focus from her own achievements to the changing tide of the world's social climate. 

After being introduced by her A Wrinkle in Time co-star Reese Witherspoon, Oprah began her acceptance speech with a memory from her childhood, in which she saw actor Sidney Poitier become the first black man to win an Academy Award. He later received the Cecil B. DeMille award in the 1980s, thus the historical moment paralleled her own, as she was the first black woman to accept the award. 

"It is not lost on me that, at this moment, there is some little girl watching as I become the first black woman to be given the same award," she remarked. "It is an honor and it is a privilege to share the evening with all of them."

First thanking the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for the honor, Oprah highlighted the struggles journalists have faced in the past year. "We know the press is under siege these days," she said. "We also know it's the insatiable dedication to uncovering the absolute truth that keeps us from turning a blind eye to corruption and to injustice...I want to say that I value the press more than ever before as we try to navigate these complicated times, which brings me to this. What I know for sure is that speaking your truth is the most powerful tool we all have."

The speech then transformed into award show history before our eyes. Oprah has a talent of making any ordinary saying sound legendary (I mean, think about the commercial where she talks about loving bread), but this delivery is one for the record books. 

"I want tonight to express gratitude to all the women who have endured years of abuse and assault," she continued. "They're the women whose names we'll never know." She then shared the story of Recy Taylor, a wife and mother who was abducted and raped by six white men in 1944. Although the men threatened that they would kill her if she told anyone, Taylor shared her experience with the NAACP, where Rosa Parks helped lead her case for justice. Her abusers were never persecuted.

"Recy Taylor died ten days ago, just shy of her 98th birthday," Oprah said. "She lived as we all have lived, too many years in a culture broken by brutally powerful men. For too long, women have not been heard or believed if they dare speak the truth to the power of those men."

Then to resounding cheers from the audience, particularly its female members, Oprah declared, "But their time is up. Their time is up."

Mentioning the wide array of people she has interviewed and portrayed in the past, Oprah closed with the shared quality that these humans all seem to possess in the bleakest of times. "The one quality all of them seem to share is an ability to maintain hope for a brighter morning, even during our darkest nights," she said. "So I want all the girls watching here, now, to know that a new day is on the horizon! And when that new day finally dawns, it will be because of a lot of magnificent women...and some pretty phenomenal men, fighting hard to make sure that they become the leaders who take us to the time when nobody ever has to say 'Me too' again."

Girl, PREACH.

While I was particularly moved by the shots of black women in the audience watching Oprah with such pride and admiration, Twitter was far from shy about their love of the speech. 

It can be difficult not to sound like a broken record when addressing sexual harassment and abuse in any industry, but Oprah reminded us why it's crucial to risk repetition with this acceptance speech. If your 2018 was off to a rocky start, do yourself a favor and listen to her speech. A new day is truly on the horizon, and it's our job to help women reach that breakthrough. 

How She Got There: Loren Grush, Science Reporter at The Verge

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Name:  Loren Grush
Age: 29
Job Title and Description: Science Reporter focusing on space travel, space policy, astronomy and more
College Major: University of Texas at Austin / Broadcast Journalism and Government double major
Website: The Verge 
Twitter Handle: @lorengrush
Instagram Handle: @grushcrush

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

LG: I haven’t had a “typical day” since I started working after college, which is one of the main reasons I love what I do. Each week changes depending on the types of news and events I expect to happen in the coming days. I alternate between writing stories on new space discoveries and hitting breaking news and in-depth analysis pieces on NASA and the commercial space industry. When I’m not writing, I’m filming videos on astronomy and space travel. And then every month or so, I travel to major events, like rocket launches or space conferences.

What is the best part of your job?

LG: I absolutely love traveling to film for my show Space Craft. Unlike breaking news events, we can take our time with the production and post-production of the show, which allows us to really sink our teeth into the stories we’re trying to tell. And the show takes us to some really unique places, where I get to perform the weirdest tasks — from NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, to practice spacewalk training in virtual reality, to the University of North Dakota to try on working space suits. I know each trip is always going to be an invigorating experience. 

What was your first job in your field and how did you get it? 

LG: My very first job was managing a block of entertainment programming at my college television station, Texas Student Television. I got the job after being a part-time producer for an entertainment news show, called Sneak Peek. That job really prepared me for meeting deadlines, since the shows had to be ready to go at a hard time each week. Otherwise, we didn’t have anything to air.

What words of wisdom do you find most valuable?

LG: When I first started work at my current job, my editor lamented the fact that a lot of space reporting is like cheerleading—essentially celebrating successful discoveries and praising companies without much analysis. While acknowledging success is still a big part of my job, I always try to remember that I’m not a cheerleader for the people I write about. Just like any other industry, the space industry and NASA are capable of making unwise decisions, too, and I’m not afraid to call out mistakes when I see them. Being critical doesn’t always make me popular, but I think it’s a key part of my profession, and I strive to never blindly believe the things that people are telling me.

What is one mistake you made along the way and what did you learn from it? 

LG: After working the same beat for so long, I sometimes make an assumption that I’ve recalled a fact correctly from a previous article without double checking. And that always leads to the dreaded correction update for a story. Although I feel like I know quite a bit about space news, it’s still a very complicated beat, ranging from astronomy and engineering to politics and business. Even the most seasoned space reporter can still get things wrong, and the more experience a person gets doesn’t mean the fundamental (and annoying) reporting basics shouldn’t be covered. So my biggest mantra now? Never assume that you absolutely know something.

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

LG: By far, it was experiencing zero gravity on Space Craft. For our season finale, we filmed on a parabolic flight with the Zero-G Corporation (nicknamed the Vomit Comet). The plane flies a series of peaks and valleys in order to give passengers about 30-second increments of weightlessness. And it was by far one of the coolest things I have ever done. A lot of my feelings are echoed in the episode, but it’s hard to describe the feeling of suddenly turning upside down and then “standing” on the ceiling of an airplane.

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

LG: My advice is always to embrace what makes you unique, and ignore people who say you’re not on the right path. I’ve been told by a lot of different people that I don’t have certain qualities that I’m supposed to have to do my job. A few people have made comments that my background isn’t ideal, and many have thought it was weird that I wanted to concentrate solely on space. But I stuck with it, and after a lot of hard work, I secured the job I’ve always wanted. 

Fill out my online form.

HC Wake-Up Call: Steve Bannon Apologizes for Delayed Response to 'Fire and Fury' Comments, BBC Editor Quits After Accusing Company of 'Breaking Equality Law'& Dunkin Donuts Cuts Certain Menu Items

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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.)

Steve Bannon Has Apologized for Not Responding Sooner to His Negative Comments in 'Fire and Fury'

ICYMI, the past week hasn't been the best for former White House chief strategist Steve Bannon. After his comments criticizing the Trump administration and Donald Trump Jr. in the new book Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House went public, President Donald Trump insisted that Bannon had "lost his mind." His contributions to the book led to Trump hinting at taking legal action against him. Now, CNN reports that Bannon regrets not responding to the publication of his comments sooner.

"Donald Trump Jr. is both a patriot and a good man," Bannon said in a statement. "He has been relentless in his advocacy for his father and the agenda that has helped turn our country around. I regret my delay in responding to the inaccurate reporting regarding Don Jr. has diverted attention from the president's historical accomplishments in the first year of [Trump's] presidency."

Bannon also clarified that his comments regarding Trump Jr.'s Trump Tower meeting with a Russian lawyer were directed toward Paul Manafort. "He should have known they are duplicitous, cunning and not our friends," he said of Manafort.

Top BBC Editor Quits After Claiming Company Is 'Breaking Equality Law'

BuzzFeed News reports that a top BBC journalist has resigned after accusing the company of encouraging a "secretive and illegal pay culture" and "breaking equality law" in relation to female staffers' payment.

BBC China editor Carrie Gracie wrote a letter to BBC viewers revealing this belief, saying, "The BBC belongs to you, the license fee payer. I believe you have a right to know that it is breaking equality law and resisting pressure for a fair and transparent pay structure."

Following other renowned female BBC journalists calling out their employer for its notable gender pay gap last year, Gracie's letter stated that she had been paid 33 percent less than male international editors. Gracie claimed that "up to 200 women" have complained about unequal pay in the last six months. In her letter, she said, "Despite the BBC's public insistence that my appointment demonstrated its commitment to gender equality, and despite my own insistence that equality was a condition of taking up the post, my managers had yet again judged that women's work was worth much less than men's."

Gracie has worked at the BBC for 30 years.

Dunkin Donuts Is Scaling Back Its Menu​

Dunkin Donuts is my go-to place if I'm looking for a simple cup of coffee, but if you're looking for one of its more obscure menu items, you may be out of luck. NBC New York reports that the chain will first debut a simplified menu throughout New England this week before launching it nationwide. Cut from the store are less popular items such as smoothies and some of the breakfast sandwiches. In addition to the cuts, Dunkin Donuts announced that it has also removed artificial dyes from all of its doughnuts. 

Check out the full list of eliminated menu items here

What to look out for...

Jan. 8 is National Bubble Bath Day, because after this week of likely failing to meet your New Year's resolutions, you'll need some self care.

Natalie Portman Announcing the All-Male Best Director Nominees at the Golden Globes is All of Us

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At last night's Golden Globes, the theme of the night was empowering women — well, except for the Best Director category.

Stars walked the red carpet in black and wore pins, showing their solidarity with the Time's Up Movement, which recognizes the sexual harassment and abuse in the film and entertainment industries and beyond. In his monologue, host Seth Meyers took shots at film producer Harvey Weinstein and actor Kevin Spacey, both of whom fell from grace in 2017 for sexual harassment and abuse. Cecil B. DeMille Award recipient and the woman we all want to recognize our existences, Oprah Winfrey made an empowering speech encouraging young women, particularly those of color, to continue to uncover and speak the truth about inequality, both racially and gender-based. 

With this mood in the air, stars and viewers alike noted that female directors like Greta Gerwig of Lady Bird and Dee Rees of Mudbound were absent from the list of nominees, though the films were nominated in other categories. And Natalie Portman was not about it.

Portman and director/actor Ron Howard read out the list of nominees for the Best Director category, which included winner Guillermo del Toro for The Shape of Water, Christopher Nolan for Dunkirk, Ridley Scott for All the Money in the World, Martin McDonagh for Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri and Steven Spielberg for The Post. 

"And here are the all-male nominees," Portman said, with a smirk, while Howard started laughing.

Some audience members yelled in celebration. Twitter users screamed (well, as best they could with words) about the savagery of Portman's comment.

Glad to see that Natalie Portman is here for us to call the Hollywood Foreign Press Association out on their ironic exclusion. Since we can't do so from our couches, you know, since we're not famous and all that. 
 

After Her Golden Globes Speech, People Want Oprah to Run for President in 2020 & Same

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After receiving the Cecil B. DeMille award at the 75th Golden Globes last night and becoming the first black woman to get the award, Oprah Winfrey made a speech to remember — one that many are saying sounded a bit...*presidential.*

Winfrey initially spoke about her childhood, and how she watched Sidney Poitier become the first black man to win a Golden Globe for Best Actor in 1964. She said it changed her life because she finally saw someone who looked like her being celebrated, and noted that young girls watching the awards home might have the same reaction to Winfrey as she had to Pontier.

She then mentioned her appreciation for the press and its mission to reveal the truth, and how there are so many people affected by sexual harassment in the workplace far outside of the scope of Hollywood. Her speech also included direct acknowledgement of the Time's Up campaign, and Recy Taylor, a black woman raped by a group of white men who were never brought to justice. 

"I've interviewed and portrayed people who've withstood some of the ugliest things life can throw at you, but the one quality all of them seem to share is an ability to maintain hope for a brighter morning, even during our darkest nights," Winfrey concluded her speech. "So I want all the girls watching here, now, to know that a new day is on the horizon! And when that new day finally dawns, it will be because of a lot of magnificent women, many of whom are right here in this room tonight, and some pretty phenomenal men, fighting hard to make sure that they become the leaders who take us to the time when nobody ever has to say 'Me too' again."

After Winfrey finished speaking, Twitter was buzzing with mentions about a possible presidential run for the multi-talented star in 2020:

Everyone's excitement was only ignited further when her longtime partner, Stedman Graham spoke on the matter. "It's up to the people. She would absolutely do it," he told the Los Angeles Times.

Last year's Cecil B. DeMille winner, Meryl Streep said that she would support Winfrey's run for president. 

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson had previously made comments about his own possible run for office in 2020. Maybe he and Winfrey can work out some sort of deal. 

The New York City Fire Department Responded To A Fire On The Roof Of Trump Tower

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A small fire caused by an electrical box for the building's heating and cooling system broke out on the roof of Trump Tower Monday morning, fire officials said.

Secret Service agents spotted smoke, according to ABC News, on top of President Donald Trump’s New York City home around 7 a.m.

About 70 firefighters rushed to the roof of the Tower in midtown Manhattan.

 

FDNY reported that they were “able to extinguish the fire without any problems within the building.” A firefighter was hit by debris, and a building engineer refused medical treatment after being evaluated for smoke inhalation.

The fact that the winter cold front has made Manhattan reach the low levels of 19 degrees, more steam and smoke were created by the water extinguishing the fire. The smoke was seen from many blocks away,NY Daily Newsreported.

Announcements were sent to tenants to assure them that there was no need to evacuate, ABC News reported.

Eric Trump, Trump’s son, tweeted about the fire as well:

The President was in Washington D.C. at the time of the fire, according to NY Daily News


India's Only Openly Gay Prince Is Opening His Home To LGBT People In Need & It’s Making a Big Impact

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Prince Manvendra Singh Gohil, India’s first openly gay royal, is defying traditions yet again. Gohil is now launching a charity to help people of the LGBT community, the International Business Timesreported.

Singh is defying his parents, who publicly disowned him in 2006, and is opening his 15-acre palace grounds to LGBT people and their allies.

The center will be run in conjunction to Gohil’s charity, Lakshya Trust. The Trust is a community based organization that addresses and advocates the “social, economical, legal, psychological, spiritual, and health aspects of sexual minorities…in the western India state of Gujarat,” according to its website.

“The fight for our rights cannot only be won in the courtrooms of our nations, but in the hearts and minds of our people,” the website states.

The prince is building more structures to accommodate more guests.

This is a big step for India, especially since it is still illegal for people of the same gender to be involved in sexual activities. Last year, India’s Supreme Court issued a ruling allowing LGBT people to express their sexuality without discrimination.

“I want to give people social and financial empowerment so eventually people who want to come out won’t be affected,” Gohil said. “They will have their own social security system. It won’t make a difference if they are disinherited.”

Gohil demands that Section 377 of the Indian penal code, which criminalizes homosexual activities, is revoked.

“It has no logic,” Gohil said. “Gay rights are human rights. We won’t win this fight if I corner myself to a national level. This has to be global.”

Bella Thorne Revealed She Was Sexually & Physically Abused Until She Was 14

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If last night's Golden Globes ceremony was any indication, women speaking out and standing up to the sexual harassment, assault and abuse they've endured isn't going anywhere in 2018. In support of the #TimesUp movement, which played a major role in yesterday's Golden Globes ceremony, Bella Thorne came forward with her story of sexual and physical abuse on Sunday.

In an Instagram post, which featured Thorne in a black jacket to show solidarity with the celebrities donning all-black on the red carpet yesterday, the actress revealed that she'd been sexually and physically abused for much of her childhood until she was 14 years old.

"I was sexually abused and physically growing up from the day I can remember till I was 14..when I finally had the courage to lock my door at night and sit by it," Thorne captioned the photo. "All damn night. Waiting for someone to take advantage of my life again. Over and over I waited for it to stop and finally it did. But some of us aren't as lucky to get out alive. Please today stand up for every soul Mistreated. #timesup"

Later in the day on Twitter, Thorne added an important point about why many victims (especially children and teenagers) never come forward with their stories — they're often too young to fully understand what happened to them in the first place

We're sure it wasn't easy for Bella to come forward and share her story — but it's amazing to see her using her platform to show other victims that they are not alone and that sexual harassment, assault and abuse won't be tolerated.

Emma Watson Spoke Out About Her Experience With Sexual Harassment on the Golden Globes Red Carpet

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Last night’s Golden Globes telecast was the kickoff for awards season and a walking, talking billboard for the women’s movement. Oprah, while giving her rousing Cecile B. DeMille Award acceptance speech, encouraged girls to know what they’re capable of. Natalie Portman reminded us that the best director category was entirely comprised of men. Time’s Up buttons adorned men’s lapels, women were clad in black and acceptance speeches were focused on creating change in regards to sexual harassment and discrimination in the work place.

While this is less surprising during the actual show, it was surprising to some that this was a major discussion on the red carpet; a place usually reserved for asking the question women have been taking to task in recent years: "Who are you wearing?"

Emma Watson, a fervent feminist and advocate for better treatment of women, was one such black-clad celebrity on the carpet discussing harassment she’s experienced.

"It's amazing because I have experienced the full spectrum," she told Variety. "But I think that for me, what is amazing is that my experiences are not unique, the experiences of my friends are not unique, the experiences of my colleagues are not unique. This issue is so systemic, structural. The statistics around, even just in the United Kingdom, women between ages 18 and 24, just huge, huge, huge numbers say that they have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace."

And she’s right. Many women, specifically in the misogynistic and sometimes less than inclusive entertainment industry, experience harassment or assault in the work place — and as many reverberated through the rafters last night: Time’s Up!

The openness, whether through jokes, speeches or interviews, to discuss this epidemic is just the beginning of the conversation. And this conversation is sure to last through awards season and beyond.

Ariana Grande Had the Best Reaction to BFF Millie Bobby Brown's Golden Globes Look

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Stranger Thingsstar Millie Bobby Brown absolutely slayed at the Golden Globes, and people can't stop obsessing over her look. While viewers stared in awe at their TV screens, famous friend Ariana Grande was sure to show the young actress some love. And all we have to say is, Ari sure knows how to gas up her gal pals.

As Hello Giggles reports, Brown wore a Calvin Klein dress in black to support the Time's Up Movement. Rocking ruffles and a classy open back, the thirteen-year-old feminist glowed on the red carpet while taking a stand against sexual assault. Whether it be the stunning head-to-toe ensemble or the meaningful reason behind Brown's outfit selection, Ariana Grande was clearly struck by the look. Lucky for us, Brown shared a screenshot of Ari's many loving texts to her Instagram story. 

Grande couldn't give enough compliments, proving that she and Brown are absolute BFF goals. But seriously, how can you not be speechless over this little queen?

Tarana Burke, Creator of the #MeToo Movement, Explained the Importance of Actresses and Activists Coming Together to Combat Sexual Harassment

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Sunday night's Golden Globes seemed to commence as usual: the red carpet, the glamour, the designer clothing and Hollywood's most elite actors and actresses coming together to celebrate the best in the film industry. Look closer, though, and a significant difference from year's past transformed the 75th ceremony into a societal call to action. Together in a sea of black dresses, actresses and activists united on a public platform to continue the conversation about sexual harassment in Hollywood and throughout all industries worldwide.

  

The peaceful protest was initiated by actress Michelle Williams and Tarana Burke, creator of the #MeToo Movement. As Burke explains to ELLE.com, it all started when Williams, nominated for Best Actress, reached out to her a few weeks ago.

"We had an amazing conversation," she says in the interview. "But after she invited me, I started talking to her about how one of the things that makes me sort of uncomfortable is that the media tends to pick one person in a moment like this one and elevate them as the hero of the hour."

Burke wasn't interested in capitalizing on her newfound recognition, not unless her partners in justice were acknowledged, as well.

"I said to Michelle, 'I know so many amazing women.' She had said she wanted to give me space to talk about my work and use the red carpet to amplify what I do, and I thought, 'Well, what if we had more than just me. What if we gave other amazing women the chance to be there?'"

Needless to say, Williams was on board with the idea. The duo sparked a pattern as other honorees, including Meryl Streep, Emma Stone, Emma Watson, Laura Dern, Amy Poehler, Susan Sarandon and Shailene Woodley followed suit by taking several advocates as their guests to the show

Other activists in attendance include Saru Jayaraman, Co-founder and Co-director of the Restaurant Opportunities Centers United. She accompanied Amy Poehler as Emma Watson brought along Marai Larasi, executive director of Imkaan, a women's group determined to protect minority women from violence. And Shailene Woodley invited Calina Lawrence, a member of the Suquamish Tribe who works as a voice for environmental preservation. 

"It was just this beautiful collaboration of all worlds," Burke said of the women involved. "We wanted to change the narrative that this whole movement is just actresses giving power to powerless people because all of us carry power in our own right, and they're learning from us as much as we're learning from them."

Standing in solidarity for the Time's Up Movement, the women decided to make a visual statement rather than a verbal declaration of their protest against sexual assault. Burke emphasizes that the world underestimates actresses due to their fame, but their actions on this platform are nothing to discredit.

"The privilege is real, and these women are privileged," Burke admits. "But that doesn't make them not human. We can help them, and they can help us. And the conversation doesn't stop tonight."

She continues, "We all know how the red carpet works; these women may not have a chance to say everything they want to say, so a visual statement means something... They don't get a chance to make political statements. They don't get a chance to express themselves. The black dresses — they weren't trying to change the world with that. They were trying to be heard."

And heard they are. Their statement was simple, but their message is significant. The black dresses symbolize a powerful truth: women are not backing down from the fight against sexual assault. The more women who work together, the closer the world comes to gender equality. Burke says it best:

"At the end of the day, we have a unified goal. Domestic workers, restaurant workers, black and brown women, Asian women, disabled women, trans women, queer women — we may go about the work in different ways, but we all want to see the game changed."

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