COLLEGE. It’s an exciting word, but also a terrifying one. After months of endless applications, emotional acceptances and rejections, and difficult decisions, you’re finally ready to pack your bags and go. Or are you? 

As your departure date draws closer, you’re probably suffering from some serious pre-college anxiety. You’ll have to make new friends, adjust to new academic expectations and learn how to live away from home.  That’s a lot of new—no wonder you’re nervous! But never fear: we’ve compiled a list of some tried-and-true ways to calm down and get excited about the next four years of your life.

1. Talk to current college students

When you’re nervous about something, the best way to feel better is to talk to someone who’s been through it and survived—and no matter where you live, there are sure to be tons of college students home for the summer.

“I talked to a very good friend of mine who was a rising junior,” says Laura, an HC campus correspondent from Virginia Tech.  “Listening to her tell me about her freshman year and everything she went through really put things into perspective that it isn’t as bad as you think and you CAN get through it.”

Even if you don’t have close friends who are in college, there are still plenty of people you can talk to—friends of your older siblings, people who were in the school musical with you or played on the same sports team, etc.  If you work a summer job, there are probably college kids lurking around somewhere—see if you can start up a conversation with them while you’re scooping ice cream or on break.
 
These students are your most reliable resource for what college is really like, from schoolwork to clubs to dining to parties.  Remember, though, that every college is different, and that traditions and customs at your friends’ schools won’t necessarily apply to your experience.  Just because your friend’s entire school participates in a naked midnight run doesn’t mean you’ll have to do the same!

2. Use your nerves for good

You’re nervous, and that anxious energy can manifest in all kinds of unhealthy ways—overeating, not eating, crying, etc.  Instead of letting yourself get worked up into a nervous wreck, put your energy into something constructive, like scouring the web for funky dorm furniture or doing research into your school’s student organizations on your school’s website under the “Student Life” tab.

“I moved across the country on my own to go to college, so I was getting very nervous,” says Dylan, an HC Campus Correspondent from William and Mary.  “I put all my nervous energy into packing—researching packing list recommendations, frequently visiting Bed Bath & Beyond, and looking around online for dorm decorating ideas.  It made me feel like I had a better handle on the whole transition.”
 
Doing research into your school will not only make you feel more prepared, but will also help you get excited about college.  You might even learn something you never knew about your school, like that they have an amazing kickboxing club or that one of their professors wrote your high school history textbook!
 
Looking for other great ways to channel your nerves?  Work on a project you’ve been meaning to get to for a while, like organizing your DVD collection or starting a blog.  If your school requires summer work, try to focus on that, and do it to the best of your ability.  Exercise is also a great way to get rid of nerves, so channel your anxiety into finding a cool new workout and giving it a try!

3. Make a plan

Make some concrete plans for the first week of school.  Your school is sure to have a huge activities fair, so plan to ask your roommate to go with you.  Make a promise to yourself to sign up for as many organizations as possible so that you’ll immediately have plenty of things to do and people to meet around campus. You might even join one of Her Campus's craziest clubs!

“If you and your friends are bored one night, maybe you WILL decide to go to that Rugby Club party or Mock Trial Cookout,” says Ashley, a campus correspondent from Wake Forest University. “College is all about meeting all kinds of people and you won't find them unless you force yourself to get out of your room and try as many things as possible.”

4. Actively get back into “school mode”

You may be totally fine with the social aspect of college, but freaking out about academics.  Will the classes be too hard?  Will the professors be nice?  Will I even remember how to do school?  HC Contributing writer Ben Kassoy, who recently graduated from Emory University, suggests reviewing old high school notes or textbooks before leaving for college, especially for subjects you know you’ll be taking freshman year.  It’ll get you back into a “school” frame of mind, remind you how to study and take notes, and make you glad that you’re not headed back to high school come fall!

5. Attend orientation and other school-related events

Go to orientation, even if it isn’t required.  At orientation you can get a feel for campus, see all the great organizations that your school offers and make some new friends, all before the scary sophomores, juniors and seniors get there!  Many schools also offer a chance to meet with an adviser, so if you’re worrying about what classes to take,  they’ll be there to help you figure out what classes best fit your interests and aspirations.

Some schools also plan other summer events, like meet-ups and picnics in specific cities.  If possible, attend one of these.  You’ll get to meet some of your future classmates, and these events are full of alumni and current students just waiting to tell you how amazing your new school is!  You’ll usually receive an email or card if one of these events is happening near you, but you can also search for your school’s alumni association and contact them.

6. “Meet” your future friends

If it’s not possible to meet your classmates in person, go on your school’s Facebook group and add to the conversation.  You’re not really “meeting” these people through Facebook, but it’ll make you feel like a part of your college class.  And through reading the posts you’ll realize that the other students are just as nervous as you are! 

These groups are also a great place to ask and answer questions about your school.  Freaking out about the online Spanish placement exam? Someone out there will probably be able to calm your nerves!  To learn more about being a social-media-savvy pre-collegiette, check out this HC article on Facebook etiquette.

7. Learn the skills for living away from home

Another way to turn your nerves into productivity is to bond while still getting ready for college.  Nervous about those housekeeping tasks you’ll have to do for yourself once you get to school?  Ask your mom to help you wash and fold a load of laundry, or get some friends together to cook a simple meal.  You’ll be much better educated in those living-on-your-own chores, and you may have some great quality bonding time!

8. Figure out what you’re nervous about and answer each fear

Though it may just feel like an overwhelming wave of panic, there are some specific parts of college life that you’re worried about—and in reality, most of your fears probably don’t make much sense.  Maybe you’re an absolute pro at introducing yourself to complete strangers, but you’re still freaking out about the college party scene.  Or maybe you’ve always been at the top of the class, and you’re worried college classes will make your grades drop. Pin down these specific fears and refute them.  For example:

• Fear:  I’m afraid that I’ll be awkward with the other people in my dorm, and they won’t want to be friends with me.
• Answer: Last year at my summer job I made tons of new friends, and I’m still in touch with them!  I’m awesome!

9. Find the humor

Remember in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban when the students got rid of a Boggart (which would take the shape of the thing the student most feared) by turning what they found scary into something hilarious?  Humor is a great way to get past something that freaks you out because it forces you to look at the situation in a whole new way.  Watch funny college movies, talk to relatives and friends about their funniest college experiences, even make stupid jokes about the size of your suitcase—we guarantee you’ll be feeling less doom-and-gloom in no time.

10. Put it all in perspective

You may not feel like you’re ready, but you are.  You’re a smart, savvy collegiette who’s ready to take on the world.  And remember, you go to college to get an education—not just from books but also from friends, experiences, and yes, even mistakes.  It’s normal to feel nervous, but know that you’re going to be just fine.  If you don’t believe it, take this advice from former HC campus correspondent Jenna, who attends the University of Maine:

“I think some of the best advice I ever received was that although it seems like everything is changing when you leave for college, in no time at all you will feel at home there and a new 'norm' will be in place. Change is hard because it takes time to feel comfortable and adjusted to a new routine but everyone in college is going through the same transition and is looking for friends and study buddies, so there is no need to feel out of place. As I go into my senior year I am just as nervous for the new norm of post-college life as I was going into college. Your jitters will go away once you realize you are about to have the best four years of your life!"

Grabbing coffee first thing in the morning doesn't always feel glamorous. As a collegiette, all you're capable of doing before your AM coffee fix is roll out of bed and grab your wallet before heading out. So, yeah... you're not expecting to look cute. Well, these eight celebrities are going to give you some major style envy—and maybe inspire you to look (or just feel!) a bit more glamorous the next time you grab coffee. 

1. Eva Longoria

Eva Longoria wears summer's hottest trend on her way to the coffee shop. Her white on white outfit is simple, chic and super easy to copy. Just grab any white tee, white jeans, your pearl earrings and you're ready to take on the morning.

2. Selena Gomez

Style icon Selena Gomez doesn't even take a moment off for her coffee runs. Her edgy, all-black outfit is the perfect thing to wear when you just can't deal with people before your first cup. 

3. Taylor Swift

Selena's BFF Taylor wears a classic hat, corduroys and pea coat to grab coffee. We're especially loving that pop of color on her bag!

4. Emma Stone

Emma gives us major style inspiration as she bundles up with her layers and cup of coffee. We're loving her geometric coat and all the mixed textures. This fall, try a similar look by pairing an oversized coat with leather and knit accents. 

5. Kristen Stewart 

Staying minimalist and easy-going, Kristen Stewart channels her signature look with her morning cup. She's nailing the dual chrome look with her sporty sneaks. Try this look by keeping on your sweats—just add sleek sneakers and an edgy hair cut.  

6. Sienna Miller

Sienna Miller looks fantastic without even trying. Her blonde bob and cute burgundy dress look fantastic together. Bonus: this outfit is SO easy to copy! Just throw on a comfy, flouncy dress and a simple black bag. Oh yeah, and don't forget the oversized sunnies. 

7. Emma Roberts 

Emma Roberts shows off some collegiette vibes with this varsity jacket and ripped jeans. No look is more sleek and easy-to-wear! 

Summer is quickly slipping away, meaning the inevitable stress of managing academics, extracurricular activities and a social life will soon be upon us. With so much to balance, it’s very tempting to let nutritious eating, exercise and other healthy habits fall by the wayside. But have no fear, collegiettes! You can keep your body and mind in tiptop shape amid the craziness of college life by making just a few simple commitments. Here are 11 “New Year’s” resolutions you can make that will help you have the healthiest and most fulfilling school year yet.

1. I will work out three days per week.

Spending some time at the gym can do wonders for both your mental and physical health. A workout will make you feel more energized and help you successfully take on your jam-packed days.

Katie Ferraro, a registered dietician and assistant clinical professor at the University of California, San Francisco, and the University of San Diego, says working out will make you feel better. “In addition to all of the calorie burning you can get in, exercise releases endorphins and feelings of pleasure,” she says. “It can be a positive way to deal with stress and depression, as opposed to binge drinking or overeating.” Certified holistic health coach Carly Lockman says cardio also helps release dopamine and serotonin, which help with managing stress – something that surely benefits any college student! 

Ferraro recommends working out at least 150 minutes per week. You can even break the workout down in multiple ways. “Think of working out like your job (or school): You do it five days per week, and at least 30 minutes per day,” Ferraro says. “You can do three 10-minute workouts, five six-minute workouts, or one 30-minute workout.”

Melanie D. Ludwig, a personal trainer and owner of Prestige Fitness Inc., in Manchester, N.H., recommends doing a combination of cardio and weight and resistance training to stay fit and toned. “Muscle mass improves metabolic rate, and if you’re standing better, you’ll feel better and want to do more cardio, so it should be a balance,” she says. “If you’re looking to lose weight, as in body mass, you should make it an even blend of cardio and weight training. If you like one more than the other, force yourself to do the other a couple times a week.”

In figuring out your gym routine, you should always remember to set feasible goals. If you’ve been completely slacking off on going to the gym lately, you won’t want to dive right into doing an intense workout every day. Instead, try doing a couple long workouts per week or more frequent shorter routines and working up from there. “Be realistic and set goals that work for you but that are attainable,” Ferraro says.

Ludwig suggests integrating exercise into your normal routine to make it more fun and convenient for you. “You want to try to fit it in when it’s real,” she says. “There’s nothing wrong with getting on the treadmill with your favorite show if that’s what it takes to motivate you.”

2. I will go to a group fitness class.

If you find it difficult to get to the gym yourself, sign up for a group fitness class with a friend. The commitment to both the class and your friend are great motivators to get you in the mood to exercise! Certified nutrition specialist Jason Boehm recommends any high intensity class. Classes like CrossFit, kickboxing or spinning can all give you a great workout that’ll really make you sweat. Check out your school gym’s website or other local facilities’ websites to find out the options they offer.

In choosing a fitness class, Ludwig recommends going for something that you’ll be likely to enjoy, but also mixing it up once in while to get varied workouts. “For someone who likes Zumba, it’s awesome to do a spinning class once in a while,” she says. “For someone who likes cardio, it’d be great for someone like that to get into circuit training sometimes.”

3. I will run a road race.

Running a road race is a fun way to motivate yourself to keep in shape. The goal of completing the course will help you set up a consistent exercise routine for training. When race day comes around, the motivation will surely keep coming as bystanders cheer for you from the sidelines! Plus, as Ferraro suggests, you can even run on behalf of a charity to give back to others. There couldn’t be a better way to get a runner’s high!

Hillary Coombs, a recent grad of Bryant University and the co-founder and campus correspondent for HC Bryant, ran a half marathon last May. This prompted her to devise a training schedule. “I set a resolution to run two times a week and build up my distance by 0.5 miles each week,” Hillary says. She added that she ran with a friend, which she says helped her stay motivated to keep training.

If you’re a total running newbie, you can try Couch to 5K to get you started. Also, if the thought of running a race seems daunting, you can ease your nerves and spice up the run by participating in a themed event. The Color Run, a 5K race during which runners are covered in colored powder, and the 5K Foam Fest, which features a slew of obstacles sure to get you wet and muddy, are just some of the many fun options out there. You can check out sites such as Road Runners Club of America’s page or Active.com to find races in your area!

4. I will take the stairs instead of the elevator.

With all the stairwells spread in dorms, apartments and class buildings, there are plenty of opportunities to get some exercise without even thinking about it. If you live a few floors up in your apartment or res hall or have a class on the top floor of a building, make a habit of taking the stairs up to your place or classroom instead of using the elevator.

According to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, a person weighing between 150 and 160 pounds burns about five calories per flight of stairs. There’s no easier way to build a little leg toning into your daily routine! Plus, you won’t have to wait for the elevator and cram yourself in once it arrives. The stairs are a win-win all around!

5. I will join an intramural sports team.

Intramurals have the advantage of letting you get fit while socializing with other students and potentially trying something new. Many teams only practice once a week, so there’s no excuse to not get out there and play for an hour or so! Join a team from your dorm or another organization you’re involved with on campus. You could try out soccer, basketball, ultimate Frisbee or whatever else your school might offer.

Ludwig says the competitiveness of sports, such as tennis, is beneficial for your health and helps you burn calories. “If you’re very competitive, just the adrenaline rush of playing a game for points … will keep you going,” she says.

6. I will cook for myself five times per week.

When you have a busy schedule, it’s probably more appealing to make a quick call to the nearest pizza joint for a delivery order than to whip up something yourself. But while this may be convenient in the short run, it’s going to take a toll on your body (and your wallet!) later on.

Ferraro suggests limiting eating out to one to two times per week and planning out your meals ahead of time so that you’ll always have something healthy on hand when you’re hungry. “You should be making and taking your lunch to work and school, keeping in mind the mantra, ‘If you fail to plan, you plan to fail,’” she says.

Eating in allows you to control what goes into your food, Lockman says. And what you add will be better than what the restaurants are putting in! “Most restaurants focus on using ingredients that are extremely cost effective,” Lockman says. “All too often, these ingredients are highly processed, containing harmful additives and lots of refined sugar.”

When you cook for yourself, whether in an apartment or in your dorm’s kitchen, you also have much better control of your portion sizes than when you eat out. You have every nutrition label at your disposal, so you can be sure to stick to the recommended serving sizes, which are typically much smaller, more appropriate portions than those served at restaurants.

Cassie Brown, an alumna of Wake Forest University, is moving into an apartment with a kitchen this coming year, which she says will give her more say in what she eats. “This year I'm going to try to cut out processed foods and focus on more natural, nutrient-enriched foods,” she says. “For example, I'm going to be eating more quinoa and kale, oats, etc. I'm going to be reading labels more carefully so I can avoid high fructose corn syrup and flour.”

But for those of you who will be living in dorms, there are still options for you to keep up healthy eating habits. Some tips: Ask for whole grain breads at dining hall sandwich stations, steer away from the fried fare and go for salads (but be careful not to pour on too much dressing!), and keep some fruit on hand in your room to help you beat a late night sugar craving.

However, most college students eat out at least sometimes, so when you do, look up the nutrition information of different dishes beforehand if it’s available. What may look like a healthy salad on the menu could actually be loaded with fatty, high-calorie dressings and toppings, so it’s best to know what you’re actually eating!

7. I will watch what I eat late at night.

With the crazy working (and partying) hours typical of college students, you’re bound to get an occasional craving for a late night snack. While eating late isn’t the most ideal habit (Boehm recommends you stop eating three hours before bedtime), you can still make the best of it by watching what you’re munching on.

There are some snacks that are better than others if you’re going to eat soon before turning in for the night. “If you feel that you must eat late, try to avoid sleep disrupters like greasy foods, sugary foods and anything with caffeine or alcohol in it,” Lockman says. “Working to balance your macronutrients (proteins, fats and carbs) in your three large meals throughout the day will cut late night cravings.” In order to do this, try incorporating a combination of important food groups into each of your meals. For example, a peanut butter sandwich on whole grain bread can give you carbs and protein, and a salad with some berries thrown in will give you some much needed servings of fruit and veggies.

You should also pay attention to food and drinks that you may not realize contain sleep disrupters. For example, green tea and chocolate contain caffeine, Ferraro says, so be sure to cut back on those soon before bed, too.

8. I will sleep seven to eight hours per night.

While watching what you eat at night will be sure to help you sleep better, you still need to make sure you’re sleeping enough! Mayo Clinic sleep specialist Timothy Morgenthaler recommends seven to eight hours of sleep per night for adults.

If you know you have to wake up at 8 the next morning, make yourself get into bed by 12 a.m. or 1 a.m. This will be more feasible if you shut down your laptop and silence your phone (or set it to “Do Not Disturb” if you have an iPhone) at least 30 minutes before bedtime so you can help yourself wind down and make sure nobody wakes you with a text as you drift off. Additionally, cut down the time you spend online and on your phone during the day, which will help you get your work done more efficiently and leave you time to relax and prepare yourself for bed in the evening. What’s the best tip for staying focused on your work? Staying energized with exercise and small frequent snacks. See, collegiettes? The secrets to a healthy lifestyle are all interconnected!

9. I will watch what (and how much) I drink.

When you’re back on campus, it’s likely you’ll be kicking back with a drink at least every once in a while. But it’s important to be mindful of what you have. If you’re planning to drink, go for something low in calories and lay off anything loaded with sugar. Long Island iced teas and margaritas, for instance, have more than 700 calories each, so it’s wise to steer clear of those.

A serving of a light beer, red wine or white wine has about 100 calories and a shot of hard liquor contains 80 to 130 calories, depending on the proof (calorie content goes up as the proof increases), so having one or two of these won’t kill your diet.

If you want to add different flavors to your drinks, there are healthier ways to do it! “Rather than mixing alcoholic drinks with soda, I’m going to use club soda, and if I want something sweet I’ll use natural honey,” Cassie says. You can also try squeezing a lemon or lime wedge, or even a grapefruit slice, in your drink for a healthier way to add more flavor.

To make sure you have healthier chasers on hand at a party, plan ahead and bring your own wedge of fruit or low-calorie juice. Naturally flavored seltzer water is another calorie-free mixer or chaser. Check out this article for low-cal drink recipes.

10. I will drink water instead of soda.

There are many good reasons to love water! Ditching the soda and sugary drinks in favor of some H2O will help you stay energized for longer, as soda contains empty calories with no nutritional benefits, so it doesn’t fill you up. The Mayo Clinic recommends that adult women drink about nine cups of water per day.

“Replacing pop or coffee drinks with water is a great resolution,” Lockman says. “This gets you off of the caffeine and sugar ‘roller coaster,’ which is characterized by a rapid increase in energy followed by an extreme crash, and improves daily productivity, as well as mental outlook and clarity.”

Drinking water also results in other health benefits. These include better skin, improved kidney function and calorie control. And don’t forget about all the money you can save by not purchasing expensive soft drinks whenever you go out. You really can’t go wrong with H2O!

11. I will relax for a half hour per day.

With all the hard work you’re putting in during the day, you’ll need to take a break to maintain your sanity. Set aside at least a half hour each day to do something just for the fun of it. Pick up a book you’ve been longing to read, watch an episode of your favorite TV show, go for a walk with a friend, practice that instrument you’ve been neglecting for a while or listen to some tunes on your iPod. Giving yourself a mental break will make you feel energized and ready to work and help you avoid a breakdown later on. Plus, having a break to look forward to will motivate you to concentrate on your work throughout the rest of the day.

Stick to your goals!

There are many approaches you can take to start the “New Year” off in a healthy way, but while making up your resolutions, it’s important to make sure that they fit with your lifestyle. “While I agree that setting objective food and exercise goals works for some people, in other cases it can foment a feeling of failure if and when the goal isn't achieved,” Ferraro says. “It's important to remember that goal setting for weight loss [and health] should be individualized; there is no one-size-fits-all approach.”

If objective goals aren’t for you, there are other useful ways to motivate yourself to stick to your resolutions. Make them with a friend, keep track of them with a weekly journal entry or a sticker chart on your wall, set reminders on your phone or write yourself inspirational notes. Ensure that your resolutions are also enjoyable. “You have to accept yourself for the way you are and be the best you can be by doing things you like,” Ludwig says.

So, collegiettes, set some goals that will make you feel your best and ready to face the demands of school head-on. Have a happy and healthy “New Year”!

Gwyneth Paltrow seems to always have a new project going on. To nobody’s surprise, she’s launching her own beauty collection—all natural, of course. The collection, which will be a part of her online-based brand Goop, will be available starting January 2016. Properly named Goop Beauty, the line will be done in conjunction with other all-natural beauty brand, Juice Beauty. 

Today, with an increasing amount of gluten-free, all-natural and organic lifestyle followers, there must be a leader to inspire them. Paltrow is just that! She’s notorious for promoting detoxes, healthy living and the like. With so many beauty products that fail to meet the needs of such lifestyles (they often contain gluten and parabens among other harsh ingredients), those look for a truly all-natural regimen will be please to know the Goop Beauty line won’t contain those ingredients.

Paltrow fanatics can expect to find toner, cleanser, serum, moisturizer and even an anti-aging treatment from the line. Not only will these products actually be good for you, Goop Beauty will also include customer education for these products. It's an important step to note, as the beauty industry shares little info with its customers, who have no idea what they’re putting on their face. Many believe a product is okay to use when they see the words, “green,” “pure” and “organic” on the labels, when in fact they need to understand the ingredients that are going on their faces. Making sure that customers are knowledgeable of that is one of Goop Beauty’s main missions.  

So stay tuned for Goop Beauty in the next few months. If you happen to be a natural-beauty fanatic or skincare junkie, this collection may as well be the ticket to achieving Gwyneth Paltrow’s flawless skin!

Disney movies are meant to teach children lessons, but those lessons aren’t always applicable to real life. While we love re-watching these classic films, now that we’re older we recognize that a lot of the logic is flawed. Can you say unrealistic expectations?

We’ve listed 10 of the biggest lies Disney has told, along with the more accurate truths behind them.

Lie #1: Any problem can be solved in the span of a 3-minute song.

Reality: It usually takes a bit more time—and work—than that.

Lie #2: Bad people always look like villains.

Reality: You should never judge a book by its cover.

Lie #3: Women need a man to save them.

Reality: Women are their own heroes.

Lie #4: It’s easy to find a pair of shoes that fit.

Reality: You’ll try on 5 pairs of heels and still won’t be able to walk in them.

Lie #5: Putting on makeup is a breeze.

Reality: Not so much.

Lie #6: There will always be a few animal friends around to help you.

Reality: Sadly, animals can’t talk. They can cuddle, though!

Lie #7: Women should have tiny waists and small appetites.

Reality: Girls love food, and that’s ok.

Lie #8: Your first kiss is guaranteed to be magical.

Reality: First kisses are usually really awkward.

Lie #9: Unconventional families consist of evil stepmothers and/or stepsisters.

Reality: Family is family, no matter who it’s made up of.

Lie #10: Growing up is always a bad thing.

Reality: You can still be a kid at heart.

Say so long to your high school guys, and HEL-LOOO to college boys. As a freshman girl, eligible cuties seems to be everywhere – and guess what? They’re all looking at you. The attention can be fun, but when it comes down to it, the dating game in college is one that you’ll learn a lot about as time goes on – you might not be a pro right off the bat. To get started, Her Campus has put together a list of the DOs and DON’Ts of college dating. Who, you ask, knew there was such a science behind college guys, anyway? Aren’t they just a bunch of sex-hungry dudes? Well, maybe, but there might be a little bit more to it. Here are the guidelines of how to deal with the ones who are, and the ones who aren’t. Read ‘em and weep, girls.

DO make friends with the guys on your floor. These guys will be super fun to hang out with once they get to know each other well, and you’ll be the cool girl who can get in on that action when you need a break from girl drama. On top of it, you might really connect with one of them.

DON’T rush into anything, though. Hooking up with one or two of your hallmates within the first few days of school, however, is a definite no-no. When tempted to engage in “dormcest,” remind yourself that you’re going to have to face him – as well as everyone else on your floor, because they’re going to find out – for the rest of the year, no matter how good or bad your hook-up was.

DON’T write anybody off too soon. Just because he’s sitting alone and doesn’t speak to anyone in the class doesn’t mean he’s a total lunatic. If you’re interested, all it takes is a slow pack-up-and-hang-back after class to initiate conversation.

DO go out to meet people. Find out where the hot spots are each night of the week(end), and make sure to show up every once in a while. As a new student, you’ll get a feel for student life and get exposed to every kind of guy – frat boys, athletes, pre-meds, business students and artsy guys, too.

DON’T stay in talking to your high school boyfriend every night. If you’ve broken up, there was a reason, and now is the time to move on. Your freshman year is meant for new beginnings, not dwelling on old relationships. Phone calls between Texas and Massachusetts won’t bring you back together – it’ll only keep you from meeting new people that are just beyond your dorm room door.

DO start off slowly if you’re not used to dating or just got out of a relationship. Study hall or dining hall dates count, too! As casual as these settings are, it can be a great place to get to know a guy or meet someone new. Take it easy if you’re just getting your feet wet with the whole dating game, and don’t feel a need to rush into anything intense.

DON’T go out every single night. A little mystery never hurt anyone… and it’ll do wonders for your grades, too. A mother’s wisest words – if guys see you going out night after night, how will they ever get to miss you? Show face as often as you can without being that girl that everyone expects to run into.

DO look around your classes for guys. If they’re showing up for class at all, then you know they’ve at least got something going for them. And hey, maybe he’s even smart and organized enough for you to make him your “study buddy.” Study dates are pretty much the best dates most college girls can hope for within the first month or so of school (news flash: college guys are usually cheap).

DON’T make him think you’re interested if you’re not just because you don’t want the perks to go away. It’s not fair to the guy if you’re just not that into him, but you keep him around because he’s, like, obsessed with you. The puppy dog thing will get old after a while, leaving him feeling stupid/angry and you feeling unfulfilled, annoyed and guilty – not to mention that other guys you might actually become interested in will get the wrong idea.

DO engage in a random hook-up (safely), if you want to. They’re part of the college lifestyle, and you can choose if you want to engage in them or not (certainly, you can avoid making out with the guy you’ve been dancing with all night if you’re just not that into it). It’s up to you to decide if that’s your style, but know that it happens and it doesn’t have to be scandalous or “slutty” – but just, in fact, kind of fun. As long as you’re not going crazy by swapping saliva with every guy you lay eyes on, random hook-ups can be fun and can lead to date parties, formals and maybe even a real date! If nothing else, at least you can get an exciting night or two out of them — just make sure to stay safe and keep your friends posted on your whereabouts.

DON’T count on them turning into anything serious. Most of the time, dance-floor make-outs (DFMO’s) start and finish on the dance floor and only go as far as a phone number swap. Take these experiences for what they are, and don’t think he’s fallen in love with you simply because he’s been attached to your mouth all night.

DO accept invitations/initiations from older guys. Attention from upperclassmen is surely a plus in any freshman’s book, because they’re seasoned. They know what’s up in this whole college world, and it can be quite nice to have a hot, older guy show you the ropes – he’ll let you know what parties are happening, bring you to date parties, introduce you to his friends and be a pretty face to show up in your tagged pictures on Facebook. That said, don’t feel the need to hook up with him purely because he’s “older and wiser…” because he may just turn out to be pretty stupid.

DON’T feel pressured to have sex. No, we can’t be certain that what all guys are looking for is sex, but that’s definitely a part of college hook-ups. He might want it and he might even ask for it, but if you’re uncomfortable, it’s not up to you to give it to him. Know your boundaries and ask him – whether you know him well or not – to respect your boundaries; if he doesn’t, walk away.

DO avoid those guys that hook up with your entire group of friends. There are always the guys that have no qualms about coming in between a group of girl friends just to get some action. He has no problem with hooking up with each one of your friends by jumping from one to the next. He might have no idea that what he’s doing is hurting your relationships with your friends, but it’s up to you guys to stop him by cutting him out of the equation.

DON’T get too attached to said upperclassmen. He’s graduating sooner than you are, and he knows it. Upperclassmen usually aren’t in it for the long haul when they seek out a freshman girl that they’d like to hook up with. Just because he’s lent you a bunch of attention one night, don’t assume that he’ll be chasing after you for the rest of the semester.

DO be open to going on dates with anyone. That is, of course, presuming that dates aren’t obsolete anymore. While a lot of guys don’t even have the courtesy to take a girl out for dinner – or even coffee?! – there are some who like to kick it old school and go for the dinner and a movie. If you’re looking for companionship of any kind, there’s no reason to refuse a casual invitation to lunch or dinner.

DON’T expect him to take you out to fancy meals all the time. But at the same time, know that college culture is changing, and going out on the “dates” we see happening in movies or the ones we hear about from our parents simply doesn’t happen anymore, for the most part. These guys are most likely on a budget, so fancy dinner dates aren’t always an option. There’s nothing wrong with a nice fro-yo in the quad, though!

DON’T count on finding a boyfriend right away. Keep in mind that as many hotties as you see on a regular basis, most of them aren’t right for you. It’s about finding the right one that’s interested in having the same type of relationship that you are, no matter what type that may be. Also, be wary of becoming BF-GF with someone on Day 1 of orientation. Do some exploring before you settle on one guy to get hot and heavy with right away.

DO start a relationship if you find someone special. Maybe you’ll find him on day one of classes, or maybe it’ll take until senior year for you to realize that the guy you’ve been friends with all along suddenly seems like he’s ready to take the plunge with you. But if it feels right, don’t hold back, and find a way to make it work.

DO know that people move on quickly in college. Hook-ups last for any length of time – you can be attached to one particular guy for several months, or only for a matter of days and it can still be considered “hooking up.” Go figure. At any rate, don’t be surprised if a guy has eyes for you on Thursday and then you spot him spitting game to another girl on Saturday. Don’t get jealous or crazy and be that girl who slaps him in the middle of the party. Instead, try to figure out what he’s interested in before you hook up with him, so you know what to expect from him after the fact.

DON’T hold back if you want something more out of a hook-up. If you silence yourself, you’ll only end up unhappy and wasting your time. He may not be taking your relationship as seriously as you wished he would if it started out as a random hook-up. If your feelings intensify and you want to take it to the next level, let him know and don’t make him guess. If you’re afraid of scaring him off, leave your feelings on the table and the situation open-ended. This is his relationship too, and you don’t wish to monopolize it, so ask him what it is that he wants out of it. Chances are that otherwise he won’t just guess that you want to be treated to romantic dinners and you’ll just end up getting frustrated and angry.

DO try to meet guys without a gaggle of girls surrounding you. While girls’ night out is always one of the best nights of the week, do try to distance yourself from your pack of besties for a little bit each night. No guy wants to approach you if your six best friends are by your side eyeing him with those girly judgmental glares.

DON’T get left places alone or go home with a guy you don’t know…and having made out with him all night doesn’t make him any more familiar. If you do manage to separate from your girlfriends for a few minutes, keep in touch with them to make sure they’re not leaving the club/bar/party without you. It’s risky to leave with a guy you’ve just met – especially if one of his friends who “didn’t drink tonight” is driving – even if he seems genuine. Exchange numbers instead, and stay with your girlfriends.

College will open doors for you in the way of the dating scene, but it always helps to take things slowly and be wary. Stay grounded and always question people’s intentions, while making sure that your own are as clear as crystal. Your future boyfriend is out there somewhere, whether he’s sitting next to you in class or isn’t even enrolled at your school. And you’ll find him, too... you just may have to kiss a few frogs first and have a lot of single and mingling fun.

What if your adopted sister tried to kill you? It happened to this girl. [xoJane]

10 signs you're definitely not over your ex. [YourTango]

Woo! Spam has fallen to an all-time low! [Quartz]

What do you drink while studying? [Textbook Rush]

The best rest stop in America. [Atlas Obscura]

What is it like to be a beared lady? [The Huffington Post]

If only all starting salaries were like this. [The New York Times]

Climbing a tree could be good for your brain. [Newser]

What salad green is the betchiest? [Betches Love This]

Ronda Rousey is an inspiration. [Elite Daily]

It’s the classic coming-of-age story: Girl turns 16, girl waits five hours at the DMV to get her learner’s permit, girl sits through three weeks of driver’s ed, girl never quite gets the hang of parallel parking but excels at reverse parking and follows the speed limit during her exam so girl gets license, and finally—if girl is lucky—girl gets car.

Having a car comes with many grown-up decisions. For example, what scent of car freshener should you use? Should you put bumper stickers on your car, or would that be tacky? And, most importantly, should you bring your car with you to college? Before you decide, be sure to consider these questions so you know you’re making the right choice.

1. Does your school even allow you to have a car?

Before you start planning wild weekend road trips for the fall, double-check that your school actually allows its students to have cars on campus. Some schools, especially ones in cities with limited parking, prohibit freshman (and sometimes even sophomores) from keeping cars on campus. This information will probably be in a welcome packet. If not, check on your school’s website or call the department of student services to find out.

Even if your school does allow underclassmen to park on campus, you’ll probably need to fill out a form with all of your car’s information. Be sure to check the due dates for these applications!

2. What are the added expenses?

Of course, you have to pay the usual expenses of a car—gas, plus your typical car maintenance (car washes, maintenance and so forth). However, you might have additional expenses. For example, your school might charge you for a parking permit to keep your car on campus—you’ll find out about that when you fill out your paperwork!

Your family might face another expense if you’re on your parents’ auto insurance policy.  When Beth* brought her car to Syracuse University, her parents ended up paying more for car insurance. “Every insurance company is different, but for us the cost of insurance was cheaper when she didn’t drive nine months of the year,” says Mary, Beth’s mother. “People should check with their insurance companies, especially if they’re on as an away status while at school.”

You’re already costing your family something invaluable by leaving for college: your charming, lovable presence. If you can avoid it, don’t add insult to injury with an extra financial burden!

3. Where will you park?

Find out (either by asking someone who goes to your college or by scouring the school website) where students are allowed to keep their cars. You might think it’d be great to be able to drive to class, but it might actually take you longer to walk to the parking lot than it would to trek up the hill to your morning lecture.

Many people don’t drive to class anyway, and a lot of people prefer it this way. “Even though some of my classes are as much as a 20- to 30-minute walk, I'm walking through a gorgeous campus and really don't even realize the time going by,” says Sarah Desiderio, a senior at Penn State. “Plus, navigating the streets with so many pedestrians would almost be counterproductive.” There’ll be plenty of time to get stuck in traffic after you graduate!

Also, consider if your parking lot will be covered. Your school may not have a parking garage for all students, so you’ll need to clear the snow off your car in the winter if you live in a place with a colder climate. Of course, if your school is in Miami, this won’t be as big of a problem. Either way, it’s important to know where your car will be located before you bring it all the way to school, since its placement could be a deal-breaker.

4. Where will you need to drive?

As appealing as you may find the idea of blasting “Life Is a Highway” as you cruise down the street away from campus, take a few seconds to reflect on your upcoming year. Where will you actually need to drive?

Maybe you think you’ll want to get off campus to go to the grocery store. However, if there are lots of amazing eateries on campus, you have a meal plan or if you only have a mini fridge in your dorm, you probably won’t need groceries. Thinking you’ll need to get off campus to have fun on the weekends? Check out your school’s on-campus events and club meetings first to see if you’ll even need to leave to find entertainment and socializing.

Perhaps you have some farther-away destinations in mind. Eliza Lavine, a sophomore at George Washington University, says she only wished she had a car when she visited her boyfriend at his college, which was an expensive four-hour train ride away. “It takes about two and a half hours to drive there, and it’s free (minus gas),” she says. If you’re planning on making several long trips, you’ll probably appreciate the flexibility of having a car. 

You’ll also appreciate this flexibility if you have a job or internship off campus. If you suddenly get called in for a shift or if your job requires traveling, it can be a relief to know you can just hop in your car and get where you need to go.

Getting an off-campus job as an underclassman is uncommon, but having to make the occasional trip to your hometown isn’t. “The only time I really wish I had a car is when break comes around,” Sarah says. “It'd be much more comfortable and convenient to drive myself home, as opposed to taking a bus.” Many girls cite having an easy way to get home as one of the best reasons to bring a car to college.

If your school is less than an hour or two away from your hometown and you think you’ll be coming home for weekends, a car would probably be a good idea. On the other hand, don’t assume you’re going to want to come home all the time. You might love living on your own so much that you’ll be glad not to have an excuse to visit home!

5. Are there other ways to get to where you need to go?

Driving isn’t always the only option! If you’re going to school in a city, you can probably take public transportation.  Eliza, who goes to school in Washington, D.C., found she didn’t need a car to get around the city. “For the most part, I could walk everywhere I needed to go (thanks, D.C.),” she says. “If I had to go to the opposite side of the city for whatever reason, I would take the D.C. Metro, which is super easy to navigate.”

However, “if your campus is in the middle of nowhere and there aren’t many ways to get off campus, get a car on campus,” says Kasia Jaworski, a senior at Villanova University.

Kasia says she never felt a need for a car. “There's a lot to do right off campus that's super close, so it's easy to walk or bike there,” she says. “Villanova University also has an off-campus shuttle that runs on the weekends to places like CVS, Staples, malls with restaurants, etc., so it’s easy to get there, too.” Even schools that aren’t in urban locations offer shuttle buses, so make sure you check it out!

Sarah from Penn State has found that the shuttle buses are a good substitute for a car. “We have buses looping around the campus as well that are free and even some that for $1.50 will take you out to the mall or Walmart,” she says.

In addition to being cheap and convenient, riding the bus gives you a chance to meet people from your school you might not have met otherwise. Who knows what new friends or potential dates could be waiting for you on the school shuttle?

Ultimately, deciding whether or not to bring a car to college is dependent on your school and your needs. No matter what you choose, we’re sure you’ll have amazing adventures on campus and off campus!

*Name has been changed.

Looking for something new to binge watch the rest of your summer? Look no further than your favorite movies-turned-TV shows! From horrors to dramas, these five shows, adapted from must-see movies, will give you the chance to experience your favorite films in a brand new way.

1. Scream: The TV Series

“You’ll Never See It Coming!” reads the promotional poster for Scream, the new slasher series from MTV, inspired by the 1996 thriller of the same name. Scream follows a new generation of teens trying to come to grips with a classmate’s death. It starts to get eerie when it's revealed that a local serial killer from many years ago may be the perp.

2. Minority Report

Minority Report is an up-and-coming sci-fi drama that is scheduled to premiere this fall on FOX. Originally adapted from a short story by Phillip K. Dick, it was turned into a film in 2002 with Tom Cruise in the lead. In Minority Report, one can be arrested for “future crime,” an illegal act which the police know you will commit, but haven’t yet committed. The technology in the movie was so advanced that Steve Jobs was said to have based his design of the iPhone gestures on it. Steven Spielberg, who directed the film, will be returning as an executive producer for the show. With Spielberg in support of the adaptation, we can’t wait to see how the show will develop with time. 

3. 12 Monkeys

12 Monkeys is a new sci-fi drama that premiered this past April on the SyFy channel. The show was inspired by the film of the same name that was shot in 1995 and stars Bruce Willis as the lead, supported by Brad Pitt and Madeleine Stowe. In the television series, Aaron Stanford plays a time-traveler who is sent back into the past to stop the spreading of a virus that has the potential to wipe out the entire human population. The second season of the show has a release date of January 16. 

4. Bates Motel

Bates Motel is a kind of prequel to the film Psycho, but set in modern times. In the television series, we get to see the development of a young Norman Bates, played by Freddie Highmore, into a psycho killer. This past June, Bates Motel was renewed for its fourth and fifth seasons, which will air in 2016 and 2017, respectively, on A&E. 

5. Nikita 

Nikita was an action and crime drama that ran from 2010 to 2013. The show is based on a French film, La Femme Nikita. In the American version, Maggie Q plays Nikita, a highly-trained assassin who has plans to destroy the organization that enlisted her to fight as a young girl.

Happy watching, collegiettes! 

You were waiting all semester for summer break, but now that you have the summer bug out of your system, you kinda miss being at school (never thought you’d say those words, right?). Maybe you want to be surrounded by friends again, or maybe you are secretly excited to take that one class outside of your major. Whatever your reason for wanting to return to campus, these studious and social animals can totally relate. Try and live vicariously through them until the end of summer when you can finally go back to your home away from home!

1. Fred is entering his senior year, so the faster classes start, the faster he gets to graduate!

2. Sometimes, Winston misses “sleepless” study nights at the library (books make pretty good pillows when you’ve been studying American History for eight hours).

3. Evan is an art major, so he wanted to *brush* up on his skills over summer… too bad most of his supplies were in campus storage!

4. Otto has been the captain of his intramural water basketball team since his sophomore year!

5. Hayden made a goal this summer to work on his social skills before first day of classes (he now has to make a goal to hit the gym).

6. As the fundraising chair for her sorority, Jessica is excited to propose some new ideas, like a car wash (trunks are cleaned for free!).

7. Did someone say frat party? Christian is in charge of deciding the themes for his fraternity's ragers (and somehow incorporates popped collars into all of them).

8. Sasha has a love/hate relationship with programming (she's currently working on a code from last semester, or trying to).

9. Stacey can't wait to kickstart the campus fashion magazine (she was voted best dressed last year!).

What are you most excited for this school year? Tell us in the comments below!

Strobing is the latest makeup trend that everybody has been getting hip to: our favorite beauty bloggers, top runway models, and even us at the Beauty School. We LOVE it. 

What is it?

So, what exactly is strobing? It's a way of contouring that highlights your features by using light. Instead of using a plethora of different brushes and shades, all you need is your foundation, your brush, highlighter, and a sponge. Additonally, you can get this technique down to 5 minutes: perfect for on-the-go makeup.

How do you do it?

1. Prime your face with a radiant, luminizing moisturizer or primer. And if you have oily skin, make sure it is oil-free. We want you looking radiant and dewy, not sweaty.

2. Use your favorite foundation. To avoid looking like a disco ball or hot mess, make sure your foundation and powder are on the matte side.

3. Highlight places where the light naturally hits. Cream or liquid highlighters work best. Make sure to hit these places: cheek bones, the bridge of the nose, below your brow bone, and the corners of your eyes. Feel free to add a dab to your chin, forehead, and cupid's bow on your lips for added glow (skip these if you have oily skin!)

4. Blend with a sponge! Fingers work too. Make sure your beauty sponge is damp (soak it in lukewarm water and then wring out all the water.) If you opted for powder highlighter, use a fan brush to remove excess highlighter.

5. For added oomph, brush a light layer of your favorite blush to your cheek bones. Try to make sure your blush isn't shimmery, or it'll clash with your highlighter. If you feel like you're lacking without your deeper tones, try opting for a matte bronzer.

Why is it better than contouring?

It is less time-intensive, less intense, and MUCH more natural-looking. Want to get that radiant glow that looks like it comes from within? Look no further, strobing is for you. 

Where to start?

The hardest part is choosing the perfect colors that will highlight and enhance. Try out these brands and colors to help you get started on your strobing journey.

1. If you have Fair Skin, use more champagne-pearl tones:

• RMS Beauty Living Luminizer - $38
• NARS Illuminator in Copacabana - $30

2. If you have Light-Medium Skin, aim for more pink champagne/peachy tones:

• It Cosmetics Hello Light Anti-Aging Crème Illuminizer - $24
• Josie Maran Argan Enlightenment Illuminizing Wand - $28

3. If you have Olive Skin, try to use tones that are golden:

• Benefit Cosmetics Sun Beam - $26
• Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Opal - $41

4. If you have Dark Skin, go for tones that are more earthy and bronze: 

• Smashbox L.A. Lights Blendable Lip & Cheek Color in Venice Beach Bronze - $29
• Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics Mineral Radiance in Sundance - $43

Are you ready to start strobing the night away? Let us know how it goes!

Between tangled necklaces, wrinkled clothing and shampoo spills, packing for school can be a total nightmare. But not anymore! With these awesome packing hacks, you won't believe how easy moving back to campus will be.

1. Roll your clothes to save space

We've been folding our clothes for as long as we can remember, but apparently rolling them is actually the way to go! Save space and avoid creases with this easy trick.

2. Use shower caps to protect your shoes

Finally something to do with all those hotel shower caps you've been hoarding!

3. Thread chain necklaces through straws

Say goodbye to tangled chains!

4. Roll larger necklaces with toilet paper

This trick prevents tangles and takes up very little space.

5. Use a button to avoid losing your earrings

This is life-changing!

6. Keep your clothes fresh with a dryer sheet

With this basic hack, you can throw on your favorite dress as soon as you get to campus.

7. Protect your clothes from shampoo spills

Place plastic wrap over the top of your cosmetic bottles (but under the cap) and you'll never have to deal with that mess again.

8. Pack your clothes in a trash bag

If you're driving to campus, use this amazing hack: pack your clothes with their hangers directly into a trash bag. This will save you so much time both when packing and when moving in.

9. Pack socks in your shoes

We love this trick: it will maximize space AND keep the shape of your shoes intact! Don't forget to pack your shoes on the bottom of your suitcase with other heavier items.

What's your go-to packing trick, collegiettes?

We know stuffing all your belongings into one car is not the most fun way to start college (collegiettes across the country know your pain!). It requires a lot of foresight to pack everything you need for a year away from home—you’re bound to forget something! While we can’t predict your every need, we do have 12 helpful packing suggestions that freshmen don’t usually consider. Our college veterans have weighed in on items they wish they stuffed in their suitcases, and we’ve included the best in this handy checklist. So before you close your car trunk full of shoes and posters (mainly shoes), check out these oft-forgotten college necessities!

1. Safety Pins

Etka Partani, a senior at UCLA, says she took her mom’s box of safety pins for granted before she arrived at college. “I know it seems random, but sometimes they're completely necessary to adjust an outfit or make sure the costume that you threw together for a party doesn't fall off,” she says. You can keep safety pins in a small box with other random knickknacks, such as paper clips and bobby pins.

2. Boot Tray

If you’re going to college in a northern state with lots of wintry weather, bring a boot tray to store your soaked shoes. According to Phyu-Sin Than, a senior at Mount Holyoke College, “It's completely necessary to have if you're going to a school in the north where half the school year is dragging yourself around in the snow.” Try this one from Bed Bath & Beyond to keep your dorm carpet clean and dry (a regular serving platter also works just as well).

3. Bookends

You can rack up a sizable collection of books in your first year, especially with general education classes (American Lit., anyone?). Shira Kipnees, campus correspondent for HC Franklin & Marshall, recommends that freshmen bring bookends to organize their study sessions. “My books always ended up in a fallen mess on the shelf and it would take me forever to find the exact book I was looking for,” she says. You can find cheap bookends on Amazon or invest in decorative ones from Etsy, like these cute bicycle ones for $35.

4. Old T-shirts and Costumes

There will be plenty of theme parties in college, which means plenty of opportunities to unleash your creative fashion sense! Come prepared with the right materials to make the most of these festive events. Emma Miller, a senior at Kenyon College, suggests bringing old shirts you wouldn’t mind cutting, dyeing, highlighting, or doing whatever else to that strikes your artistic fancy. You can also bring old Halloween costumes and accessories or outdated clothes to stock your theme party wardrobe.

5. Electric Kettle/Water Boiler

Emily Willeman, a senior at Western Washington University, suggests bringing an electric kettle for making late-night ramen. Sometimes you won’t feel like walking to the dining halls or they won’t be open when studying late at night and get hungry, so it’s nice to have hot food options in the convenience of your room! An electric kettle is also great for making hot tea or soup when you have a cold or want to make hot chocolate during winter months. Add some Tim Tams to the hot chocolate and invite friends over for a snack social!

6. Brita Pitcher

Not all college dorms have a water fountain on every floor, so invest in a Brita pitcher to filter tap water so you can stay hydrated. If you are lucky enough to have a fountain in the hall, you may want to buy a pitcher anyways so you don’t have to run back and forth for another cup of water!

7. Safe

It may sound paranoid, but you’re better safe than sorry (pun intended). Since college is a completely new environment and strangers may be coming in and out of your room from time to time (depending on how social your roommate is), you’re better off having a secure place to store valuables while you’re out. A safe is a good precaution until you get to know your roommate better and have a better understanding of what’s risky to leave out in your dorm.

8. External Hard Drive

You never know when your computer will crash (yet it always seems to happen during crucial times, like finals week). An external hard drive is a solution to potentially losing all of your hard work. Though some collegiettes use online storage programs (or use the old email attachment method), it doesn’t hurt to have a local copy of your work in case there are Internet connection problems. Be sure that you buy the right hard drive for your computer!

9. Earplugs and Sleep Mask

Instead of crossing your fingers and hoping for a roommate who doesn’t snore, head to college prepared for the worst. Even if you are a deep sleeper, it’s better to have these aids at your disposal than to wish you had them while tossing and turning at two in the morning or waking up as the sun rises on a Saturday. Dorm halls have an unpredictable mix of students—some who may not have the same level of respect for others as you do. Earplugs are a safeguard against booming speakers, awkward hallway arguments, disturbing noises through thin walls and anything else you could (literally) lose sleep over!

10. Extension Cords and Power Strips

You don’t want to be tied to working at your desk because your computer charger is too short to reach your bed. Bring an extension cord for free range around your room (or the library). Many dorm rooms also have a limited number of outlets, so pack a power strip to charge all your gadgets, because you shouldn’t have to pick between a functioning phone and laptop! Plus, you will avoid any arguments with your roommate about being an outlet hog. Now you can both dry your hair in peace!

11. Duct Tape

People joke about it being a poor man’s tool kit, but duct tape is incredibly useful, versatile, and cheap! Use it to cover up wires, secure loose items, and solve problems you can’t even imagine right now. It actually works magic.

12. Sporting Equipment

If you were involved in any sports in high school, bring your gear! You don’t want to limit your opportunities on campus, especially if you love the sport and want to play it, even recreationally. “I joined a volleyball intramural team and having my kneepads made it so much easier to get involved in the game,” says Jaclyn Turner, a junior at the University of Maryland. “I also looked really official having the proper volleyball gear!”

Now you’ll be the most prepared freshman on your floor (and your roommate’s savior when she realizes what she forgot!). Happy packing!

I started noticing my irregular periods during my junior year of high school. I kept track of when I was supposed to get my period and sometimes I would skip my period for months. During the time my period was supposed to come around, I’d get what I thought were pre-period cramps. My abdominal area would be in so much pain that I couldn’t get up from my bed and would miss out on a lot—I missed school, I was a cheerleader in high school and missed football and basketball games, I missed church, and the list goes on. I felt that I was letting everyone down and would be disappointed in myself, but I was just in so much pain.

However, I heard that it was normal to have irregular periods if I was really stressed. This became my justification for my irregular periods, considering I was an academic student, athlete, held leadership positions in many student organizations and was in a couple of the honor societies at my school. So, I didn’t think much of my irregular periods and I didn’t do anything about it in high school.

College came around and I had to meet the general practitioner at school because I was going to start receiving allergy shots at the clinic on campus. At the end of the appointment, the doctor asked if I had any other concerns. I mentioned to her that my periods were irregular. After hearing this, she told me to make another appointment for that. I did.

At the next appointment, the doctor asked me a series of questions—How long did I notice that my periods were irregular? How many months at a time did I usually skip my period? Did I notice any excess hair growing on my body? Did I experience severe acne as an adolescent or even as an adult? Was I balding? I didn’t know where any of these questions were leading, but I did notice that my periods had been irregular since junior year of high school, I had skipped my period between one to four months at a time, and I experienced severe acne as an adolescent. After hearing these answers, my doctor requested that I had blood work taken. She then explained that she was going to see if I had an excess of androgen, a male hormone. She further clarified that an elevated amount of androgen and irregular periods would lead her to diagnosing me with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Essentially, girls with PCOS have enlarged ovaries, don’t form eggs and form cysts on the outer edge of their ovaries. The cause of PCOS is still unknown, but doctors believe that excessive insulin, low-grade inflammation and heredity are aspects of PCOS. PCOS puts girls at a higher risk for many health problems including diabetes, high blood pressure, infertility, depression, anxiety and endometrial cancer.

Hearing all of this horrified me. I originally thought that I was just missing my period because I was stressed out, but in reality, I probably had a hormonal imbalance that could lead to a series of other health complications. What scared me the most was hearing that I had the chance of being infertile and could also get endometrial cancer. I had always dreamed of having a family one day and of giving my parents grandchildren. But, that might not happen and instead, I could get cancer and die. As detrimental as those thoughts were, that’s what was running through my mind.

After getting my blood work done, I was supposed to come in the week after to discuss the results with my doctor. The time leading up to that appointment was very frightening for me. I kept thinking of the worst-case scenario, which distracted me from living my every day life as a college student.

That appointment finally came around and the doctor didn’t have the best news for me—I had PCOS. I was shaking as she told me this. However, she tried to relieve me by telling me that there was something I could do about it. Her suggestions were to maintain a healthy diet, ensure that I exercise regularly, and start taking hormone pills to help regulate the androgen. I was fine with the first two suggestions, but I was a little iffy about taking the hormone pills. I wasn’t sure how my parents would feel about me taking hormone pills, especially since they are commonly used as a form of contraception. I asked the doctor if she could call my mom and explain the diagnosis and treatment. She did so and explained everything thoroughly to my mom.

As this was going on, tears were rushing down my face, as I was scared about what my mom was going to think and what could possibly happen to me. After speaking with my mom, the doctor handed me the phone. My voice made it apparent that I was crying and my mom asked if I was okay. I told her that I was nervous about what she would think and for my future health. To my surprise, my mom assured me that everything was going to be okay and that she would understand if I made the decision to take the hormone pills. Her support lifted me up a little, but I was still in panic mode after I finished speaking with her. The doctor wrote me a prescription for the hormone pills, and I was to start taking them the next day.

I remember leaving student health services devastated. After my appointment, I was supposed to go out with my best friend Lauren to pick up something from the store. She knew about my appointment and as soon as I met up with her, she asked me how it went. With a somber look on my face, I muttered, “I have PCOS” and nearly burst into tears. Immediately, she gave me a big hug. She was the first person I confided in outside of the appointment, and her love and support meant so much to me. However, I couldn’t help but feel sad for the rest of the day.

The melancholy carried on into the semester. Every day seemed like a gloomy day for me, my grades were slipping, and I just didn’t feel like the same person anymore. I felt hopeless and pathetic. It was as if life were going in a downwards spiral.

Eventually, I had follow-up blood work done to see if the hormone pills were helping with the androgen imbalance. This time, good news was coming my way. My androgen levels came back normal, so the pills were doing their job in regulating my hormones. Learning this gave me a little hope. Then, my doctor said something that really changed my outlook. “Hopefully, we can solve this problem down the line.” Her confidence in being able to overcome this issue helped me see the positive in the situation. Sure, I had PCOS, but as long as I took care of myself and continued to take my medicine as directed, I can make the symptoms bearable and still continue to live life to the fullest.

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The end of high school brings on an incredible amount of change. Everyone is moving on to college, jobs and countless other prospects. You might not know when you’ll see your old group of high school friends again, so make the most of the time you have. Here are some ways for you and your friends to make the summer before college a summer to remember.

1. Take pictures

You’ll want something to remember each other by (between visits of course), not to mention something to hang on your dorm fridge for a daily pick-me-up.  Take lots of photos together. You can never have too many. Print them out for maximum nostalgia value. You can even do cool things with them, like make them into stickers and magnets.

2. Hit up amusement parks

Pick a day to roll over to the closest amusement park and enjoy some rides together. Grab a corndog, hang on the carousel and fly down some rollercoasters. This is great to do with one pal or a large group of friends; just make sure you have an even number so everyone has a riding buddy!

3. Go boating

What says “summer” more than spending a day out on the boat? Most campgrounds let you rent a boat to take out on the lake, and possibly even a tube to pull along behind you. Soak up the sun, get a tan and bask in the summer glory before the

4. Shop for your dorm rooms together

Even if you’re not going to the same school, shopping for your dorm room supplies can be a blast when accompanied by a friend. You’ll feel like you’re involved in each other’s college lives somehow, even though you’ll be separated. Head to the mall, find your perfect bedding and give opinions on each other’s desired color schemes.

5. Exchange going-away gifts

Get your best friends something for their dorm room or their house. They’ll think of you whenever they see it, and it might remind them to shoot you a text or video chat. Anything from a monogrammed pillow, a framed photo of the two of you, or a new sweatshirt with their school's emblem on it will do! If you’re not in a place to splurge on a pillow or a print for them, DIY gifts would be even more personal and meaningful.  

6. Go camping

Camping is one of the ultimate best friend pastimes. Pack up a few cars, find a campground nearby and make sure somebody brings the s’more supplies. Lay under the stars with your best friends, tell stories over the fire and appreciate what you all have before you go your separate ways.

7. Have a sleepover to end all sleepovers

Sleepovers are a typical staple of any friendship, but for your last big shindig, have a sleepover to end all sleepovers. Invite all your friends, make an obscene amount of popcorn and find your favorite movies on Netflix. Stay up all night recounting high school stories and making plans for the future. Some of the most honest and genuine moments of friendship come in the wee hours of the morning as you struggle to stay awake.

8. Have dinner at your favorite place

You know that place you frequented after eighth period? The go-to destination whenever one of you was hungry late at night? Stop back one last time before departing ways, eat your usual meal, and let it sink in how the little things in life, like this one, are the ones that make it all worthwhile.

9. Craft décor for your dorm

Pinterest holds a plethora of crafting ideas  for your dorm room — from paintings of your school logo to wine bottle twinkle lamps. This is a perfect way to bond before heading to each of your respective schools. Go shopping at your local craft store, stock up on snacks and have a good ole fashioned craft night.

10.  Say goodbye to each other’s families

When you’re best friends with each other, you often become just as close with their parents or siblings. Make sure you say your goodbyes to these folks as well before you head to school. A nice gesture, like baking some cookies or taking over a casserole, will leave a good impression on them and leave them remembering you fondly while waiting for you to come back for a visit.

11. Take a road trip

Depending on your budget, you might be able to road trip to a beach or just to a nearby city. Wherever the destination, the trip there is the real adventure. Stock up on food and make a playlist for the car. Have everybody pitch in for gas and the world is your oyster.

12. Make plans for future visits 

Perhaps the most important thing you can do with your best friend before summer ends is to make plans. Make plans to come visit each other during the school year, make plans for what you want to do over Christmas break and even just make plans to have a weekly Skype date with each other amidst the madness of your freshman year. Your old friends can keep you grounded if you put the right amount of effort into it. Don’t let them fall by the wayside.

It’s only a matter of time before this becomes the Hunger Games—a fact we knew going into the season of Bachelor in Paradise that promised to offer double the Ashleys, double the Iaconettis, and double the episodes per week. But we didn’t think things would get this serious so early on. Oh, who are we kidding? Of course we did.

1. Ashley I. brings along sister Lauren

As Chris Harrison gives his best “she doesn’t even go here” face.

2. And Ashley’s shirt works overtime to stay in just the right place

Paradise—the only place on earth where a backless, side-boob flaunting top worn without a bra is considered acceptable.

3. Jillian gets a boob job

Jillian justifies her sudden desire for implants by assuring us she just wanted her chest to rival the awesomeness that is her butt. And we cringed at the thought of what other body parts the producers would find to cover with a black box.

4. Ashley S. talks to a bunch of birds

Leave it to Ashley S. to meet her soulmate right out of the gate… or cage, in this case. At least she’s not talking to inanimate fruits anymore.

5. Mikey loses his shirt before the whole gang arrives

We totally sympathize with your underboob sweat situation, but isn’t it a little early to be getting shirtless and diving into the ocean? Not for this season’s alpha male; he said it, not us.

6. Tenley mourns her Kiptyn heartbreak

We’d heard about Kiptyn and Tenley’s breakup and his fast-paced new relationship through Internet gossip, but listening to Tenley talk about the demise of the only Bachelor Pad couple we thought still had a fighting chance gave us all the feels.

7. Marcus and Lacy get married

This was clearly meant to be a quick you-can-find-love-here motivator for the newest crop of rose rejects, but forcing this sweet Bachelor in Paradise season one success story to have twenty swimwear-clad attendees at their wedding instead of their preferred guest list was low—even for you, ABC!

8. Lauren sneezes, like, ten times in a row

What could she possibly be allergic to on the beaches of Mexico?

9. Kirk and Carly hit it off

Don’t get us wrong; we think this insta-couple is adorable. But we have a bad feeling that it’s too soon to get tied down to just one person with a rotating assortment of men and women arriving in Paradise every week.

10. Jared is unimpressed by Ashley I.’s Jasmine obsession

Ashley I. likes Jared. Jared has no idea. Ashley I. proceeds to tell Jared about her obsession with Princess Jasmine. Jared finds this kind of uninteresting. Ashley I. thinks he realizes she just made her move and that they’re totally together. Not so much.

11. There’s crying

See the previous item on this list for the reason why Ashley I. is already laugh-crying uncontrollably. And it turns out it’s in the Iaconetti genes because Lauren is crying night one about how much she hates being around people. What must the Kleenex budget be for these two?

12. The infamous Mexican ambulance from last season makes an appearance

And Ashley S. is inside. We have no idea why, but we’re guessing bird flu.

13. Hurricane Clare is on the prowl

Our favorite Paradise alum is back not just to rekindle the flame with that raccoon she spilled her guts to last season but to steal Kirk, Jared, and Tanner away from their ladies. Watch your backs.

Do you think things got real too fast on Bachelor in Paradise, collegiettes?

The college gym is like a middle school dance: sweaty, crowded and full of awkward encounters. Boys go left and girls go right; more often than not, Sean Paul is playing in the background. In most gyms, boys stick to the heavy lifting and girls hop on cardio machines — a natural segregation that needs a major reevaluation. So we read the health journals and talked with experts to uncover the top health benefits of lifting weights. Grab your weights because there’s no way we’re leaving the lifting to the boys after this! 

From body weight exercises to major lifting, it’s impossible to get bored with all the strength training options out there, which is more than we can say for elliptical rides. When lifting weights for the first time, it’s important to ease your body into it. Start small, and slowly add weight or reps. For collegiettes, the Center for Disease Control recommends muscle-strengthening activities at least twice a week that kick all major muscle groups into gear (think legs, hips, back, abs, chest, shoulders and arms). Before you know it, you’ll be able to see (and feel!) a difference. 

2. You’ll live longer

There has always been evidence that overall body composition (aka how much muscle or fat you have) is a predictor of mortality, but recent research published by UCLA indicates that in older Americans, your chance of dying prematurely is linked to your muscle mass. While it’s impossible to say that is the exact cause and effect relationship, muscle mass is an important factor when it comes to risk of death.

Melanie Ludwig, personal trainer and owner of Prestige Fitness, sums it up best. “As we age, resistance training is the one activity that can counteract loss of muscle mass,” she says. “I tell clients that weight training is truly the only known fountain of youth!”

3. You’ll burn more calories

There’s a reason why some of your friends can eat five slices of pizza a weekend and not gain a pound, while others have to be careful what they eat. It all comes down to metabolism, or in other words, how your body converts food into energy. Everyone’s metabolism is different, but it boils down to three factors: sex, age and body composition. According to Ludwig, resistance training can boost body composition in more ways than one. "Resistance training helps with bone density to prevent osteoporosis," she says. "[It also] keeps your metabolism up as muscle mass is more active than fat mass." By increasing your muscle mass, your body will burn more calories even when you’re not at the gym! 

4. Your heart will be happy

We can already see the eye rolls for this one. Wouldn’t cardio exercises reap cardiovascular benefits? While cardio does have enormous benefits for your heart and your health, resistance training has a similar effect when it comes to blood pressure—a key indicator of heart health. Just 30 – 45 minutes three times a week can lead to a 20 percent decrease in blood pressure for up to 24 hours after you leave the gym. 

Megan Shuffleton, a senior at Emerson College, is no stranger to the weight section in the Emerson gym. "While cardio exercises like running and biking are really beneficial for your heart and less so your muscles, strength training is great getting your heart rate up," she says. "Not only can you tone your [muscles], but you'll also be increasing your heart rate, which is sort of a form of cardio." Basically, strength training is the best of both worlds!

5. You will be happy, too!

There’s no doubt that exercise can boost your mood, thanks to a little something called endorphins. These natural chemicals are credited for the “runner’s high” many feel—and might explain your roommate’s healthy addiction to Soul Cycle. According to  research reviewed by scholars at the University of Georgia, weight training might take that happy feeling a step further. In fact, the study linked weight training to a reduction in anxiety symptoms, improved sleep quality related to depression, lessened symptoms of depression overall and improved self-esteem. Sounds like a win-win to us! 

6. You’ll sleep better

We’ll admit that after the first few weight lifting sessions you might be too sore to move from your bed, but it has also been shown that physically active people have healthier sleep patterns. Research in the IDEA Fitness Journal showed a thirty percent improvement in sleep after regular resistance training for people with sleep disorders. Like most other benefits when it comes to fitness, if you don’t see a difference right away, don’t give up! The results were most effective after 8 – 10 weeks of consistent strength training.  

7. You can tailor it to you

Strutting into a room full of guys lifting weights might seem like that nightmare that you can't wake up from. Just remember, everyone has to start somewhere! “Everyone should try and incorporate resistance training into their life,” Ludwig says. “That can be via equipment — from the most advanced machines to dumbbells, elastic tubing or body weight.” Start out small by doing some simple bodyweight exercises, such as squats, burpees or pushups, most of which you can do without ever leaving the privacy of your dorm room! If you’re up for a challenge, most gyms have staff on site who are trained to know all the machinery and can walk you through the proper use of equipment. 

Not only can strength training be tailored for different levels of experience, but it can also be used to target different areas of your body. "While you can't spot-reduce, or lose fat in one area of your body, you can change your body shape with strength training," Megan says. "For example, if you work on squats, lunges and donkey kicks, you'll start developing your glute muscles, which in turn will round out your butt. If you work on tricept dips and bicep curls, you'll tone your arms. Strength training gives you the opportunity to focus on certain parts you want to improve." Start off small and eventually you'll feel comfortable lifting weights in no time! 

If a fear of bulking up is holding you back from picking up some weights, have no fear. Building muscle takes more than a few sweat sessions, but a little toning can sure go a long way. Gender segregation is for middle school dances, not the gym. Grab your weights so you can look great and feel awesome, too!

Back to school shopping is all fun and games until the dreaded jeans day comes around. If it weren't for their patriotic roots and ridiculous versatility, we'd be so done. But alas, nothing accentuates our curves quite like a good pair of skinnies. So prepare for a shopping trip full of determination and confusion, and make sure to treat yourself to the food court afterwards. Trust us, you'll have earned it.  

1. Exhilaration 

I have been waiting patiently all week for this moment.

I deserve this.

Jean rack, here I come!

I can feel the success already.

2. Over-Ambition

This is overwhelming.

Which is why I am going to try them all.

I'll take this one, and this one...

and ooh this one over here.

Oh wait, I grabbed the same pair twice.

Okay. Three times. I got a little excited. I like dark wash, okay?

Oh, rips! 

I'm edgy and fun. I can wear distressed jeans.

Should I try a light wash?

I should, shouldn't I.

Well, I need the newest jean trend.

What? They were in Marie Claire!

I guess this is enough for now.

Pile 'em into my dressing room, ladies.

3. Experimentation

Okay.

Let's work through this.

Why are ripped jeans always tighter than regular jeans?

Whatever, can't afford that pricey distressing anyway.

What even are boyfriend jeans?

*Heart Eyes Emoji* Sweatpants in disguise. That's what. 

Still not sure how I feel about jeggings.

Oh, that's right. They squeeze my soul out.

Do you sell pajama jeans?

Thought not.

4. Frustration 

Sizes are a joke.

I have tried on five different styles in five different sizes and none fit right. How?!

What is this? Am I on What Would You Do?

This has to be a prank. You can come out now, John Quiñones.

Hold up. My butt looks good in these ones! 

But of course, the rest of me is suffocating.

Oh, the perfect waist? Makes sense that the knees are baggy.

How do you even make jeans that are baggy literally nowhere else BUT the knees?!

5. Exhaustion

I am so hangry right now I can't even deal.

I need a hug.

I don't think I can get this last pair off.

Really though. I can't go on. 

Trapped in the dressing room.

Bye.

6. The Last Chance

What's that, that in the corner?

Hiding beneath the pile of no-goods?

Did I try these on?

No?

Can I try these on?

Someone help me up. 

Well, my legs are fitting without that awkward jumping motion.

And they aren't too long or short—is this real life?

No bulges or bagginess? So far, so good.

Wait, don't jinx it!

And...

...up goes the zipper.

7. Success

Butt and thighs, REJOICE!

Was that worth it? Yes. Maybe.

Well, that was an emotional rollercoaster. Just remember ladies, as far as we're concerned, joggers and leggings are viable pants options.

Filling out job applications is no party. Neither is getting the dreaded “I regret to inform you” letter, or worse, never hearing back from the company at all. But the time and energy spent networking and applying for jobs is all worth it when you finally get your first offer. You feel a sense of pride, relief, and excitement—and are thrilled to kiss that ‘unemployed college grad’ title goodbye. Your first job might not be the highest paying, in your city of choice, or exactly the position you hoped for, but it’s still a job.

Then days, months, and years pass by and you realize you’re still sitting in the same cubicle taking orders from the same boss. Maybe you’re in the wrong industry, you aren't being challenged enough, or you just need a change—whatever the reason, now could be a good time to land your dream job and see how it feels to have a career you truly love. Read on to learn 10 differences between your first job and your dream job.

1. You accept your first job because you need money and it’s better than being unemployed.

You accept your dream job because it’s what you want to do with your life.

2. At your first job, you get paid much less than you feel you deserve—and no one cares.

At your dream job, you make a decent salary and realize it isn’t just about the money.

3. At your first job, Monday mornings are the absolute worst.

At your dream job, Monday mornings still suck, but you wake up happy to go to work each day. 

4. At your first job, you come in early and stay late to prove yourself to your boss.

At your dream job, you put in long hours because you want to.

5. At your first job, you get stuck in a transition phase between college and the real world.

At your dream job, you feel like a real adult and are proud of your awesome career.

6. At your first job, you have to take orders that you don’t necessarily agree with.

At you dream job, you and all your colleagues are valuable members of a team.

7. At your first job, you have fake conversations with your coworkers when you see each other in the kitchen.

At your dream job, you can’t wait to meet up (read: gossip) with your work besties at lunch.

8. At your first job, you get stuck answering the phone and making copies.

At your dream job, you get exciting new responsibilities.

9. At your first job, your clients might not be who you ultimately want to work with.

At your dream job, you be partnering up with people who are passionate about the same things as you are.

10. At your first job, you complain about going to work every day. 

At your dream job, you have no worries because you make your own rules.

Keep these differences in mind during your job hunt and get one step closer to your dream career. Your first job might not be exactly what you want, but it will give you the experience you need to excel at your dream job. Enjoy being a young professional and remember to work it!

Name:  Natalie Ebel

Age: 29

Job Title and Description: Director of Marketing at Pencils of Promise (PoP) a nonprofit organization founded in 2008 to increase access to quality education for children in Ghana, Guatemala and Laos. 

 College Name/Major: University of Missouri/Marketing and Art 

Website: www.pencilsofpromise.org

Twitter Handle: @natalieebel
 


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

Natalie Ebel: There’s no such thing as a typical day. Today, I went from a partnership meeting about designing jewelry that will support PoP to reviewing website wireframes to a meeting where we planned out our Snapchat and social strategy to pitching partnerships for International Literacy Day (on September 8th, Pencils of Promise will be lighting up the Empire State Building like a pencil). 

What is the best part of your job?

NE: My favorite part of the job is knowing that the work we do every day directly correlates to tangible impact – we’re empowering young people with education opportunities in Ghana, Guatemala, and Laos. Our team is a lot of fun as well!

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

​NE: My first job was in book publishing. I’ve always loved reading and the power of great storytelling.

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

​NE: I wish I would have known how much opportunity there is for innovation at non-profits. Traditional non-profits sometimes get a bad rap for being slow to adapt to new models and tools. However, PoP has really demonstrated the potential for a new generation to embrace the model of being a "for-purpose" organization. We’re able to leverage a strong brand, innovative programs, and data-powered decision-making.

Who is one person who changed your professional life for the better?

​NE: My first boss, Lynne McAdoo, is a strong and successful woman who challenged me to grow from day one. The best advice that I could share – be diligent to seek out a great first boss who will push you early in your career. 

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

​NE: Early in my career, I was eager to say yes to everything that came my way for fear of missing out on an opportunity. While being open to opportunities is important, I’ve since learned the value of focus in order to selectively pursue opportunities where I can best add value and see the greatest impact.

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

​NE: Observing a classroom in Ghana a few months ago, I saw a third grade PoP student stand up and read out loud with her new e-reader for the first time. After class, the student told me that just two months ago, prior to having an e-reader, she wasn't able to read out loud. But now, because of the e-reader that she’s able to take home with her, she practices reading before she goes to bed each night.

On the marketing team, we’re constantly talking about PoP’s work and sharing it with our audience. However, it was a surreal moment to actually see the impact of what we’re sharing. Pencils of Promise is truly making students literate, providing children who had never before been able to read with that capacity. It was a humbling moment to see that through education, we’re able to encourage students in the most remote areas of the world to believe in their own promise.

What do you look for when considering hiring someone?

​NE: Emotional intelligence, empathy, confidence, creativity, a team orientation (we, not I), and a sense of humor.

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

​NE: First, relationships matter the most (genuine relationships, not just networking to get ahead). Second, don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions – specifically, ask “why,” never bring up a problem without a proposed solution, and you never get what you don’t ask for.