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Amy Schumer Responds to Last Month's 'Babe' Article About Aziz Ansari

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Amy Schumer is sharing her opinion on one woman's controversial account of a sexual encounter with actor Aziz Ansari. Appearing on the Katie Couric Podcast, Schumer discusses the allegations against Ansari, who she considers a friend.

"I don't think anyone wants to see Aziz's career ruined or his life ruined or anything like that, but I think that's where people's minds go," Schumer said. "They go 'Does he deserve this?' And it's not really about that. I think it's about expressing and showing women that the behavior is not okay and not only can you leave, but you need to leave. Because then the women who come after you, you're leaving a mark for them too."

She goes on to explain that she won't defend Ansari's actions just because she is his friend. "Even if it's my friend, I don't go, 'Oh, but he's a good guy,' I think, 'What would it feel like to have been her?'"

As previously reported, a woman, referred to only by Grace, told Babe.net that a date with Ansari was "the worst night of my life." Grace alleged that the actor repeatedly pressured her to have sex.

In a statement to PEOPLE, Ansari said that he engaged "in sexual activity which by all indications was completely consensual." He explained that he was "surprised and concerned" when he heard from her the next day. "I got a text from her saying that although 'it may have seemed okay,' upon further reflection, she felt uncomfortable... I took her words to heart and responded privately after taking the time to process what she had said."

In her podcast with Couric, Schumer went on to say that women should never feel ashamed of calling out behavior that makes them uncomfortable. “If you have a doctor that makes you uncomfortable, or you get a massage, or you have a date with someone and they coerce you in a situation like the Aziz one, I don’t think there’s any sort of criminal charge," she said. "But I think that it's good for everybody to learn that that behavior's not acceptable. And it can still really mess with a woman."


Kathy Griffin Got Candid About Being Shunned By Hollywood & the Double Standards Famous Women Face

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When the infamous photo of Kathy Griffin with a severed Donald Trump head made headlines back in May, many were speculating how much damage the photo had caused and whether it was a career ending mistake. It's been eight months and after an apology, retraction of the apology, federal investigation and death threats, in a piece by the Hollywood ReporterGriffin ruminates on how one picture exiled her from Hollywood indefinitely. 

Griffin remains firm that the she's receiving a disproportionately severe punishment, especially given the other scandals plaguing Hollywood today. "I didn't commit a crime," Griffin told the Hollywood Reporter"I didn't rape anybody. I didn't assault anybody. I didn't get a DUI. I mean, my God, there are celebrities that f*cking kill people."

Not only had the public ostracized Griffin, but close friends, like Anderson Cooper, did not support her and some cut her out completely. For both PR reasons and safety reasons because of the death threats, venues canceled Griffin's appearances. Now, the FBI helps Griffin sort through the hate mail she regularly. "There's a pile that we think is harmless," she said. "And a pile that's questionable. And then there's a pile that the FBI says you put in a Ziploc bag and give to them. That's my life now."

Crisis experts advised her to take time off, which wouldn't be very hard given no venue or network wanted her anyway, but she rejected that idea. "I was like, 'I'll tell you what: You go away for five years,'" she told THR. Instead, she found success internationally, where there was minimal outrage over the picture. She boldly named it the "Laugh Your Head Off" tour and used a lot of her recent scandal for material. She was going to return to America, but when Andy Cohen replaced her for the CNN New Year's Eve show and then acted like he didn't know who she was when asked by TMZ whether he talked to Griffin about it, Griffin had another not-so-PG outburst blasting Cohen and a CNN exec. 

Griffin thinks society doesn't forgive females as easily for their mistakes. "When you're a woman, you get one f*ckup, and it's over. When you're a guy, you get chance after chance after chance," Griffin said. That isn't stopping Griffin from trying to move forward though. "The minute I do something that makes money, they will all love me again," she said. "When I'm dead, I'll be a legend. But not now."

Even though companies aren't working with her, she still criticizes Trump regularly on Twitter and jokes about her own scandal.

Kathy Griffin is definitely still Kathy Griffin.

7 Skills That Make You a Better Employee, No Matter Your Job

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If you’re reading this, you’re probably in the stage of life most commonly referred to by collegiettes as “adulting.” Besides having to make your own meals, schedule your own doctor’s appointments, and do your own laundry, there’s something else that you have to face — applying for jobs.

Before you call your mom freaking out, hear us out on this — it doesn’t have to be that bad, especially if you possess the right skill set. While it’s self-explanatory that an editor needs to be knowledgeable in copyediting, a computer programmer needs to be proficient in coding and a nurse needs to know how to administer shots, there are skills that people applying to all of these jobs should have. 

We’ve consulted two experts — Susmita Gautam, a former Peer Career Adviser at George Mason University’s Career Services, and Sean McIntosh, President of Society for Human Resource Management at George Mason University — to see what seven skills can make you a better employee, no matter what your job.

 

1. Communication 

In every job, you will have to communicate effectively with other people, whether it’s your co-workers, boss or customers. It’s important to be able to listen, speak and write clearly. 

Gautam explains, “As far as communication goes, it is one of the most important soft skills that an employee can possess. Nowadays especially, employers are looking for well-rounded individuals that not only possess the technical skills, but interpersonal skills to be able to work in any environment. It does not matter what job or position it is for because in any situation, an employee will come across various instances of human interaction that they need to be capable of handling and handling it well.”

According to McIntosh, practicing effective communication skills can come as simply as maintaining effective correspondence with your fellow co-workers. This can range from responding to emails in a timely manner, following up with individuals and having the confidence to ask questions.

Related: 7 Ways to Impress a Tough Boss 

2. Teamwork 

Most job settings require some form of cooperation with coworkers, sometimes taking the form of teamwork. Employees should not only be able to work in a team towards a common goal, but also bring out the best in other team members. 

In regards to teamwork, Gautam says, “Many companies and employers are gearing towards an environment in which each team has a diverse group of employees with different skill sets to bring to the table in order to efficiently complete tasks and reach goals.”

The classroom provides a perfect environment in which collegiettes can work on their teamwork skills. Although we may dread group projects, they are good opportunities to learn how to work with others to achieve a common goal — receiving a good grade and passing a class. However, teamwork skills aren’t limited to just the classroom. Intramural, club, and varsity athletes also have great opportunities to learn how to work together to meet the end goal of winning games. 

3. Analytical and problem solving skills

As ingenuity and independence are highly valued in the workplace, any employee should be able to think of creative ways to solve problems from different angles.  

In Gautam’s experience, employers look for individuals with these skills so they could not only have the sharpest minds on their teams, but also to ensure that these employees don’t need as much guidance to accomplish their tasks.

But how exactly can collegiettes practice analytical and problem solving skills? An important aspect of problem solving is to focus on the solution rather than the problem. Doing this will prevent any negative “emotional blocks” from getting in the way of finding a solution. Additionally, it’s important to be open minded, especially knowing that there can be more than one solution to a given problem.

4. Leadership

Although you may not jump into a managerial position right after college, you should never hesitate to show off your girl boss talents! These qualities include being able to delegate tasks, motivate others and cultivate passion for your company. 

Gautam encourages that collegiettes exhibit their leadership abilities, saying, “Strong leadership skills mean that individuals are well-rounded. It shows that they are able to motivate their coworkers to do their jobs and be passionate about it.”

Need to practice or enhance your leadership skills? One good way to do this is through an executive board position in an extracurricular activity or student organization! Use these four (or more) years in college to be a leader on your campus.

5. Flexibility and adaptability

Not everything in your workday will always go as planned. For example, a meeting may get canceled at the last minute or your boss may ask you to rush a report to his or her desk. Being flexible and able to adapt to such changes shows that you are prepared and reliable.

When it comes to flexibility and adaptability, McIntosh says, “No matter what type of work environment you are involved in, there will be times when things will change suddenly and abruptly, and truthfully in many situations it’s impossible to ever be fully prepared to tackle these unforeseen obstacles. However, employees who have confidence in their skills, their team and most importantly themselves to make the right decisions are more likely to succeed within their organization.”

6. Self-motivation

Your supervisor won’t always be hovering over you to do your work or stay motivated to complete a task in a timely manner. Being productive with little supervision shows that you are able to work independently and that your boss can trust that you’ll get the work done. 

Gautam stresses that employers want individuals that are willing to help the company reach its goals, as well as go beyond what is expected of them.

7. Technical literacy

We live in an age of growing technological dependency — nearly everyone has a smartphone and computer, many daily tasks are becoming computer-automated and companies use social media as means to tap into new clientele and publicize their successes. With such a prevalence of technology in the workplace, employees should have a basic background in computer skills, as well as an understanding of how to use technology to advance their professional performance. 

As a start, McIntosh suggests becoming proficient in “fundamental” technology programs such as Microsoft Suite (i.e. Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook) as well as being able to conduct basic research via search engines (e.g. Bing, Google, Internet Explorer, etc.).

Now that you know what will make you a better employee in any job, you can get to working on these skills before you turn in your next application or go to your next interview. May the odds be in your favor in your job hunts and show employers how much of a girl boss you really are!

Potterheads Are Not Happy That Dumbledore's Sexuality Will Not Be 'Explicitly' Addressed in the 'Fantastic Beasts' Sequel

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David Yates, the director for the sequel of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, told Entertainment Weekly that the latest installment in the series still would not definitively assert Dumbledore's sexuality. 

If you're in the dark, back in 2007 J.K. Rowling said she always pictured Dumbledore as gay. Since then, big fans have been waiting for his grand coming out.

"I always thought of Dumbledore as gay," she said at Carnegie Hall. "Dumbledore fell in love with Grindelwald, and that that added to his horror when Grindelwald showed himself to be what he was." Apparently she did write it in the margin of a script at one point, but fans shouldn't hold their breath that someone will find that. 

When asked whether Dumbledore would clearly be portrayed as gay in the film, Yates told EW, “Not explicitly." Yates thought fans would understand. "But I think all the fans are aware of that," he said. "He had a very intense relationship with Grindelwald when they were young men. They fell in love with each other’s ideas, and ideology and each other.” 

Yates was wrong — fans did not understand

J.K. Rowling had thoughts of her owns, and she was not happy either.

TBD whether or not Dumbledore will ever officially come out of the closet.

Kate Upton Accuses Guess Co-Founder Paul Marciano of Sexual and Emotional Harassment

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Model Kate Upton took to Twitter and Instagram on Wednesday to express her disappointment that Paul Marciano, co-founder of the fashion label Guess, is still serving as the creative director. 

Upton then posted a screenshot of the tweet to Instagram, further expanding on her comment. "He shouldn’t be allowed to use his power in the industry to sexually and emotionally harass women," Upton wrote. She added #metoo at the end.

The Blast later reported about both an unidentified woman accusing Marciano of sexual misconduct and a 2009 lawsuit from Guess model Lindsey Ring, which accused Marciano of sexually inappropriate behavior. 

Marciano, however, denied the 2009 allegations and the lawsuit was eventually dismissed following an unknown settlement.

TMZfollowed up with Upton, who said, "I can't wait to tell my story."

Marciano talked to TMZ today, denying he did anything wrong. "If she [Upton] has a claim, there's one place to tell the truth and that’s in court or to the police." He even went on to suggest that the reason Upton had "bad blood" with him was because of her ousting from the brand.

"He [Marciano] says after she became a superstar by way of 5 campaigns with the brand, she began showing up to set after late nights 'looking terrible,'" TMZ said. "Marciano claims the company decided to cut ties with her ... and he suggests this might be her motivation."

Upton hasn't commented further. 

ICYMI: Beyoncé Wore a Secret Glossier Product to the Grammys & We're Dying to Know What It Is

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Queen Bey graced our presence for another Grammy Awards, and she was glowing more than ever (if that’s physically possible). L'Oréal Paris celebrity makeup artist, Sir John, kept Beyoncé's skin natural and added a vampy purple lip for the award ceremony, using only Glossier Skin Tint paired with L'Oréal Paris Infallible Total Cover Concealing & Contour KitGlossier Cloud Paint in Beam and L'Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion.

 

A post shared by Beyoncé (@beyonce) on

It wasn't until later this week that Instagram caught wave of her previous makeup look from the Roc Nation's pre-Grammy's brunch. Out of nowhere, Glossier posted a photo on their account with an inconspicuous caption for beauty gurus everywhere: "Beyoncé wears ___ in ___ (coming soon), Boy Brow in Brown, Body Hero Daily Perfecting Cream, and Perfecting Skin Tint in Dark + Deep.”

Hmmm...what could our favorite no-makeup makeup brand be hiding from us? Well, Teen Vogue shared there’s a subtle hint in Glossier’s post. If you look closely, you’ll see that Beyoncé's eye is tagged, which could narrow down the ~mystery product~ to possibly an eyeshadow or liner.

Glossier lovers can guess and guess, but honestly we don't care what the new product is. We already know it will be a fantastic new addition to our makeup bags! 

Header Image: Glossier / Instagram

Want more beauty inspo? Follow @HerCampusBeauty on Facebook, and tune into @HerCampus on Instagram for endless beauty stories!

This Nickelodeon Eyeshadow Palette Is Making My '90s Kid Dreams Come True

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Calling all '90s kids, '90s lovers and makeup junkies alike: We discovered an eyeshadow palette you might not need, but are seriously going to want. Yeah, a cassette tape-shaped eyeshadow palette inspired by the most popular Nickelodeon TV shows from the '90s. If the surge in scrunchies, windbreakers, dad sneakers and mom jeans weren't enough, this is proof that the '90s are here to stay.

This palette is being sold at Hot Topic for $16.90 and is, in our opinion, totally worth it. If you miss the classic cartoons like Hey Arnold! and Rugrats, swipe some "Oh Fishsticks" across your lid and call it catharsis. Though the colors are not for the typical “everyday look,” this genius product could be worth a pretty penny some day.

The shades are specifically named after silly quotes from our favorite retro shows. Does “FOOTBALL HEAD!” and “Smashing” (with a British accent, natch) ring a bell? Take this palette and run with it, because other than creating a vibrant (to say the least) makeup look, it will bring back memories that will last a lifetime. 

Want more beauty inspo? Follow @HerCampusBeauty on Facebook, and tune into @HerCampus on Instagram for endless beauty stories!

The New Benefit Cosmetics Volumizing Mascara Has Serious Galaxy Vibes

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Just as our two-year-old mascara has finally dried out beyond repair, Benefit Cosmetics just released a new mascara. According to POPSUGAR, this is the first time the cosmetics brand has released a mascara in three years, so it’s a pretty big deal. Clearly Benefit took their time to perfect this celestial formula.

Let’s face it, a lot of mascaras promise to make your sparse lashes look voluptuous and long. However, most inevitably make it look like you glued dead spider legs to your actual stumpy lashes. Thankfully we don’t have to just rely on Benefit’s They’re Real Lengthening Mascara or their Roller Lash Curling Mascara anymore, because we can upgrade to their latest and greatest addition to bene-family: the BADgal BANG! Volumizing Mascara, which has a formula made with aero-particles derived from space technology.

Honestly, the name alone has us sold. This new weightless formula promises to last for 36-hours, which gives us an excuse not to shower—because sometimes we just don’t want to shower (don’t @ us, Karen). While the BADgal BAND! Volumizing Mascara will set you back $24, it’s well worth the price because it will make your makeup look otherworldly.

Benefit explained in a press release that the mascara applicator has 300 soft, half-cone shaped bristles that coat your lashes in a flake-proof and vitamin-enriched formula. Combined with the mascara’s stellar water-resistant formula, this BADgal will keep your mascara from running when you do inevitably shower. Paired with Benefit’s new browsing app, this mascara will take our makeup routine to new heights and save us some time.

Header Image: Benefit Cosmetics / Instagram

Want more beauty inspo? Follow @HerCampusBeauty on Facebook, and tune into @HerCampus on Instagram for endless beauty stories!


The Best Protective Styles for Natural Hair During Winter

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If you have natural hair, you know that keeping it healthy and moisturized is a serious taskNo matter the length, most natural hair doesn't always retain moisture, so winter is especially dangerous. Your "wash-n-go" turns into throwing on a hat at the last second to avoid breakage. Protective styles are the way to go, because you want your hair to grow, right? Here are the nine best styles that will have you looking cute AND protecting your ends at the same time!

1. Classic box braids

This is probably the most classic protective style—it transcends age. Lots of naturals have had braids like Brandy since they had long enough hair! Braiding hair is cheap, so there's no need to worry about price. There are so many color options as well, so just seek out a good hair stylist and look through all the different box braid styles before settling. 

2. Beads are the way to go

Take your box braids to the next level and make them extra stylish with beads. No, this is not just for five-year-old girls. Beads and rings are totally back in style and perfect for a long-term protection. 

3. Go crazy with the extensions 

This style can be done and re-done a million ways. Find some curly extensions online or at your local beauty supply store and clip them in! This is perfect for girls with super short natural hair who don't have a lot of options. Clip-ins work on practically every length and are great for a dramatic ponytail or top bun.

4. Locs without the commitment

While this is one of the more expensive styles, it's probably the most stylish. Take the stress out of getting permanent locs on your hair, and have a stylist put faux locs. Like box braids, the color options are endless, and you can keep them in for up to two months! They're extra chic.

5. Crochet away

Crochet styles are the most versatile of any protective style. If you've got cornrows, you can have practically any style at any length using regular braiding hair! Kinky straight looks good on everyone. Cut it, curl it, straighten it all the way down your back. This style is great for DIY, or it can be done by a stylist for a decent price. 

Related: 15 Struggles Every Natural-Haired Girl Knows to Be True

6. Twist it up

Marley twists and flat twists may be seen as a summery look, but they actually work for any season. If you're not a fan of box braids, twists are a great alternative whether you use fake hair or not. If you're feeling extra, you can have these practically touching the floor when you walk.

7. Wigs are so in

Yes, wigs are back for good! This has to be the easiest protective style when it comes to getting ready in the morning. Wigs can be really expensive, but don't knock them just yet. It's way cheaper than buying new hair every time you want a new style. Buy a wig once and reuse it for life! If you want to style it to make it look deceptively real, there are tons of YouTube videos to help a girl out. 

8. Get knotty

Bantu knots are actually two styles in one. Do them yourself at home, and when you take them out, you'll have something similar to wand curls. The best part is that you can mix it up with cornrows, twists, box braids and buns.

9. Or just cover it up

In between styles? Just pop on a cute beanie, or learn how to tie a head wrap. There are so many types that it's hard not to go overboard with infinity scarves and baseball caps. 

No matter what style you pick, make sure to keep your hair moisturized underneath. The winter breakage is real.

7 Ways to Wear Colored Eyeliner That Actually Look Cute

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Whether you're looking to spice up your everyday makeup or want to try something new for a special occasion, colored eyeliner is one of the most fun ways to experiment with your look. Believe it or not, it's actually pretty easy, too! From blue to yellow to all things glittery, we've rounded up seven different colored eyeliner looks you'll want to recreate ASAP.

1. The sunset eye with a pop of blue

Just like a hot summer day at the beach. 

2. The yellow cut-crease

Cut-creases take some time and practice to master, but once you've got the hang of it, you'll never want to wear anything else. 

3. White liner

 Switch out your regular black or brown eyeliner for this unexpected twist!

4. Glitter blue

For when your standard blue needs an upgrade.

5. Gold ombré glitter

 

Try this for a fun party look this winter.

6. Silvery smokey eye

The contrast between the silver and black is stunning.

7. Rainbow helix

This looks difficult, but trust me—it's easy AF and totally worth trying!

Win an Almay Shadow Squad™ Eyeshadow Vault & Ulta Beauty Shopping Spree!

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Good things come to those who hustle––but sometimes the bustle of busy college life can feel a little overwhelming. When the days are long, it’s important to add some fun and color to your life! That’s why we’ve partnered with Almay® to bring you a giveaway that’s all about self-expression.

Almay® products are good for you.  Hypoallergenic. Fragrance free. Sensitive. These products are designed with ALL skin types in mind.  We suggest mixing it up with new Almay Shadow Squad™ Eyeshadow. Available in 15 different colors, it’s your favorite shade in four finishes: matte, satin, metallic and glitter.

With Almay®, there’s more options, more fun, and less rules. The latest lineup includes foundations that are anything but basic, textured shadows for shifting moods, bold brows that outlast any trend. Doesn’t your day feel brighter already? Here’s a look at what’s included in the giveaway:

Put your unique beauty on display and enter now for a chance to win!

Win an Almay Shadow Squad™ Eyeshadow Vault & Ulta Beauty Shopping Spree!

Police Say Two Students Have Been Shot At A Middle School in Los Angeles

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Two students are being treated for gunshot wounds after being shot by another student at a middle school in Los Angeles, Los Angeles School Police confirmed.

The shooter, a female student, opened fire in a classroom on Thursday morning on the campus of Salvador Castro Middle School, which is co-located with Belmont High School. Both schools were placed on lockdown, according to police. Officials transported the two wounded students to a local hospital and said the have brought the shooter into custody.

The Los Angeles Police Department tweeted that one victim, a 15-year-old boy, was shot in the head and remains in stable but critical condition. A 15-year-old girl was also shot in the wrist, and is in fair condition.

Los Angeles Police Lt. Chris Ramirez told CNN that officers found a confiscated a gun at the scene.

The shooting is still under investigation and Her Campus will continue to update this story as more develops. 

One Of The Girls Behind The Wisconsin Slender Man Stabbing Was Sentenced To 40 Years In A Mental Hospital

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A 15-year-old girl involved in the stabbing of a classmate to please the fictional Slender Man was sentenced on Thursday, the Chicago Tribune reports, and is expected to serve the maximum requested sentence of 40 years by prosecutors.

Morgan Geyser was 12-years-old at the time when she and Anissa Weier attacked Payton Leutner in the woods of suburban Milwaukee in 2014, according to the Chicago Tribune. Geyser stabbed Leutner with a kitchen knife 19 times before leaving her for dead, but Leutner was able to crawl out of the park and get help. According toUSA Today, the girls told police they had planned the crime to appease Slender Man and then walk to his mansion in northern Wisconsin.

Prior to her sentencing Geyser tearfully spoke to court about the crime, per CBS News:  "I just want to let [Payton] and her family know I'm sorry. I never meant this to happen. And I hope that she's doing well."

Weier pleaded guilty last August and was sentenced to 25 years in a mental hospital. While Geyser also pleaded guilty, her sentencing was still up in the air, according to the Chicago Tribune. Geyser’s attorneys have argued that she deals with schizophrenia and psychotic spectrum disorder, which then makes her prone to delusions.

Judge Michael Bohren, who was presiding over the case, said that Geyser, 15, is still at risk to hurt herself or other people and noted that "what [the court] can't forget is this was an attempted murder."

USA Today reported earlier on Thursday that Geyser's attorneys would try to convince a judge that her mental health treatment should be continued at home or at least another secure residence nearby. However, as CBS reported, doctors testifying about Geyser's mental health said that she was still claiming to hear voices from a someone named "Maggie" in September of 2017. 

While it was proven that Geyser is not criminally responsible for her act, prosecutors still want her to be held at the secure mental hospital she has been in for more than a year. USA Today reports that a person who is committed to custody of the Department of Health Services does not necessarily have to live in a mental health institute. 

Chris Harrison to Critics of Arie’s ‘Bachelor’ Season: ‘Just Wait’

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From the beginning, Arie Luyendyk Jr.'s season was never going to be a fan-favorite. The announcement was met with complaints — some about his age, some about how it should've been Peter Kraus. Things haven't really gotten better since this season's premiere, either. 

Vulture's called Arie's run as Bachelor "the most boring season ever," and there's even a petition to let America choose the next suitor instead of someone like "lame, boring Arie." 

Granted, Bachelor Nation is very particular, and it's hard to please everyone. But according to the show's host Chris Harrison, even the haters are about to be surprised with the rest of the season.

"If you are a critic of Arie's season, I would tell you to wait," Harrison said in a press call on Thursday. "Just wait. And prepare to have your mind blown."

Harrison of course wouldn't go into detail as to not spoil the remainder of the season, but he did promise a good ending.

"It will be a phenomenal finish," he said. "If there are critics out there, then trust that it's going to be phenomenal."

In other words, if you haven't watched any of this season — start catching up now!

Do Your Reoccurring Dreams Mean Anything?

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Ahhh, sleep. There’s nothing better than hopping into bed after a long day of classes, work and extracurriculars, and who can resist the power of the snooze button early in the a.m.? However, sleep may not be all that we’re getting once we hit the hay. Sometimes dreams sneak their way into our heads, good or bad. And whether you’re dreaming every night or having them only once in a while, we’ve all experienced different dreams at some point. 

But what about when your dreams start to feel familiar? Or the same person or people keep hanging around in them? Or maybe the same scenario keeps playing itself over and over again.. There must be some sort of explanation for this, right? Is there a special meaning behind reoccurring dreams? We’re just as curious as you are, so we spoke with Nicholas Skasa, a licensed clinical professional counselor, who specializes in trauma and PTSD, anxiety, sleep and insomnia, and investigated what significance could be behind them.

In general, what do reoccurring dreams mean?

Because they must mean something, right?

"I think that [reoccurring dreams] indicate something that needs to be paid attention to in the person’s emotional life," says Skasa. "I think it’s generally true that if you’re having a reoccurring dream, there’s a reoccurring emotional pattern or point of conflict or tension within the person’s psyche or emotional [state]."

In a way, reoccurring dreams can sort of highlight the tension going on in a person’s life, according to Skasa. However, it's important to remember there is not one definitive answer to what reoccurring dreams mean in the medical and psychological fields. There are many different perspectives and approaches to consider when dealing with such a mysterious subject, so it helps to keep an open mind!

A psychoanalytic approach to reoccurring dreams 

When considering the power of the unconscious mind, Skasa offers an explanation based from some of the most famous neurologists and psychologists in history.

"From a traditional, psychoanalytic standpoint, such as with [Carl] Jung or Freud, they hold the position generally that dreams are symbolic representations of what a person consciously doesn’t want to accept or acknowledge or digest about themselves," says Skasa.

Additionally, dreams can also be an honest way to speak about a person's emotional state, distant from their "egos" so that they can represent a part that's difficult to come to terms with, Skasa notes. Whether it be a fight with a friend or a significant other, a lack of rest due to school and work or a bad grade on a test, there are many things collegiettes deal with on a day-to-day basis that can be emotionally taxing and translate into reoccurring dreams—especially if they're issues that you don't wish to consciously acknowledge or deal with.

A pragmatic approach to reoccurring dreams

Skasa also explains a more realistic and less theoretical approach, because not everyone interprets reoccurring dreams the same way! While some people choose to seek out a universal meaning behind the symbolism in their dreams, others see the unique and personal "archetypes" that are solely related to the individual self. 

"With Carl Jung’s archetypes, [for example], there’s a mother archetype, a father archetype and evil and good… symbols that your unconscious mind chooses is personal to you, and the universal nature of symbols isn’t as important as the dreamer’s relationship to that symbol: what’s going on in the dream, what’s the symbol doing in the dream, what’s the impact it’s having on the dreamer in the dream?" Skasa explains.

So, rather than looking up in a book what a symbol in your dream may mean universally, such a vast sea or a massive mountain, it might help to take a step back and really think about how the symbols in the dream are personal to you. Maybe your grandmother really loved butterflies, and the butterflies in your dream serve to represent her essence? "There are these personal relationships to these symbols that means much more," Skasa adds. While it's tempting to fit your reoccurring dreams neatly into a universal box, some dreams may not be so simple. 

Okay, so we have a general understanding of a few approaches to reoccurring dreams. What are some key reasons why these dreams are happening?

1. You're stressed

It’s no secret that stress can wreak havoc on your physical and mental health, and not to mention your quality of sleep. Therefore, your dreams might be trying to tell you something, especially during a stressful period in your life (and collegiettes are no stranger to stress here and there!). 

Lexi Hill, a senior at the University of South Carolina, offers her experience with a reoccurring dream and how she interpreted its meaning.

“I have reoccurring dreams about losing my teeth, where throughout the dream they’ll just fall out,” says Hill. “I did some research and the dream normally indicates that you’re feeling out of control in your life or you’re experiencing a lot of stress.”

And if you’ve had this type of dream before, you’re not alone. “Dreams are powerful,” says Tessa McKenna, a senior at Carthage College. “For me, dreams of my teeth falling out usually mean I’m under a lot of stress or I’m experiencing bad anxiety.”

However, Skasa notes that dreams can be very subjective to the individual and depend on their relationship to what’s reoccurring in the dream. “Sometimes people sort of get caught in that trap of looking [their dream] up in a book and think, ‘well I dreamed about losing my teeth so it means I must be X, Y and Z’, and that’s not necessarily the case,” says Skasa. “It depends on what the person’s relationship to their teeth in the dream is.” A person’s personal relationship means so much when it comes to what occurred in the dream. 

“After reflecting, I’ve found that that dream always came around a stressful time for me—a huge exam or presentation, interview, fight with friend and so on!” Hill adds. 

However you view your dream, it's important to remember that both interpretations in this case are completely valid!

Where does your stress fall on the spectrum?

Skasa offers thinking of stress on a spectrum, which can relate to reoccurring dreams due to overwhelming stress. However, it’s also important to note that not all stress is bad! 

“Stress is sort of a spectrum,” says Skasa. “There can be [minimal] stress or eustress, a very light sort of stress—a positive stress on the body or the mind. A certain amount of adversity is healthy, stress that strengthens you. And then there’s stress all the way to deep trauma. But it’s all on this spectrum of a stress response.”

Not everyone deals with and reacts to stress the same way, but it can impact what goes on after you hit the sheets. "People have all sorts of difficulty adjusting to certain things and how stretched thin they are with school, work, trying to manage children while having a career," Skasa explains. "Everybody has their own capacity for stress and if it does get overwhelmingly chronic, that has a big impact on sleep, and it can have a huge impact on a person’s emotional wellbeing, [which can] translate into dreams."

If these dreams are making it even more difficult to catch some shuteye, there is a way to deal with them.

“Sometimes [it helps] making those behavior changes, like freeing up your resources so you’re not as stressed out or developing some skills to be a little more resilient,” Skasa notes. “Oftentimes I’ve seen people’s dreams resolve after making lifestyle changes. 

If you find that you’ve been experiencing strange, reoccurring dreams, it may be useful to start keeping a dream journal. Recording your dreams as well as your daily thoughts and routines in the same place can help identify whether your dreams are happening in correlation to any stressful points in your life, and what you can do to resolve them!

Related: The Truth About How Much Sleep You Actually Need 

2. You’re experiencing trauma or grief 

A person may experience trauma-related PTSD or grief for a variety of reasons. For many, it can be due to the death of a loved one, and their appearance can be reoccurring in your dreams. So, does it mean anything when such is the case?

"Something like grief or trauma, for example, takes a long time to resolve," says Skasa. "It’s usually the body sort of trying to coat that emotional memory in a way that’s integrated to the person’s personality and psyche meaningfully, and becomes a part of their identity so they can kind of move forward in life and live with the least amount of tension, anxiety or emotional trouble."

On the other hand, some people may connect emotionally to their memories of others through their dreams.

"I think death holds special meaning with reoccurring dreams,” says McKenna. “When people who have passed away in my life keep appearing in my dreams, it feels as though they’re protecting me. It also helps me cope with the fact that they’re gone."

However, Skasa notes that rather than being a coping mechanism, these kinds of reoccurring dreams may indicate that you’re having trouble moving on from the loss.

3. Your mind is giving you a sign

Just as you might dream about someone in your life who has passed, your reoccurring dreams might also include those currently in your life, whether you’re close or merely acquaintances. These dreams can range from mild or bizarre, and it can be extremely odd when you find yourself dreaming about the same person over and over whether it be your roommate or your sixth-grade math teacher. So, what is your mind trying to signal in this case?

"It’s probably more of an indication that that particular person or symbol that’s reoccurring, and whatever relationship the dreamer has to it is, represents whatever that loose end or whatever emotional tension is going on," says Skasa.

For example, many collegiettes are no strangers to tension when it comes to living with a new roommate. If you're not getting along and have created a hostile environment in your shoebox-sized dorm room, they might drop by your dreams to signal that tension. So, If your dream is attempting to signal loose ends or emotional tension, you might want to reflect on where you stand with that reoccurring person in your life. 

"Sometimes it feels as if my reoccurring dreams are trying to tell me something," says McKenna. "For example, if there’s a specific person reappearing in them, it feels like a sign to reach out to them."

While this may not always be the case, it doesn’t hurt to ask yourself why you think a specific person may be stopping by your dreams every other night. Are you avoiding them? Did you recently have a falling out, or get together for some coffee?

"It can be a sign that they have some importance in your life whether that be bad or good." McKenna adds.

In certain cases it’s tempting to base our choices off things we interpret as signs, so you might want to look back at your reoccurring dreams a little more carefully.

Dreams are certainly powerful, so much so that it leaves us to question what forces are at work here, and if there’s truly a meaning or an explanation behind every dream. Reoccurring dreams may seem like some sort of grand prophecy or code to crack, but they may as well be just our mind’s way of relaying simple messages in bizarre ways. It all depends on what your approach to dreams are, and what your personal relationship is to the content of your dreams! 


Octavia Spencer is Planning to Buy Out a Screening of 'Black Panther' for Underserved Mississippi Community

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It looks like Marvel’s Black Panther isn’t the only new superhero: Octavia Spencer is, too.

On Wednesday, Spencer wrote on her Instagram account that she will be in Mississippi when “Black Panther” opens in theaters, and wants to buy out a screening of the film to allow families in underdeveloped communities to see it, Entertainment Weekly reports.

“I will be in MS when this movie opens. I think I will buy out a theatre in an underserved community there to ensure that all our brown children can see themselves as a superhero. I will let you know where and when Mississippi. Stay tuned. #KingsAndQueensWillRise,” Spencer wrote, featuring a promotional image for the film.

According to Entertainment Weekly, Spencer made a similar move in the past when she bought out a screening for her film “Hidden Figures” in Los Angeles so those who could not afford to see the inspirational movie had the opportunity to.

“My mom would not have been able to afford to take me and my siblings. If you know a family in need that would like to see our movie but can’t afford it have them come,” Spencer wrote in an Instagram post in January last year, The Huffington Post reports.

Although “Black Panther” hasn’t officially been released yet, according to HuffPost, the film has been getting some stellar reviews, with critics calling the film “astonishing,” “game-changing,” “iconic” and “exceptional.”

“Black Panther” hits theaters on February 16. We are so proud of Octavia Spencer for fighting for representation and for ensuring that everyone will be able to see this film.

Hope Hicks Reportedly Told President That Trump Jr.'s Trump Tower Meeting Emails 'Will Never Get Out'

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A former member of President Trump’s legal team is expected to speak with special counsel Robert Mueller about White House communications director Hope Hicks’ possible obstruction of justice regarding Donald Trump Jr.’s emails pertaining to the Trump Tower meeting with a Russian lawyer in 2016, The New York Times reports.

Mark Corallo, the former spokesman for the legal team, has alleged that during a conference call in July of last year — after the 2016 Trump Tower meeting between Trump Jr. and a Russian lawyer became known to the public — Hicks promised that Trump Jr.’s emails “will never get out,” the Times reports.

According to The Huffington Post, Corallo plans to tell Mueller’s team about the call where Hicks and Trump discussed the meeting that took place between Trump Jr., Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, then-campaign manager Paul Manafort and a Russian lawyer who was to provide the Trump team with damaging information about Hillary Clinton.

“Mr. Corallo planned to tell investigators that Ms. Hicks said during the call that emails written by Donald Trump Jr. before the Trump Tower meeting — in which the younger Mr. Trump said he was eager to receive political dirt about Mrs. Clinton from the Russians — “will never get out.” That left Mr. Corallo with concerns that Ms. Hicks could be contemplating obstructing justice, the people said,” the Times reported.

″Mr. Corallo... told colleagues he was alarmed not only by what Ms. Hicks had said — either she was being naive or was suggesting that the emails could be withheld from investigators — but also that she had said it in front of the president without a lawyer on the phone and that the conversation could not be protected by attorney-client privilege.”

Trump Jr. had initially claimed that the meeting was to discuss sanctions regarding adoption and a potential program for American families to adopt Russian children, The New York Post reports. However, eventually Trump Jr. came to admit that the meeting was about “opposition research” on Clinton.

According to the Times, Trump’s team debated on how to handle the reports on the Russian lawyer meeting, and several statements were drafted and released by lawyers representing those involved in the meeting. Corallo has said that he told both Hicks and Trump that misleading statements regarding the meeting could have repercussions, and that Trump Jr.’s emails with the Russian lawyer would likely come out in the end, HuffPost reports.

According to Michael Wolff’s book Fire and Fury, Corallo ultimately felt that this was a possible obstruction of justice and resigned from his position, The New York Post reports.

“Mark Corallo was instructed not to speak to the press, indeed not to even answer his phone. Later that week, Corallo, seeing no good outcome ― and privately confiding that he believed the meeting on Air Force One represented a likely obstruction of justice ― quit,” Wolff wrote.

A lawyer representing Hicks has since denied the claims, HuffPost reports.

“She never said that. And the idea that Hope Hicks ever suggested that emails or other documents would be concealed or destroyed is completely false,” Hicks’ lawyer, Robert P. Trout, told the Times.

7 Ways to Treat Yourself on Valentine’s Day

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Being single on Valentine’s Day can be pretty liberating! Just think: You don’t have to coordinate new plans with someone who forgot to make dinner reservations or tell your date that the flowers he or she bought you actually make you sneeze like crazy. Spend the holiday giving love to the most important person in your life: you. Here are seven ways to celebrate yourself this Valentine’s Day.

1. Make yourself breakfast in bed

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so take care of yourself first and foremost by having a hot meal ready and waiting for you when you wake up this Valentine’s Day!

How is it possible to give yourself breakfast in bed without getting out of bed to make it first? With a Crock-Pot, of course! These appliances are an amazing invention that makes cooking ridiculously simple. Your food cooks slowly while you go to class, study or even sleep.

The night before Valentine’s Day, throw the ingredients for your fave morning meal into a Crock-Pot and let it cook slowly overnight. When you wake up, your food will be warm and ready to eat!

2. Spend the day with your celebrity crush

Ever wondered what it would be like to spend Valentine’s Day staring into Brad Pitt’s eyes? Let this be the year you find out!

Kristen Wade, a senior at Duke University, says that watching her favorite shows and movies is one of her favorite ways to celebrate the holiday. “Usually on Valentine’s Day, I spend the day spoiling myself with a Netflix binge and some of my favorite chocolate,” she says.

Make a list of everything your favorite celeb has ever appeared in and spend the day watching his or her brilliance play out across the screen. Whether you’re re-watching all five seasons of Teen Wolf (because Dylan O’Brien is your spazz-tastic soulmate) or discovering those indie flicks that J. Law first appeared in, your heart is sure to fill with love as you watch your favorite actors and actresses with no interruptions.

3. Soak in a bubble bath

Today’s fast-paced world leaves little time to just sit back and relax, and, to be honest, you’re probably long overdue for a luxurious bubble bath.

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to remedy this situation. While showers are super convenient, nothing beats soaking in a hot bath for an hour or two. This fragrant pink bath bomb ($5.25 at LUSH Fresh Handmade Cosmetics) will fill your tub with tiny hearts and cute flowers, turning the water a soft shade of pink (perfect for the holiday!).

Light up the space with a few heart-shaped tea light candles ($11.98 on Amazon), or choose your favorite scent from Pacifica’s collection of three-ounce soy candles ($6 at Pacifica) to add a touch of fragrance to the air. Take your favorite book with you to get lost in, or just close your eyes and let the water soothe you.

If you live in the dorms and don’t have access to a bathtub, you can still give yourself a relaxing spa day. Focus on your hair, skin and nails – things that can be easily rinsed in the shower. There are easy treatments you can do yourself using ingredients that can be found at your campus store. After a face mask, deep conditioning treatment and relaxing mani/pedi, you’re sure to feel more refreshed than ever this Valentine’s Day!

Related: 9 Times When Being Single is the Best

4. Take yourself on a shopping spree

If there’s something you’ve been eyeing but holding out on for some reason, give it to yourself as a Valentine’s Day present!

Aja Frost, a junior at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, is thinking of treating herself this year. “I’m planning on splurging on nice lingerie!” she says. “Usually I can’t justify shopping for underwear anywhere but the usual places, but this V-day I’m going to treat myself to a really nice underwear set and robe.”

Even if you’ve ben cutting back on frivolous purchases, we all need a little gift to ourselves every now and then. Treat yourself to something you’ve been wanting for a while. Maybe it’s time to splurge on a new handbag or find the perfect accessory to go with that cashmere sweater you got for Christmas.

5. Write yourself a love letter

While you may not have sent or received a love letter since high school, that doesn’t mean this time-honored tradition should fall by the wayside. Why not write one to yourself?

Write a letter that says everything you love about yourself. Maybe it’s your ability to always get those papers turned in at the last minute or how you’re always there for a friend in need. Write about things you’ve done that you’re proud of and the things you hope to accomplish in the future. You can read this letter again later when you need a reminder that you love and support yourself.

If long-form handwriting isn’t your thing, keep the message short and sweet. You can write things you love about yourself on slips of paper and place them in a mason jar. Use these to brighten your day whenever you’re feeling bummed. Writing them on Valentine’s Day, when they’re coming from a place of love, will make these little notes seem that much more special when you read them later.

6. Take yourself on a date

This is the ultimate solo Valentine’s Day pursuit – taking yourself out on a date!

You don’t need the company of someone else to enjoy a night out on the town. Get dressed to the nines in whatever stylish ensemble makes you feel the most confident.

Head out to your favorite restaurant and order your signature dish, knowing that no one else is going to be stealing any food from your plate. And you don’t have to worry about sharing dessert, either! Savor that triple chocolate cake all by yourself.

Afterwards, do an activity that you love. Take yourself to see that new French film that got rave reviews. Or go for a solo walk in the park while listening to your favorite music.

7. Indulge in sweets

If you have a sweet tooth, now’s the perfect time to give in to it!

Try your hand at one of these heart-shaped treats, or bake some delicious Valentine’s Day cookies (and maybe share a few with your single gal pals). Eat a whole bar of dark chocolate, and don’t even think about passing up dessert if you find yourself out on the town – that tiramisu is calling your name, and your name only. You have an obligation to fulfill yourself. This day only comes once a year!

February 14 might be the day of love, but that shouldn’t stop us single ladies from participating! Besides, the longest relationship you’ll ever have is with yourself. So show some self-love by celebrating yourself this Valentine’s Day!

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HC Wake-Up Call: Doping Bans for 28 Russians Athletes Have Been Overturned Just Before the Olympics, CDC Director Resigns Over Her Stocks in Tobacco Companies & Michelle Obama Gave a 3rd Grader an A+ on Her Project

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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.)

Doping Bans Overturned for 28 Russian Athletes Just Before the Start of the Olympics

The doping bans for 28 Russian athletes were overturned on Thursday, causing quite a bit of controversy regarding the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) stance on Russia’s involvement in this year’s Olympics, which begin next week, ABC News reports.

According to ABC News, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, Switzerland upheld the appeals of 28 athletes out of the 39 that fought the IOC’s ruling to ban them for life over their alleged role in Russia’s doping cover-up at the Winter Olympics in 2014.

The CAS found that there had in fact been doping at the last Winter Olympics, but the evidence put forward against the 28 athletes was “insufficient.” The 28 athletes will now have their ban lifted, ABC News reports.

“Both CAS panels unanimously found that the evidence put forward by the IOC in relation to this matter did not have the same weight in each individual case,” the CAS said in a summary of its ruling. “In 28 cases, the evidence collected was found to be insufficient to establish that an anti-doping rule violation (ADRV) was committed by the athletes concerned.”

The CAS also reduced the ban on the other 11 athletes, now only banning them from this year’s Olympics.

The new ruling raised questions over whether the now exonerated athletes would be allowed to participate in the Olympics next week in Pyeongchang. In a statement, the IOC said that the ruling “does not mean that athletes from the group of 28 will be invited” to this year’s Olympics, ABC News reports.

Russian athletes will be competing in the Olympics as neutrals after the IOC banned Russia due to the doping scandal. 169 Russian athletes were invited to participate after they cleared vetting, and will be participating under the special status “Olympic Athletes from Russia,” ABC News reports.

CDC Director Resigns Due to Financial Interests in Tobacco Companies

Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Dr. Brenda Fitzgerald has resigned after it was reported that Fitzgerald purchased tobacco stock after she took the position as head of the nation’s top public health agency, CNN reports.  

Fitzgerald’s investment was seen as a conflict with the CDC’s slogan: “24/7: Saving Lives, Protecting People.” As head of the CDC, she is the one in charge of leading the fight against these companies.

According to CNN, Fitzgerald’s stock purchases were first reported on Tuesday, and it was discovered that she “bought tens of thousands of dollars in new stock holdings in at least a dozen companies,” including Japan Tobacco, which is one of the world’s largest tobacco companies.

In November, Fitzgerald released a statement, saying, “Too many Americans are harmed by cigarette smoking, which is the nation's leading preventable cause of death and disease.” She also promised to “continue to use proven strategies to help smokers quit and to prevent children from using any tobacco products.”

There were concerns that her financial interests were causing a conflict of interest, and thus was hindering her ability to do her job.  

“Dr. Fitzgerald owns certain complex financial interests that have imposed a broad recusal limiting her ability to complete all of her duties as the CDC Director. Due to the nature of these financial interests, Dr. Fitzgerald could not divest from them in a definitive time period,” the Department of Health and Human Services said in a statement on Wednesday, CNN reports.

Fitzgerald’s resignation was accepted by Secretary Alex Azar, and Dr. Anne Schuchat will serve an acting director until a replacement is confirmed, CNN reports.

Michelle Obama Gave a 3rd Grader an A+ on Her School Project

Alexandra, a third grade student, chose to do her Open House project on former First Lady Michelle Obama, and Mrs. Obama herself gave the student a top grade on her project, Buzzfeed reports.

According to Buzzfeed, the student’s mother wrote on Twitter that she was “inspired by [Obama’s] work to make sure more kids go to college & #ReachHigher. She loves that Mrs. Obama is brown & has hair like hers #ISawMyself.”

Michelle Obama responded to the tweet, giving Alexandra an A+ on the project.

According to Buzzfeed, Alexandra was elated by Obama’s response.

“Alexandra was shocked and a bit overwhelmed,” her mother said. “She got really teary-eyed and said she could not believe the First Lady would write to her. She was so happy and said she cannot wait to tell her friends and teacher tomorrow at school.”

We hope that Alexandra’s teacher takes note, because if the former First Lady thinks that the project is worthy of a top grade, Alexandra deserves it.

What to look out for…

Natalie Portman hosts Saturday Night Live this Saturday, and honestly, I am so excited!

'Bachelor Winter Games' Will Be Unlike Any Other 'Bachelor' Show: Everything You Need to Know

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The Bachelor Winter Games won't be like Bachelor in Paradise. It won't be like The Bachelor, or The Bachelorette, or even Bachelor Pad. It will be something entirely new, though.

"It was really reinventing the wheel and doing something brand new," said host Chris Harrison in a press call on Thursday. "We had the name of the show, but that was it. It was really just us, as producers, on the road trying to figure out what the show looked like, how close was it going to be to Bachelor, The Bachelorette, Paradise and all the different incarnations of the show that we've done."

Bachelor Winter Games will bring together past Bachelor and Bachelorette contestants from both the American and international editions.

"...Bachelor Winter Games is about lifting the lid and kind of blowing the top off this thing and bringing everybody to the table," Harrison said. "It's about bringing people back for a second shot at love, but it's not just our people, it's everybody."

Instead of lounging around and drinking on a beach, the contestants will compete in winter-themed challenges at a winter resort in Vermont. However, the games aren't meant to play a large role in the show. 

"One thing we have learned [from Bachelor Pad], and we did quickly all agree upon is this show cannot be about competition," Harrison said. "It's never about competition. That was the fatal flaw with Bachelor Pad. Bachelor Winter Games has to be about relationships."

And though Harrison didn't reveal much, he did confirm there were relationships formed. 

"You'll see more than one couple come out of this," Harrison said. (Could he be referring to rumored couple Dean Unglert and Lesley Murphy?!)

Overall, Harrison seemed happy with the show and how it concluded. "I've seen the first couple of episodes," he said. "It may be some of the best television we've ever produced — which scares me, because now, instead of a one-off, we might be doing this every winter now." 

The Bachelor Winter Games premieres on February 14In the meantime, check out the contestants — including Ben Higgins, Ashley Iaconetti and more — here.

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