So, you’re single. Maybe you’ve just broken up with your high school boyfriend or you’ve been unattached for a while now. Either way, there’s nothing wrong with riding solo. On the contrary, being single your freshman year is the best thing that’s ever happened to you. Don’t believe us? Here are some reasons that will change your mind:

1. You’re in good company.

Despite what you may think, “single” is not synonymous with “lonely.” Tons of young women enter college single, and what better way to bond with these lovely ladies (and make new friends) than by telling funny stories about your respective exes? You can even make a game of it!

2. You can lust after your hot RA/Orientation Leader/upperclassman guy crush, guilt-free.

Connie Chan, a senior at Carnegie Mellon, entered college single after breaking up with her high school sweetheart. “Even though I missed my ex at times, it was refreshing to meet so many new guys and flirt without feeling guilty,” she says. “Looking back, I'm glad I was able to fully experience my first weeks of college without anything holding me back.”

Although you may not want to jump into dating a senior immediately when you start your freshman year, there’s nothing wrong with a little harmless flirtation with one of the older guys helping out at orientation activities. Checking out cute freshmen was probably the main reason he volunteered for the job in the first place...

3. You can bond with your floormates during marathons of Girl Code, interruption-free.

The worst part about watching a bunch of female comedians discuss their various boy struggles is having to take the time to answer every interrupting text from the very cause of your own boy problems. When you’re with your girl friends, you should be with them—not concentrating on some boy miles away who can’t relate to the delicate art of eyebrow waxing. That’s girl code.

4. You can throw yourself into clubs, intramural sports and Greek life.

Without a guy to take up all your time and distract you, you can really concentrate on the most fun aspects of college life. Adam LoDolce, a dating coach who offers free video dating advice at SexyConfidence.com, advocates for this, saying, “Freshman year is the time to be insanely social and meet as many new people as possible. If you have a boyfriend/girlfriend then he/she will likely hold you back.” Besides exploring your personal interests, getting involved on campus is one of the quickest ways to make new friends... and meet new guys.  

5. The guys in college are way hotter (and less awkward) than they were in high school.

Chances are that you were there to witness your high school boyfriend’s awkward stage, but college is a blank slate. You may think your last boyfriend was the cream of the crop, but that’s only because you’ve been living on a small farm. (That’s just a metaphor, gals.)

6. You can actually focus on your studies.

As much as we love partying, higher education is what you enrolled in college for. When you’re not interrupting studying with constant texts and not blowing off reading for hour-long Skype sessions, you will have a much easier time getting your work done. As lame as it sounds, a big part of college is the actual learning part. You can get work done a lot faster and better when you’re not constantly distracted by a blinking phone screen.  

7. You can party, guilt-free!

Seriously, if you’re not going to flirt with one of the cute brothers at a frat party, there’s no point risking your precious outfit and shoes to possible beer spills. Nicole Echeverria, a junior at the University of Michigan, says that one of the biggest perks of being single your freshman year is that “you can meet, hang out with and flirt with any guy and not feel the least bit guilty.” Not only that, but it’s much easier to get into a frat party with a group of single girls instead of your boyfriend hanging on your arm.

8. Your guy pool is the largest it will be for the next four years.

When you’re a freshman, every guy is fair game. Since you probably don’t know many people yet, any guy could be the one, or, at least, the one right now. Freshman year is really the only time you get a free pass to ride the hot mess express, so you might as well make the most of it. LoDolce adds, “Although you may not want to ‘sleep around,’ a few hook-ups may let you have a little fun while you focus on your school work.” You’ll be a disillusioned SWUG before you know it, so why not play the field when the field is at its largest?  

9. You can take over your common room to learn the “Single Ladies” dance.

Move the chairs, hook up your computer to the giant TV screen and press play. There’s no doubt this classic Beyonce tune will become the personal anthem that powers you through freshman year—especially after you and two of your friends learn the dance. Who cares if he didn’t put a ring on it? Sasha Fierce doesn’t.

10. You get to avoid the cliche that is “The Turkey Dump” and the resulting fallout.

You’ve probably heard of “The Turkey Dump,” aka when high school couples break up during Thanksgiving break. If you start out college single, you get to avoid that whole awkward and emotional experience. “It is very likely your high school relationship will end anyway, so break it off before you miss your entire freshman year experience,” says LoDolce.

11. You’ll have better stories.

When you’re 85 years old and telling stories about your good ole college days to your grandkids, they probably won’t want to hear about your hour-long Skype sessions with what’s-his-name. Avalon Jones, a recent graduate of George Mason University, says, “My only regret in life is starting my freshman year in a relationship with my now ex-boyfriend still back at home. I completely missed out on my entire fall semester. I didn't go to parties or meet very many friends. Finally, during winter break, I chose to end the relationship and had an amazing spring semester in return.” Without a boyfriend holding you back, you’re free to have lots of wild fun in college!

12. You can learn more about yourself.

College is all about discovering who you are, and sometimes the only way you can do that is through being alone. “I met my boyfriend at the beginning of freshman year, but we didn't get together until the end of sophomore year,” says Katherine Mirani, a senior at Northwestern University. “It took so long because we both had a lot of growing and changing to do before we were ready to be in a relationship.”

For most young women, college is the first time you get to be fully independent, but you can’t really do that if your high school self still lives in a relationship. While being somebody’s girlfriend is great, being yourself is better.

Clearly, your single status isn’t a death sentence—it’s a new lease on life! When it comes to making new friends, embracing new opportunities and meeting new guys, you’ll be ready to do it all with your single girl swagger.

As the LGBTQ+ community gains visibility, the gender binary seems less and less inclusive, especially when it comes to clothing. Thankfully, some designers have taken on the task of creating gender-neutral pieces for everyone, and androgynous pieces for masculine-identified women. Unfortunately, many of these brands are high-end and difficult to find, but it won’t be long until this wave makes it into the mainstream—we just know it.

1. 69 Worldwide

This provocative Los Angeles-based brand, which defines itself as a “non-gender, non-demographic clothing line,” carries comfortable and cutting-edge unisex pieces. You can find them in their Downtown LA appointment-only showroom and online.

2. Toogood London

Faye Toogood, a British interior designer, and her sister Erica, a fashion designer, started Toogood clothing more as a movement to redefine fashion than as a consumer brand. Their edgy “unisex outerwear” is available on select websites like FarFetch, but honestly we’re just obsessed with their artistic lookbooks.

3. NotEqual

The premise of NotEqual is “genderless form and individuality.” In an effort to “push boundaries while offering rational fashion,” the brand’s collections and projects include designs to die for, with bold lines, colors and patterns suitable for anyone. You can find the online shop on NotEqual’s official website.

4. TILLYAndWILLIAM

Created by designers Jessica Lapidos and Tom Barranca in Brooklyn, NY, TILLYAndWILLIAM “began as an experiment in gender neutral clothing.” The fashion collective’s minimalist designs are available online and in a handful of stores in New York and Massachusetts.

5. One DNA

All the sleek pieces in One DNA’s first ever collection, inspired by travels to Iceland, are unisex and can be worn front-to-back. They are designed to be worn year-round by “all genders, ages and races.” Talk about inclusive!

6. Marimacho

“Marimacho” is an offensive Spanish term for “butch,” essentially. In line with queer tradition, creators Crystal and Ivette González-Alé reappropriated the term to designate their “classic fashion for the unconventionally masculine.” Their suits, loungewear and colorful swimwear are meant to fit masculine-identified women better than menswear ever can.

7. Sharpe Suiting

Originally funded through Kickstarter, Sharpe tailors custom suits to the LA androgynous community, namely “butch women and trans men.” The brand even trademarked its suiting process, Andropometrics™, taking genderqueer fashion to a whole new level.

8. Rad Hourani

Canadian designer Rad Hourani describes his work as “an attentive study of the human body that celebrates neutrality as a defining human trait.” All of his simple clothes are unisex—and friggin’ gorgeous, if you ask us.

9. VEEA

VEEA is “high-end menswear fashion made to fit women.” The brand’s high-quality dress shirts are declined in tailored and loose fits and available on VEEA’s website.

Brands for genderqueer individuals are being created left and right, but they are still part of a marginal market and far beyond our college budgets. At least, while you wait for unisex collections to pop up at Forever 21, you can swoon over these nine brands’ jaw-dropping pieces.

Your dorm room is your space for the entire school year, so you want to make it your own. There are tons of decorative options, from the practical to the just plain cute. To help you sort through it all, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 dorm decorations you’ll definitely want to have. We even included an adorable example of each one. You can thank us later.

1. Curtains

Curtains can serve more than just their intended purpose. For example, try making your space more private with these airy curtains ($16.99 at Target).

2. Rug

If your dorm room isn’t carpeted (or even if it is), you’ll want a stylish rug to keep you cozy. We like this one, with its simple but elegant design ($129 at PB Teen).

3. Clock

Get to your classes on time with the help of a humorous clock, like this one that displays a collegiette’s favorite food ($24.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond).

4. Photo Frame

Display pictures of your friends and family in a colorful photo collage frame. We love the color of this one ($28 at Macy’s).

5. Throw Pillow

Show your sassy side with a fun throw pillow (or two, or three…). We can’t get enough of this clever pillow ($29 at Dormify).

6. Tapestry

If your school allows it, tapestries are great for making a dorm room feel homier. This one ($39 at Dormify) is great for the free-spirited collegiette.

7. Print

Another way to spruce up your walls is with a poster or print. You can find a print of almost anything, but right now we’re loving this one that reminds us of summer ($15 at Dormify).

8. Decorative Wall Art

Three-dimensional wall art is great for a shared common room in a suite-style setup. If your suitemates are artsy, try this candid wall décor ($35 at Dormify).

9. Dry Erase Dots

Have friends write messages, leave yourself notes and jot down important information with these removable dry erase message dots ($9.99 each at Bed Bath & Beyond).

10. Bookends

Keep your books in one place with bookends that fit your personality. The active collegiette will love this iron bicycle bookend set ($39.99 at Target).

With these dorm décor ideas, you’re sure to have the coolest room on campus. Welcome to college!

While it is true that Taylor Swift writes amazing breakup anthems (“We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together,” anyone?) as well as heartfelt love ballads, not all of her songs are about romantic relationships. In fact, many of Taylor’s best-known songs have nothing to do with a love interest. Instead, they’re about self-confidence and girl power. It’s time we recognize Taylor for her empowering songs that aren’t about a guy. Here are our favorites:

1. “Shake It Off”

“Shake It Off” is Taylor’s response to her haters, and we have to say, the catchy tune is pretty inspiring. “I’ve learned a pretty tough lesson that people can say whatever they want about us at any time, and we cannot control that,” Taylor said before premiering the song. “The only thing we can control is our reaction to that.” Have truer words ever been spoken?

2. “Welcome to New York”

“Welcome to New York” is all about following your heart and achieving your dreams. The line, “And you can want who you want/Boys and boys and girls and girls” shows Taylor’s support for the LGBTQ+ community. Plus, she is donating all of the proceeds from the single to the NYC Department of Education. Now that’s empowering.

3. “22”

“22” is the perfect song for a girls’ night out. It’s fun, upbeat, and sassy, and it encourages girl power. Taylor dedicated the track to her close friends Dianna Agron and Selena Gomez, because who needs a SO when you’re busy having fun with your besties? Taylor talked to Billboard about being 22, saying, “I like all the possibilities of how you're still learning, but you know enough. You still know nothing, but you know that you know nothing. You're old enough to start planning your life, but you're young enough to know there are so many unanswered questions.”

4. “New Romantics”

In a similar fashion to that of “Shake It Off,” “New Romantics” addresses the criticism aimed at Taylor and her fans. It also references the pop culture movement known as New Romanticism. In the song, she puts a positive spin on teenage heartbreak. Taylor sings, “We are too busy dancing/To get knocked off our feet.” We couldn’t agree more.

5. “Mean”

Before “Shake It Off,” there was “Mean.” This song is Taylor’s original answer to those critics who doubted her. In a video preview, Taylor explained: “There’s constructive criticism, there’s professional criticism, and then there’s just being mean. And there’s a line that you cross when you just start to attack everything about a person… And dealing with that is all that you can control, how you handle it. This song is about how I handle it.” The track aims to prevent bullying, and it encourages self-empowerment. 

6. “Long Live”

“Long Live” is a triumphant song about the importance of cherishing meaningful moments. It’s about making memories, and it’s also about being remembered. The song is applicable to many significant events in a collegiette’s life, from homecoming to graduation.

7. “Change”

Taylor wrote “Change” about her dreams of success, despite the fact that she was signed to the smallest record label in Nashville. And just look where she is now! Things definitely did change for Taylor. The song was later chosen as a 2008 Summer Olympics theme, and Taylor donated all proceeds to the United States Olympic team.

Taylor Swift: empowering collegiettes everywhere. 

Being a college student isn’t cheap. Between nights out with friends, lunch with your roommate, the occasional movie, groceries, toiletries, and annual tuition, your expenses can rack up quickly. But don’t worry; there are a ton of stores out there that feel your pain and are willing to offer you a break with their student discounts. Check out some of these places next time you’re looking to do some smart shopping and save some cash.

Apparel

Ann Taylor: Need some classy clothes for school? Show your student ID in stores or register online for 15 percent off all full-priced items.

ASOS: Stay stylish with 10 percent off ASOS duds.

Banana Republic: You can finally afford clothes for work or your internship with 15 percent off full-priced items in store.

Charlotte Russe: With a 10 percent off discount available when you show your school ID, clothes from Charlotte Russe will be a steal.

Club Monaco: Stock up on some fall favorites by getting 20 percent off regular and sale priced items in any Club Monaco store and online.

Goodwill: Many Goodwill locations offer a 10% discount for all you thrifty collegiettes with student ID. Just ask your local store to make sure.

J.Crew: Yet another reason to hit up J.Crew for some cute and classic clothing. Get a 15 percent discount in stores when you show your school ID.

The Limited: We’re just as obsessed with The Limited now as we were with Limited Too in elementary school. Get 15 percent off in stores with your student ID.

Medelita: All you pre-med collegiettes out there can get 15 percent off your scrubs with Medelita’s Student Discount Program online.

Madewell: Students get 15 percent off when they show their IDs, so it's definitely time to go shopping.

Topshop: Be fashion forward with 10 percent off Topshop apparel in stores and online.

Crafts & School Supplies

Amazon: Students can get a free six-month trial of Amazon Prime, which offers free two-day shipping on all of Amazon’s items, and a $10 credit when you refer a friend.

Jo-Ann: If you're into all things crafty, you can save 10% on every purchase at Jo-Ann when you register for the Student Discount Program.

Food

Arby’s: Arby’s offers a 10 percent discount at certain locations with your student ID.

Buffalo Wild Wings: Get a 10 percent discount off those flaming wings with your student ID (varies based on location).

Burger King: That burger and fries will come with a 10 percent discount when you flash your ID (at select locations).

Chick-fil-A: Get a free small drink to accompany your chicken sandwich and waffle fries (or any meal) when you show your ID.

Chipotle: Some Chipotle restaurants offer a free small drink with your meal when you show your student ID.

Dairy Queen: Most Dairy Queens offer a 10 percent discount for students with ID. Check with your local DQ restaurant to see if they offer a discount.

Domino's: Domino's Pizza usually offers for college-town locations. Call your local restaurant to find out!

McDonalds: Now your McFlurry or burger comes with a 10 percent discount with your student ID at some locations.

Papa John’s: Pizza is a perfect option for any fast-paced student. Papa John’s discounts vary based on location, so ask the restaurant closest to your campus what discount they offer.

Qdoba: Qdoba offers a free drink for students when you purchase a meal, as well as burrito meals for $5.

Subway: At Subway, you can eat fresher with a 10 percent discount when you flash your student ID.

Waffle House: Breakfast is cheaper when you add this 10 percent discount with a student ID.

Fitness

24 Hour Fitness: Most 24 Hour Fitness locations offer special pricing for students, though it varies depending on the gym. Check with your local 24 Hour Fitness for pricing.

Eastern Mountain Sports: Need to stock up on some workout gear? Eastern Mountain Sports offers 15 percent off full-price national brand items and 20 percent off all full-price EMS brand items when you show your ID.

Technology

Apple: Students can save up to $200 on a MacBook and up to $20 on an iPad.

Dell University: Dell University is a program through Dell that offers discounts on technology for students.

RadioShack: Whether you need a new iPhone charger or a GPS for your car, make sure to flash your student ID to get 10 percent off your tech purchase. 

Sony: Need some sweet new electronics? College students get up to 10 percent off on select items.

Theaters

AMC Theatres: AMC Theatres offer special discounted tickets for students every Thursday. Check with your local AMC for pricing.

Cinemark: Cinemark offers discounted movie tickets that vary by location for students who show their ID.

Regal Theaters: Many Regal Theaters offer student discounts. Enter your zip code on the site to see whether your local theater is one of them.

Transportation

Amtrak: Sign up for a Student Advantage Card and get great deals off train tickets.

ShortLine/Coach USA: If you're about the bus life, CoachUSA offers a variety of discounts for students traveling from or to selected schools listed on their website.

For discounted plane tickets and travel accommodations, check out these sites designed exclusively for students.

• Student Universe
• Smarter Travel
• STA Travel 
• Student Traveler
• Travelosophy

Many stores offer student discounts, even if they don’t broadcast them. If you’re not sure whether or not a store offers a discount, go ahead and ask. You may end up finding more deals than you were bargaining for. And always carry your student ID!

Sex-obsessed. Demeaning. Ridiculous. Garbage.

These are just a few of the labels used to ignorantly describe women's magazines—labels that demonstrate a gross misunderstanding and misrepresentation of one of the most accessible, inspirational and empowering resources young women have available to them today.

Men deem women-centric journalism as inferior, inadequate and unqualified. What's more, women are constantly conceding to the ridicule, trained to laugh off their interests as guilty pleasures, when in reality, our submission to gender stereotypes and patriarchal ideals are what we're truly guilty of. Why are women told that political opinion is outside of their purview? Why are sex-positive and girly-girl characteristics deemed shameful—so much so that women have been trained to use these descriptors to attack one another?

Last year, in the midst of questioning my aspirations to pursue a career in magazine journalism due to the incredibly "politically correct" and critical nature of my undergraduate institution, I came across an article featured on Cosmopolitan.com (a nightly read that my peers would shame me for as anti-feminist—read up on Editor in Chief Joanna Coles before you agree with that narrative).

In the piece, Senior Political Writer Jill Filipovic—a strong, conversation-stirring political voice I had recently come to fan-girl over—speaks of the ridicule publications branded as women-centric consistently face and why these criticisms are absolutely unjustified, and frankly, ridiculous. I nearly jumped out of my dorm room bed in excitement—Jill, you get me, I wanted to scream. Instantly, my aspirations felt revalidated. I knew then that I not only wanted to enter the women's magazine industry—I wanted to prove its importance and adequacy.

Let's begin with a brief history of the industry. Back when men's word dominated the journalistic atmosphere (well, more so, that is), women's magazines provided women with their first taste of opinionated freedom—they tore down the taboo of sex, they gave voice to those who had previously gone unheard and they served as an outlet of expression and excitement without fear of judgment. Yes, looking back now, the industry's first advice-columns and advertisements were often sexist and even demeaning—that is, compared to today's standards. What many fail—or more so refuse—to understand is that the first women's publications were nonetheless game-changing. Without the rough foundation of sex-positivity, female empowerment and inherent feminism these initial publications provided, future progress would've been impossible. Covering contraception, safe sex and female success and independence, women's magazines empowered.

In the wake of their creation, there has only been progress. Women's magazines are not just silly, meaningless pages of makeup advertisements and sex tips (although there's nothing wrong with enjoying either, and I'm so done with women being shamed for loving both). Women's magazines give women the tools to take on the world around them. Consider the young girl who's not that into the local news station and intimidated by the showy language and complex terms littered throughout more "formal" political sources. She might miss incredibly valuable information—information about her rights as a women, information about her rights as a student, information about politics, current events and global change—simply due to such information being inaccessible. When it comes down to it, many women lack the privilege of a seamless immersion into a world catered towards white, educated men. Women's magazines are far from a full-on cure to this inequality, but they truly do help. With understandable and relatable content, women's magazines are far more welcoming then their verbose and often condescending counterparts. With a focus on women's health and political rights, they cover topics that traditional media sources grossly underreport and sometimes blatantly ignore. Far too often, the needs of women are overlooked, making women's magazines one of the only outlets that listen to our needs and can actually meet us where we are. How are they so successful at reaching us? Because they value our voices, they accept our needs and frankly, they try.

When it comes down to it, the judgment surrounding women's magazines is blatantly sexist. Female writers already face discrimination, and when others fail to acknowledge their magazine career as "true journalism," the sting of gender inequality burns even stronger. Heaven forbid women enjoy news and runway updates. If we dominated the realms of beauty and business, we'd be given far too much power—the horror. Do we fully realize how ridiculous it is that in this day and age, a magazine isn't taken seriously simply because it caters to diversified interests?

And as many pro-industry advocates have noted, why can't women's magazines blend indulgence with information without invalidating one or the other? Why can big businessmen read up on sports alongside their Wall Street news and be praised for their golfing prowess, while successful women are instantly deemed inferior and unworthy for nailing their cat-eyes and their workload? That's not to say that the beauty and fashion industries belong solely to women and the sports and business industries solely to men—in  fact, such beliefs are central to the problem.

And what of feminism in relation to women's lifestyle publications? While yes, there is progress to be made, and yes, such publications often fail to represent diversity in all of its forms, writing them off altogether is not the answer. Refusing to acknowledge the industry is no way to advance it, and if we want future generations of girls and women to be as empowered and educated as possible, taking charge of the field is our greatest weapon. We can continue the growth of the industry. And if feminism is about choice—choice in action, choice in opinion and choice in interests to name a few—then  aren't women's magazines inherently feminist? Where else is our sexuality advocated? Where else is our choice to be feminine (or not!) so fully validated?

If you're truly feminist, you recognize that supporting, validating and pushing the advancement of women's magazines is vital in the fight to combat gender inequalities. It's time to stop tearing down other women for proudly displaying their varied interests and start tearing down the structures that make such sexism possible. 

Much like the author of that unforgettable article—a writer who's fully-qualified words drip with intelligence, precision and impact—I'm constantly asked why I choose to write for a women's publication. "Don't you want to write something important?" They ask. "Aren't you sick of writing meaningless articles?" But the last time I checked, journalism concerning women's rights, policy-making and rape culture was far from meaningless.

And don't be fooled—I will also firmly stand behind any article about kittens, Instagram or nail polish—the women running this world deserve access to indulgence, after all.

While I could go on for years delving into the discrepancies and inequalities poisioning the image of my industry, the fact of the matter is that I shouldn't have to. Overall, Iknow that those of us who are writers for the world's top publications are vastly important. So while you're second-guessing our intelligence, we'll be taking names in the fashion, beauty and political spheres—publishing top-notch journalism on topics that matter to and empower women around the globe.

Join Emily and other student advocates for gender equality at the The 7th annual Millennium Campus Conference at the United Nations from August 11-15th. The conference will unite students from around the world to challenge the paradigms that perpetuate inequality and work to redefine the world around us. Apply at mcc15.org/delegateapplication to join the movement and promote social change!

There are a lot of perks that come with being a nerdy girl. You’re super smart. You can hold your own with the guys. And you’re about as low maintenance as possible. But being a nerd is not without its hardships. Below are 11 struggles that nerdy girls know all too well.

1. When you take off your glasses, you’re equally as attractive as you were before.

…and you can’t see.

2. People think you’re wearing comic book shirts to be ironic.

You just obviously love Iron Man’s insanely charming wit.

3. You make references that mainstream folks don’t understand.

Obsessing over cult finds is kind of your jam.

4. There’s never enough room for all your books.

And don’t even bother suggesting you get rid of them.

5. Your friends associate video games with immature frat guys they dated freshman year.

Killing zombies is a great stress reliever, okay?

6. No matter the cost, you always have to buy the newest iPhone. Like, the day it comes out.

Did you sacrifice eating out for a month? Yes. Was it worth it? You think so.

7. Movie adaptations don’t quite do it for you.

And you find yourself saying, “You didn’t read the books first?” A LOT.

8. Your social awkwardness detrimentally impairs your so-called love life.

But you’re fine with it. You’re currently dating several fictional characters.

9. It’s your absolute duty to defend your fandom.

Ron + Hermione 4 EVER!

10. You’re constantly looking for a feminist role model in the male-dominated nerd culture.

Let’s get one thing straight: we’re not all damsels in distress.

11. You regularly fall into the never-ending abyss that is fan fiction.

Some people really shouldn’t be allowed to publish things on the Internet.

When finals were killing you last spring, you couldn’t wait for summer break.

You were so pumped to spend three whole months doing this:

But after a few weeks, being at home or interning starts to get a little

You almost forget what it was like to be at college.

But then it’s August, and you get to move back in soon!

You get psyched about hanging out with your college friends again...

...and eating at your fave restaurants near campus.

You get all excited to buy new back-to-school clothes (in case anyone forgot how fabulous you were over summer break)…

…and you also can’t wait to show off how you FINALLY lost the freshman 15 (and got a tan!) this summer.

But then you realize exactly how much money you have to spend on textbooks…

…which you may or may not actually end up using this semester.

And then you realize how much money you have to spend on school supplies and stuff for your dorm…

And you’re just like:

You tell yourself you’re going to start packing early… right?

But then all of a sudden it’s the night before move-in day, and you realize how much stuff you have to pack…

And you’re just like:

On move-in day, finding a parking spot is like:

On the bright side, according to the pictures on the housing website, you scored a seriously awesome dorm room this year.

But when you walk in for the first time, you realize it’s a little smaller than you anticipated…

…and you’re more than a little worried about fitting all your stuff (and your roommate’s) in there.

You get ready to do some heavy lifting, like,

But after carrying a few boxes, you just feel like,

Finally, you finish moving in!

Your parents get all sad to leave you, like,

But you’re just like,

After your parents leave, you finally get to reunite with your friends!

…and last semester’s hook-up.

And that girl who drove you nuts last year…

It’s Welcome Week – time to party!

Then classes start, but trying to get back into learning again is just like:

But then you remember you’re just reading the syllabus in each class all week, so it’s still chill.

…until you get your first round of papers, projects, and exams.

Oh yeah, we have to do work here…

But hey, being back at college still pretty much rocks.

Makeup brushes make all the difference! With well-designed brushes, winged eyeliner may be done more easily, and creating smoky eyes just might become second nature. “You cannot achieve good makeup without good tools,” says Francois Nars, creative director of NARS Cosmetics.  

There are so many kinds of brushes to choose from, and it’s hard to know which to buy for which product. With this simple guide, any collegiette can build her own perfect brush collection, at any price. Here’s a breakdown of what you should use each brush for!

Powder Blush: Rounded Blush Brush

MAC 129 Powder/ Blush Brush $35

Find a natural-fiber brush to apply your favorite blush shade in circular motions along the apples of your cheeks.

Bronzing Powder: Tapered Contour Brush

MAC 168 Large Angled Contour Brush $35

Use to apply matte bronzer over any contour cream in the hollows of your cheekbones, the sides of your nose and forehead. This will make your cheeks look defined all day. This brush’s angled shape is designed just for such spots on your face.

Highlighting: Stipple Brush

e.l.f. Small Stipple Brush $3

Use a small duo-fiber brush to apply a highlight cream to the planes of your cheekbones, brow bones and down the bridge of your nose. Be sure to apply lightly and quickly for a natural glow. This brush allows for enough control without too much power!

Contour Cream: Contour Brush

Real Techniques Contour Brush $18

Use a fully rounded and tapered synthetic brush to blend a contour shade a few shades darker than your foundation to the hollows of your face.

Liquid Foundation: Flat Foundation

EcoTools Flat Foundation Brush $5.99

Try to find a synthetic brush for liquid foundation for a smooth and clean application. Make sure that the brush is about half an inch wide, flexible and strong.

Concealer: Medium Synthetic Brush

Eco Tools Airbrush Concealer Brush $3.99

Your foundation brush needs its own match! Find one by the same brand that’s about the third the size of the foundation brush for creamy concealer applications!

Powder Foundation: Kabuki

e.l.f. Studio Kabuki Face Brush $6

With this brush’s short handle, you can apply pressure to any powder foundation, allowing the product to have its fullest coverage.

Gel Liner and Brow Gel: Angled Eye Liner

Sigma Beauty E65 - Small Angle $14-$18

A synthetic liner brush is a perfect way to control gel-based liners for successful cateyes, and this one doubles as a brow brush when you use it with brow gel. Make sure the bristles lay flat as you apply.

Eye Kohl Pencil: Pencil Brush

MAC 219 Pencil Brush $25

This brush is small and fits in hard-to-reach areas of the eyes including the tear ducts and lower-lash line. Use this to smudge kohl eye pencil, or apply shadow to those areas.

Eyelids: Shader Brush  

Sigma Beauty E57 Firm Shader $14-$16

Find a small, flat and square synthetic brush for cream shadow, and a natural-fiber brush for powder eyeshadow. Pack your color of choice onto the brush and pat on the sockets of your eyes.

Creases: Round Crease Brush

Sigma Beauty E47 Shader - Crease $14-$16

Crease brushes should be round (like a dome), dense and sturdy. Apply a shade that’s a few colors darker than your natural lid shade into the hollows of your eyes. Natural fiber crease brushes are often best.

Smoky Eyes: Blending Brush

MAC 224 Tapered Blending Brush $32

Don’t use this one to apply product to your eyes; use it in circular motions to soften the edges of your eyeshadow. It’ll make your look appear more professionally done.

Lipstick: Small Tapered Lip Brush

Sigma Beauty LO5 - Lip $14-$17

It’s not easy to create the perfect red lip without a brush. Look for a thin and rounded synthetic brush to improve your daily lipstick application. It works well for both lipstick and opaque gloss.

Getting a haircut can be one of the easiest ways to transform your look without dishing out a lot of money. We all know that a good style can make a huge difference in your overall appearance, but can you achieve one without going to the salon? DIY haircuts can save money but pose the risk of disastrous results if done poorly. So how can you decide if you're DIY-ready? We've consulted the experts to determine if at-home haircuts are worth the risk! And if you're dead-set on a DIY 'do, we've also compiled a list of tips and tricks for those collegiettes who are ready to take the plunge. After all, it's always better to be safe than sorry!

Common Styles: DIY Dos & Don'ts

Are you looking to try a new hairstyle, but aren't sure if it's doable outside of the salon? We've put together a list of three common styles with tips on how to do them at home (and whether or not they're worth the risk!).

Simple Layers

Layers can be done at home as long as you follow the proper procedure. To achieve a layered look, all you have to do is trim the ends off of a tight, centered ponytail! Check out this super easy tutorial for full instructions.

Bob

Cutting your own bob is a lot riskier than cutting layers, so we really recommend seeing a stylist. But if you must do it yourself, start with a ponytail (this time at the nape of your neck) and follow these instructions.

Pixie Cut

Unlike the other two fairly simple tutorials, achieving a pixie cut requires a much longer process and is always best left to the professionals. If you're craving the short-haired look, visit a salon, because an at-home mess-up can be nearly impossible to fix!

A Guide to DIY Trims

First and foremost, how often do you need to trim?

What if you're just looking to get a trim? Is it really worth shelling out big bucks just to get an inch or two of dead ends off? How often should you be getting your hair trimmed, anyway? We went to the experts to find out the answers to all of your at-home trimming questions!

Angelo David Pisacreta is a celebrity hair stylist, hair illusionist and hair extension aficionado based out of New York City. In addition to being the owner and creative director of Angelo David Salon, he is the creator of Couture Hair Extensions & Additions. Pisacreta gave insight into how often girls should get their hair trimmed, and whether it's ever a good idea to save money making those frequent trims yourself.

“We’ve heard all sorts of hair myths. The most popular one is that you should trim your hair every 4 to 6 weeks. This is not always the case. Super-curly hair often grows more slowly. And if you receive a chemical treatment, such as lightening or coloring, you might need a trim sooner than later to maintain a healthy, shiny look.” Pisacreta says.

While specific timing may depend on your hair type, hair treatments and coloring, it's safe to get a trim every one to two months as a general rule.

So can you do a simple trim yourself?

Since that's a lot of trimming, you may be hesitant to head to the salon every time. But is it possible to do a simple trim at home (you know, besides that one time that you decided to do it in preschool right before picture day)?

“I would not recommend at-home trimming. If you trim your own hair and mess up, it might be harder for a professional to fix without cutting more length than you want to lose. Don’t [trim your bangs at home]. A professional can create bangs in the perfect length and style to flatter your face shape. And, many salons do bang trims for free, so why take the risk?” says Pisacreta.

And if you do decide to trim your hair at home, always remember to start with damp hair. Use a wide-tooth comb or paddle brush, and brush your hair into a smooth ponytail on the top of your head. In front of a mirror, squeeze the hair elastic at the base of your ponytail and begin pulling it straight up, towards your ends. Stop about three inches from your ends and hold tightly. Then, using a pair of sharp hair-cutting shears (which can be found online or at a beauty supply store), start slowly cutting into the ends of the ponytail. If you only want to trim the bare minimum, just cut across the tops of your split ends. If you want to trim a bit more, cut straight across the top of the ponytail holder, which should be adjusted to help you achieve your desired length. 

Alternative Ways to Save 

Looking to cut corners and save money some other way? Splurge on styling at a nicer, quality salon, because a bad hairstyle can seriously damage your look. Save on trims and other minor procedures, since they can be done well almost anywhere, and even done yourself.

You can also go to a beauty school or a less experienced stylist for a cheaper rate! Often times, you will get big discounts on the same haircut that would have cost you a pretty penny at higher-end salons for the same quality.

Generally, when it comes to any kind of haircut (trim or otherwise) it is best to stick with the professionals. But if you're dying to DIY, follow these tips to avoid a mess! 

Do you plan on getting your hair cut before you head back to school? Would you try an at-home cut, or will you save your styling for the professionals?

Nothing says summer like driving around with the windows rolled down, blasting the radio and hoping the DJ plays your current jam. There are a bunch of catchy songs out right now, but chances are, you have a personal fave. From “Bad Blood” to “Cool For The Summer,” we’ve broken down what your favorite Top 40 song says about you.

1. “Bad Blood (feat. Kendrick Lamar)” – Taylor Swift

You have strong morals, and you stand up for what you believe in. You’re very vocal about your opinions, and you’re not afraid to call people out when they do something wrong.

2. “Shut Up + Dance” – Walk The Moon

You like to party. On the weekends, your friends can find you getting down on the dance floor. You’re always looking to meet new people—hopefully ones who know how to dance!

3. “See You Again (feat. Charlie Puth) – Wiz Khalifa

You put family first; not just those you’re related to, but also the friends who you consider family. Anyone who has you in his or her life is extremely lucky. You’re not afraid to look back on times both good and bad. #blessed

4. “Talking Body” – Tove Lo

You love to dance. You’re a night owl who is known for your spontaneity. You’re looking for love, though maybe not in all the right places.

5. “Honey, I’m Good.” – Andy Grammer

You’re in a stable relationship. You’re happy and in love, and you know that you have someone to come home to. Your single friends may get annoyed from time to time, but deep down they think the two of you are the definition of #RelationshipGoals.

6. “Elastic Heart” – Sia

You’re realistic about love and relationships. You’ve been hurt before, but your heart is healing. You’ve learned from past mistakes, and you’re tougher for it.

7. “Love Me Like You Do” – Ellie Goulding

You’re a hopeless romantic, just waiting for someone to sweep you off your feet. You’re a sucker for rom-coms, sweet songs, and a good love story.

8.  “Cool For The Summer” – Demi Lovato

You’re all about living in the moment. You follow your heart and do whatever feels right. All year ‘round you’re dreaming of the hot summer sun and laying on the beach.

9. “Fight Song” – Rachel Platten

You’re strong, determined, and goal-oriented. You pay no attention to the haters, and you don’t let anything get you down.

10. “Uma Thurman” – Fall Out Boy

You tend to crush on people who are quirky and independent. You like the challenge of trying to win them over. You also make pop culture references that not everyone gets.

Which song is your summer favorite, collegiettes?

The day we were all waiting for finally arrived because Taylor Swift is launching her own clothing line. But just as we were getting pumped about the idea of modeling T. Swift’s clothes in epic street style fashion, we realized the catch: it will only be available to buy in China. That (devastating) news didn’t keep us from making a list of all the things we want to see in her clothing line, even if we are jealous of the Swifties who will get to shop it.

1. Crop tops

This one’s a given, right? Tay perfected the crop top quite a while ago, but we’re still not over it.

2. Pretty little collars

Collars can seem awfully buttoned-up on some gals but not T. She makes the secretarial look chic again.

3. Lots of stripes

Stripes never lose their appeal, which is what makes them a Taylor signature.

4. High-waisted shorts

Ms. Swift knows which styles work best with her body type. We’re counting on her to expand the lacking high-waisted shorts market for tall girls everywhere.

5. Sparkle, sparkle, sparkle

Taylor has drifted from the heavily sequined looks of her country days, but that doesn’t mean you won’t still find a little shine in her wardrobe.

6.  Animal-print sweaters

We know T. loves her cats, but we’re talking a whole array of cute, cuddly creatures. And what better way to show them off than on adorable fall sweaters?

7. Girly sundresses

Have you ever seen a sundress that Taylor Swift couldn’t pull off? The answer is no. We can’t imagine the type of wisdom she has and how she much she could share with the pants-less crowd.

8. Fun flats

Even pop idols need a break from their heels every now and then. Leather oxfords or loafers are Tay's fave, but fun styles like hers can be hard to come by. We’re looking for ones that easily transition from day to night, please.

9. Matching separates

We didn’t know how much we could love matching separates until Taylor made it her mission to educate us on the matter. We would take as many variations of this staple as we could get our hands on.

10. Cutouts

Cutouts can easily elevate your entire outfit if they’re expertly placed to at least leave a little to the imagination. Taylor is the master of the classy cutout, so we think she’ll have to include a few in her line.

11. Vintage vibes meet classic glam

Tay always looks like she stepped right out of an old Hollywood film. She gets what it means to mix the latest trends with classic pieces. This has to be what her mood boards are all about; we just know it!

Taylor, if you’re reading this, we're begging you to bring your clothing line to America! 

Attending an excellent law school, becoming a famous fashion blogger, accepting big-time modeling gigs and achieving powerful businesswomen status—what do these successes all have in common? Well, for one, they are some of the loftiest goals collegiettes and twentysomethings can aspire to. But that's not all. According to one Margaret Zhang, these ambitions are all attainable—at the same time.

We'll give you a second to compose yourself after letting out a chorus of gasps and furrowing your eyebrows in disbelief.

No, we aren't joking, and yes, this writer, blogger, photographer, model and student extraordinaire is as real as she is young. At a sprightly 22, Margaret Zhang really does have it all.

And if you're not yet inspired beyond disbelief, let's delve a little deeper into Zhang's incredible credentials.

Zhang created her now-famous blog, Shine By Three, when she was just 16. Almost instantly, her gorgeous photography, dreamy outfits and impeccable writing voice stole the hearts of the industry, launching Zhang into early stardom. Her stylist social media persona is so prevalent and well-regarded that at some point, you've probably already seen this goddess's images plastered in some fashion magazine or street-style site—we know we have!

Since, Margaret has successfully taken a multitude of roles by storm. According to her blog and website, she's served as a consultant and content contributor to big-name brands such as Swarovski and Nike. She's also worked with L'Oréal, Clinique and Louis Vutton—which are just a few of the workplace connections she can happily namedrop.

When she's not busy being featured in Teen Vogue, Elle.com, Harper's Bazaar and Luckymag.com, she's attending classes at the University of Sydney to complete a law degree. Oh, and if that's not enough, she's been spotlighted on Australian reality TV due to her incredible lifestyle.

As a Sydney, Australia resident of Asian descent, Zhang has without-doubt faced the hardships of living life as a minority—making her journey and success all the more powerful and outstanding. Throughout her blog posts and blog FAQ page, she addresses stereotypes and rude comments with class, sass and intelligence.

Of course, she also offers words of wisdom that are equal parts relatable...

"Basically everything I do beautywise is to make me appear more awake!"—tell it, girl!

...and mentor-worthy:

"Set signpost goals in your mind of where you want to be in a year, two years, five years, and ten years. If what you’re doing at any point in time isn’t contributing to that, stop and do what you should be doing."

All in all, we're thoroughly amazed with Zhang's contributions to the industry, and honestly can't wait to see where she goes next. In the meantime, we'll be enviously browsing her hilarious Twitter, drool-worthy Tumblr and perfect Instagram accounts. 

It's been a rough year for One Direction, and we've even been hearing rumors of a split. On the bright side, while we mourn and grieve and deny it all, we can watch the boys' amazing music videos on replay. We picked our all-time favorites.

11. Gotta Be You

If nothing else, watch this to see the boys rocking some seriously beautiful jackets.

10. What Makes You Beautiful

This one is a classic, but we can never get enough of baby 1D frolicking in the ocean.

8. Kiss You

One Direction is not just a bunch of pretty boys with angelic voices. In “Kiss You,” the boys prove that they totally don’t take themselves seriously—and we love them even more for it.

7. You & I

We’ll take a long walk on the beach with any of the boys, if they’re wearing that sweater and morphing into each other. Actually, we’d do it regardless.

6. Little Things

Zayn singing “I’m in love with you” while staring directly at the camera. That is all.

5. One Thing

Can we get a guided tour of London, please, boys?

4. Midnight Memories

The lads being adorably awkward at a lame party, before bailing to get some midnight munchies, are all of us on a night out—give or take a few boat and wheelchair (?) rides.

Classes are over, so you know what that means? It's time to pull out some good movies that are guaranteed to drain your tear ducts and give you all the feels. Here are 15 flicks that will do just that!

1. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

The classic tearjerker starring Will and Jaden Smith is guaranteed to mess up your mascara. Follow the journey of Chris Gardner and his son as they take on the cruel realities of the world of homelessness and perseverance. 

2. Unconditional (2012)

Ah, don't we all love the beautiful meaning of friendship and forgiveness? Starring Michael Ealy and Lynn Collins, this emotional film is about a woman whose childhood friend helps her regain her faith after her husband is murdered during a mugging. Prepare for your heartstrings to be pulled!

3. Hours (2013)

If the presence of Paul Walker by itself doesn't make you burst into tears, then the waterworks will be in full effect as you watch him risk his life to save his newborn daughter after Hurricane Katrina causes the power to go out at their New Orleans hospital. 

4. The Fault in Our Stars (2014)

This has to be the most emotional movie we've ever seen! Based on the novel by John Green, we became obsessed with Hazel and Augustus as they fall in love with each other after meeting at a cancer support group. 

5. The Boy in the Striped Pajamas (2008)

Have a box of tissues near you before you watch this intense movie based on two little boys who form a friendship during the Holocaust. 

6. Steel Magnolias (1989)

Filled with humor and heartbreak, Steel Magnolias tells the story of a close group of friends navigating their way through life, including some tough relationships and losing people who are close to them. 

7. Up (2009)

Aren't Disney movies supposed to be happy? The heartbreaking opening scene of Up caught us completely off guard!

8. My Girl (1991)

During the transition in her teenage years, a young girl is distraught about her life until she meets an unlikely friend. Of course, no sad movie is complete without at least one tragedy...

9. The Notebook (2004)

Definitely one of our favorite chick flicks! Who doesn't love a sweet love story? Admit it, Allie and Noah were the perfect couple!

10. Listen To Your Heart (2010)

A singer/songwriter falls in love with a girl who happens to be deaf... cue the collective aww's! Similar to The Fault in Ours Stars, this movie includes a major plot twist that keeps the tears flowing! 

11. Stepmom (1998)

If there was ever a movie that created the most ugly-crying faces ever, it has to be this one! Not only does it make us appreciate our mothers, but it also gives us a reason to cuddle up with a bowl of ice cream after we're done crying.

12. P.S. I Love You (2007)

What's more devastating than the story of a young widow that discovers her late husband has left her ten messages intended to help her cope with his loss?

13. A Walk to Remember (2002)

Nicholas Sparks never disappoints us. Landon Carter (played by Shane West) and Jamie Sullivan (played by Mandy Moore) form their relationship as a part of Landon's community service. The sad part? Jamie has a devastating secret...

14. The Lovely Bones (2009)

Based on the novel by the same name, The Lovely Bones takes us through a whirlwind of emotions through the eyes of a young girl who watches over her family in "limbo" after she has been murdered. 

15. What Dreams May Come (1998)

Another movie starring one of the greatest actors of the century, Robin Williams. What happens to him in the movie makes his death even more sorrowful...

It’s a new school year, which means, in all its cheesy glory, a brand spanking new you! You may not realize it yet, but those summer months of internships, relaxation and sun have matured us all — it’s better to blame it on the tan than the actual fact that we’re growing up, we’re big girls now. That being said, we’re saying goodbye to the days of promising ourselves we’ll find a boyfriend or girlfriend while stuffing our faces with Ben & Jerry’s Chocolate Fudge Brownie ice cream on the couch. This year, collegiettes’ love resolutions will be about confidence, self-respect and everything else that will rock everyone’s world… starting with our own. We’ve complied a list of four love resolutions (and tips for putting them into action) that will make this school year the best one yet.

Love Resolution #1: I Will Confront My Crush

“I think my new semester's love resolution is to finally have a conversation with this guy I've been crushing on. We met at a party, he seemed super into me and even asked for my number, but I get very nervous whenever I see him!” – Kelsey, Boston University 

So you’ve been crushing on this guy or girl for, we don’t know, ever. Well, this year, it’s time to take some action. If he or she hasn’t made a move yet, then it’s your time to step up to the plate — the ball’s in your court.

We know, easier said than done. However, in the grand scheme of life, what do you have to lose? You’re not dating, so you can’t break up. If you’re friends, confronting him or her won’t completely and totally ruin your friendship, assuming you let yourself move on. If you’re acquaintances, then you could end up as friends — and almost every great relationship starts off with that as a solid foundation.

Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a Professor of Psychology at California State University and a relationship expert who’s been featured as one of Dr. Drew’s Lifechangers, adds that pining after someone for so long can get pretty tiring — this year, it’s time to rip the Band-aid off with one quick pull. “As I see it, you may as well get in there, be yourself and see what happens,” Durvasula says. “Waiting is not likely to create change, and in the interim, someone else may snatch him or her up.”

The absolute worst thing that can happen is he or she says no. But if that’s the case, then he or she clearly wasn’t good enough for you. After a well-deserved trip to your fave froyo joint and a Sex and the City marathon, you’ll be as good as new — and you’ll eventually have a story to laugh about with your girlfriends (not to mention a completely valid reason to seek revenge… totally kidding. Maybe.).

“But keep in mind, even if he or she says no — you are still you. It isn’t an indictment of you. Think of the guys or girls you have said no to — it wasn’t personal, it just wasn’t a fit,” Durvasula says.

How To Do It?
Like we said before, it’s a whole lot easier to imagine a perfect situation where you approach that Campus Cutie in your chemistry lab, ask him or her out and then ride off into the sunset together living happily ever after. But let’s get real — college isn’t exactly the set of a Disney movie (although I’m sure more than a few of us have lost a shoe after a night out… or before the clock struck midnight).

So just how exactly do you go about creating your 21st century, fairytale-esque, I-just-hope-I-don’t-have-anything-in-my-teeth dreams a reality? While there are no foolproof scenarios you can concoct, there are ways to talk to that special guy or girl without desperately wanting to crawl under your bed and hide forever.

Durvasula recommends approaching him or her wherever and whenever you feel most comfortable.

“If you are at the same party, wonderful, a perfect place to approach. Time it right, catch his or her smile across the room or comment on something he or she is looking at or wearing. At the end of the day, the more times you take the initiative, the bolder you will get, and the boldness will ultimately get you to the right match for you.”

Scenario:
If you see him out, go up and talk to him! Parties are all about mixing and mingling, so it’s nothing out of the ordinary to start chatting him or her up. With a little liquid courage if you’re of age (and we mean a little — we’re not trying to channel Cady Heron by throwing up on Aaron Samuels), be that confident collegiette that you know you are deep down inside. If you’re nervous at first, ask your friends to come with you, letting them know that once conversation is flowing, they can subtly and slyly walk away. So, what are good conversation starters? Class, summer, Greek life, even the breed of his or her dog — anything you’re interested in! A pretty good go-to is, "Hey, how are you? I haven’t seen you around in a while, what’s new?" But what if you guys haven’t really formally met? Well, if you have mutual friends, ask them to casually introduce you two. We're also a supporter of not-so-accidentally bumping into him or her. From there, you can apologize for your clumsy (but not alcohol-induced) trip and strike up a conversation. But just remember, this is the 21st century; there’s no need to wait for him or her to ask you for your number. Be confident and cute, and ask him or for his or her digits! You’d be surprised how sexy confidence can be.

Just remember collegiettes, however you decide to approach him or her (a.k.a lure him or her in), be direct! Psychotherapist Mary Waldon, LCSW says, “Ask for a date. Call it a date. No need to go on and on about your feelings and the history. Just say you like him or her and ask for a date.” Let’s be honest, you have about five minutes (read: seconds) before his or her mind wanders off. Catch his or her attention while you can!

Love Resolution #2: I Will Say Goodbye to Hopeless Hook-Ups

“I won't go into random hook-ups with the hope that they will turn into relationships. Instead, I'll indulge in a few spontaneous hook-ups, but the rest of the time take things slowly and give guys a chance to get to know me before I let them get to know me in an intimate way.”- Anonymous, University of Michigan 

Random hook-ups and DFMOs — dance floor make-outs — have seemingly become staples of the college experience. But why? Does anything beneficial really come out of shoving your tongue down a stranger’s throat? While we can all agree that random hook-ups are basically pointless, a lot of collegiettes still take part in those awkwardly public, very drunk make-out sessions… usually in hopes that it will turn into something more. Although we're taking a wild guess here, we're going to assume that about 99.99 percent of these one-time hook-ups stay as just that: one-time hook-ups. However, there’s no real mystery to this one.

“There is nothing wrong with a bit of rolling around together, unless there is a part of you in the back of your mind that hopes it will become something more,” Jeffrey Sumber, psychotherapist and adjunct professor at National-Louis University, says. “Let's be honest with ourselves first. People get turned off when they find someone who says he or she just wants to hook up but then [wants] more afterwards. Many people want the truth and get frustrated when the ‘truth’ isn't the message at the outset.”

When it comes down to it, a fun little romp between the sheets just doesn’t establish anything but a physical connection.

“Both sex and relationships thrive with honesty. Be honest about whichever it is you are after, relationship or sex. If it is both, then I'd recommend beginning with connection and taking it a few notches slower on the physical plane. If a guy or girl is too impatient after a few dates, then he or she is probably not the right guy or girl for you,” Sumber says.

So come fall semester, we’re making a change. Say goodbye to constant, hopeless and empty hook-ups, and say hello to finally making a legitimate connection with that hottie at the bar.

How To Do It?
Fight the urge! Instead of going straight to the hook-up, try making out what he or she’s all about and getting to know him or her — show off your self-respect and confidence. By the end of the night, after an awesome conversation, you decide if it’s the right time for that special first kiss. Keeping him or her guessing all night long will definitely hold his or her attention, and who doesn’t like a little chase?

Scenario:
You met a fratstar last week and totally fell for him. But he only texts you when he’s drunk late at night. He’s only interested in hooking up, but you want more — you really like him. There are different ways to handle this: you can wait it out for a little and see where it goes, or play hard-to-get and say no when he calls you at 2 a.m. to come over and “hang.” In a situation like this, he’s usually only using you for a little you-know-what. If you’re looking for something more, you have to express that, otherwise things will stay just as they are, as pointless hook-ups. You don’t have to (and shouldn’t) outright say, “I want a relationship. Right now. Or else,” but you can suggest going to dinner one night or seeing a movie (outside of his Netflix account and his bedroom).

Love Resolution #3: I Won’t Jump Into A Relationship Too Quickly

"I'll take my relationships day by day.”- Alexa, JMU 

This one goes hand-in-hand with #2. We all love meeting new guys or girls with the hopes of something bigger and better coming along with him or her. But at the same time, sometimes we tend to jump too soon. Here’s how it goes: you meet a nice guy or girl, you hit it off, and you start picking out country clubs for the wedding reception. That is how it works, right? Surprisingly enough, not exactly (don’t worry, our minds were blown too). As it turns out, too much too soon can, and most likely will, scare any guy or girl off in a heartbeat.

“While I’m a fan of being honest about one’s excitement and interest, [you] need to remember that [your] enthusiasm might be a bit much for someone [you] are just getting to know,” Sumber says. While Sumber doesn’t believe in following a specific set of rules when it comes to the dating scene (waiting to for him or her to call you, no double-texting, etc.), he does add that it’s best to “give yourself some space to marinate in the experience! Allow yourself to truly feel the feelings without rushing to the next interaction.”

If you think about it from his or her perspective, wouldn’t an obsessive, stage-five clinger turn you off, especially after only meeting him or her a week ago? While this is obviously a more extreme case, it does get the point across: slow it down, and get to know him or her before you start picking out baby names.

But while you’re off trying to play it cool, even though you’re completely and utterly gushing on the inside, don’t forget to show some interest. “People like that you are interested. In fact, most people will not pursue you unless they know in no uncertain terms that you are interested,” Sumber says. So while you’re desperately attempting to ignore him or her at a party, just give up the act and shoot him or her a smile from across the room.

How To Do It?
While all the voices in your head are screaming, shouting, chanting, “Text him or her! Text him or her! Text him or her!” hold yourself back. Although it’s perfectly normal (and sane) to shoot him or her a text here and there when something reminds you of him or her (‘I saw the soccer team practicing today, you guys looked great out there’ or ‘I literally waited in line at Dunkin’ Donuts for two hours today, you’re right, I definitely should invest in my own Keurig’), don’t abuse the fact that you have his or her number, sending him or her text after text after text with no reply from his or her end. If you’re looking for something more, play it cool in the beginning to see just where this thing goes.

Waldon agrees, noting that collegiettes shouldn’t over-text or be too available. “If you have a tendency towards this type of behavior, enlist the help of a friend to help you rein it in,” she recommends. “A few basic rules of thumb: don’t text again until you receive a text back. If you tend to be an over-texter, make a pact with a friend. Either check in with the friend before you text or text your friend instead!”

Scenario:
You met a girl at a party and completely and utterly fell head-over-heels — she’s literally your dream come true. Problem is, she’s still suffering (seriously, suffering) over her recent break-up with her ex-girlfriend. You figure it’s fine; she has to get over it eventually. So you text her saying you had fun hanging out and all that jazz. She responds, but nothing much comes from the conversation. What do you do next? While you can always go for the classic "I will stalk you until you decide to marry me" move, you’re probably better off letting her come to you. She’s still heartbroken, so by throwing yourself at her, you’re only bound to become her rebound. She has to make the decision to move on on her own terms. Pushing or persuading will do nothing but hurt the situation. It’s a slow process, but if you suggest grabbing coffee together when she’s ready (something light and easy), something positive can surely arise.

Love Resolution #4: I Will Make My Relationships Work

“I'm going to be a freshman and I'm going to school [five] hours away from home where my boyfriend of two years is staying! So my love resolution is to keep my relationship as strong as possible without being able to see him often.”- Laura, University of Wisconsin 

Every year, collegiettes across the country vow to keep their boyfriend or girlfriend and to stay in a relationship during the school year. Whether you’re at the same school or 500+ miles apart, every relationship takes work. While it may seem easier just to call it quits, having a long-distance relationship in college is doable, especially with all the technology that surrounds us (shout-out to Facebook, Skype, texting and all that’s in between). But before deciding on anything this groundbreaking (I mean, choosing a new nail polish color takes tons of deliberation for us), make sure that this is not only something you want to do, but something that you should be doing.

“College is an extraordinary time — time for self-discovery and the discovery of others, and a long distance relationship can often distance a person from staying in the moment at her own college and in her own college experience,” Durvasula says. However, if you’re ready and willing to make the commitment, then you can make it work.

How To Do It?
Communication is key. You can’t be with someone if you never speak — that’s what marriage is for (totally kidding). We all have our ridiculously busy schedules (who knew college would be more taxing than anything else we’ve done thus far?), but we do have down time. While there’s the obvious phone call, Facebook message, Tweet and e-mail, Durvasula also recommends adding something a little more romantic (and foreign to our generation) to your relationship: snail mail. Just picture it: how absolutely melt-worthy adorable would it be if your boyfriend or girlfriend wrote you a handwritten letter? Yeah, we thought you’d agree.

But don’t forget to make time for your college friends — they are the people you’ll be spending the next four years making fabulous mistakes with. So how do you go about this extreme balancing act (we'd like to see Gabby Douglas try this one out) and still come out with gold? It’s all about the scheduling.

“Schedule limited Skype, FaceTime or phone time, a beginning and an end time, so you know when you will connect with your boyfriend or girlfirend, and still be able to live your life at school,” Waldon says. “Schedule time to get together, plan trips to each other’s campus and incorporate friends into at least some of that time.”

Scenario:
Since he asked you to the prom your junior year, you’ve been basically glued to your boyfriend’s hip. You’ve stuck by each other through thick and thin, but now it’s time to go your separate ways — how heart-wrenching is that? But you’ve both thought long and hard, and decided that you can defy the statistics, you can overcome the stigma and you can have a long distance relationship. So you set off to your different schools to live different lives, while still holding on to what you have as a couple. You both want to have the full college experience (whatever that is) that everyone keeps talking about. So while you Skype every Monday, Facebook chat every Wednesday in class and text almost all day long, you also make sure you’re spending time with your new college friends. One weekend, you focus on your college world, only talking to your boyfriend here and there — you update him about everything on Monday. Another weekend, one of you visits the other at his or her school, absorbing each other’s own college life. You’ve figured out your own schedule and way to have a lasting relationship, and only you two can make it work after putting in what you think is the perfect amount of effort.

So collegiettes, did we miss your love resolution for the new school year? Let us know what you’re pledging to when it comes to love this year in the comment box below!

The always exciting time of summer can be a period of rest and relaxation away from the school year or a time to fulfill that important internship or job you spent weeks preparing for. Regardless, summer is a time we all look forward to. But, for some, summer is equivalent to doing a.) nothing, b.) nothing and c.) all of the above. In case you think you haven’t become as lazy as you expected, we have broken it down for you in seven stages.

1. Home Sweet Home

Reunited with your humble abode and it feels so good! Being home also makes it easier for us to be able to fall back into the normal teenage lazy routine of sleeping until noon, having Mom make lunch, taking a nice, long nap right after… You get the idea.

2. Friends (the Lazy Edition)

Being back home with your high school and neighborhood friends reminds you all of what you used to do before going off to the magical land that is college. Although, weeks and weeks of school work have made you tired and a little more inclined to text “Next time” when your friends want to hang out.

3. Going out in public is not a thing

The mall is a safe haven for you, especially when you want to buy those new summer shorts or when you want to cash in on those summer deals. But, going to the mall requires money, transportation and energy filled to a tee, and missing any one of those things does not a great shopping experience make. Better stay at home...

4. Sleeping more than eight hours becomes a necessity

We all need beauty sleep, something that didn’t become a reality until the summer came. And, for us lazybugs, eight hours just won’t cut it any longer. Usually, a good 10 or 11 ½ hours will suffice!

5. Takeout/Delivery becomes your new best friend

While getting delivery was already your favorite pasttime as you were finishing up that paper last semester, it has now transitioned into the place of a major BFF, because sometimes it is just too much to make something to eat if Mom isn’t home.

6. There’s nothing on TV!

After a whole summer of catching up on all the shows you missed and summer begins winding down, you realize there’s nothing left for you to watch, because you saw everything (or it went off the air)! The moments of true laziness kick in as you can’t even force yourself to find a new TV show to start, because hitting the buttons on the remote is just too much work at this point. Maybe watching cats on YouTube could be an option?

7. School is getting ready to start again!

Summer is over and it seems like we have to fly on our brooms back to what now seems like the opposite of CandyLand: college. Now, comes time for packing, buying any new materials, getting mentally ready for new class schedules—basically, the works. But, how can you even pack when you can’t even get out of bed?

Tell us collegiettes, what stages of summer laziness have you reached?

You’ve finally settled into your dorm, the dining hall has become significantly less intimidating, but suddenly, your college relationship is facing the dreaded “one month” hurdle. For long-distance couples, the first four weeks apart tend to be the “make it or break it” period. For hook-ups, that first month is the expiration date for the “casual” label. And for crushes, 28 days is just long enough for all that sexual tension to boil over. So whether you’ve been dumped by your long-distance beau or want to take your flirting to the next level, we’ve compiled a list of potential scenarios and talked to collegiettes and experts to help you through it!

Problem #1: Your long-distance relationship is having issues.

You promised one another that your love was stronger than the cost of a cross-country plane ticket. You agreed on daily Skype sessions and hourly texts and weekly phone calls. But four weeks is a long time and in the grand scheme of things, you’re barely out of the starting gate. You’re beginning to second guess your decision to remain in a long distance relationship. But how do you bring that up with your significant other?

“You have to approach the topic carefully,” says Frances from University of Rochester, who's been in a long distance relationship going on four years. “For me, we both wanted to stay together but we had very different ideas about what college and freshman year are all about. To be completely honest, I think entering freshman year in a long distance relationship is a mistake unless you truly believe you can grow on your own and branch out at school without feeling held back by your partner.”

If you feel the guidelines that you set before leaving for college aren’t working, you need to be honest with him. If you’re most comfortable writing out your thoughts, send your significant other an email laying out the issues you feel have arisen; conversely, if you work best face to face, set aside a Skype time when you’ll both be able to be alone in your respective dorms and talk openly.

Kelsey from West Virginia University has been dating her boyfriend since senior year of high school (despite the fact that he attends college in Florida), and she’s got a litany of long-distance tips. “A weekly time that you reserve for each other is really nice!” she says. Other suggestions include a “Netflix date” (sharing a Netflix account and watching a movie at the same time), and surprise care packages.

But Kelsey warns, “Also, you have to stay honest with each other while you're apart. Feelings can change, and they need to know if that happens. Long distance relationships are all about trust and if you don't have that it's not going to last very long.”

And if you do ultimately decide that you want to end things, wait until you’re able to meet face to face.“No one wants the rep of being that girl who dumped her guy via text, even though of course it's way more convenient - especially if you're out of town,” says Jen Kirsch, Relationship Expert on Cosmo TV's Love Trap. “Talk to him in person and be direct. Let him know that this is what will be best for you.”

While it may not feel like it at first, the forced distance between you and your ex is a blessing. You will never have to worry about running into him on the way to class, and you will never see him having a dance floor make-out sesh. But as we all know, physical proximity is just one piece of the relationship puzzle. Sever all your social media ties (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.), because there’s nothing more heart-wrenching than getting a notification that your ex is “now in a [new] relationship.”

Once you begin the healing process, the social scene at school may seem a bit daunting. “To move on mentally and socially, take part in activities on campus,” Kirsch suggests. “Go to networking events, join a club of like-minded people. Perhaps take up yoga or get a gym membership. These things will empower you and make you feel better about your present state.”

Problem #2: You and your hook-up buddy still need to define the relationship.

Maybe you met a party, in class, or at the inaugural meeting of the poetry club, but something clicked, and suddenly you’ve been smooching the same guy for four weeks. As amazing as it’s been, you realize that you’re looking for something more serious. Having the “what are we?” conversation can inspire fear even in the bravest of souls, but it’s a necessary talk.

“Unfortunately, I think hook-up culture results in people spending a lot of time pretending they’re the person in the relationship who cares less, which leads to people being dishonest with one another,” says Beth from Kenyon College. “At the end of the day, it’s important to be completely straightforward and forthcoming. Pretending that you don’t want something more serious will only lead to hurt feelings, and the truth will come out eventually anyway.”

Try asking him to meet you in a public place - if your current relationship is purely sexual and you’re looking for something more, meeting in a dorm room is probably not the best idea. Lay out how you feel.

If he’s unwilling to make a commitment, be honest with yourself. Can you stand to be in a relationship that, in all probability, doesn’t have much of a future? If the answer is no, then you need to make clean break. “We teach people how to treat us by what we're willing to put up with,” Kirsch says. “Don't accept something or settle in hopes that he'll change. If you express that you've developed feelings and he doesn't feel the same way, walk away with your pride held in tact and find someone who thinks you're worthy enough that they don't want to lose you.”

The rules are the same if you’re the one unwilling to up the serious level: be upfront about your desire to remain casual. “If you’re not looking for a serious commitment, it’s equally as important to be honest with them,” Beth says. “People often think what they want to think about what a relationship is, and it’s incumbent on you to be explicit about what you want.” Sometimes, it’s painful to end a relationship with someone you care about, but it’s not fair to either party if there’s a discrepancy in dedication. Know that what you’re doing is, in the long run, the best decision for both parties. He’ll be able to find someone who’s willing to commit, and you’ll be able to keep on keepin’ on.

Problem #3: Your crush has yet to make a move.

For the past month, you’ve been sitting next to each other in that Econ class, eyeing one another from across the dining hall, and casually working into conversations your total and complete single status. The level of sexual tension is almost unbearable. But before you start smooching, ask yourself seriously how you’ll feel the morning after. Or the Monday after, in class.

That being said, there’s nothing hotter than unrequited love becoming requited. If you’re interested in getting to know him better, “start incorporating your crush into your daily life,” suggests Kirsch. “Does he have Snapchat? iMessage? Facebook Chat? Keep him in the loop about what you're up to, how your day was, what a pain you think your teacher is, etc., by using these methods to help build a foundation for a friendship. The benefit of this is that once you exchange messages, you can get a sense of who he really is, not just your superficial impression of him. This will help you decide if he's even worth pursuing in the first place.”

As happens to the best of us, sometimes crushes do not translate well to an actual hook-up, and you have the rest of a semester to spend together in a class. Take a deep breath. Do not panic. Acting immaturely will just prolong the awkwardness. Freshman year, I completely ignored a failed hook-up for the rest of the class, even though he repeatedly sat next to me. Four years later, he still remembers my cold shoulder and it completely ruined our friendship. That said, don’t feel pressured to have extended conversations or force yourself to become besties. The best you can do is keep your head up, smile, and try to move on. Everyone has embarrassing moments in their love life timeline, and there is no level of humiliation that isn’t helped by a basic level of politeness and time.

Summer of the #Squad. [The Atlantic]

Dear Mom, from your off to college daughter. [Grown and Flown]

Why online dating is the Forever21 of romance. [YourTango]

This cat is not a fan of yoga. [Funny or Die]

But what if I don't want to share my food? [The Washington Post]

Good news for those who can't eat gluten. [Jezebel]

These pets are seriously over you. [BuzzFeed]

Will Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert's divorce impact their careers? [USA Today]

The best credit cards for new grads. [The Huffington Post]

What it's like to be a bail bondsmen in Las Vegas. [Vice]

Whether you were interning from 9 to 5, waiting tables or perfecting your tan by the pool (lucky), those three months of summer seemed to drag on forever without your best friends, favorite restaurants and wild college parties. But don’t despair, collegiettes; school is back in session. And not only is it a new semester, it’s fall semester. And fall semester is the most awesome time of the year. Here are a few reasons why (actually, 33):

1. It’s a fresh start. It’s a new year, which means a clean slate. Fall semester is the best time to reinvent yourself into the ultra-studious, ultra-fun, ultra-collegiette you’ve always wanted to be, or just to keep improving on the awesome collegiette you already are.

2. Seeing your friends again. Be prepared for a lot of screaming, running hugs and squealing, because you’re back with your best friends again after a long summer break and you can’t wait to start having collegiate fun together again.

3. Catching up on summer stories. Annie interned at Google, Emily had a super-hot summer fling with that dark-haired lifeguard from her work, and Beth visited New York City where she actually saw Ryan Gosling in a restaurant (or a blonde lookalike, at least). Clearly you’ve got some summer gossip to share.

4. Fall fashion. A new school year is the best time for a wardrobe refresher, and we’ve already picked out the latest fall trends that we want to show off this semester (in case anyone forgot how stylish we were over summer break). Who doesn’t love an excuse to go shopping?

5. Back-to-school events. Most schools have a few days to get students acclimated and excited to be on campus before class starts (usually called Welcome Week or something similar), and these can be full of concerts, outdoor movies, and informational sessions — all for students. And did we mention they’re usually free? Take advantage of them; remember, your college budget starts now…

6. Free stuff! Free stuff everywhere! Welcome Week typically has an event where student organizations will give you free t-shirts, Frisbees, sunglasses, food, you name it to persuade you to sign up for their club. Not only is free stuff awesome, but Welcome Week might also help you find a fun organization to join that you had never heard of before (ski and snowboard club? Cool!). Just try not to write your name down on too many sheets of paper or your e-mail inbox will be dreadfully full before class even starts.

7. Being free of your parents. Yes, you’re free of your parents for spring semester, too, but you were at home for winter break for like, three weeks. This was three months. Three months of curfews and nagging. We love you, Mom and Dad, but we missed our freedom.

8. Buying a ton of back-to-school stuff. Because even notebooks and laundry detergent can give you a shopper’s high. The best way to start off a new year is buying a lot of new things!

9. Fall semester is perfect for starting your new year’s resolutions. Who decided January was a good month for that, anyway? Why would you start your vow to go to the gym twice a week or chat up that hot guy in your psych class when the school year is halfway over when you can start now?

10. New exercise classes at the gym. (Speaking of those new year’s resolutions…) Did last year’s group exercise schedule bore you so much that going to the gym just became so banal (totally why you stopped going… or never started in the first place)? Never fear, a new exercise class schedule is here! And look, that combo kickboxing-Zumba-yogalates class fits perfectly in your fall schedule! Now you have no excuse not to get healthy this year.

11. The first week of classes. Wait, classes? That was one thing we didn’t miss over the summer. But the first week, otherwise known as “Let’s Read the Syllabus Then Leave After 10 Minutes” week, lets you ease into your academic life (ugh) a little more smoothly.

12. Start of the year parties.“Let’s Read the Syllabus Then Leave After 10 Minutes” week goes perfectly with lots of wild back-to-school parties. No homework means more time to have fun! For a week, anyway.

13. New guys. A magical thing happens every fall on college campuses: a whole new crop of freshman guys arrive, ready to save bored collegiettes from their man-droughts. And even if you may be nervous about dating a younger man, think about all the hot new transfer students and new guys in your classes that you haven’t met before. Microeconomics just got a whole lot more interesting.

14. New friends. So that hot guy in your microeconomics class ended up already having a girlfriend (ouch). But why not talk to that hilarious girl who sits on the other side of you in class instead? A new year means new classes with new people who could have a lot in common with you, such as a love for Darren Criss and late-night ice cream runs.

15. Sorority rush. For those GDIs out there, rush might be more of a headache than anything else, but for girls interested in the Greek system, rush is an exciting introduction to hundreds of girls who could become your new BFFs.

16. Football games. Dressing up (or painting up) in your school’s colors, waving pom-poms like your life depends on it, screaming at the refs and cheering on your team until your throat hurts; there’s nothing quite like college football. Even if you can’t tell the difference between a cornerback and a quarterback, anyone can appreciate spending a sunny Saturday cheering on your school with your best friends. Go State!

17. Tailgating. With football comes tailgating, and with tailgating comes delicious food, beer and lots of cute guys. Need I say more?

18. At first, the dining hall food doesn’t seem too bad. At first.

19. New digs. A new year means it’s time for a new dorm or apartment that’s (hopefully) not a 25-minute walk from your classes like last year and (hopefully) doesn’t smell quite as weird as your old dorm did.

20. A new living space means new décor. And lots of DIY — yay for Pinterest! Or Target, if you’re not that crafty.

21. A new roommate. Remember how much your roommate’s sexiling habits and overflowing trash can drove you nuts last year? Guess what: she’s finally gone. Hallelujah!

22. A new RA. He’s kind of hot, too… and just down the hall…

23. Fall TV shows. Time for weekly viewing parties with your dormmates (and lots of popcorn).

24. Falling leaves. Red and orange leaves + the quad = a perfectly picturesque campus worthy of an admissions brochure. Ahh.

25. Holiday drinks at Starbucks. We missed you, pumpkin spice lattes. And the red cups are just so much cuter than the white ones!

26. So. Many. Breaks. There’s fall break, Thanksgiving break and winter break, which is way more time off of papers and exams than that measly couple days you get for spring break next semester.

27. Fall weather. It’s not too hot and not too cold (all you need is a light jacket!); fall weather is perfect for playing Frisbee on the quad, starting an outdoor exercise routine and walking home from a night out without freezing your butt off.

28. Halloween. Don’t you miss dressing up in costumes and eating a ton of candy every Halloween as a kid? You’re in luck — in college, going out on Halloween dressed like a flapper or a witch or a Transformer that can actually morph between car and robot (yep, it’s been done) is cool again. Halloween is the one night a year where the entire campus comes together to don the craziest costumes you’ve ever seen and throw the craziest parties you’ve ever been to.

29. Homecoming. Concerts, parties, football, a new Homecoming Queen and King and lots of cute old people walking around campus talking about their former hangouts and favorite college memories. One day, that’ll be you…

30. Thanksgiving break. Remember how the dining hall food tasted good “at first”? Welcome to your first home-cooked meal in three months. Our mouths are watering already.

31. Black Friday. Your back-to-school wardrobe finally feeling a little dull? Time to get up at 5 a.m. (or 3 a.m.… or 12 a.m.), down a ton of coffee and duke it out with a lot of sleep-deprived people over sweaters and jeans with triple-super-markdown prices. Then take a nap. Then eat leftovers.

32. Tacky Christmas sweater parties. Now you can tell your grandma how much you loved wearing her Christmas present to you and actually mean it.

33. Winter holidays. It’s the most wonderful time of the year! And nothing says festive quite like a dorm decorated with red and green lights, a mini Christmas tree, blue and white streamers, or a silver menorah.

Excited yet? We are! Get ready — something tells us this fall semester is going to be seriously epic.