You guys, dreams really do come true. Our childhood fashion obsession is back for a new generation of tweens to bask in. And even though we may have outgrown Limited Too’s clothes, we can think of 7 items we’d still totally shop once the store reopens.

1. Spaghetti strap tank tops

Oh, the days of spaghetti straps. Built-in shelf bras and bedazzling were, of course, a must.

2. Pajama sets

If anything, these matching sets are probably chicer than the old college tees we're wearing to bed now.

3. Overalls

Overalls are totally in, but we want ones that have flowers embroidered all over them.

4. Graphic tees

Sure, you can go in just about any department store and find a pop culture-inspired graphic tee. But where else can you get ones with cuddly monkeys and dainty daisies on them? Our inner tween is begging for an infusion of cutesy in our adult wardrobe.

5. Flared jeans

We’re not looking to bring back outrageously flowy bell bottoms. Denim jeans with a slight flare will do quite nicely, though. Just don’t expect us to be wearing a choker around our necks any time soon.

6. All the hair clips

Hey, these girly accessories were all the rage when Lizzie McGuire and the Olsen twins were wearing them on the daily in the '00s. Butterfly, glitter, and flower clips—the options are endless!

7. Modest swimwear

Why does women’s swimwear have to be so skimpy? We’d love to shop LTD2’s tankinis and one-pieces again on days when we don’t feel like pulling and tugging to keep our bikinis in place.

What items from your childhood do you hope to see the revived Limited Too selling, collegiettes?

Two months ago, heads buried in books, cramming for finals and craving lazy sun-filled afternoons, we were pretty darn well ready to pack up and dive into our summertime fantasies. Behind the pages of our econ textbooks, the idea of fabulous new internships, various vacations and European adventures, annual summer flings and—let’s not forget—homemade meals you don’t have to swipe an ID for, seemed all too appealing.

Two months in, we’re over it—and itchin’ to head back to campus.

Whether your hometown is boring you to tears, or your stressful internship has you desperately missing a college schedule(read: no Friday classes, ever) we all have our own reasons for counting down the days ‘til September. Here are collegiettes’ top 20:

1. Sharing the Same Address as the BFFs

Turns out that in the real world, all your faves don’t actually live down the hall from you. Sigh. Arranging get-togethers between summer jobs, long commutes and vacations is a mess. How much cooler was it to grab the girls for dinner simply by swinging by their adjacent rooms, instead of the tangled mess that is trying to plan get-togethers during the summer?

2. Living at Home Has Us Feeling Like We’re 15—Again 

Back to sneaking in after-hours? After getting in the groove of living on your own, it’s totally frustrating to go back to curfews and helicopter parents. (And trying to protest that you actually stay out a lot later back at school doesn’t really seem to help matters).

3. Campus Meal Plan = Much-Needed Choice and Convenience!

Sure, we’re often bitter about the cost-per-meal ratio, and we all love to hate on the oft-wilting lettuce and greasy fries, but when it comes down to it, we secretly adore the dining hall. If we want to have an omelet and toast for dinner, or samples of three different types of cookies for dessert, we better darn well have that option. It’s better than a soggy Starbucks wrap on our way home from work!

4. Actual Motivation to Work Out

With free access to top-notch facilities, we had no excuse during the school year for skipping out on the gym—and one really good one for checkin’ out the basketball team mid-work out.

5. Boys, Boys, Boys

As we’ve probably all learned, it’s a lot easier to meet guys as a co-ed. From flirting with your charming chem lab partner to always running into that neighbor down the hall from you, there just seem to be way more possibilities for romance in college. (Vastly older summer co-workers aren’t really cutting it for us).

6. Hometown Parties Just Don’t Compare to College Nightlife, Period

Between Thirsty Thursdays, Friday-night frat parties, and the knowledge that there’s probably a great party going on anyday of the week on campus, our summer social lives in comparison seem kind of, well, lame.

7. We Desperately Miss Our Favorite Hangouts

Whether you’ll be a sophomore or a seasoned senior, you’ve likely spent a lot of time scoping out a whole range of favorite haunts and hangouts around campus. Our college towns have become like second homes—and we’re officially homesick. Here’s to regaining our seat at the local coffee shop, hitting up our beloved boutiques and cheap eats again—even getting back to that perfect campus study spot we swear is the only place where we can actually focus.

8. Our Inner Intellectual is Wilting

Truth is, we’re actually feeling a bit nostalgic for class. Inspiring professors, incredible courses and that personal satisfaction you can only get from acing a paper for a class you’re completely passionate about are much better alternatives to making copies and fetching the office coffee all summer long.

9. The College Schedule…or Lack Thereof

Summer has many of us working 9 to 5—and yearning for the days when a 10 a.m. once a week felt like a killer. The ability to form a sched around your personal body clock just might be one of the greatest perks of college life.

10. Milestones Are Ahead

Turning another year older has its perks—from finally being able to (legally) check out the university bar life, to getting better campus housing picks and scoring prime class times (as in no mornings…see above). Plus, actually getting to take classes in your major is way more exciting than the usual drab “intro”s and 101s.

11. We’re Months Behind on Gossip

Sporadic texting, Skype and Facebook stalking just don’t cut it. We can’t wait to catch up with our college girls for real in the fall and get all the dirt on their latest adventures—especially from those who were abroad in the spring.

12. Spontaneous Dorm Makeovers

Admit it: your room at home is pretty much a shrine to the past—and probably hasn’t changed since the early 2000s. Heading back to school means news digs and more flexibility to regularly redecorate with fresh designs. Sure, your dorm room may be the size of a postage stamp, but really, isn’t that half the fun? Get creative!

13. Space from Home

Absence makes the heart grow fonder, and during the semester we were quite sentimental about our families and friends back home. But going back to living with the ‘rents, dealing with pesky siblings and remembering why we stopped hanging out with certain hometown friends in the first place can make us all(sheepishly) crave that distance again.
 
14. Being True To Your School

As cheesy as it is, school pride definitely helps to make college, well, college. Between belting out the fight song at a pre-game pep rally, indulging in crazy traditions (naked quad runs, anyone?) or even just participating in a friendly intramural softball game, there are just certain things that we won’t really get post-grad. Admit it—cheering on your hometown MLB team just doesn’t bring the same kind of passion we feel come college football season. Rah, Rah!

15. We Secretly Enjoy Over-Achieving 

If you’re the typical collegiette, you’re involved in a million things on campus—and being away from it all is actually stressing you out. Summertime has us stuck in the office mailroom; we’ll feel a lot more confident once we’re back to our Editor-in-Chief/Student Council President/MVP positions!

16. A Much-Needed Change of Scenery 

Whether you’ve been braving the concrete jungle this summer as an intern, or stuck back in strip-mall suburbia, it’s easy to get nostalgic for the blooming flowerbeds, grassy quads and fall foliage of your campus. Plus, being able to walk everywhere means you actually get to enjoy it.

17. We Heart the Campus Activities Board

Back on campus, there seem to always be a million events going on at once—and even better, most of them are free. University-sponsored events like outdoor concerts, formal dances, and poetry slams and comedy acts kept us oh-so active—and free or discounted tickets on local museums and plays kept us cultured and within budget!

18. Movie Nights---or, How We Find Ways to Procrastinate 

Silly traditions often get us through those miserable late-night study sessions. We so miss the bonding, camaraderie and guilt-free midnight snacking. The bleary-eyed cramming part? Yeah, not so much…

19. Studying Abroad is Just Around the Corner

How could you not look forward to a 4-month-long credit-earning vacation—er, study session? For those who are so lucky as to be studying abroad this year, get psyched for heading overseas and enjoying one of the absolute highlights of your college career. ¡Vámonos!
 
20. Pant Suits are Stifling Our Fashion Freedom

Office dress codes are crampin’ our style; we’ll be glad to return to the days of wearing what we want. Whether you simply slip into sweats before lecture, or enjoy putting together crazy, trendy pieces just for the fun of it, we all love college fashion for the same reason we love the dining hall—choices.

College dating is the worst. While some collegiettes are happily coupled up, the single ladies among us have to deal with the fear-of-commitment epidemic. At least we have music to comfort us! With lyrics like these ones, we could bet these singers wouldn't go MIA after the second date.

1. Kip Moore

While most guys would run away screaming at the idea of you meeting their families, Kip is actually the one to suggest it. He's definitely a *clears throat* Kip-er.

2. Shawn Mendes

Literally, this is so sweet.

3. Tim McGraw

This sounds like the dictionary definition of "commitment."

4. One Direction

Yes, let's grow old together please.

5. Ingrid Michaelson

#LifeGoals

6. The Script

Maybe the tattoo was a little too committed?

7. Justin Bieber

Okay but like, can we still go to the bathroom?

8. Jason Mraz

We believe in destiny too, Jason!

9. Mumford & Sons

Like Noah waited for Allie? Fine by us!

If you’re looking for an enjoyable read that will also teach you some valuable skills, you might want to consider picking up a memoir. As collegiettes, we look for inspiration from empowered women who've earned their spot at the top. Interested in a quality nonfiction read? Check out these 9 books by fierce females. You need to read them all.

1. #GIRLBOSS by Sophia Amoruso

In this book by Sophia Amoruso—founder, CEO, and creative director of online fashion retailer Nasty Gal—she tells her atypical success story and motivates every woman to be her own #GIRLBOSS.

2. Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg

Sheryl Sandberg, the chief operating officer of Facebook, wrote Lean In in order to inspire women and teach them how to reach their full, powerful potential.

3. I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban by Malala Yousafzai

I Am Malala is the remarkable story of activist Malala Yousafzai, the youngest ever recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize.

4. Wild by Cheryl Strayed

At age 26, Cheryl Strayed—a solitary woman with no prior backpacking experience—hiked 1,100 miles on the Pacific Crest Trail. Wild is the incredible story of her journey.

5. Orange is the New Black by Piper Kerman

Read the heartfelt story behind the critically acclaimed Netflix original series, and find out what “Orange is the New Black” truly means.

6. Brain on Fire: My Month of Madness by Susannah Cahalan

Brain on Fire is a compelling memoir that explores the mysterious intricacies of mental health, and the effects that mental illness can have on personal relationships.

7. Bossypants by Tina Fey

Tina Fey brings her trademark hilarity in Bossypants, an honest yet comedic telling of “How She Got There.”

8. Yes Please by Amy Poehler

Funny lady Amy Poehler’s take on a memoir is everything you could have hoped for. Should you read it? Yes Please! 

9. Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (& Other Concerns) by Mindy Kaling

Like Tina and Amy, Mindy is empowering and funny. Plus, she’s totally relatable. Who hasn’t wondered, “Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?” 

Summer is drawing to a close, and for many pre-collegiettes the end is near. Not just the end of barbecues and summer jobs and lazy days at the pool, but—for girls who have just finished their summer after high school graduation—the end of life as they know it before college.

The last week or two before move-in day and Welcome Week is unbelievably hectic for just about everyone. But as you pack boxes and make deposits and stroll through the aisles of Target, don’t forget to add one more item to your list: saying goodbye.

While it’s tough to part with the friends and family you’ve known forever, saying goodbye is also a great opportunity to strengthen friendships and show people just how much they mean to you. Keep reading for tips from collegiettes across the country on unique ways to make your farewells both fun and meaningful. 

Put a new spin on your group get-together.

While personalized goodbyes are essential for the people you’re closest to, it’s perfectly all right to say goodbye to some people in groups. Make a list of people you want to see before you leave and throw a party. (Just make sure you check when everyone will be leaving, and don’t schedule it for the week before you go—everyone will be too busy to breathe by then).

You’ll probably get a stack of invitations to similar get-togethers as the summer winds down, so it’s important to keep your event fresh. Sarah Ramirez from Fordham College at Rose Hill suggests coming up with a clever theme, like the nautical-themed “Bon Voyage” party she hosted with her best friend.

You can also just get creative. Felicia Tickle, an Appalachian State University grad, had everyone at her goodbye bash sign a giant poster with memories and advice, which she later hung in her dorm.“It was basically like a giant yearbook I could frame,”she says.

If you choose to host a goodbye party, make sure to send invitations at least three weeks in advance — it’s a busy time for everyone, and you don’t want to get crowded out of the calendar by other obligations. Choose your guest list carefully — not everyone has to know each other well, but it is an emotional event, so it makes sense to choose close friends and people who generally get along.

Hold your party in an open space where everyone can spread out — try your backyard or even a public park. Set up a table for each of your guests with scrapbook paper, glue sticks, ribbon, and other DIY goodies. Let them supply the photos and memories, pair everyone up, and have fun making goodbye posters to adorn those cinderblock dorm walls.

While at your goodbye party, it’s also a great time to get your friends together for a few group photos. Talk to your most photography-inclined friend in advance, and let her bring her equipment and take a few shots for everyone to hang up in their dorm room or apartment. Just make sure someone else takes over the camera for a while, so your photographer isn’t absent from all the pictures!

Take time to show people how much you care.

As your life changes drastically, it’s the perfect time to embrace your creativity and show the most important people in your life how much they mean to you.

For Cameron Simcik, a Bucknell University grad, that meant putting her feelings into (written) words. “Before I left for college, I wrote my siblings, parents, and close friends each a letter,” she says. “I felt like it was important to let these people know how they helped me get to where I was and what part of them I was bringing with me to this next chapter in my life.”

For another collegiette, Harvard University student Madeleine Frank, it meant passing on an uncommonly personal type of advice. Madeleine kept a diary during her freshman year of high school, and just before she left for college she gave it to her younger sister, who was about to enter her own freshman year. “I thought reading it would help her get through some of the challenges that high school brings,” she says.

And for Ithaca College collegiette Carly Sitzer and her best friend, handmade gifts were the way to go.“She made me a scrapbook, which read like a fairy tale of our senior year, and I decoupaged the frame of a mirror with pictures of us,” Carly says. “It’s something I’m sure we’ll hold onto forever to remember that last year together before college.”

Start a new tradition, or take an old one with you.

Just before they left for separate colleges, Jaime from the University of Alabama Birmingham and her friends were walking around their neighborhood. While they were out, they stumbled across a new friend—a garden gnome named Murphy, playfully kidnapped from a neighbor’s yard. These days, the group shares joint custody of Murphy and takes care to document his adventures across the country.

“My friend going to school in Miami got Murphy for the first semester and took pictures of him smoking a cigar on a yacht and relaxing on a hammock,” Jaime says. “When I got Murphy next, he got pictures taken of him eating barbecue and on the golf course in Alabama. We all send the pictures to each other and it’s an easy way to keep in touch, even though we’re far away.”

While you don’t have to kidnap a garden gnome (an action Jaime doesn’t condone, by the way) it’s easy to start up a similar tradition with your high school friends. Just go to the store and find something silly—a plastic flamingo, a stuffed bear, anything—and start up a new tradition. You could also go the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants route and choose a clothing item to swap — you may not be able to find magical pants, but a shared bracelet or scarf should do the trick.

More serious traditions are also a great way to send off the high school years. Brianna Linden from Appalachian State University chose to say goodbye to regrets as she said goodbye to her friends. Each girl in her group of friends made a list of high school memories they wanted to let go of, from bad boyfriends to bad eating habits. Then they built a fire and threw the lists in. “It was a way for us to signify moving on from our bad habits and circumstances from high school so we wouldn’t involve them in our college lives,” Brianna says. “It was a memorable, bonding and liberating experience.”

While you’re starting new traditions with your friends, make sure to get together with your family and pack up a few old traditions to take with you. If you’ll have access to a kitchen, ask your mom to teach you how to make your favorite home-cooked recipe. Or make a collage of your favorite old family photos. During your first few weeks of school, it’ll be comforting to have them with you.

One collegiette, Clemson University grad Alyssa Rabon, chose to bring along memories of the food she grew up with. “My mom and I always cooked and baked together when I was in high school, so my favorite thing we did before I left was compile a cookbook with all my favorite recipes of hers,” Alyssa says. “Even though I hardly used it freshman year because I lived in a dorm, it was still a really nice way to make sure that I didn’t leave home behind once I left for Clemson. And I use it all the time now that I live in an apartment!”

Take advantage of social media to stay in touch.

In the plugged-in age of new media, and there’s no excuse for falling out of touch with your friends.

Appalachian State University grad Meghan Hare found that keeping in touch with high school friends was as simple as sending a Facebook message. Right after they all left for college, Meghan and her friends started one Facebook thread, which they use to update each other on day-to-day developments in their lives. Years later, the thread is still up and running.

Start a private Facebook group for your high school friends—this way you’ll be able to exchange messages, chats, photos, videos, and other updates without clogging the newsfeeds of your mutual acquaintances. 

Facebook is also a great way to make sure you’ve got plenty of events planned before everyone heads off to school. At the beginning of her last summer, Boston University student Kelsey Mulvey created a Facebook group called “The Last Hoorahs.” Through the group, she posted event invitations to dinners, movies, and beach trips throughout the summer.

“I feel like maintaining friendship is crucial because your family will always be there, but your most important friendships can fade once college rolls around,” Kelsey says. “Creating good memories over the summer secures those friendships more.”

How are you planning on saying goodbye to your high school friends?  Leave a comment!

Erin Brockovich. Elle Woods. Leigh Ann Tuohy. Leading ladies that we all adore and all wish we could be a little more like. So often the gender inequality in film is subtle enough that it goes fairly unnoticed. But it's an undeniable truth that movies which feature a strong, independent female lead (who isn't just used solely as a foil or love interest for the male lead) aren't exactly in abundance. So when we do get treated to movies of the like, we cherish them, we watch them over and over again, and we tend to never forget the indellible characters which no doubt have shaped our own decisions as women. These girls aren't perfect by any standards—but the reason we look up to them as our role models is because rather than give up or (more often the case) rely on a man to solve their problems, they choose to pull from their inner strength and in the end they come out on top of the world because they did things their way. Without further ado, let's list the 20 greatest movies with fearless female leads! 

20. Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961) - Holly Golightly (Audrey Hepburn)

Everybody knows the iconic image of the ever-graceful Hepburn standing in front of the Tiffany's store on 5th Avenue, quietly indulging in a croissant, dressed in a floor length gown with black gloves, glam jewelry, big sunglasses, and a tiara to crown her messy yet elegant bun. Holly Golightly is the epitome of New York chic, roaming around in her cute apartment (which, admittedly, her many male suitors pay for), wearing gorgeous outfits and throwing lavish parties—yes, she may have a habit of latching on the nearest rich fella she sees, but Holly is a free spirit. In a manner quite different from the culture at the time, she is an independent woman who doesn't need to bind herself to a man to have a purpose in life. 

19. Flashdance (1983) - Alex Owens (Jennifer Beals)

While the strength of this film lies (as the title would suggest) in its incredible dancing and choreography, Alex and her exotic dancer friends help prove that women can be sexual and confident without selling their bodies to men. She's a welder by day, a dancer by night, and remains fiercely independent as she tries to achieve her dream of joining a professional ballet school.

18. Basic Instinct (1992) - Catherine Tramell (Sharon Stone)

Catherine is in many ways the anti-hero—she's confident and extremely sexual, yet just dangerous enough to leave the audience wondering if she's truly capable of the heinous crimes for which she is suspect. Women dominate the men in this film, and it is a satisfying, albeit a bit graphic, endeavor.

17. Clueless (1995) - Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone)

"As if!" How could this ever cheerful, bubbly, ditzy valley girl with a heart of gold not make the list? Cher may be materialistic to excess and lack intelligence, but she makes up for it by being selfless, kind, and a positive role model to her friends and her school. And it does help that she's a fashion guru with an automated closet that is the stuff of dreams.

16. Across The Universe (2007)

There are several leading ladies in this musical drama (set to an all-Beatles soundtrack!). It was the late '60s after all, and women's empowerment was at an all time high—Lucy, Sadie, Prudence and all the girls in this film are as fearless as they are good singers. Lucy joins the anti-war protest movement, Prudence embraces her sexuality at a time when the LGBTQ+ community was barely on the radar, and Sadie—well, you'll just have to witness her greatness for yourself!

15. Nothing But The Truth (2008) - Rachel Armstrong (Kate Beckinsale)

This movie is the female version of All The President's Men in a way, except much more suspenseful. Kate Beckinsale delivers a memorable performance as a journalist who, while working on a story, uncovers a massive conspiracy that leads high up the political chain. Rather than give herself up, she stands steadfastly to her convictions, through investigations, threats, jail, and even prison—remaining strong through it all. She's a model for all female journalists.

14. Kill Bill (2003) - The Bride (Uma Thurman)

For the record, there are several Tarantino classics which feature a strong female lead (Pulp Fiction, True Romance, From Dusk Till Dawn), but Kill Bill has to take the cake. Uma Thurman is, for lack of a better word, totally badass. She takes down anyone in her path—and she's not even the only kickass female in the movie (lest we forget Lucy Liu's breakout performance as well).

13. Legally Blonde (2001) - Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon)

She's blonde, she likes wearing pink, she has a chihuahua named Bruiser—oh yeah, and she's a Harvard law student who can shake it with the big dogs. Elle Woods may seem inane to her peers, but that's all the more reason for their shock when she breaks all their expectations every single time—fabulously, of course.

12. Dirty Dancing (1987) - Francis "Baby" Houseman (Jennifer Grey)

"Nobody puts Baby in a corner." She may seem timid and conservative, but Baby proves that even the good girls can get a little dirty (then again, for Swayze, wouldn't we all?).

11. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) - Kat Stratford (Julia Stiles)

Kat is a feminist's dream, wrapped up in a sarcastic sushi roll of awesome. She doesn't conform to anyone's standards, going from being the most popular girl in school to being a social recluse—and in the end she proves that time old rule that you don't have to be anything other than yourself to be accepted.

10. The Sound Of Music (1965) - Maria Von Trapp (Julie Andrews)

"I have confidence in me!" sings Maria as she bravely marches to the Von Trapp family mansion where she is to become fraulein to a staggering seven children. But it's how she stands up to the intimidating Captain Von Trapp and makes him realize how poor a father he has been, that truly makes her an inspiration.

9. Pretty Woman (1990) - Vivian Ward (Julia Roberts)

Yes, she's a hooker, but she's also smart, funny, sassy and manages to court the love of an extremely wealthy lawyer and make him change his erroneous ways. He may be her knight in shining armor in the end, but as Roberts cleverly replies, "she rescues him right back."

8. Silence Of The Lambs (1991) - Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster)

This film is not for the faint of heart, but Jodie Foster shines as FBI agent Clarice Starling, brought in to work with the notorious Dr. Hannibal Lecter to help solve a gruesome crime. Worth watching if you can handle the scary and grotesque.

7. Pretty In Pink (1986) - Andie Walsh (Molly Ringwald)

"I just wanna let them know that they didn't break me." Andie doesn't fall into any of the classic stereotypes of an '80s teen flick. She's not popular or blonde, an athlete or a dancer. She's a smart kid from the poorer side of town who designs all her own outfits, doesn't let any richie bully her, and even snags the heart of one handsome and popular Blaine in one of the most adorably romantic end scenes of any rom-com. John Hughes was a champion of strong female leads but none were quite as special as Andie.

6. The Blind Side (2009) - Leigh Ann Tuohy (Sandra Bullock)

Leigh Ann might be a petite southern housewife, but make no mistake—she is tough as nails and never gives up on anyone she loves, making her not only admirable but easy to love as well. This role won Sandra Bullock an Oscar for best actress.

5. Chicago (2002) 

Women's prison narratives might be popular nowadays thanks to Orange Is The New Black, but we can't forget the original—a group of female prisoners who share one thing in common: they all murdered their husbands. Devilish, sexy, and fiercely independent, these ladies prove that men are not irreplaceable (or untouchable).

4. Heathers (1988) - Veronica (Winona Ryder)

This darkly humorous cult classic turns the teen movie genre on its head. Veronica is the heroine because she doesn't settle for the guy in the end (handsome as Christian Slater might be), but chooses to save the school, stop glorification of teen suicide, and not conform to any social norms. 

3. The Avengers (2012) / Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014) - Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson)

Scarlett Johansson was the perfect pick to play by far one of the greatest female superheroes of all time. Black Widow is just perfection, there's no other way to describe it.

2. Out Of Africa (1985) - Karen (Meryl Streep)

Many of you may have never heard of this 1985 film which earned Meryl Streep one of her (many) Oscar nominations, but it's one that's not to be missed. Yes, it is a love story to a certain degree, but what is more fascinating is the other storyline that exists—a woman who goes from being a spoiled society wife to a heroic icon who attempts to save the lives of all the African American workers on her vast lands despite all the hurdles she faces along the way. Truly an epic story of courage, love, and compassion, and you will never be the same after watching it.

1. Erin Brockovich (2000) - Erin Brockovich (Julia Roberts)

The fact that this movie is based on a true story, and that Erin Brockovich is a real person, just makes this film all the more gratifying. Julia Roberts is on fire as the single mom and paralegal who ends up almost singlehandedly taking down a corrupt California power company that was polluting city waters. It's an Oscar-winning performance but more than that, Erin Brockovich represents the idea that women can do anything they set their minds to, even if it is in a field traditionally dominated by men.

If there's ever been a better time to binge-watch movie after movie, now is it! 

I underwent my first brain surgery at fifteen days old. And since then I have had six more. Five of those six surgeries happened before I was even four years old. By the time I was five, I had had more brain surgeries than birthdays.

To most people, that may seem like a lot, but when it comes to someone with hydrocephalus, it is pretty much the norm. It isn't unusual for someone to have undergone more than 50 brain surgeries. My last one took place when I was eleven years old, but that doesn't mean I’m home free. There is no telling as to whether I will have to have another one. I never know if it will fail again or not, and only time will tell.

At fifteen weeks gestation, I was diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a medical condition characterized by excess spinal fluid in the brain. The most common way to treat this condition is to insert a shunt, a device that helps drain the fluid to another part of the body. Most shunts fail within the first two years; they have the highest failure rate of any device that is medically implanted. Shunt failure means brain surgery because that is the only way to insert another shunt. Mine failed within a few months of the initial placement, so I went back in for another brain surgery. I wasn't even a year old.

However, I do not let the uncertainty in my health stop me in anything I have wanted to do, including attending college several hours away from home. To be completely honest, it’s not the uncertainty that is the most difficult thing to live with; it’s the various challenges with which hydrocephalus comes.

One of the primary difficulties I face is the challenge I experience in social situations. I am often unable to interpret sarcasm or know how to respond to it, sometimes making it hard to really communicate with my peers especially because sarcasm can be so present in friendships and in people’s personalities. I also struggle to make eye contact with others, which can make it seem as if I do not care about what other people are saying. Another thing that is tough is reading people. There are times where I will truly have no idea as to whether people are being genuinely nice or not. I became aware of these issues shortly after starting high school, and actually being aware of them has affected me because I am more cautious in approaching people and getting to know them. Fortunately, I’ve never been bullied—I don’t think it’s even that obvious to other people that I am having these difficulties. Instead, I’m harder on myself than others are in social situations. I am a little self-conscious because I worry that I might say something wrong or make no sense, and that people will find me strange, but I know I can't let that stop me from living my life.

Regardless, the situation definitely does make it hard for me to form friendships, especially here in college, but I manage as best as I can because I know these problems won't be going away anytime soon. I have learned to adjust to all the changes of college despite the extra challenges that I deal with. I’m working on worrying less about what other people think of me. In the grand scheme of things, their opinions really don't matter. What makes things hard for me, I think, is that I can never truly tell what people are thinking of me. Most of the time, it is that people really are being nice, but it can be hard to recognize that without questioning if they’re faking it or not.

The challenges I face are not just social, but spatial as well. I can’t read maps, and if I go somewhere one time, I probably won’t be able to get there again—I need to visit the same place multiple times before remembering how to get back. Most of the time, I need somebody to actually take me where I need to go. Even just trying to locate a restroom in a restaurant—or getting back to the table—can be a challenge. To a lot of people, this can be funny, but to me it’s anything but humorous. I end up wandering around until I figure out where I am, but it’s always embarrassing. Most of the time, I leave earlier than I need to for class, so I have time to find my way if I do get lost.

Lastly, I also face academic challenges. I have a hard time with math—difficulties that extend outside the normal realm of hating the subject. It doesn't matter how many times something gets explained to me; sometimes I'm honestly never going to understand some of the more complex concepts, such as those in geometry. Sometimes, it can seem that I am not even trying to learn something at all when in fact I have been working diligently to understand. But I just can't get it, no matter how hard I work. This is hard on me because I’m a perfectionist and want to understand it all. College has taught me that that will not always be possible.

As cliché as it sounds, I can only do my best, and I can't do it all every time. I haven’t let this affect my future plans, though—and fortunately, my career goals don’t involve a field that requires math. I aspire to become a special education teacher because I want to make a difference for students who are facing similar or other challenges. I know that I will teach students who face much larger obstacles than I have, but I hope to inspire them and let them know that through patience, persistence, and hard work, many of their goals can be achieved.

Living with a lifelong medical condition has taught me so much throughout the course of my life, and I know that just because I am in college now, I will never stop learning from hydrocephalus. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that we should all be more empathetic and less judgmental towards other people.

Hydrocephalus has also taught me what I am truly capable of. I never even dreamed that I could get an A in math, but that was exactly what I did my last two years of high school. I'm also proud of myself for attending college several hours away from home, my comfort zone. I was pretty quiet and never really talked in high school, but during my senior year, there came a time that was a good chance to tell my entire class about why I was the way I was, so I took that opportunity. And let me just say, speaking in front of peers is not easy, especially for me, but I was able to do it. I was so overwhelmed at the response. Everyone was so kind and accepting.

In college, I have tried to be pretty open about my experiences. It is tough to tell people about hydrocephalus because people never really know what it is and I don’t know what their reaction will be. I do it because I want to spread awareness about it. My mindset is, if I don't spread the word, who will? Hydrocephalus definitely is a large part of the person I am today, but it is not the complete me. I will never let it define my abilities or me. It will not deter me in my future aspirations and goals.

Do you have a story to share? Submit your story to Her Story!

We laughed, cried and grew up with the cast of Friends. The show had everything from romance to friendship to parenting, and anything and everything in between. It was the greatest news when we heard that it was coming to Netflix, and we admit that we’re guilty of binge-watching past seasons on occasion (or every weekend…).  We learned so much from them, and here are some of our favorite lessons that the cast of Friends has taught us.

1. Be yourself

2. Sarcasm is (almost) always appropriate

3. Always define the relationship 

4. Dance like nobody is watching

5. You're always a kid at heart

6. Sometimes you need a girls' night in

7. Keep it positive

8. Remain calm, cool and collected

9. Everyone has a lobster

10. Sometimes your best friend really is your soulmate

11. Always try to be charming

12. Beauty can be painful

Warning: proceed spray tanning with caution.

13. It's okay to be a little high maintenence 

We all get that way sometimes, don't we?

14. Reality can really suck sometimes

But your friends will always be there to guide you.

15. Bromances are honestly the cutest

Joey and Chandler define #bromancegoals. 

16. Don't try to move furniture by yourself

PIVOT! 

17. Always justify your desicions 

18. Never be afraid to ask for help

19. Change can be difficult 

20. Honesty is the best policy

21. Be aware

Salmon skin roll.

22. Food is the best

Sandwiches are life.

23. Never give up on love

24. Best friends are forever

Picture this: A room jam-packed with college students, reeking of Natty Light and sweat. A little grinding action in the corner and a girl dancing in the middle of a table, thinking she’s the hottest thing since sliced bread. Boys who look barely old enough to have finished high school wearing neon green shirts that say “sober monitor,” holding the key to popularity and new friends in their hands—aka warm keg beer. The latest hits playing in one room and body-thumping techno music blaring in the basement. Failed attempts to pick up girls and drunken PDAs with complete strangers. The beer pong champ running the table and a floor so disgusting you wouldn’t dare take off your shoes. Welcome to your first frat party.

We want you to enjoy new freshman experiences, but we don’t want you to look like an amateur (There’s nothing worse than a group of upperclassmen pointing at you and chanting “FRESHMAN!”) —so here’s a guide on how to navigate the frat party scene like you’ve been there for years.

DOknow which frat house you are at.

Chi Psi, Chi Phi, Phi Psi, Psi U—it gets a bit complicated when they all sound the same. “There’s nothing worse than calling a fraternity by the wrong name,” says Alaine from Miami University (OH). Also, make sure you know how to pronounce the name (Sigma Chi is pronounced Sigma Kye, not Chi like a Chia pet), and are familiar with the frat’s nickname (Sigma Phi Epsilon is usually referred to as Sig Ep).  Ask a friend which house you’re going to before you actually get there.

DON’Twear a “new student orientation” lanyard around your neck or carry around a campus map (eek!).

I know it’s convenient to put your room key and ID card in a plastic holder hanging from your lanyard, and this is perfectly acceptable during the day (at least during the first week), but put these important items in your pocket or purse when you go out at night.

DOdress for the theme but don’t go overboard.

Wear something versatile so you can easily party-hop. Think a bright shirt for an 80’s themed party that can double as a glow-in-the-dark shirt at a highlighter party. Do not wear a full sexy cop or bunny costume. Not only will you look out of place if you go to another party, but you will also be a perfect target for real cops looking to catch underage drinkers. Sarah from the University of Michigan says,“My best friend and I once went to a formal themed frat party, but accidently walked up to the wrong frat house and saw everyone wearing pajamas. We thought they had told only us to wear fancy dresses as a joke, but luckily realized the party we were looking for was down the block.”

DON’T go alone. 

The last thing you want is to be alone when that creepy senior offers you a mystery drink he got from a closed room. You will probably feel awkward in a huge party setting all by your lonesome, anyways. At the same time, don’t go out in a huge group. Megan, a recent University of Michigan graduate, says, “Don’t go with, like, 17 people. Go in pairs.”

DO pick one or two friends to go to the party with you.

If you don’t want any trouble at the door, make sure these friends are girls. Or guys that are willing to say they are rushing the frat — brothers usually won’t let in guys who aren’t part of the frat. Alaine says, “Don't try to bring a lot of guys with you to a fraternity house... HINT: they're trying to meet girls.”

DON’T go home with a guy without at least telling your friends first.

If you decide to “hang out” at a guy’s place, let your friends know who the guy is, where he lives and when you expect to be home. If this “hang out” turns into a sleepover, be prepared for the morning after.

DO wear cute, classy clothes and dress for the weather—and the walk.

If it’s 20 degrees and the party is across campus, don’t wear your brand new 4-inch stilettos. I also suggest you invest in a party coat—something cheap that serves the purpose and isn’t a black North Face. I know this from personal experience: I’ve set my North Face down one too many times at frat parties only to find that it’s missing at the end of the night. This will happen when there’s a room full of 20 identical coats. To avoid this, try putting your coat in a secret spot like behind the couch or in a random closet (but don’t forget where you put it!).

DO pick a wing-woman and mingle.

Feel free to talk to new people even if they don’t approach you first. If you want guys to approach you (and trust me, they will), make yourself look available and interested by standing in an area that is somewhat open with music that isn’t too loud. Before you know it, two guys will be heading your way to talk to you and your friend. Just hope you both don’t have your eyes on the same guy! Allie, a senior at Princeton says, “Try not to hang around with more than one or two other girls so guys will feel more comfortable talking to you! Even if you arrive to the party with all of your girls, don't feel the need to stick with them – branch off with a friend to go get a drink. This will make meeting new people a lot easier.”

DON’T ask a random guy for a drink.

Ben Kassoy, a recent graduate of Emory University says,“Do some searching or strike up a conversation before you immediately request alcohol.” If you choose to drink, be safe about it: Don’t put your drink down and come back later and drink from it, don’t take a drink from the mysterious punch bowl and don’t let anyone else get your drink for you. The only way you will know exactly what you’re drinking is if you watch where it comes from and never leave your glass unattended. Your best bet is to drink a can of beer that you open yourself (or of course even better would be to not drink at all).

DO know the house rules for beer pong and flip cup. 

These are great party games—when you know how to play the right way. Ask for the next game and wait around for your turn so you don’t miss out. Alaine suggests “enlisting the cute guy nearby to play with you.”  If you’re nervous about drinking when you play these games, no one will know if it’s just water in your cup.

DON’T wander into a random person’s room.

Sometimes it’s nice to get away from the crazy party and hang out in one of the brothers’ rooms, but only do this if you consider the guy to be one of your friends, not just one of the frat bros. It’s smart to bring one of your girl friends with you too. If you do get stuck alone in a room with a guy and feel uncomfortable, tell him you have to go to the bathroom and then leave.

DO bring tissues, hand sanitizer and emergency tampons in your purse. 

Frat bathrooms are gross (imagine puke in the sinks and pee in the showers), and you don’t want to be unprepared so make sure you have these items handy. “Few frat house bathrooms are always stocked with TP,” Alaine says. If you are friends with one of the brothers, ask to use another, cleaner bathroom. I’m not making any promises, but there’s usually a more sanitary bathroom reserved for girlfriends, frequent attendees of the frat and the brothers themselves.

DON’T give out your number like it’s water. 

Be selective with who you give it to. Not every bro is worthy of your digits. What should you do if a guy asks for your number and you don’t want to give it? Allison from the University of Michigan says, “Normally I’d just give him the wrong number or act like I need to leave really fast and tell him I’ll let him know it when I come back and then never come back.” Looking for a different approach? Allison uses the following line on boys:“How about you give me your number and I’ll text you with mine.” But she doesn’t actually text them her number. Sneaky!

DO use knowing the brothers to your advantage.

... whether he’s your closet guy friend from high school, your older brother’s best friend or your roommate’s boyfriend. This will get you VIP treatment at the party: no waiting in line, special mixed drinks and a place to store your coat. If you’re the lucky girl who personally knows a guy in the frat, call or text him when you arrive so he can come to the door and let you in. “At one of my first frat parties, I walked to the front of the line and named some guys I knew who were in the frat and friends with my older sister in hopes of getting in. This didn’t work, so I called one of the guys I knew and he came right out and let us in,” says Maddie* from Michigan State University.

DON’T be the first one to arrive or the last one to leave. 

It’s weird if you show up right at the Facebook event start time and realize you are the only guest there besides the guys in the frat. Instead, show up about an hour into the party and stay for a maximum of two hours.

DO be nice to upperclassmen girls.

Chances are they know the guys in the frat, and if these girls get a bad vibe from you, they will tell the brothers. Befriending upperclassmen girls will help you learn the ins and outs of the particular frat, including which guys are winners and which guys are losers. “Nothing will ruin your night like pissing off one of the guy's girlfriends,” Alaine says.

DON’T stick around if the cops show up.

It’s rare, but it’s happened before. Don’t run away either. Instead, casually leave without drawing attention to yourself and make sure you leave your drink behind if you had one. Never walk along the streets with a red plastic cup in hand.

DO have a DW (designated walker).

If you and your friends choose to drink, it’s safe to take turns being the semi-sober one so there is always someone to look after you and your friends.  The DW should make sure everyone gets home safely at the end of the night and have the number to a reliable taxi in case someone needs to be picked up.

DON’T flirt with multiple brothers. And don’t get caught making out with every guy that comes your way. 

This is an easy way to get a bad rep and you don’t want that, especially not on your first week on campus.

DO have a good time and enjoy your first of many curfew-less, party-filled nights!

I hope these tips help you survive your first frat party. Stick to our dos and don’ts and you will never make any of the usual first-year party-going mistakes. Every HC girl deserves to be in the know and we wouldn’t have it any other way. Good luck!

As a smart and savvy collegiette, your laptop is basically your lifeline. It’s where you write your papers and do research for your classes, as well as where you Facebook stalk your crush and check Her Campus. If you want to impress your classmates and take notes in style, choose one of these nine laptop cases. They’re just as fashion-forward as you are.

1. For the polka dot lover

We’re obsessed with this Kate Spade 13” laptop sleeve in black and white ($60 at Kate Spade).

2. For the girl who gets everything in pink

This Marc By Marc Jacobs 13” computer case ($62 at Bloomingdale’s) comes in our favorite color.

3. For the art school collegiette

Get creative with this Urban Factory shoulder bag ($44.90 at Target). It’s made to fit laptops up to 15.6”!

4. For the colorful campus cutie

This Vera Bradley 13” laptop sleeve ($38 at Vera Bradley) comes in a variety of bright patterns, so pick one that suits your personal style.

5. For the organized student

This laptop bag from Project Runway winner Chloe Dao ($44.99 at Office Depot) fits laptops up to 15.6”. Plus, it has inside pockets for storing your chargers and other tech accessories.

6. For the girl who wants a classic case

If you want a simpler pattern that’s still pretty, you’ll love this Herschel Supply Co. sleeve for the Macbook Air ($39.95 at Apple). It comes in both 11” and 15” sizes.

7. For the bold collegiette

This Kate Spade New York 13” laptop case ($69.99 at Best Buy) might make a big statement, but it’s actually super lightweight.

8. For the flower child

We’re really digging the floral design of this Isaac Mizrahi 13” laptop sleeve ($39.99 at Best Buy).

9. For the girl who likes to make a statement

If a laptop sleeve isn’t your thing, this hardshell case from Studio C ($29.99 at Studio C) will protect your 13” Macbook Pro in style.

Her Campus collegiettes are trendy, and these laptop cases are too. Which case will you choose? 

Adjusting to the working world is tough. Jobs are stressful, bosses can be difficult, and cubicles can get pretty lonely. But there is one thing, or rather one person, proven to ease the pain of the workweek grind. That person is your work BFF, and she is basically responsible for getting you through each day.

1. She helps you keep up-to-date on all the office drama

Daily gossip sessions at the coffee cart are your most important meetings (your Outlook calendar will prove it). Who’s been promoted, who’s been let go, and who got in trouble for texting are always among the talking points (i.e. everything you’re not supposed to discuss at work, #oops).

2. You have someone to cover for you when you call in “sick”

Whether you’re actually bedridden with the stomach flu, or taking a much-needed mental health day to bond with your couch and Netflix account, your work bestie is there to catch you up as soon as you’re back in the office. She’ll also be sure to fill you in on any gossip you missed while you were out (see #1).

3. Business trips feel like a vacation

You can hit the hotel pool in between meetings, or squeeze in some sightseeing (read: shopping) when you get free time.

4. You get to instant message all day long

You can regress to your 7^th grade AIM-obsessed self as you furiously type back and forth. And don’t you dare go into a meeting without telling her, she’ll PING you repeatedly until you’re back. What else are friends for?

5. She helps you decide what to get for lunch

As any working girl knows, choosing what to eat for lunch is one of the most important decisions you’ll make all day. Your work BFF becomes your permanent lunch buddy. Whether she’s helping you follow through with your commitment to bringing lunch from home, or convincing you to ditch the salad for a slice of pizza, you’ll thank her in the long run.

6. You can ask each other the stupid questions you’re too embarrassed to ask anyone else

Like how to use the phone or the copy machine. Seriously, why so many buttons?!

7. She really understands what you’re going through each day

She can be there for you in ways your other friends can’t. She listens to you vent at the end of a bad day and actually gets why you’re upset. She celebrates your work successes (no matter how small) and she’s genuinely excited for you and your accomplishments.

8.You have a wing woman at office happy hours

You also have someone to make sure you don’t get too drunk and start twerking with the CEO. That’s not to say that getting appropriately buzzed with your work bestie (on your company’s dime) isn’t the best thing ever.

9.She gives you honest, realistic career advice

Whether you need help asking for a raise, deciding to switch teams, or choosing an outfit for your presentation, there’s one person you ask. Not only does she know the company and the industry, but she also knows you.

10. Having to work on your birthday isn’t so bad

She will make sure that the rest of the team knows it’s your birthday by sending obnoxious mass emails and decorating your desk area with signs and desserts

11. She sees you before your morning coffee and still loves you

Your work BFF has the extreme pleasure of interacting with you every day before 9 a.m. She also sees you in your work clothes and doesn’t make fun of you for looking like Hillary Clinton or a Banana Republic model.

Yup, she’s basically the best person ever. She’s like your corporate soul mate, and you are so lucky to have found each other.

Name: Karin Sun

College/Major: History and Science/Harvard College, Harvard Business School/MBA

Job Title and Description: Founder of Crane & Canopy

Website: www.craneandcanopy.com 

Twitter Handle: @craneandcanopy

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

Karin Sun: Starting my own business has been one of the most exhilarating and exciting experiences. Every day brings a new surprise, which has taught me to be flexible and wear several hats. I still remember the time when we filmed a video on how to put on a duvet cover, met with designers about our newest bedding collection and picked up a shipment from customs, all within an hour. To this day, I am still surprised by how the only predictable thing is unpredictability – and I love it!  

What is the best part of your job?

KS: The best part of my job at Crane & Canopy is building a business with a mission of helping others rebuild their lives. Crane & Canopy’s partnership with the largest domestic violence agencies in the US provides shelters or women leaving shelters with new bedding. I know that this is only the beginning of our involvement in the community.

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

KS: Right out of college, I went to work for Procter & Gamble in brand management. My decision to choose a career in brand management came after I realized that I wasn’t interested in the more traditional career paths my college offered of management consulting or investment banking.  I knew that I wanted run my own company and business and that choosing a career managing a household brand was the best way for me to learn how to grow a business.  

To achieve this goal, I networked a lot my junior year in college, chatting with upperclassmen and business school students who had worked at large consumer product companies. After taking multiple assessments and getting past multiple rounds of behavioral interviews, I received an internship at Procter & Gamble my junior year.  During my internship, I loved the strategic, analytical and creative work.  Impressed by the rigorous training and the caliber of the people at Procter & Gamble, I accepted their full-time offer after completing the internship.  

What is one thing you wish you knew about your industry when you first started out that you know now?

KS: In the beginning, establishing factories that delivered products at the quality we expected was a challenge. It was easy to find factories that made bedding, but quite difficult to find ones that operated at the scale and the quality we wanted. Even though we had some history in the textile manufacturing space, it still took over a year of visits and relationship building to secure the same factories used by high end department stores. 

What words of wisdom do you find most valuable? 

KS: I have two, which I follow in both work and life:

“Follow your heart, whether it be in love, career or life.” - My mother

“Pick your battles. You only have so much emotional capital.” - My first boss

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

KS: Starting any job or new venture is hard.  Sometimes, it’s important to learn to be patient. When you are in too much of a hurry, you can make decisions that are wrong for yourself, your customers and the business.

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

KS: The day we launched Crane & Canopy was the most surreal moment of my career. That day represented over a year of the collaboration, teamwork and problem solving. When we launched our site and received our first order, I could not have been more proud or excited. 

What do you look for when considering hiring someone?

KS: Three things:  The ability to “make it happen,” a drive for individual and team success and a positive attitude. 

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

KS: Always ask why. In work and in life, you will face many complex situations with perplexing decisions and outcomes. Often, the path of least resistance is to not rock the boat and just push forward. However, it’s important to take a step back, analyze the situation and come up with a solution. Sometimes, the best ideas will come from the process.

You’ve heard the words “personal brand” tossed around time and time again, but what does this phrase really mean? Why should you build your personal brand, and where do you even begin? Don’t fret, collegiettes, because Her Campus is here to help. We’ve created a DIY guide to showcasing your best professional self, and getting the job of your dreams!

What is a personal brand (and why do I need one)?

You’ve applied for job after job or internship after internship. Maybe you’ve gotten a few interviews, but nothing has really panned out. How can you stand out from the crowd and prove that you deserve the position? A personal brand is a way of marketing yourself and your career. You want to establish your own individual image, in order to make others remember you. By building your personal brand, you will impress employers and receive tons more job offers.

How do I build my personal brand?

Beginning to build a personal brand is easy! We’ve listed just a few ways to highlight your accomplishments and personalize your career goals.

Use social media to your advantage

You’ve heard it before, and we’ll tell you again: your social media presence is important! From your LinkedIn cover photo to your Twitter account, everything you on the Internet should be a reflection of yourself (and your personal brand): professional, smart and fabulous! Follow people in your industry that you look up to on Twitter, and then retweet some of their tweets. Clean up your Facebook (even if you’ve got high privacy settings, you never know who you’ll have a mutual friend with!) and make sure what you’re putting out is only your best self.

Create a personal website or blog

Blog featured by Building a Vision

While the idea of making your own website can be overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be! Utilize an online tool such as Squarespace, a website publishing platform that makes it easy to create beautiful websites, portfolios and blogs—and you don’t need be to a computer science major to make one (phew!). While many online platforms require knowledge of code and can be confusing to navigate, with Squarespace, making a personal website or blog is a truly DIY process. No code is needed, and there is a 24/7-support feature so you can get the help you need even if you’re working on your website during late nights. The best part? College students get 50 percent off their first year of Squarespace!

Network your heart out

Okay, back to social media: since this is a DIY guide to getting your dream job, you have to be proactive. After you’ve followed people with your dream job on Twitter, tweet at them! Ask questions and see if you can set up an informational interview to pick their brain. Don’t be afraid to send a LinkedIn message, either. You’ll be surprised at how willing people are to help you! Trust us on this—jobs aren’t going to fall into your lap. You have to make it happen yourself!

Design a logo

A big way to stand out is to design a personal logo. The style of your logo will depend on the field you are hoping to work in. For example, if you are trying to break in to the graphic design industry, you’ll want to spend a lot of time drafting and perfecting your logo, in order to showcase your skills. And if you’re entering the publishing industry, a simple, clean logo with your first and last name works fine. If you don’t know where to begin, Squarespace has a free professional logo maker that will help you create a beautiful logo in minutes.

Add a portfolio

An online portfolio is a simple way to make samples of your work more accessible. A portfolio works especially well for visual content, like photography or illustrations, and for written content, like journalism clips. Even in a less creative field, however, a portfolio will set you apart from other candidates. Your resume lists what you can do, and your portfolio shows how you have done it—so if you’re an engineering major who has worked on design projects or even a budding sociologist who is writing a thesis, showcasing these accomplishments is a great way to show people what you’re about. Squarespace features a free Portfolio app for iPad and iPhone, so you can take your portfolio on the go. You don’t even need an Internet connection. Perfect to show potential employers during interviews and career fair visits!

No matter what your professional path, building a personal brand through an online website can only help further your career. Using a platform such as Squarespace makes it easy to do it yourself. With awesome features and tons of support, Squarespace is simple to use and free of complicated code. What are you waiting for, collegiettes? You can start a two-week free trial of Squarespace here no credit card required. And remember, if you do decide to sign up, it’s 50 percent off for your first year. Sounds like a good deal to us!

Congratulations! You’re almost done with your internship. While fetching coffee and making copies may have been a drag sometimes, you may find yourself feeling a little sad that you’re leaving your cozy cubicle next to all of your fabulous intern friends.

One of the best things about summer internships is the people you meet, particularly the other collegiette interns with whom you worked. Just because your internship is ending doesn’t mean that your friendships with fellow interns have to end as well! Staying connected with your fellow interns can help build your professional network, and you never know how your paths might cross again later on in your careers. Check out HC’s tips for how to stay in touch with your intern buddies while maintaining the balance between professional and friendly.

Why it’s so important to stay connected

While you might want to keep in touch with your fellow interns just because they’re super cool people, there are a lot of benefits to staying connected to peers you met during an internship.

Ultimately, one of your biggest assets as a young professional is your growing network. The more people you can add to that network, the better.

“That intern that you worked with today could be the hiring manager or CEO of a company you would like to work for in the future,” says Neal Schaffer, author of Maximize Your Social and founder of Maximize Social Business. “You never know where you’ll end up, and we never know how our paths might cross.”

Vicki Salemi, career coach and author of Big Career in the Big City, says, “Networking is key to your future. At the end of the day, all we really have are relationships. Not networking and not keeping those relationships alive is not an option.”

Making lifelong friends might be a pleasant surprise from your college summer internship, but staying connected to them professionally can only help you in the long run!

Use Twitter and Facebook for casual conversation

With Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, texting, emailing and more, there are countless ways to stay in touch with people. While it’s awesome that we have so much technology at our fingertips, sometimes it’s hard to decide what the best form of communication is when balancing that professional yet friendly relationship.

According to Salemi, the type of communication you choose should depend on your purpose for reaching out. “If you just want to say hello, then definitely tweet them or Facebook chat them from time to time,” Salemi says.  “If you want a more meaningful conversation [i.e., relating to job opportunities or careers], ask if they’re available for a phone call or reach out via email.”

Katie Naymon, a senior at Johns Hopkins University, stayed in touch with her intern friends from last summer with GroupMe a group-text smartphone app. It allows you to send texts to large groups of people as well as share photos and videos. “We also made a Facebook group,” Naymon says. “It’s been over a year, but we still regularly post articles and comment on things that the group would find interesting.”

Schaffer also recommends social media for casual conversation. “Since we spend so much time looking at our News Feed on Facebook, it’s a great place for interns to naturally stay in touch,” he says. “Facebook is an easy way to share parts of your personal life using various types of media, [like pictures and links].”

Keep it personal and casual on social media when keeping in touch with your fellow interns. Share photos from your family vacation, tweet about your favorite Starbucks drink or post funny articles from your favorite websites (like Her Campus!).

Use LinkedIn to make professional connections

Besides using Facebook and Twitter, most collegiettes also have LinkedIn accounts, which allow you to stay in touch with a messaging feature. It looks similar to your email inbox, but you can also extend and accept invitations to LinkedIn groups.

You can also use your LinkedIn account to improve one another’s profiles by endorsing the skills of your fellow interns. On your LinkedIn profile, there’s a section where you can add any skills you have. If someone visits your profile (like your fellow intern friends!), he or she can endorse those skills. The more endorsements you get, the more credible your skills are.

Additionally, using LinkedIn with your fellow interns can help you make other connections. There’s a feature on the site that allows you to view other users’ connections, so if you see that your intern friend is connected to an employer or company you’re interested in, you can ask him or her to introduce you!

“On LinkedIn, it’s easy to see who [your friends are] connected with in their network,” Schaffer says. “Or, in an advanced people search, they can end up being the person connecting you to second or third connections. You open up all these secret connections you didn’t know you had!”

While Facebook and Twitter are great ways to share parts of your personal life, LinkedIn is an easy way to make more professional connections.

When communicating online, keep it classy

While social media seems like the easiest way to stay connected with fellow interns, you should always be conscious about keeping it professional. Definitely stay open and friendly on social media sites, but it’s probably better to untag those pictures of yourself from that frat party that happened the other night.

“In one of my books, I talk about creating a ‘public persona,’” Schaffer explains. “That means if you open your Facebook or Twitter page to the entire public, you wouldn’t find any material that would embarrass you or prevent you from getting a job.”

Avoid posting or talking about potentially controversial topics, like politics or religion. If these topics are part of your field or major, keep the conversation professional and avoid starting any heated debates online.

Schaffer says a good rule of thumb is to imagine yourself going to a networking event where you don’t know anyone. What would you talk about there? Things that you would talk about during a professional networking event are also fair game on social media.

“Always ask yourself if you would want that tweet or message on the cover of the Wall Street Journal,” Salemi says. “Keep everything professional … avoid swearing. You can keep things light and friendly and let your personality shine while also keeping it professional.”

Be mindful of your privacy settings and the type of content you put up on your social media pages. Even though you may have gotten close to your fellow interns and consider them good friends, it’s still important to keep it professional online.

So, what should you talk about?

During your internship, it was probably really easy to relate to other interns, considering you had the same schedules, worked on the same projects and were advised by the same boss. But once you’re all back to your respective lives at school, sometimes it’s hard to find things in common. Easy conversation starters could be things about college (you both have that in common!), new internship opportunities (how you met in the first place) or general getting-to-know-them questions (do you actually know what their favorite foods are?).

“You can ask if they have a current internship and what it’s like, what they’re learning in school or how their semester is going,” Salemi says. “Or maybe your professor touched upon something you learned during your internship, and you can mention that when you’re reaching out.”

It’s important to keep your conversations natural, but it’s okay if they involve topics about your shared internship or industry. “If you find an article about how to write a good resume or something about your industry, share it with them,” Schaffer says. “Those are good topics of conversation because that’s the common bond that brought you together in the first place.”

Also, don’t underestimate the power of a like or short comment on social media. “Simply liking updates on Facebook or LinkedIn will keep you on the top of their mind but are minimal efforts,” Salemi says.

Some things to avoid talking about include questions about their income at their new internship, personal questions about their love life (depending on how close you are) or bragging about your new position if they’re still unemployed.

Whenever you’re reaching out, just remember to be natural and friendly. When in doubt, relate back to your shared internship, because you’ll always have that in common!

When you should reach out

While there’s no concrete rule for when you should send your fellow interns an email or post on their Facebook timelines, some times of the school year are better than others.

“Collegiettes are extremely busy, but times other than midterms or finals, when you’re preoccupied, is probably a good time,” Salemi says. “Generally, every month or two is good.”

Another natural time to reach out to your fellow interns is when you start to think about your next job or internship. Schaffer recommends that you reach out to your intern friends as part of your job search. “Contact them if you have an interview with a company they might know about, or maybe when you’ll be in town [to meet with a potential employer],” Schaffer says. “Or maybe there’s a big networking event in a city you’re both close to, and you can invite them to join you!”

You don’t need to be tweeting at them every other day, but you also shouldn’t let six months of silence go by, either. Reaching out once a month is a good rule of thumb. It shows that you’re interested in staying connected, but it’s not overwhelming.

Working side-by-side with other awesome interns can truly make a summer internship great. With these tips in mind, it can be super easy to keep those friendships strong and stay connected with your fellow interns all year long!

Breaking up is hard to do. It’s even harder to do when you and your SO have been involved with one another for quite some time. Every couple has its fair share of hard times but, at some point, we all have to come to terms with when it’s actually time for things to end. You may feel like you and your beau are stuck at a dead end but we’re here to clue you in on when and how you should finally kiss your on-again, off-again relationship goodbye.

1. Realize when it’s over

A lot of people have a misconception that, despite how toxic their relationships are, they shouldn’t end things with their SOs completely just because of how long they’ve been together. But regardless of how much time you’ve spent with a person, there has to be a point in which you determine that enough is enough. “You know it’s time to end a back and forth relationship when nothing changes each time you go back,” says Dr. Carole Lieberman, media psychiatrist and author of Bad Girls: Why Men Love Them & How Good Girls Can Learn Their Secrets. “For example, if the guy promises he’ll never cheat again, but then he does, it’s time to call it quits,” she says. “Most guys need to sow their wild oats. So, part of him may want to be in a relationship with you, but he can’t resist temptation. Don’t keep going back to him, only to be hurt each time he cheats.” Just because you’ve spent a few years with someone doesn’t always mean that it’s in your best interest to stay in a relationship that’s no good for you. Just know that the length of your relationship isn’t always the most important thing. There are only so many times that you can allow yourself to be hurt or let down so, even if your SO makes a million promises that he'll do better, you have to know when not to take the bait. After all, even Karrueche made the decision to end her relationship with Chris Brown after five years of drama. Know when to wash your hands with the situation. He may be a little resistant to the breakup, but your mental and emotional well-being is more important than anything and staying in a toxic relationship won't help that.

2. Pick a decent way to end it

In other words, try not to channel your inner Joe Jonas and break up via text message or phone call. We’re living in a digital age and the geniuses of the world are creating so many “convenient” (but also kind of rude) ways for people to call it quits. Ending relationships is hard but the key to making sure things don’t get even messier with your future ex is to make sure that you choose a respectful way to break things off. “The proper way to end the relationship is to go on a quiet date, such as a picnic or walk in the park,” says Dr. Lieberman. “Sit down and tell him honestly that, although you really want to be with him, he’s apparently not ready yet to be in a committed relationship because of x, y or z.” To note, even if there's a part of you that doesn't actually want to be with him anymore, remember to be completely honest about your feelings and not sugar coat what you're doing. We’re not saying you have to be best friends when it’s all over, (because that can be a terrible idea) but breaking up in person is a simple way to avoid making your relationship worse than it already is. 

3. Take some time to cope

By coping we mean stocking up on Ben and Jerry’s and making sure that Taylor Swift album you bought is being put to good use. “Once it’s over, you can indulge yourself with tears, romantic comedies and rocky road ice cream until you’re ready to face the world,” Dr. Lieberman says. You can spend a few days seeking comfort from your friends and family but, if that's not enough, you can also visit your school's clinic to see a counselor. A lot of colleges and universities have staff that specialize in helping students through breakups, so don't be hesitant to seek professional help. The aftermath of a breakup can be a difficult time for anyone so, ultimately, how you choose to cope is up to you. But we do advise you to keep Drake off of your playlist.

No one ever said breaking up is easy, but sometimes it’s for the best. Understand that, regardless of how long you and your SO have been involved, letting go might be the best thing you both can do when you feel like you’ve hit a brick wall.

Cher and Dionne were the greatest on-screen BFFs, but there are so many other amazing relationships in Clueless—from style guru Christian to ex-stepbrother/romantic interest Josh. Here are 11 friendship lessons we can learn from these amazing characters.

1. They spare each other's feelings

Because being called "a virgin who can't drive" was way harsh.

2. They like to sing their friendship

Even though Elton was the worst.

3. They always have the best advice

That totally would have worked on anyone else.

4. They know the true meaning of friendship

Having lots in common is key.

5. They've mastered bonding activities

And just look how excited they are about it.

6. They take secret handshakes VERY seriously

That hairflip, though.

7. They argue like this:

Best line ever.

8. They're not above a little gossip

Or, as we like to put it, constructive criticism.

9. They're not afraid to call each other out

Even when they totally paused.

10. They're super inclusive

11. They know how to make each other feel better

Because we all want to fall in love with our best friend (though maybe our ex-stepbrother).

Ugh, dying.

“Ugh, I have nothing to wear!” Sound familiar? No, it’s not just a line from Clueless—it’s the very real problem you run into every single morning. But if you invest in these wardrobe staples, you’ll always have an outfit ready for you to rock on campus.

For every day

Classic pair of jeans

There’s a reason “blue jeans” outlived the Wild West and made it into our closets. All you need is a few pairs of these classic pants, and you’ll instantly have dozens of outfits ready to go. So whether you’re into boyfriend jeans or skinnies, make sure to find your go-to denim!

Black leggings

If there’s ONE item you need in college, it’s a solid pair of black leggings. They’re easy to slip on and they go with everything. And yes, leggings ARE pants.

Simple skirt

Like with a good pair of jeans, the right skirt will go with all of your favorite tops for a cute and put-together look. So what will your staple be—tube or skater?

Plain tee

You’d be surprised at how far a good quality t-shirt can go. Why not pair it with those jeans or that skirt? (For bonus points, you can get the same simple t-shirt in a few colors and you’ll be set for the week!).

Flowy blouse

You can have a bit of fun when shopping for a blouse. Whether your favorite is printed or monochrome, short or long-sleeved, it will look great for class over leggings AND for work with a blazer!

Warm sweater

Whether your campus gets really cold in the winter or your sunshine-ridden school just uses way too much AC, you’ll need a staple sweater (or two, or three!) for when you’ve had enough of your school sweatshirt.

Cardigan

When it’s chilly out, but you don’t want to hide your cute top, cardigans are your best ally. Plus, they go great over leggings and booties!

Statement scarf

Sometimes a scarf can be just what you need to turn a boring outfit around. A neutral-colored one will go with basically anything, while a printed one will add an edge to your precious basics for any occasion!

Booties

Booties are the instant outfit upgrade you need, whether you’re headed to dinner on the town or to the library. A slight heel is classy, but not uncomfortable, so you can walk across campus without injury.

Tennis shoes

For the days when booties feel too fancy, you’ll definitely want a solid pair of tennis shoes to traipse around from class to class.

Flat sandals

Flat sandals are an obvious must-have for the warmer days. There are so many options out there that you are bound to find the pair for you!

For lounging

Yoga pants

No finals week would be complete without the right pair of extra-flattering, extra-comfortable yoga pants. Or, you know, you could actually wear them to yoga class.

Sweatshirt

You already know that sweatshirts are basically comfort with sleeves, but did you know they can also be super cute? We love these picks under $100!

For work

Blazer

Blazers are a total essential for the workplace. Whether you work a casual job or you intern at a law firm, a chic jacket will instantly give you a professional look that will impress your boss—or it will make you look sophisticated when you hit happy hour after work!

Pencil skirt

You know how they always say it’s best to overdress than underdress for an interview or networking event? A pencil skirt is the way to do it, which is why every collegiette should own one.

Nice flats

Unless your office has a strict dress code, you probably don’t need to be wearing heels to work. But that doesn’t mean that you should be wearing sneakers, either! Nice flats are a total essential, and you can repurpose them for brunch with your mom. Win-win.

High heel pumps

So your office does have a strict dress code, or you have a big interview. Don’t worry— you’re covered with these pretty pumps!

4. For going out

Crop tops

Crop tops are the ultimate party and festival staple. Try pairing a neutral-colored one with some fun printed shorts, or a patterned one with a simple high-waisted skirt!

High-waisted shorts

The most important college party staple is a good ol’ pair of high-waisted shorts. You can pair them with a tank top for a tailgate or with a crop top and booties on a night out!

For formal occasions

Evening dress

You never know what occasions you might get invited to! Between sorority formals, student organization galas and even weddings, it’s always a good idea to have a dressy number on hand.

High heel sandals

Complement your party dress with some Carrie Bradshaw-worthy sandals!

With these items in your closet, you'll never have to wonder what to wear again. Mix and match them for a blend of casual and classy, and you'll be the best-dressed (and least stressed) collegiette on campus in no time! 

Hey collegiettes!

We know you love reading HC on your laptops, your smartphones, and your tablets... but now you can truly curl up with HC because our first-ever book, The Her Campus Guide to College Life, just hit stores!

Order your copy online here or head to your local Barnes & Noble! And be sure to check out our upcoming schedule of book signing events and see if we're coming to your area!

The Her Campus Guide to College Life: How to Manage Relationships, Stay Safe and Healthy, Handle Stress, and Have the Best Years of Your Life covers everything you need to know to rock college, from how to get along with your roommates to how to avoid the 'freshman 15', deal with tough professors, snag internships, decide whether to study abroad, and much, much more.

Whether you're already an upperclassman or are just getting ready to go off to college next fall, this book has everything you need to survive and thrive on campus when it comes to all aspects of your life. Our book also includes handy resources like a template roommate contract, dorm room grocery list, and more.

Want a sneak preview? Read an excerpt from our book here then order your copy!

I can't wait to hear what you think!

HC Love,
Stephanie Kaplan Lewis, Co-founder, CEO & Editor-in-Chief of Her Campus

A few weeks ago, we were begging Kaitlyn to send Shawn home for his seemingly jealous and immature behavior. But he really turned things around during the finale, and we couldn’t be happier for the engaged(!) couple. We don’t know about you, but we really think we should’ve seen this coming.

1. He drew a heart around her face

If you dozed off during the After the Final Rose special, you may have missed this sweet story. Kaitlyn first caught Shawn’s eye when she was rejected by former Bachelor Chris Soules. So he adorably drew a heart around her face in a picture on Snapchat and proclaimed that he was coming for her. This is what reality TV dreams are made of.

2. It was love at first sight

Kaitlyn and Shawn have both talked about the instant connection they felt when Shawn stepped out of the limo. Coincidentally this happens to us all the time, too. Like when we see a hot guy, and we just know we’re going to marry him… until he starts talking. Gosh, why can’t we be as lucky as Kaitlyn?

3. He got the first impression rose

The people who get first impression roses rarely end up engaged when this is all said and done, but we like to think Kaitlyn was marking her territory then and there.

4. She told him he was the one

Ooh, this one’s tricky. Kaitlyn telling Shawn this early on—as America’s sweetheart Ben H. was showering in the other room—led to a lot of problems between the two. But it was a pretty clear statement about who her heart (already) belonged to.

5. She was honest with him about Nick

Shawn was the only guy whom Kaitlyn told about her hookup with Nick. And that was the moment we knew she was envisioning what it would be like to eat maple syrup in Canada with Shawn for the rest of her life.

6.  He got naked on a golf course for her

Now that’s true love. Kaitlyn was obviously testing Shawn to find out how far he was willing to go for love. JK, she wanted to see how big his black box was.

7. Her family liked him better than Nick

Everyone loved Nick until Shawn came along with his handsome Gosling face and charming Southern drawl. And it was game over once Kaitlyn’s mom and sisters picked a side.

8. He made her a memory jar

We’re just going to put this out there; we’re willing to commit to any guy who puts a bunch of mementos in a glass jar and calls it an art project. Shawn is so into Pinterest, you guys.

9. He picked the better ring

We’re of course kidding. The rings were practically the same. Come on, Neil Lane. You’re getting lazy.

10. They’re prettier together than they are apart

Watching this duo cuddle and beam at each other on After the Final Rose should’ve made us green with envy. But they’re just so darn cute together.

11. The Snapchat thing

Let’s finally talk about the elephant in the room. Unless you’re an expert at avoiding spoilers, you saw the pic of Shawn and Kaitlyn in bed together that she accidentally posted to Snapchat weeks ago. There was no suspense left about her decision after that slipup.

12. We kind of predicted it week one

We may have faltered in our #TeamShawn convictions, but don’t forget we called this a long time ago.

13. And they’re in love

We can’t forget the love. P.S. if Kaitlyn and Shawn break up, please never tell us.

Did you see Shawn and Kaitlyn’s engagement coming, collegiettes?

Running on campus is a fantastic way to get fit, but sometimes logging miles can start to get monotonous. If you’re looking for a way to stay alert, get fit and amp up your speed, it’s definitely time to try this bike rack running workout from Women’s Running!

The concept is simple: use the bike racks on campus as cues to change up your speed while running. You can make it random, or follow our 2-3-3-2 guide, switching up your pace after every two or three bike racks that you see. Not a lot of bike racks on your campus? Use light poles instead! And of course, don’t forget to warm up and cool down with five minutes at an easy pace. Have fun on your run!