It’s sweltering hot. The cute guy that seemed so sweet when you were flirting with him at the tailgate has transformed into a raging beast, screaming “Pass interference!” at the refs until he’s red in the face. The band erupts into the fight song and you have no idea why. The cheerleaders are flipping around and shouting something about “first and 10” and then you could have sworn the other team had the ball but all of a sudden the people around you are screaming “Touchdown!” and jumping up and down and what. Is. Going. On?!

Sound familiar?

College football is fun when you’re painting up with your friends or tailgating with gorgeous guys, but when the actual game starts, it’s easy for non-sports-nut collegiettes to get completely lost between the flags and positions and numbers and just wish they had stayed home instead. But don’t lose hope yet — even if the words “first down” mean absolutely nothing to you right now, HC’s handy football guide will turn you into a pom-pom-waving, screaming football fanatic in no time. Go team!

The Field

Football fields are big. This is not news (why do you think football players’ leg muscles are so huge?). What may actually be news to non-sports-savvy collegiettes is that football fields are different sizes depending on whether it’s a college, NFL or high school field. A college football field is 120 yards long and 53 1/3 feet wide. The two shorter ends of the field where the goalposts are located are called the end zones, which are 10 yards deep, while the longer edges of the field, where the players sit while they’re not playing, are called the sidelines. There are lines drawn every five yards across the field leading up to the 50-yard line in the middle, with the lines at each end zone starting at 0 and going up toward the middle.

The Clock

Football is played in four 15-minute quarters. But wait — how the heck do games last for so long, then? Well, the clock stops between each play for the teams to reset their positions, and there is a 20-minute halftime between the second and third quarters, so games get stretched out a little longer than an hour (try three or more). Each team also is allowed to have three 30-second timeouts per half so that the coach can talk to his players or challenge a call made by a referee, although the teams are not required to use all of their timeouts in a game. The clock counts down, so at the start of each quarter the clock will read: 15:00.

The Players

Each team is allowed to have 11 players on the field at a time, although most college teams have many more players on the actual roster — it’s not uncommon for a team to have more than 100! One reason college teams have so many players is because they have three different groups of players (and a lot of backups) that go on the field at different times: offensive players, defensive players and special teams. The offense is on the field when their team has the ball. They’re the guys that try to run the ball down the field and score points. The defense, which is on the field when the opposing team has the ball, tries to stop the opposing team’s offense from scoring points. Special teams are players who are put out for specific tasks such as kicking field goals or punting the ball to the other side of the field if the offense is stopped (they also have the coolest name, probably to make up for the fact that they don’t get to be on the field as often).

There are a ton of different football player positions, but the most important one to remember is the quarterback. A play starts with the offense and the defense setting up in lines facing each other. One of the offensive players hands the ball backwards between his legs to the quarterback (this move is called the snap), who then decides whether he is going to hand the ball to someone else, throw the ball to someone else or run with it himself. This is why the quarterback is so important: he (or she!) is the leader of the group on the field who takes direction from the coach and tells the other players what to do. (Also, is it just us or is the quarterback always the hottest guy on the team? Confidence is sexy.)

Helpful hint: There is an invisible line (use your imagination here) between the offense and defense called the line of scrimmage that no player is allowed to cross before the snap happens.

The Goal

The goal of football is to score points (obviously?), either by making a touchdown or kicking a field goal. A touchdown, which is worth six points, happens when one team’s offense takes the ball all the way into the other team’s end zone, either by running the ball or passing it, without getting stopped by a defensive player on the other team.

Once a team scores a touchdown, they have two options. They can try for a field goal, where they kick the ball between the two goal posts and get one extra point, or they can try for a two-point conversion, where the team sets up at the two-yard line and attempts to score another touchdown for an extra two points in addition to the six points they got from the first touchdown. Teams typically choose the field goal because it’s easier, unless they’re running out of time and really need two extra points instead of just one.

A team can also kick a field goal from any point on the field without scoring a touchdown for three points. Teams usually go this route if they are on their fourth down and don’t think they will be able to make a first down.

Downs

We didn’t confuse you too badly with that last sentence, did we? The “down” lingo is typically where collegiettes who weren’t religiously raised on football Saturdays get confused, but it’s actually a simple concept. A down is basically a play. Each offensive line has four chances to move the ball ten yards down the field, whether by passing or running the ball (carrying it with them), without being stopped by the other team (tackling the player with the ball). When one team gets the ball down the field at least ten yards from where they started (the line of scrimmage) without being stopped by the other team’s defense, it’s called a first down. If the offense gets a first down, they keep trying to get the ball down the field until they either score a goal or are stopped by the other team before they get another first down (make it 10 more yards).

If the player with the ball is tackled by a defensive player, they start from where they were tackled and try to get the ball the rest of the ten yards. After four unsuccessful tries, the ball goes to the other team. The other team can also catch the ball in the middle of a pass, called an interception, in which case the ball would immediately switch hands to the other team. Easy enough, right?

So when you hear the cheerleaders shouting: “first and 10, do it again,” they mean that the team has made it down the field 10 yards and has another 10 yards to go before they get another first down. Same goes for second and five (second try and they have five yards to go before a first down), third and two (third try, two yards to go), and so on. Still following? Good.

Common Fouls

Fouls are typically what causes those seemingly nice college guys to turn into snarling, furious animals bellowing at the referees. Despite what the enormous muscled guys literally slamming each other into the ground may lead you to believe, there are actually some things you’re not allowed to do in college football for fear of injuring a player or giving your team an unfair advantage. The referees (the people wearing black-and-white striped shirts) signify that a foul has occurred by throwing a yellow flag on the field where the foul occurred. If the announcer says that “there is a flag on the play,” he means that a referee has called a foul. Here’s a quick list of some common fouls that could happen during a game so you can impress that guy next to you by screaming at the ref before he can.

The foul: Encroachment

What it is: Remember how you can’t cross the line of scrimmage before the snap? If a defensive player does it and touches an offensive player, it’s a penalty.

What happens: The offense gets to move forward five yards; therefore, they will have five less yards to cover to get a first down.

The foul: False start

What it is: An offensive player makes a movement before the snap.

What happens: The offense has to move backwards five yards.

The foul: Holding

What it is: An offensive player holds a defensive player so that the defensive player can’t tackle the player with the ball.

What happens: 10-yard penalty.

The foul: Offside

What it is: A player (or any part of him, really) is beyond the line of scrimmage before the play starts.

What happens: 5-yard penalty.

The foul: Pass interference

What it is: Here’s where it gets confusing. Yes, defensive players are supposed to prevent offensive players from getting the ball, but they can’t make contact with the receiver (the player who a pass is intended for) before the ball gets to him. That’s called pass interference, and it’s a foul. The defensive player can, however, touch the receiver after he touches the ball. The defensive player can also intercept the ball without touching the receiver.

What happens: 15-yard penalty and an automatic first down for the offense.

The foul: Personal foul

What it is: Any action that appears to be done in order to intentionally harm another player (you can’t just punch each other, guys).

What happens: 15-yard penalty. If the foul is particularly nasty, a player can be ejected from the game.

Congratulations on officially becoming a collegiette football expert (or at least more knowledgeable about football, anyway)! Now go paint up or don a jersey in your school’s colors, jump up and down in the stands and school your guy friends on the rules of America’s favorite college sport (“It’s ‘offside,’ not ‘offsides,’ Brad.”). Who says girls don’t get sports?

More and more celebs seem to be declaring they’re feminists every day now. From the ladies proudly supporting their fellow females to those still figuring this whole thing out, there are many different kinds of feminists. Let our quiz help you figure out which celebrity feminist you are! 

Start the countdown! Lauren Conrad is making her New York Fashion Week debut in just 23 days, people. 

We’ve long admired her Paper Crown collection and shopped her Kohl’s LC Lauren Conrad line obsessively, which is why we can’t believe Lauren has never shown at NYFW. Until now.

The limited edition LC Lauren Conrad Runway Collection, in addition to making our wildest dreams come true, will showcase 35 looks with that signature LC flair. Of course, there will be the ‘ole standbys of the style queen’s Kohl’s line—you know, prim and proper blouses, fit-and-flare dresses, etc. But leave it to Lauren to pull out all the stops and go full-on high fashion for her first runway collection. We’re also expecting to see the kind of eveningwear and accessories you’d find on the red carpet.

And for the princess that lives within all our hearts, the designer’s theme is on point: a vintage vibe inspired by enchanted forests and modern day fairytales. SWOON.

Just because LC has gone NYFW doesn’t mean you won’t be able to afford these covetable pieces. Prices for the line’s apparel, shoes, handbags, jewelry, and sunglasses start at $12 and don’t exceed $200. The full collection will be available to shop—for sorority formals or, perhaps, lounging around our apartments looking spiffy on any given Thursday—online and in stores at Kohl’s from September through December. And for those of us who can’t just hop a jet to celebrate LC’s big inauguration into the fashion week club, the Kohl’s site will be livestreaming the show at 7 p.m. ET on September 9.

Do you think LC will have guaranteed beginners’ luck at NYFW, collegiettes?

Yes, we said it: we’re glad summer is over. While we all enjoy a few weeks of hot weather and attempting to tan, there are so many things to look forward to about fall. And to be honest, summer isn’t as great as it’s cracked up to be – we’ve all had that nasty summer frizz or ended up with bad burn lines. Not cool, summer; not cool. So here’s why you should be embracing the change of season and not despairing that the ever-wonderful summer is over.

1. You’re going back to college to see your friends!

2. You don’t have to worry about sunburn anymore.

3. You get to buy a whole new fall wardrobe.

4. It becomes acceptable to stay inside and watch movies all day (Love Actually - need we say more?).

5. Fall is sweater season, and who doesn’t love being cozy?

6.   All of our favorite TV dramas are back – at last!

7.  Shaving your legs becomes less of a priority since we’re no longer wearing shorts.

8.  Football season is back (and so is tailgating!).

9.  No more bikinis = no more worrying about your bikini body.

10.  We’re not going to keep finding sand from the beach in every single one of our pockets.

11.  We don’t have to keep looking at all our friends’ vacation photos on Facebook.

12.  The cool weather makes you much more attractive; sweat doesn’t look pretty on anyone.

13.  You can now snuggle under a blanket by the fireplace.

14.  It’s cool enough to have hot chocolate (especially with marshmallows!).

15.  It's the return of cinnamon, gingerbread, and pumpkin spice lattes at Starbucks, mmmm.

16.  It’s the perfect time for new year’s resolutions for college.

17.  Daylight savings: we finally get to catch up on that lost hour of sleep.

18.  Halloween is only a month away; cue pumpkin carving and an excuse to get dressed up!

19.  We get to pull out those beautiful boots we’ve had to keep in the back of our closets for months.

20.  Fall leaves are the best for jumping in; the crunching noise is the best!

21.  …they also have amazing colors.

22.  Thanksgiving is just round the corner; get excited, collegiettes!

Don’t despair that summer is over – embrace just how great fall is!

Miley Cyrus has become so far removed from her former alter ego, Hannah Montana, that it’s almost hard to believe they were ever the same person. Since the beloved Disney Channel show ended in 2011, Cyrus hasn’t shied away from letting people know she was never anything like the persona that made her famous. But in a recent interview with Marie Claire, the 22-year-old revealed just how damaging growing up in the spotlight—especially the Disney spotlight—was for her.

“From the time I was 11, it was, 'You're a pop star!'” she told the magazine. “'That means you have to be blonde, and you have to have long hair, and you have to put on some glittery tight thing.'”

She continued, "I was told for so long what a girl is supposed to be from being on that show. I was made to look like someone that I wasn't, which probably caused some body dysmorphia because I had been made pretty every day for so long, and then when I wasn't on that show, it was like, Who the [expletive] am I?"

Cyrus added that she often worked 12-hour-long days on the set of Hannah Montana, and was given copious amounts of coffee to keep her awake during shoots. The show premiered in 2006 and shot her to superstardom when she was just 13 years old. She also revealed to Marie Claire that she suffered from anxiety and panic attacks throughout her teenage years.

Miley isn’t the first Disney star to admit to struggling with body image; back in 2010, Demi Lovato entered treatment for an eating disorder. And from Christina Aguilera to Selena Gomez, it seems like most former Disney stars have tried to distance themselves from the squeaky-clean brand that brought them fame in the first place.

When people think of good, wholesome role models for young girls, Miley Cyrus probably isn’t one of the first celebs that comes to mind. Girls look to Disney and other brands geared towards their demographic, but instead are inundated with impossible standards of beauty and perfection that are paralyzing, as they were for a young Miley. Perhaps if stars like Miley and Demi Lovato continue to shed light on their struggles, Disney might start to reconsider the effect its content has on its impressionable young viewers.

Who do you think are some good examples of celebrity role models for young girls?

As a junior in college, you’re likely hovering between two stages—you're definitely not a newbie, but you're also far from ready for graduation. As Britney Spears so eloquently put it, you’re not a girl but not yet a woman. Stuck in the stage where you need to buckle down about your career and finish school strong—all while beginning to plan for the future—it's no wonder that stress can ensue! When you're thinking about your career as a junior, here's what you can expect. Just remember to stay strong—we've all been there... or will be there soon! 

1. Your schedule just got a whole lot more intense

You realize your class schedule is getting much more specific. No more blow-off classes or easy As. Everything is directly training you for your career. 

2. Friends are setting an (intimidating) example for you

Your older friends have graduated and are moving on to grad school or starting a real grown-up job.

3. Professors keep trying to connect you with future bosses

You're constantly urged to start reaching out to potential employers, and so are your classmates. Which means...

4. The competition heats up

Your portfolio, resume and work samples all of a sudden seem to pale in comparison to your classmates'.

 5. You delve into frequent denial

You sometimes live life trying to pretend you’re as carefree as the incoming freshmen are. It's only minimally successful. 

6. Stress eating occurs... a lot of stress eating

Scope out companies and agencies that could employ me in the future? No thanks, I'll just eat this entire cake instead. On that note...

7. Procrastination is at its worst

You know you're officially on the downward slope toward graduation and getting a real job, but it's easier to stay in bed than face that fact.

8. Parental control kicks in

Your parents start to ask (read: interrogate) you about what your plans for the future are. 

9. Friends are scooping up internships

You haven't applied to any internships yet, and it seems like your friends are already jetting off to all corners of the country for incredible opportunities. How?

10.  Regrets surface

You realize you probably should have taken a few more classes your freshman and sophomore years to lessen the load this year, which would mean you'd have more time for career planning or to take a semester off for an internship.

11. So does anxiety for the future

Where will you live? Will your job pay the bills? Will you have enough money to continue your stress eating habit?

12. Cover letters, resumes and qualifications, oh my!

You're puzzled as to why you were never specifically taught how to write a resume or cover letter. 

13. Professional references escape you

Even though you've had countless professors who've had a great opinion of you, somehow they all fly out of your head when you're asked to provide references on a resume or application.

14. But you eventually pull yourself together, grab a coffee and decide to get your life on track

These freakouts are just temporary, and you know that once you get motivated you'll figure it all out.

15. Because you know you’re actually way more capable than you give yourself credit for

Junior year of college is often a turning point. You figure out what you really want to do with your life, and start to work directly toward a focused goal. Don't be afraid of these mini-breakdowns throughout the year. They're a necessary evil and they happen to the best of us. You'll work it out, and look back on these worries with laughter—we promise.

Hey collegiettes!

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

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

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

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

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

I can't wait to hear what you think!

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

When it comes to hair care, there is so much more than just shampoo and conditioner to worry about. With so many oils, creams, serums and mousses on the market, it’s overwhelming to decide what you actually need for daily use.

To help, we’ve rounded up a few beloved essentials that will keep your hair on fleek without the fuss.

Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner

We Recommend - Aveeno Pure Renewal Shampoo and Conditioner ($7.49 each)

To make sure your hair is as healthy as it can be, start off with a strong foundation: a quality shampoo and conditioner. When you pick sulfate-free formulas, your hair will be less prone to breakage and your scalp is less likely to be irritated due to how harsh sulfates can be to your scalp.

Deep Conditioner

We Recommend:Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Deep Conditioner ($2.99)

About once a week, swap out your traditional conditioner for a deep conditioning treatment in order to give your hair the TLC it needs. Whenever your hair is looking dry and dull, a special treatment such as this formula will give your hair the shiny and silky look you crave.

Dry Shampoo

We Recommend:Batiste Dry Shampoo ($7.99)

For the days when you don’t want to wash your hair but still need it to look presentable (we’ve all been there), a quick spritz of dry shampoo is all you'll need. In order to gain the maximum benefit, we suggest spraying your favorite dry shampoo onto your roots before you go to bed so that the formula can work as you toss and turn in your sleep.

An “Air Dry” Hair Styler

We Recommend: Bumble and bumble "Don't Blow It" (H)air Styler ($30)

A hair styler designed to make sure your hair looks good when you decide to let it air dry is a collegiette essential. You can use it every time you decide to let your hair dry naturally, which is perfect for when you’re rushing to a morning lecture after a quick shower and still want your hair to look flawless by the afternoon.

To enhance the body and define your texture, work a water-soluble formula into your hair from mid-length to the ends. It will prevent frizz and flyaways, but will still leave your hair soft and with defined waves.

Hair Oil

We Recommend:Garnier Fructis Sleek and Shine Moroccan Oil Treatment ($4.99)

A bottle of hair oil is one of the best investments you will make when it comes to healthy and shiny hair, and the best part is that there are so many affordable brands and formulas to choose from. There are several different types of oils you can use in your hair—argan, coconut, olive and macadamia are just a few you may have heard about—so choose one that you like and use it often.

Once you’ve picked out your favorite oil, feel free to use it in a variety of different ways. You can apply it to your hair after you shower when you want to air dry your hair or before heat styling, or even to your hair once it’s dry to tame frizz and moisturize your ends.

What are your hair product essentials, collegiettes?

Going back to school can be expensive. From cute bedding and unique posters for your dorm to fresh makeup for your first day of classes, you’ve got a lot to buy! Luckily, we’ve teamed up with Crane & Canopy to give away an amazing prize pack to help you get glam for fall semester.

This awesome prize includes $250 worth of Benefit Cosmetics best sellers, a $500 Crane & Canopy gift card, a $250 All Posters gift card and a $500 Poppin gift card.

What are you waiting for? Enter here to win this spectacular prize package and have your best year yet!

As collegiettes, snacking on any and everything is about as normal as can be, whether it's while you are writing a paper or sitting (read: snoozing) through that long afternoon class. And in the range of bite-sized treats that you can eat, M&M's are no exception, which means you are in luck as a new flavor is making its red-carpet entrance just in time for fall.

Seventeen reports that the new M&M's flavor is pecan pie, a favorite dessert often eaten during the Thanksgiving holiday! They will premiere on shelves during Halloween, however a few customers have already seen the limited edition packages in stores, according to Refinery29. This new fall flavor comes after M&M's launched candy apple-flavored M&M's last year and pumpkin spice in 2013.

Halloween should be the perfect time to reunite consumers with the Thanksgiving holiday and the pie flavor of the season.

So you thought skin problems would end after high school, but, in college, stressful classes, sweaty gyms and greasy late-night food can quickly get the best of your complexion. We’re right there with you, girl! That’s why we’ve put together a guide to ***flawless skin each step of the day.

Morning

We’re sure you know the feeling: It’s 8 a.m. and your alarm clock is forcing you out of bed to get ready for class. It’s imperative you prep your skin for the rest of the long day ahead! Start your day on the right note with a gel cleanser that will remove impurities so you have a fresh slate. We love Clean & Clear Morning Burst Facial Cleanser ($4.94 at Target). This awesome face wash is the perfect way to feel refreshed and ready to take on the world. It’s even got vitamin C and ginseng to help wake you up for your early morning chemistry lab. Plus, it smells delicious!

After you wash your face and apply moisturizer, you’ll want to go with a primer to keep your makeup last longer (if you wear makeup on campus). Neutrogena Shine Control Primer ($11.99 at Target) is your solution for oil-free primer that won’t leave your forehead looking greasy. It will help your makeup last longer, while minimizing the appearance of pores and controlling shine for up to eight hours. It’s a total must-have!

In Between Classes

It’s not easy to keep your cool in a stuffy classroom. Freshen up after your 9 a.m. lecture with Neutrogena Shine Control Powder ($11.99 at Target). This miracle powder keeps your skin shine-free without drying it out!

Post-Gym

So you went straight to your yoga class with a full face of makeup, and now your skin feels sticky. Unless you want to bring your entire skincare regimen to the campus gym, we strongly recommend bringing an easily-portable way to get oily skin under control. We like Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets ($4.49 at Target)! These gentle sheets will clear your skin of all dirt and oil while keeping your makeup intact so that you get only the best out of your workout.

Pre-Going Out

Your skin has been through a lot by the time you’re ready to party. So how can you primp for your night out without risking a breakout? It’s actually super simple, with Neutrogena Skin Clearing Oil-Free Makeup ($9.79 - $12.79 at Target). This foundation doubles as a blemish treatment, so you don’t have to worry about a random pimple popping up while you’re talking to that cutie at the bar!

Before Bed

How you treat your skin before bed is crucial to waking up fresh-faced and as gorgeous as ever. Your mom was right: Going to bed with a face of makeup is a total no-no if you want to avoid dull, acne-ridden skin. Get even the most stubborn makeup off with these Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes ($4.79 at Target).

After you’ve removed your mascara and foundation, if you’ve got acne, you’re going to want to finish your nighttime skincare routine with Neutrogena’s Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Foaming Scrub ($8.99 at Target). The smell is divine and the gentle microbeads help refresh your skin without over-drying or irritating your skin—and the salicylic acid helps tame your acne! Finish with your night with a thick moisturizer and a giant glass of water—great skin is built from within, too!

College can be rough on your skin, to say the least. But with these super versatile (and affordable!) products, shiny skin and impromptu breakouts will be the least of your worries this year. Plus, you can find all of them at Target, so you can pick them up while you’re shopping for your dorm! Back-to-school just got a little more beautiful. Also be sure to check out Target’s current promo: buy three, get one free Neutrogena products and 10 percent off Clean & Clear products! Sign us up! 

College can sometimes be this strange wormhole in which you get stuck between childhood and becoming an adult. Once we started thinking about it, we realized that Bachelor in Paradise isn't so different from the college grind. Not convinced? Here are 9 ways BIP is just like college.

1. The not-so-secret drunkenness

Jorge is not serving tall glasses of milk behind that bar, folks. We see the cast getting cocktails all the time, but there’s rarely any mention of people getting drunk. As if we couldn’t tell from the slurred words in some of Juelia’s confessionals that she’s been hitting the bottle quite hard in her efforts to forget—but really complain about—Joe.

2. The fear of commitment

One of the perks of Bachelor in Paradise is often also the show’s biggest downfall. There’s a rotating assortment of rejects rolling up each week, so everyone is always thinking about whether or not someone better is going to come along. Take Kirk for instance. He’s super freaked out about how fast his relationship with Carly is moving. And Jared is clearly still hung up on Kaitlyn—who he treats as if she was his high school sweetheart. These fellas sound a lot like our freshman year SO.

3. So much pressure

When you’re in college, the intense pressure you feel usually comes from a heavy course load or the dreaded experience that is final exams. But in Paradise, the heat is always on. The struggle to find yourself in a relationship by the rose ceremony, regardless of your feelings, is torturous. Clare’s overwhelming self-pity drives her to give JJ a rose, even though we can’t remember ever seeing them interact. Clare is so frazzled by this that she calls home to dish with that raccoon who is definitely playing hard to get with her. Honestly, we still feel a little weird about it.

4. That one girl everyone thinks is hotter than she is

Samantha is introduced by her former Bachelor castmates as the sweetest person—who had no air time—on Chris Soules’ season. But that doesn’t stop her from latching onto Joe the second she arrives in Paradise. Joe, along with everyone else, seems to think Samantha is the end-all and be-all of hotness, but we don’t really see it.

5. The shifting cliques

We can’t keep up with who is and isn’t friends here. JJ, Jared, and Tanner kind of turn on Joe in defense of Juelia. Dan suddenly cares enough about her to assist in her confrontation with the guy who dumped her without even letting her know. Ashley considers Amber one of her besties… until she asks Dan on a date. This group has gone through more shifts and developments of their platonic relationships in three weeks than we could even begin to tackle in four years.

6. A few awkward hookups

Uncomfortable situations are to be expected in Paradise, with all the hooking up and less-than-amicable splits. While Carly and Kirk thrive after their hotel rendezvous, Dan and Ashley don’t have the same luck. Only trying to make things more unpleasant, Dan’s reasoning for ditching Ashley is she showed her crazy side. Sadly, this forces Ashley to confide in her tropical bird buddies. We’ve totally been there, girl!

7. That one girl who trusts her crush more than her lady friends

This is a classic college mistake. You really like a guy, but when your friends attempt to warn you about his no good ways, you’re not having any of it. And thus we shift back to Samantha who can’t even with what Juelia and Jade are telling her about Joe. Later, we find that Samantha is plotting with the spiky-haired mongrel behind slightly closed doors—not really a college thing, but we’re still mad about it.

8. An excessive amount of immature male bravado

JJ and Joe—almost—threw down over Juelia’s honor. Their blatant arrogance and willingness to hurl pointless threats without ever laying a hand on each other prove that just because you’re an adult doesn’t mean you automatically act like one.

9. Everyone eventually wants to give up and go back home

Paradise can be too much at times. Despite the good parts—if there are any—after a while everyone is ready to leave.

Are we reading too much into this or is Bachelor in Paradise just like college?

It feels like just yesterday you were throwing your graduation cap in the air and vowing to have the best summer ever. But believe it or not, many of you are only a few weeks away from becoming an official collegiette. While you’re so excited for the best four years of your life to begin, you’re probably starting to freak out about that first week at school. Between making new friends and navigating your way through campus, it can be a little stressful. With our collegiette-approved tips, the first week of school will be a breeze!

Day One

The day you’ve been waiting for is finally here: move-in day. Whether you hopped on a plane or packed up the car with your parents, today marks the beginning of your collegiette experience. Alas, your day isn’t limited to unpacking a plethora of boxes and decorating your side of the room.

Meeting your roommate

Some of you may have had that awkward, “I’m living with you and I’ll bring the T.V.!” conversation with your roommate. Others may have met up with your roomie over the summer (brownie points for your outgoing initiative). Whether you know your roommate or not, the anticipation is over – you’re officially living with her. While you may be nervous to live with a stranger, take this first day to bond. Break the ice by complimenting some of her pictures or even a book that’s lying on her desk. Not only are you showing a genuine interest in her life, you may also learn that the two of you have something in common. After the two of you unpack, suggest hitting up the dining hall. The two of you can bond over the delicious pizza or questionable chicken.

Introducing yourself to your R.A.

Chances are your RA – which is collegiette slang for Resident Assistant – will come to your room and introduce him or herself. Since your RA makes the rules and writes people up if a problem occurs (e.g. noise violations, possession of alcohol, etc.), make sure to get on your RA’s good side, stat! Get to know your RA by asking questions about his or her major, grade, and extracurricular activities. If you haven’t run into your RA yet, go to him or her! Usually, an R.A. will have a sign on his or her dorm room’s door, so this search will be no needle in a haystack. Unless your RA is busy, take this time to introduce yourself. Aside from being your floor’s king or queen, your RA is an upperclassman, so you can also take this time to get some of your questions answered.

Day Two

How was your first night in your dorm? Sure, you may not love your mattress pad yet, but you’ll get used to it. Get ready ladies: today is your first day as an official collegiette.

Matriculation

Matricuwhat? Soon after you move in, you’ll be whisked away to a grandiose ceremony that marks your transition from pre-collegiette to collegiette (hooray)! Your parents might stay for matriculation… and they’ll probably cry and/or take a ton of photos. At most matriculation ceremonies, there will be long speeches. A lot of long speeches. You may stop paying attention between the welcome speech and your Dean of Students’ monologue, and that’s okay! Instead of burying your face in your cell, take this opportunity to (quietly) introduce yourself to the people sitting around you. A simple joke about how long the speeches are could lead to a new friendship!

Bonding with your floormates

Although some say making friends on your floor is just like making friends at sleep-away camp, what are you supposed to do if cabins and friendship bracelets weren’t your thing? “Leaving your door open is a great way to meet people on your floor,” says Kimberly Horner from The College of New Jersey. Since everyone’s in the same boat, your RA will probably arrange a couple floor events so make sure you attend.

Day Three

Who knew that you can buy coffee with your dining points? Life is great! Speaking of coffee, where is the closest Starbucks?

Buying Books

If you haven’t already purchased your books, you may be tempted to follow the massive horde of people headed to the bookstore. However, we urge you to stray away from the pack. Not only will the store resemble Macy’s on Black Friday, but you can find better deals. “You can save so much money by using Amazon or half.com,” says Alaine Perconti from Miami University of Ohio. “The bookstore is easy and convenient, but books are so expensive so any money you can save is big!” To figure out which books you need, you can usually search your classes on your bookstore’s website. If that doesn’t work, wait until the first day of classes. “Sometimes the professors change the book or tell you that a book can be downloaded online for free,” says Erica Avesian from the University of Michigan. Since the first day of classes is usually filled with reading the syllabus, you can get away with not having your books right away.

Getting comfortable with your campus

Some campuses may be easy to navigate; others are a jungle. Instead of having a mild to severe panic attack on the first day of classes, spend a few hours exploring what your university has to offer. While some colleges offer tours the first few days, test your knowledge by going without a guide. Make sure to take note of major landmarks while you search for the following locations:

• Student health services
• Dining halls
• The nearest pharmacy or convenience store
• The gym
• Where your classes are located
• The student center
• The closest bus or subway stop

To make this event a million times better, bring your roommate along. That way, the two of you can laugh about that time you couldn’t find your way back to your dorm. Speaking of getting lost, don’t be embarrassed to ask for directions! Ask a student who seems to know where they’re going (bonus points if you ask a cute collegent).

Day Four

You made it to the gym and back in one panic-free piece? Congratulations! On your walk, you may have noticed all the welcoming banners. If the number of “Welcome Freshmen” signs haven’t proved that colleges go all out for incoming collegiettes, the slew of welcome week activities will! Don’t take these events lightly because they are prime opportunities to make new friends.

Making friends outside of your floor

As much as you love your new floormates, it’s imperative that you make other friends as well. After all, aren’t cliques so high school? Since everyone’s looking to make new friends during the first few weeks of school, unleash your social butterfly pronto. Easier said than done, right? Not necessarily. In fact, going to all your school’s welcome week events is half the battle. “You will seriously feel so much better connected to people on campus if you attend all orientation week events,” says Katherine Mirani from Northwestern University. Break the ice with that charismatic boy by telling him that you liked his “ice breaker” answer. Or compliment that super trendy girl on her sartorially superb sandals. From there, don’t be afraid to ask your new friends about hometowns, majors, and even residence halls. Once you’ve covered the basics, making friends is as easy as it was in kindergarten because, as in kindergarten, everyone’s looking to make new friends too!

Welcome Week Activities

While you now know that you’re supposed to make friends during welcome week activities, what does welcome week mean? Essentially, your lovely school organizes a plethora of events so you can assimilate into college. Though every school has a different agenda, specific academic programs usually provide a lot of scavenger hunts, barbecues, and seminars. Most likely, you will receive an email or flyer that’s inviting you to all the fun. If you were concerned there won’t be loads of corny icebreakers and free swag, don’t worry—there will be. But isn’t that the fun of college? Just remember to be outgoing, energetic, and enthusiastic!

Day Five

After a couple collegiette days, you’re starting to get really comfortable on campus! Social life? Check. Academic life? You bought the books, so you’re good for now. Extracurriculars? Uh...

Signing up for extracurriculars

Don’t be surprised if your new collegiette status prompts you to be as school-spirited as humanly possible: it’s completely normal. Side effects of school spirit may include buying tons of college apparel and, more importantly, signing up for a million extracurricular activities. Since the next four years is all about figuring out who you are, take a chance and sign up for a bunch of different clubs. You’ll never know how much you adore Quidditch if you don’t sign up for your school’s intramural! During the beginning of school, most universities have an extracurricular expo where you can learn about all the clubs on campus. Sign up for the ones that truly interest you. If your school doesn’t offer one of these club conventions, look on your school’s website and email the clubs you’re interested in about how to join.

Day Six

The term TGIF exists for a reason, collegiettes.

Party time! 

Now that your bustling social life is underway, the moment you’ve been waiting for is finally here: your very first party as a collegiette. It’s like a debutante ball, just without the Blair Waldorf-approved evening gowns (think skinny jeans, sultry party tops, and “to die for” shoes instead). Though you may want to dive right into the world of crazy college parties, make sure you don’t end up regretting your night of fun. “Don’t be ‘that girl’ the first week that has a drunken tragedy,” says Lauren Macmullen from Boston University. “You want to make a good impression.” Instead of cutting the keg stand line, take your first few outings to meet people. Speaking of socializing, make sure you adhere to the Buddy System. It may sound lame, but it’s definitely better to be safe than sorry (especially in an environment where drunk collegents only have one thing on their minds… and it’s not flip cup). With all that in mind, remember to have fun. It’s a party after all!

Day Seven

Is it just me or was your first week of college on fast forward? Time flies when you’re having fun. Unfortunately, this week of social outings and free swag will come to a screeching halt soon. Although college is still loads of fun, you do have to go to school.

Find a study spot

By now, you should know what kind of studying atmosphere you prefer. Are you the quiet library kind of gal or are you craving a chaotic space? Before classes begin, head to your desired study spot for a test run. You can learn all about the location’s food and drink regulations as well as WiFi access. Though your new home away from home may look deserted, finding a place to study early will allow you to focus on your work.

Final preparations for your first day

Though you already have all your textbooks (or have ordered them), there are a few things you need to do before your first day of school. Sure, classes don’t start until Monday; however, who really wants to wait until the last minute? Exactly. For a stress-free first day, there are some simple tasks you must do beforehand:

• Decide whether you should use notebooks, an iPad, or your laptop
• If notebooks are your thing, pick up some pens and paper
• Write down what building and room each of your classes is in
• Figure out how much time you need to get ready based on how far away your classes are from your dorm
• Print a copy of each class’s syllabus
• Pick out your first day of school outfit (I don’t care how old you are, it still matters) 

With school supplies, and a rocking outfit, how could anything go wrong?

So the first week is over, now what? We’re pleased to tell you that the most stressful part is over (well, except maybe for your first final). Sure, you’ll encounter some collegiette dilemmas; however, if you can survive your first week of college, there’s nothing you can’t do.

Disney's D23 Expo—an exciting event where details are revealed about Disney's upcoming projects—took place this weekend. That means we finally got to learn more about the latest Disney princess, Moana. Moana tells the story of a South Pacific islander who sets out on an exciting adventure at sea in order to help her family. We love how empowered Moana looks in the concept art, and we can't wait to learn more about this daring heroine. Here are 7 reasons why we can't wait to meet Moana.

1. She is Disney's first Polynesian princess

The newest addition to the likes of Belle, Tiana and Merida will be of Polynesian descent.

2. We're fans of the directors' work

John Musker and Ron Clements (The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, The Princess and the Frog) are on board to direct the animated movie. 

3. We don't already know her story

Rather than being an adaptation of an existing fairy tale, Moana boasts an original plot. 

4. She's relatable

Moana sports natural hair and has real-girl curves, and we love that about her.

5. She's strong and determined

From what we can tell so far, Moana is a spirited girl who goes after what she believes in.

6. Her family and friends are extremely important

Moana embarks on this journey for the sake of her family, and she brings her trusted animal sidekicks along with her.

7. There will be singing

A musical number from the film was performed at the D23 Expo, and we hear it was quite magical. Perhaps the songs from Moana will be even more memorable than "Let It Go."

Moana is set to hit theaters November 23, 2016. 

What do you want to see in the newest Disney princess, collegiettes?

Whether you were home with your SO all summer and you’re moving back to different parts of the country in the fall, or you were in a temporary LDR, transitioning back to school can feel unnatural. This new set-up is definitely going to take some adjusting, especially if this was your first summer as a couple. We talked to Jodi R.R. Smith, president and owner of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting to help you make sense of the situation, no matter what the circumstances of your relationship are.

If you’re moving back to the same school

The situation

So you and your SO were apart all summer, and although it was hard, you had gotten used to it. Now that school is starting, you’re worried that things will be awkward between you two.

What to expect

There are a few reasons why jumping back into your college relationship isn’t easy. “There is something so old-fashioned and romantic about a text-call-letter-only relationship,” Smith says. “When suddenly you have the option of spending actual time together, things change. You may have changed as well.”

Three months of summer as a collegiette can change you more than you could imagine, which is part of why reuniting with your partner might feel unnatural.

Lindy Olive, a senior at Auburn University, and her boyfriend have had to deal with this every other semester for the past year and a half; he works one semester and goes to school the next. “His job was seven hours away from our university, so it was kind of crazy,” Lindy says. “I would get used to being in a long-distance relationship with him and then the next semester we would have to readapt to being with each other all the time.” This was far from ideal, but the collegiette’s couple made it through—and so can yours.

How to handle it

There are plenty of simple ways for your relationship to go back to normal. “Coming back to campus, include some dates as part of reconnecting,” Smith says. “Go to dinner together, take some long walks and chat about your summers as well as your expectations for the fall.”

Don’t overdo it, though! “Spending 24 hours a day together for the first few days is completely understandable,” Smith explains. “But then you need to focus on school and get back into your routine. Do not ignore your other friends; it is important to focus on those connections as well.”

Based on her experience, Lindy could not agree more. You need to “set boundaries for how much you hang out,” she says.” “When my boyfriend comes back to college, we hang out 24/7 just because we are so excited to be with each other again.” But Lindy always makes sure to carve out time for her friends and family, because “you can't go to your boyfriend about everything,” she says. “Sometimes, you need your girls to help you out.”

For the collegiette, communication was key to handling the situation. “We had to grow up a ton and learn about ourselves to make it work, Lindy says. “But it was totally worth it, because he got job experience he needed and our relationship is stronger than ever.” Bottom line: getting back into your habits as a couple won’t come instantly, but it will eventually—promise.

If you’re going back to different schools

The situation

You and your SO are high school sweethearts, or maybe you got together over break. Now that the semester is about to start, you’re moving back to different schools across the country, and you’re going to miss each other like crazy!

What to expect

Being in an LDR is tough, especially after spending so much time together over the summer. “My ex-boyfriend and I live in the same town but go to college separately, so it was always hard going back to school after being together for the summer,” says Rachel Petty, a junior at James Madison University.

Lindy had to get used to being with her boyfriend long-distance as well, when he went back to work every other semester. Being in an LDR means seeing each other once every few weeks or even months, communicating exclusively via text or Skype, and worrying about what the other might be doing. It can get messy, but it doesn’t have to be!

How to handle it

While you and your SO are home, you want to make the most of each other. Talking about being apart is probably the last thing you want to do, but it is necessary. “The key here is to have a conversation before returning to school about expectations,” Smith says. “Long-distance relationships can work if both partners are committed to keeping it going. There needs to be a frank discussion about what it means to be together.”

For instance, if you need your partner to send you cute texts more often, or he or she is worried about you cheating, you have to bring it up—however uncomfortable it may be.

Lindy and her boyfriend, who are going to live close to each other for good, have become seasoned experts when it comes to LDRs. “Before the semester starts, go ahead and plan a weekend or two out of the semester to see your SO,” she suggests. “You can plan your studies and hobbies around that date, so when you do get to see him/her, you can focus on having fun with each other and not school.”

Additionally, Lindy and her boyfriend made sure to take turns traveling to see each other. “For example, in the fall semester, my boyfriend would do most of the traveling because I was overwhelmed with school,” she says. “This summer, I did all of the traveling because my job allowed me to work remotely.”

Whatever you do, make sure to talk to your SO on a daily basis when you go back to school. “It's important to keep communicating and share what's going on in each of your lives,” Rachel says. “If you leave each other out of the loop, you'll feel less connected.”

As for Lindy’s advice to collegiettes like her—you guessed it—”communicate as much as possible,” she says. “Although I consider our relationship strong and healthy, it was difficult to remember why I loved my boyfriend so much when he wasn't five minutes down the road to easily hang out or go eat together. The stresses of the semester allow you to easily forget about or fight with that person.”

For Lindy, calling, texting and Skyping was essential to her relationship’s success. And as an inspiration to us all, the collegiette concludes: “Remember it's a difficult situation. You are going to fight and bicker about it. But don't let long distance be the reason to quit something so special.” We could not have said it better!

If one of you graduated

The situation

You and your SO went to the same school, but one of you graduated this past spring. This might be even more difficult than going back to being long-distance, since you have grown used to being together on campus. “My boyfriend just graduated from Miami of Ohio, and we have been together since my freshman year, meaning that we saw each other regularly on campus,” says Shelby Hyde, a senior collegiette. “This summer, I was in NYC working as an intern, and he was working back home, but we have made it work, as he came to visit.”

But with graduation come new opportunities, job offers, volunteer trips, etc., and you two could end up on opposite sides of the country—or even the world. Unfortunately for Shelby, her boyfriend is moving to China for nine months in the fall. “He was given an amazing opportunity to work overseas, and we have decided that with the help of Skype, WhatsApp and even resorting to snail mail, that we would do our best to make it work,” she says.

What to expect

One of the biggest issues you might face in this situation is not being on the same page as your partner anymore. Deciding to stay together is not a light decision to make, although it can absolutely work. “After a few weeks, see how things are going,” Smith says. “Are you happy? Is your partner happy? If so, continue the relationship by keeping in contact and making plans to see each other again soon. If not, it might be time to take a break.”

But even if you do decide to break up, it could be temporary. “Graduating from college is a major lifecycle milestone and it has challenges,” Smith says. “At this time of your lives, breaking up is not always forever. Sometimes it takes a bit of time apart to find yourselves and get settled in your careers before rekindling the campus romance.”

Obviously, breaking up is far from being your only option. Shelby is determined to make her relationship work. “Though the 12-hour time difference will be difficult, we have endured a temporary LDR at some point during our relationship and there are definitely ways to make it work,” she says.

How to handle it

We’re not teaching you anything new when we say that the key to any strong relationship is to be completely honest and open with each other. “Again, communication is key,” Jodi says. “ It is perfectly acceptable to pledge your undying love for one another. In fact, this may provide a degree of comfort and security for the one who has graduated and is trying to make his/her way in the great big world.”

Shelby knows that communication is essential, but she has also learned that “using FaceTime or Skype every day doesn't necessarily help. It is important to each maintain your own life, and plan to talk via these platforms once or twice a week to catch each other up on the exciting and sometimes mundane happenings in your lives. But discussing what works for you beforehand is definitely important, so that nothing is left up in the air.”

Basically, you should make sure that you and your SO are on the same page before you are far away from each other. If you are both determined to stay together, then it will come somewhat naturally, i.e. you won’t feel the need to Skype twice a day to check up on what your partner is doing.

Whatever your situation, the summer-to-school transition can be messy. But if you communicate with your SO and remember to spend time with your friends and family as well, your relationship will come out all the stronger. Have a great year, collegiettes!

Starting your first job out of college can be a stressful experience. Even if you have interned at plenty of other companies and organizations, things are different now. You aren't just an intern anymore—you're an employee. Everything you do from this point forward, from how you dress to how you act to how you do your job, won't reflect on somebody else, it will reflect on you. That's a lot of pressure! 

Since it's your first post-graduation gig, you want to make a great impression. Thankfully, you've got Leslie Knope to look to for inspiration! She has just the work ethic, go-getter attitude and professional wardrobe you need to be successful as a new member of the work force. Here's why you should use Leslie Knope as the inspiration for your work self.  

1. She always looks professional and put together. 

2. She is confident in her value as an employee. 

3. She can handle constructive criticism. 

4. She knows how to get straight to the point without unnecessary pontificating. 

5. She is the queen of organization. 

6. She gets that there will almost always be workplace drama, but she doesn't worry about it. 

7. She knows how to keep a positive attitude in the office. 

8. She is always prepared for any task that is thrown her way.

9. She strives to improve things and make them the best they can be. 

10. She knows how to handle herself in stressful situations.

11. She understands the importance of having friends in the workplace. 

12. She has a clear idea of what she wants: to be a winner.

13. Most of all, she knows that work is an important part of life, but she also knows it's not the only important part.

As pre-collegiettes quickly approaching your first year at college, it’s normal that your nerves and worries are kicking into high gear. You’re about to enter uncharted territory, an entirely different world than high school (as much socially as it is academically). That said, the first week of college is a complete blast and you’re going to love it. This is the time to put yourself out there, meet a huge variety of people, and start school on a high note. Most importantly, though, the first week is the time to be a carefree and happy collegiette!
 
…but wait pre-collegiettes—before you get too giddy, notice that I said carefree… not careless. Yes, a carefree collegiette may be(and obviously is) chill and cool, but most of all she’s definitely classy.
 
So, we’ve prepped you on proper dorm etiquette and navigating your first frat party, but now it’s time to hit you with an all-too-necessary list of things NOT to do that first week on campus. Take note, pre-collegiettes,  don’tdo these things…

1. Hook up with multiple guys in the first week

Welcome to the realm of college boys. You’re far away from (hopefully) immature high school boys with teenage acne and cracking voices. To put it as simply and politely as possible, just because you now believe what your mom said about there being many fish in the sea doesn’t mean you have to catch as many as you can. If you’re patient the first week and actually make a habit of getting to know the guys you meet before getting ‘intimate’ with them, then your chances of catching a keeper improve significantly.

Caution: We don’t advocate first-week dormcest. HC University of Alabama campus correspondent Jaime warns, “don’t hook up with anyone on your floor.” We agree, Jaime. Getting down with a guy on the floor too early on opens you up to a long year of super awkward encounters.
 
2. Pick teams 

Avoid hanging out at the same place every night. Don’t spend all your time in the same guys’ suite/frat house/hockey house (you get the picture: don’t pickone and only one nightly hangout spot).

We get it—you don’t know many people yet and having a familiar place to go is comfortable. But we promise you that if you keep an open mind and don’t limit yourself to one place and/or one group of people, you’ll be more comfortable at your new school in the long run. This is thetime to branch out and, trust us, it’s harder to branch out and randomly introduce yourself to people the further into the school year you get.
 

3. Pick your besties

Why do we mention this next, you ask? To emphasize, underline, and highlight the point thatyou can’t be closed-minded when it comes to meeting new people. You cannot, should not (and will not, right collegiettes?) choose your best friends and play ‘favorites’ the first week at school.

As HC Contributing Writer Tarina from Harvard says, “The first week is an opportunity to hang out with lots of different people and see who you really click with.” Don’t let one person or one group of people hold you back from meeting more. “Plus, a girl’s circle of friends changes up a lot during the first year of college, so it’s important to mingle a lot from the beginning to get to know a variety of people,” Tarina says.

4. Run your mouth

Don’t talk about people you just met (or worse, people you have yet to meet) behind their back. This is probably one of the easiest ways to repel friends, not make them. Enough said.

5. Get dolled up the first day

Don’t get overly dolled up for your first day of class. This isn’t the first day of freshman year in high school where you try to impress your classmates by having the cutest outfit or being the best dressed. Dress for yourself: wear what makes you comfortable, and wear it with confidence.

That said, while you want to make a good impression on your peers and potential future friends, you can’t forget about the other important group of people you’re meeting for the first time: your professors. Even though we say you should dress comfortably, do not wear sweatpants or pajama pants on your first day of class (or any day of class, ideally). This is a dead giveaway to teachers that you just don’t give a sh**.

6. Be a homebody

You didn’t move away from home just to go running right back (metaphorically speaking) to your mom and dad. Try to avoid the urge to call home every time a problem arises. For example, before you pick up the phone to ask for the step-by-step directions about how to do your own laundry (yes, you are a grown-up now—wellsort of), try asking someone in your suite or hall if they want to brave laundry day together. Chances are, you’re probably not the only one who is unsure about whether to wash in hot or cold water… So, how about it?Instead of being a homebody, try meeting somebody.
 
7. Make too many “friends”

The majority of collegiettes agree hands down that you should not friend everyone in your freshman class on Facebook. HC Belmont Campus Correspondent Bianca puts it aptly: “Going on a crazy Facebook-adding spree during orientation will not only creep people out, but you’ll end up never seeing half of the people again. Try and be selective with your friend requesting and add people you truly think you’ll become friends with!” We couldn’t agree more.

8. Underestimate the juice

Don’t mistake the jungle juice for regular juice. If right now is the first time you’ve ever heard of this infamous concoction, just remember this: jungle juice is not a Welch’s flavor. That said, HC’s RIT Campus Correspondent Jenna warns that even if you may be caught up in the excitement and folly of college parties, “don’t get too drunk and make a fool out of yourself.” 

Honestly, the last thing you want is to do something foolish in front of people you just met. For example, it wouldn’t be ideal to get totally smashed and decide to take your first keg stand in a mini skirt… and a thong. Even(especially) if you don’t remember it, everyone else will. Take Jenna for example: To this day, “I still remember ‘the kid who puked all over 188’ and so do many other people!”
 
Which brings up another important point—not only can drinking above and beyond an appropriate amount severely impact your judgment, it can also significantly affect your stomach. Just like the keg stand scenario, you can be just as easily remembered if you as 'that freshman girl who was so bombed she got sick all over the dance floor'. Be smart (it shouldn’t be too hard, youdidget into college…).

9. Fear the front

Again, this isn't high school. The front row of class isn’t reserved for “nerdy losers,” “brown-nosers,” “teacher’s pets,” etc. Don’t fear the front row! In fact, you’re probably better off sitting up front because those who don’t are going to wish they were you come midterms and finals. Trust me, sitting in a spot where you’ll actually be able to pay attention will only benefit you during exam week, when others are scrounging to learn a semester’s worth of material.

An added bonus? Less stress = a better, happier attitude with which to meet new people! So remember, less stress does not come from not doing your work. Sitting up front helps you absorb the material, which helps you stay on top of your work, which means less stress, which means … a happy you!
 
10. Be a snore

Don’t develop a sleeping disorder. Whether it’s oversleeping or not sleeping at all, it’s important that you try to nail down a solid sleeping schedule that first week. Bad habits are harder to cut once they’ve begun, so don’t get in the habit of going to bed every night at 3 a.m. the first week. Sleep has to happen sometime and if you don’t sleep at night chances are you’re going to crash during the day, sleep through class, and probably miss out on some fun daytime activities with your new friends as well.

Former HC Marketing Intern and Tulane student Stephanie says, “I pushed myself too hard and was way too busy before moving in to college. When I finally got to campus, I was exhausted and ended up sleeping a majority of that first week. Don’t do this. I ended up missing out on a lot of campus stuff and opportunities to meet people that I wish I’d been awake for (and my roommate thought I was a weirdo).”

11. Drastically change your ways

When all is said in done, you really don’t have a lot to worry about as long as you’re being yourself. Who else would you be, right? It’s as simple as it sounds: don’t drastically change who you are the minute you step on campus. It’s true that college can be the perfect time to“reinvent” yourself, but whoever coined this phrase needs to include an addendum to clarify that what this really means is you have a clean slate to be yourself in a new place and with new people. If you choose the first week to completely shed your values, and whatever else makes you you, you’ll be more lost than ever. Reinvent the way people see you? Go for it! Just up and trade yourself in for a ‘newer’ you-model? Just nope.
 
So, there you have it, collegiettes (yes, no longer pre-collegiettes--after reading this article you’ve officially become collegiettes!), a couple of things that we at HC say you should NOT do the first week on campus! Even if you choose to ignore this beyond enlightening list of things to do, at least remember: the one thing you must do the first week at college is, as the proverbial saying goes, let your true colors shine.
 
Have some advice you’d like to add to the list? Leave a comment below! 

When it comes to transitions and new experiences, your late teens and early twenties have all the other decades beat. Think about it—most college students see their living situation change every time a summer break or a new academic year comes around. For many collegiettes, the first and biggest of these transitions takes place in an on-campus residence hall, complete with a random roommate, an 8x10 dorm room and a resident advisor.

Eventually, though, it’ll be time to leave all the fun and frustration of dorm life behind for a new life off campus. You’ll replace the cafeteria’s Chicken Finger Wednesday with your own personal Starving Grocery Shopping Thursday, and you’ll swap out your RA for a landlord. The transition from life on campus to life in an apartment or house is a pretty big one in its own right—luckily, Her Campus has you covered with the ten most important things to keep in mind when you decide to venture off campus.

1. Living with Landlords - Know Your Rights and Document Everything

While living on campus, you rarely deal directly with the people who own your space. This, of course, will change when you move off campus. From the moment you sign your lease to the day you turn in your key, make sure you know how to interact and communicate with the landlord who’s leasing his or her property to you.

From the very beginning, make sure you’re documenting everything you possibly can. Any verbal agreements with your landlord need to be in writing as well, says Allison Lantero, a Boston College graduate who took her landlord to small claims court and won.

Allison and her roommates decided to take their landlord to court after their security deposit was only partially returned, with no detailed receipt and no bank statement for a $1,200 damages charge. They won the case, but Lantero says it would’ve been easier if every stipulation of their lease had been in writing—some agreementswere made over the phone and couldn’t be documented in court.

“If it’s not in writing within the legal document of the lease, it’s not enforceable,” says Kendal McDevitt, former coordinator for the Office of Off-Campus Community Relations at Appalachian State University. For any agreements that are not written into the physical copy of the lease, McDevitt recommends writing them in, and having each roommate as well as the rental company initial the changes. “First, go through the apartment and document the condition of rooms and appliances. Some apartment complexes provide handouts for this. If not, take a blank sheet of paper in with you and write down damage of anything you see. Second, take pictures of the apartment in its original condition. Keep a copy of the pictures yourself and submit a copy to the rental company,” McDevitt says.

Still confused about your rights as a renter? “Have a lawyer look over the lease for you,” says Chelsea McLeod, a recent grad of Rhodes College.

2. Start thinking like your mom

No, this doesn’t mean you have to start worrying about yourself(and calling yourself multiple times every day). But your mom did handle the ins and outs of your childhood home for at least eighteen years, so it might not be a bad idea to tap into her superpowers.

First, put some thought into your surroundings. Remember how your mom hauled dozens of plastic tubs down from the attic so she could redecorate the house for each holiday season? It may seem tedious, but little touches go a long way toward making a house feel like a home. So if you’re allowed to paint the walls of your rental or apartment complex, paint them! If your living room furniture is mismatched, go online and learn how to make fun covers for couches and chairs. If you’re artistic, buy wooden initials - they’re cheap at stores like Michael’s and A.C. Moore - and paint them for your room. Just make sure you clear any big changes with the roomies.

Second, remember that it’s now your job to keep your home stocked and supplied. Collegiettes who were asked about items they forgot to pack mentioned paper towels, vacuum cleaners, floor mops, toilet paper, brooms, tool kits, toilet plungers, pasta strainers, and bathroom mats. Add these items to your list, and sit down with your roommates to brainstorm other basics you may be missing. 

And don’t forget to pack beyond the basics as well.“I noticed what separated other people’s apartments from mine from feeling like home is everyone else had a much more decorated place with candles, posters, and plants,” says Jessica Len, former Her Campus Campus Correspondent at UC Davis.

In addition to year-round decorations, other collegiettes  suggest getting into seasonal decorating. Cut and decorate a Christmas tree with your roommates or make a spring wreath for your door. Do whatever you can to make your new place one you’ll want to remember.

3. Learn to grocery shop and learn to cook some simple staples  

One drastic difference between dorm life and apartment life revolves around one of the things college students love most: food. While living on campus, you’ll typically have a meal plan that grants you access to cafeteria meals, no cooking or grocery shopping required. Off campus, unless you feel like trekking to campus every time you feel like a snack, it’s likely a little bit different. Before you move into your apartment, make sure you’ve discussed the food situation with your parents—namely, who’s paying for what—and make a trial grocery store run while they’re still in town.

It also helps to learn a few simple meals before moving into your apartment, so that after a long day, or after your Julia Child masterpiece burns/collapses/explodes, you can whip something up quickly. If you’ve never cooked before, ask a parent or a family friend to show you how to bake chicken or boil rice. If you know the basics but need new ideas, add a new cookbook to your Kindle. There are dozens of cookbooks tailored to college students in all sorts of living situations, or check out some of HC’s recipe ideas here, and here. 

4. Learn some simple cleaning fixes

You may have been cleaning your room for your whole life, and maybe you even Swiffered your dorm room once or twice, but cleaning an entire apartment is a whole different story. Before you find yourself knee-deep in dust and dirty dishes, make sure you have a cleaning schedule for yourself. You can clean your bedroom on Saturdays and your bathroom on Tuesdays—it doesn’t matter, just make sure you know what needs to be done and when you need to do it.

It’ll also save time (and take some pressure off your wallet) tolearn a few simple home-cleaning fixes—this is another area where asking for Mom’s know-how comes in handy. Instead of buying expensive cleaners, clean countertops, refrigerator shelves and other surfaces with white distilled vinegar. Dilute it with water, about one quarter cup of vinegar to every gallon of water. And instead of using up expensive paper towels to clean your windows, pick up a stack of free campus newspapers - the newsprint will remove smudges without leaving any streaks.

5. Stay plugged in to your campus

When you were living in the dorms, it probably wasn’t hard to feel like a part of the action on your campus. After all, it’s literally where you slept and worked and ate. After moving away and embracing the off-campus lifestyle, though, you may feel a little detached from the undergraduate community at your college or university. For Appalachian State University grad Jordyn Coats, whose studio apartment isn’t in her university town, keeping up with extracurricular activities has been the key to staying involved. “I play roller derby with some amazing women at least every other day,” she says, referencing the year-old competitive roller derby team she founded. Whatever your niche is, from intramural sports to knitting club, don’t drop it because the meetings are no longer quite as close by. If you’re only on campus when it’s time for class, you won’t feel as connected to or invested in it.
 
Even if all doesn’t go as planned, make every effort to get to know yourself better during your first off-campus experience. If you’re working too much to pay your rent and not using half of your apartment’s fancy features, find a less expensive place next time. If your roommates are always studying but you’d rather be loud, seek out friends and roommates who feel the same way. As a collegiette, it’s the perfect time to learn what works for you. Soak up all the knowledge you can from your off campus living experience, and make the next one even better.

How familiar does this struggle sound: frantically rummaging through your purse to look for oil blotters or your compact because you can practically feel the oil oozing from your pores. Living with oily skin can be a real hassle—you're always worrying about product choices and whether or not your T-zone looks like you've been swimming in grease. Fear not, oily skin is totally manageable and you can carry on without checking your pores every five seconds!

How do you manage your oily skin? 

This article has been syndicated to Her Campus from The Pink Lyme by Brooke A. Safferman, a Her Campus Blogger Network member. Read the full post here—and find out more about how to become a Campus Correspondent for your school!

As many of my college peers *casually makes a Camel noise to show off school mascot pride* are aware, I'm a member of my college's chapter of Her Campus! As a scared little freshman, I didn't want to commit just yet to many clubs because I was still trying to figure out the basics of my new life, like where the heck was the main dining hall, and did I have enough clean socks in the drawer because I was so not about to do some laundry!?… But sophomore year? I was totally ready to branch out by joining clubs and exiting my previously-freshie comfort zone! Her Campus was one of the clubs that I joined and I am so happy that I did!

Her Campus is the #1 global community for college women. Written entirely by the world's top college journalists—with 6,700+ contributors and counting—HerCampus.com features national Style, Beauty, Health, Love, Life, Career, LGBTQ+, High School, and Real World content supplemented by local content from 270+ campus chapters nationwide and in seven countries. In addition, Her Campus offers the HC Study Break email newsletter, Her Campus Blogger Network (I am a member of this, too!!!), High School Ambassador Program, Her Conference, Her Conference: High School, College Fashion Week®, Her Campus Shop, The Her Campus Guide to College Life, and even more products, programming, tools, and events to fulfill its mission of serving college women across every platform.

Her Campus serves as a career launching point for its team of college journalists: former Her Campus members have gone on to join the teams at Glamour, Vogue, Buzzfeed, Vanity Fair, Seventeen, Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, People, The Huffington Post, Teen Vogue, InStyle, Lucky, Esquire, O magazine, MTV, The Washington Post, Digitas, Ogilvy, and many more. Can I get a #happydance, or what!?

There are so many reasons to join Her Campus at your college! You'll develop writing skills, gain experience in online journalism, promote girl power and more! Students interested in marketing or PR can gain writing experience, network with other college journalists and participate in marketing campaigns with national clients. Leading a Her Campus chapter at your school also offers the opportunity for you and your team to network with members of our 270+ chapters around the world at Her Conference each summer! Online, a Her Campus chapter is a section on HerCampus.com devoted to individual colleges and univeristies around the world with five content areas (Features, Blogs, Campus Celebrities, Campus Cuties, Snapshot) so readers from each school can have an individualized experience on HerCampus.com. Offline, a chapter is also a community of collegiettes on your campus interested in journalism, magazines, writing, event planning, public relations, social media, marketing, business/entrepreneurship and more.

Read the full post on The Pink Lyme, and find out how to start a Her Campus chapter at your school!