Cover a friend's shift at work? Single-handedly organize a last-minute fundraiser? Babysit your cousin's three kids on the night before a major exam? Yes, why not? We've all been there. Request after request comes flying in from all areas of our lives and before we know it, we've said yes to them all. One look at our planners will tell us that we've overbooked ourselves because we just can't say "no". Whether we think it'll make us seem rude or we've convinced ourselves that we can handle it, too many of us are filling our plates with way too many obligations. Here’s the deal on how to deal.

1. Simplify

First off, decide what really matters in your life. That sounds complicated, but it isn't if you just take a closer look at everything on your to-do list. Are you involved in four different clubs at once? Which of those have something directly to do with your major or something you're passionate about? If you find yourself in horseback riding club, scuba club, poetry club and student government but you're on track to become your state's next senator, consider weeding out a few of your less necessary commitments.

"I was the captain of my Division 1 varsity golf team, wrote a weekly column for my student newspaper, took 18 credit hours, and I managed the Her Campus chapter at my school," said Jaime Ritter of University of Alabama at Birmingham. "I balanced things by DVRing my favorite shows as a treat when I got done with my homework, blogs, and practice."

Kylie Cole, Prevention and Education Coordinator & Staff Psychologist at the University of Maine, has a few tips for those who have trouble saying “no”.

"Saying ‘no’ is really difficult in the moment, so it is great to make a plan about how much you are willing to take on in a given semester (or week) and try to stick to that," she says.

2. Be Truthful

Here is a secret most collegiettes don't know: you do not have to please everyone. In fact, it's impossible! Your job is to do your best in school, enjoy your short time as a college student and follow your dreams. The rest are just details. If you are overwhelmed, be honest! One week you could have a midterm exam, two papers to write and two shifts at work, not to mention an argument with a friend or roommate that's weighing heavy on your heart. This would not be a swell time to add something else to your schedule.

One collegiette explains, "I've come to terms with the fact that I can't please everyone, and that has lifted a lot of weight off my shoulders."

People reach out to you for favors most often because they know you are responsible and can juggle several commitments at once. However, you're not doing yourself or anyone else a favor by stretching your time so thin that you end up feeling miserable and overworked. You will put less energy into everything you do, and you can bet that person won't want to rely on you again.

"People often expect more of themselves than they do of others, so learning to cut ourselves a break and allow ourselves to take time to take care of ourselves is important," says Cole.

Say your schedule is cramped as is and a member of your debate club asks for last minute help with her speech. Think twice before agreeing. Sure, you want to help him out and be a friend, but you have to be realistic about how many commitments and tasks you can handle at one time.

So if your schedule really has you feeling swamped, tell the person or organization who's asking, politely, "no, thank you. I'm sorry I can't help you out right now but I'm just too busy. Please ask me again at another time." That way you aren't burning bridges but at the same time you aren't adding another impossible to-do to your already never-ending checklist.

3. Organize

Sure, extracurriculars and added events can be fun, but when you're already working a part-time job and being a full-time student, even an hour or two a week of free time can be more precious than gold. Try making a list of all your time commitments, including work, studying, recreational or social time and any extracurriculars.

Next, make a schedule for everything on your to-do list. Sort them into the above categories and once you see it all on paper, you might realize you have more time than you thought! If the opposite is true, take a look at what can be shifted in your schedule and what could possibly be removed.

Nicole of George Washington University recently got so overwhelmed by her crazy schedule that she forced herself to sit down and look at everything that was taking up her time.

"I just bought a planner, and I took the syllabus from every class I am taking and wrote [down] all of the assignments from now until the end of the semester," Nicole said. "I feel better. If someone asks me to do something for them, I can check how much time I have every day to do it."

4. Practice!

You know what they say about practice — it makes perfect. So if you are the female Jim Carrey in Yes Man, start saying "no" to small demands in limited areas of your life. For example, if a coworker asks if you can take a four-hour shift for them a week in advance, try saying "no." It's only a few hours, and that far ahead of time your coworker can surely find someone else to cover her shift. Soon you'll see how painless saying "no" can be.

"I have a tendency to say ‘yes’ all the time, but then I end up getting overwhelmed as my responsibilities pile up," Erica says.

Saying "no" can be surprisingly freeing. If you start small, you'll eventually have the strength to say "no" to bigger questions, such as, "can you do the rest of the work for this group project on your own?"  I think you already know the answer.

5. Be cautious

Of course, there are some areas of our busy lives where it's a better idea to just say yes. For example, at your internship, it's usually best to say "yes" more often than "no".

When your boss asks you to run around the corner for three extra-hot soy lattes and you'd really rather sit behind your tiny desk and check Facebook again, say "yes". It may be annoying, but you never know how far a little determination and positivity will take you in the workplace.

"I often ask students who come to see me at the Counseling Center if they are doing something because they want to do it or because they feel obligated or pressured to do it," Cole says. "Knowing the difference, even if you still decide to do the activity, can help you understand your feelings about it."

Think before you say "no", but mean it with all your might when you do. There's a fine line between being strong and letting someone walk all over you, and collegiettes™, we never want you to cross it.

With any luck, you've had enough time in your packed schedule to finish this article, and you can walk out the door a new woman — one who says "no" when she needs to and “yes” when she wants to.

Do you have any other ideas we left out? Let us know below!

Melissa McCarthy is a force to be reckoned with. The queen of comedy who makes us laugh until we cry is now also a dominant businesswoman in the fashion industry. Her new clothing line, Melissa McCarthy Seven7, is stirring up the fashion industry's perception of plus-size women. The collection features clothing in sizes 4 to 28, ranging from $59 to $159. From graphic tees to printed cardigans to jeans and leggings, this collection satisfies all your fall clothing needs. 

As a woman considered plus-size by the fashion industry's unrealistic body standards, McCarthy wanted to improve the shopping experience for all other plus-size women. She was tired of shopping in segregated plus-size sections in clothing stores, where designers paid little mind to women her size. She told Refinery29 that 70 percent of women in the United States are size 14 or above.

“You’re taking your biggest category of people and telling them, ‘You’re not really worthy.’ I find that very strange,” said McCarthy. We agree. The fashion world doesn't take into consideration various body types and sizes, so McCarthy's collection is a refreshing new brand that appeals to the majority of women in the United States. 

Melissa McCarthy Seven7 encourages of all of us to love our bodies, whether we're a size 2 or a size 22. Take a look at some of our favorite pieces from the collection:

1. Melissa McCarthy Seven7 Fringe Cardigan Sweater, $118

This is exactly the piece we're looking for this fall—you can throw it on over anything, from leggings and a tee to jeans and a sweater!

2. Melissa McCarthy Seven7 Jeans Plus Size Pleated Hi-Low Tank Top, $79

The hi-low trend is flattering no matter what your shape or size.

3. Melissa McCarthy Seven7 Freemont Plaid Rolled Girlfriend Jean, $108

Like the classic boyfriend jean... only a little more fitted and feminine.

4. Melissa McCarthy Seven7 "You're Doing Great" Tee, $59

Who doesn't love an inspirational reminder?

Shop the collection now from Nordstrom, Macy's, and HSN. It will also be available soon on Melissa's personal website. Let this collection inspire you to love your body and be confident in your own skin. 

This article has been syndicated to Her Campus from Empire Styles by Nicole Coppins, a Her Campus Blogger Network member. Read the full post here.

Most college applications require some standard forms about your academic history, transcript, GPA, extracurriculars, letters of recommendations and the essay. The forms are all pretty self explanatory and cover all the basics—not too bad overall. The essay is a whole different ballgame. 

What if you didn't get to start your college essays in school and have no clue where to begin? I have something to share with you: EditRevise.

EditRevise is an online service where you can submit your essays for proofreading (for those 2 AM typos) and content/structure editing. So basically it is like having a teacher or professor read over your paper. My favorite feature of EditRevise is the optional six hour editing turnaround. Standard edits take 48 hours, but you can upgrade for a quicker, 6 hour edit time which I found super convenient when I was feeling motivated to keep working nonstop until my essays were done.

EditRevise also has an e-book all about writing college admissions essays if you have general questions that go beyond the draft you're working on. This e-book, along with their writing resource center, sets them apart from other online editing services. It is about more than fixing grammar; it is about better writing. 

College application essays are a HUGE deal and I hope that students submitting college essays are 100 percent confident in their work. So, why EditRevise? The edits helped my essay show less about the actual situation I was discussing and more about myself and why that situation was significant to my life, shaping my personality etc. Overall they were very specific to my essay and helpful in putting on the finishing touches.

Read the full post on Empire Styles.

Taylor Swift might seem like a perfect human, but she’s definitely had her share of ups and downs. Her songs make up the soundtrack to our lives, and for good reason. Here are 10 times Taylor basically read our minds.

1. Ending an on-again, off-again relationship

“I say, ‘I hate you,’ we break up, you call me, ‘I love you’”

Situation: You’re stuck in an endless cycle of breaking up and getting back together, and it’s driving you crazy. Solution? Blast this song in the car on your way to ending it for good.

Song:“We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together”

2. Fighting with your SO

“I should just tell you to leave ‘cause I/Know exactly where it leads, but I/Watch us go ‘round and ‘round each time”

Situation: You and your SO are going through a rough patch, and it sucks. Instead of acting helpless, sit down with him or her and determine if you want to keep the relationship going.

Song:“Style”

3. Being around an ex you’re not over

“I’d tell you I miss you but I don’t know how/I’ve never heard silence quite this loud”

Situation: You were just broken up with, and now you have to face him or her. All you can do is think about everything you didn’t get to say. Give it some time; you might not feel the same way once the sting wears off.

Song:“The Story of Us”

4. Meeting a new cutie

“The playful conversation starts/Counter all your quick remarks/Like passing notes in secrecy”

Situation: You’re at a party and you hit it off with a friend of a friend. You haven’t felt butterflies like this in forever, so why not take a chance? You never know where it could lead.

Song:“Enchanted”

5. Falling in love

“And I don't know why but with you I'd dance in a storm in my best dress/Fearless”

Situation: You’ve been dating your boyfriend or girlfriend for a few months now, and you’re really starting to fall for him or her. Tell your SO how you feel—chances are, they feel the same way!

Song:“Fearless”

6. Celebrating a special event

“I said remember this moment in the back of my mind/The time we stood with our shaking hands/The crowds in stands went wild”

Situation: You’re graduating alongside your closest friends, or going off to college for the first time—and you can’t believe how quickly the time flew by. Remember this moment; it’s a unique feeling that you’ll always treasure.

Song:“Long Live”

7. Dealing with a frenemy

“Someday I'll be living in a big ol' city/And all you're ever gonna be is mean”

Situation: There’s a girl at work who you know is talking about you behind your back. Don’t stoop to her level. The best revenge is to be the bigger person and not let it get to you.

Song:“Mean”

8. Going out with the girls

“It feels like a perfect night to dress up like hipsters/And make fun of our exes”

Situation: It’s a Friday after a tough week at your internship, and you’re so ready for a night out. Get all dressed up, grab the girls, and get ready for a GNO to remember.

Song:“22”

9. Feeling heartbroken

“Hey, you call me up again just to break me like a promise/So casually cruel in the name of being honest”

Situation: You’re dealing with a tough breakup, and all you want to do is cry and, well, listen to T. Swift. Give yourself some time to mope, but then get back on your feet. You’ll never get over him or her if you keep dwelling on the past.

Song:“All Too Well”

10. Recognizing an unhealthy relationship

“Once upon a time a few mistakes ago/I was in your sights, you got me alone”

Situation: You fell for a bad boy or girl, and it was fun for a time. But all your friends are telling you that it’s unhealthy, and you’re starting to realize they’re right. Take a page out of Taylor’s book and let them go.

Song:“I Knew You Were Trouble”

Thanks for always having our back, Tay.

As we grow older, many of the things we’ve taken for granted become a priority. We may only be in our twenties, but before we know it, wrinkles, dark spots and crow’s feet will be creeping onto our currently flawless (or nearly so) skin. That’s why it’s important to start taking care of our skin—now. To help get you started, here are the top dos and don’ts of skincare in your twenties!

DO be mindful of your diet

Good skincare starts from the inside! Dr. Carl Thornfeldt, a renowned dermatologist and founder of Epionce Skin Care, says that one of the biggest mistakes twentysomethings make when it comes their skin is actually in their diet. “They eat a high-glycemic diet with sugar and starch, which is pro-inflammatory. They ingest too many products that contain caffeine, alcohol and chocolate which increases blood flow to the skin,” he says. Dr. Thornfeldt suggests eating a “low-glycemic diet high in protein and good fats” in order to prepare your skin for a healthy future.

He even goes on to explain that your diet affects your sun safety. He suggests using supplements that reduce sensitivity to UV light such as green tea, melatonin and Heliocare. When you’re healthy on the inside it shows on the outside!

DON’T forget to wash your face before bed

It’s such a small chore, but seems like a huge hassle. However, washing your face before you go to bed is crucial to keeping your skin healthy. Rachel Crocetti, a 2015 graduate of Hofstra University, says, “Always, always, ALWAYS wash your face before bed, no matter how tired you are!” While it may be convenient to use a face wipe to get the dirt and makeup off at the end of the days, it’s actually best to cleanse rather than just use a wipe. Finding a face wash you really like can be helpful and while exfoliating weekly is essential to great looking skin, be sure not to exfoliate too often. Make washing your face before bed a habit now so that you continue to have healthy, glowing skin for years to come.

DO moisturize and use anti-aging creams

Starting to moisturize and use anti-aging creams in your twenties will ensure beautiful skin well into adulthood. By making moisturizers and anti-aging creams part of your skincare routine, you’re jumpstarting the anti-aging process, which works better as a preventative measure, rather than an after-the-fact fix. These products are best when started young, so it’s important to incorporate them now! Jordyn Sifferman, a 2014 graduate of the University of Washington, shares her top picks: “A few of my favorite products are Kate Somerville Quench serum ($75) and goat milk moisturizer ($65). I also make a homemade honey and cinnamon face mask once a week to moisturize (it also helps with breakouts).” Meanwhile, Rachel uses a night cream you can find at most local drugstores saying, “I like Neutrogena Naturals Night Cream ($16.49) for an awesome scent.”

DON’T damage your skin in the sun

Tan skin can be so irresistible, but it's one of the worst things we can do to our skin. Excessive tanning may not only lead to skin cancer, but can cause wrinkles and premature aging, according to The Skin Cancer Foundation. While it’s unrealistic to stay completely out of the sun, there are important steps you can take to keep your skin from being damaged.

First and foremost, always use sunscreen. Jordyn says, “Sunscreen everyday! I like Shiseido created for an urban environment SPF 40 ($32).” Jordyn realizes the importance of using sunscreen daily and you should as well. After all, The Skin Cancer Foundation explains that even tans acquired through “incidental exposure” indicate skin cell damage.

Dr. Thornfeldt suggests that the best sunscreen is at least SPF 50 and includes an anti-inflammatory. His favorite sunscreens include Epionce Ultra Shield SPF 50 ($25), Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 100 ($11.49), or Aveeno Baby Natural Protection Lotion Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 ($10.99).

If you simply must have a tan, opt for self-tanners. They’ve come a long way and you can get a natural-looking tan without causing permanent damage. While the glow of a tan is tempting in the present, it’s essential to avoid premature aging and a potentially life-threatening disease in the future.

DO keep your skin hydrated

Keeping hydrated is something we’ve heard all our lives. However, it’s also important to make sure our skin is staying hydrated as well. Taking cold showers, aloe and what we eat can help keep our skin hydrated throughout the hot months. 

Incidentally, one of the best ways to achieve this is by keeping your body hydrated! Dr. Thornfeldt recommends drinking water in order to have healthy skin for life: “Drink plenty of water, including a glass of water before a meal.” Caitlin Fitzgerald, a 2015 graduate of Lasell College, does this herself. “I drink about 64 ounces of water a day (this also helps with weight loss!) to keep my skin healthy and hydrated,” she says.

It’s easy to eschew skincare, especially as dangerous trends like #SunburnArt make their way around social media. Just remember that what we do now will affect our skin for years to come and before we know it, we’ll be lamenting our wrinkles and wishing we’d started moisturizing years earlier. Now slather on that sunscreen!

In the early 2000s, Abercrombie & Fitch was our go-to—we made some questionable fashion decisions there, shopping denim miniskirts, A&F-logoed tees, skin-tight polos with the collars flipped up... maybe they put something in the fragrance to influence us into making these choices? Fortunately, our style has evolved since then, which is a good thing, given the controversy the chain has stirred up over the past several years. Remember those fat-shaming comments former CEO Mike Jeffries made a few years back? Jeffries has stepped down as of December 2014, and in the past year, Abercrombie & Fitch has made moves to revamp its image, from working on an anti-bullying campaign to desexualizing the brand and retiring its shirtless male models.

Of course, given the brand's history, we're still a little skeptical, but it does seem like the retailer is finally listening to its customers, not only on a social level, but in terms of style as well—as proven by the 7 chic finds we'd totally wear, below:

1. Chambray Shirt Dress, $54

Is this not the perfect dress for fall? Style them with sneakers for a casual on-campus look, or rock them with chunky heels and a belt for date night!

2. Faux Suede A-Line Skirt, $58

In case you hadn't heard, the '70s are back, so get in with the trend with a faux suede skirt that buttons up the front. Bare your legs in this piece while the warm weather is still with us, and pull on some ribbed tights and rock this skirt with fringed ankle booties when the temp drops.

3. Mock Neck Cropped Tee, $12

As the It-girls of Paris have proven to us time and time again, there's nothing more chic than stripes are—and we especially love seeing them on this fitted, high-neck tee that will go with absolutely everything you own—distressed black skinny jeans, wide-legged trousers, your favorite circle skirt... we would go on, but you get the idea. And at only $12? Do the math; this piece is so worth it.

4. Plaid Lace Up T-Shirt Dress, $54

If there is one thing you should have in your arsenal, it's a T-shirt dress—seriously, we'd go as far as to say that if we could only keep one thing in our closet, it might just be that. Why? It's the ultimate one-and-done piece, comfy enough you feel like you're basically in loungewear, but cute enough for you to look totally pulled together. The subtle windowpane print here is perfection, and we love that lace-up detail, too.

5. Pleated Wide Leg Gauchos, $44

Ready to go high fashion? Abercrombie & Fitch has you covered! These cropped culottes, in color-of-the-moment marsala, look great dressed up with a cropped blazer, or even down with a white tee. The pleats instantly elevate the piece so no matter what, you'll look polished in this pair.

6. Pattern Blanket Poncho, $48

A blanket that's actually wearable in public? We need this, immediately. This is library chic at its best!

7. Faux Leather Mini Backpack, $38

Admittedly, this backpack isn't going to fit all your school books... but who cares about function when we're talking about something THIS cute, are you with us?

Is Abercrombie's new look stylin' enough for you?

Name: Stephanie Clifford

Age: 37

Job Title and Description: Reporter, The New York Times; Author, Everybody Rise

College Name/Major: Harvard University/English

Website: stephanieclifford.net

Twitter Handle: @stephcliff

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

Stephanie Clifford: I currently cover Brooklyn courts for the Times. There are some must-cover stories, like the FIFA case or terrorism cases or when politicians are indicted. I also have a lot of room to come up with stories on my own, though, so when the day isn’t filled with hearings or trials, I’m meeting with sources, going through documents and trying to think of interesting issues – from animal abuse to prisoners’ rights – that may intersect with the courts.

I wrote Everybody Rise, my first novel, mostly while I was at the Times– I’ve been there since 2008, covering business and media before I switched to Metro and the courts beat. I’d get up at six most mornings and write from six to eight, which is partly why it took as many years as it did to finish!

What is the best part of your job?

SC: As a reporter, I’m paid to ask questions, study the world and call smart people to ask them how something works or what their opinion is – basically a professional Harriet the Spy. It’s hard, it’s fun and I learn something new every day.

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

​SC: I was a fact-checker at a magazine called eCompany Now! (the exclamation point was key). It was a new-economy magazine owned by Time Inc. out of San Francisco. I had been an editor at the college paper and done a college internship in magazines, so I had a bit of experience in the field. It was terrific: small enough that I could learn fast, fun enough that the learning was entertaining.

You recently wrote your first novel, Everybody Rise. What made you decide to write a book, and what is your writing process like?

​SC: The book’s protagonist, Evelyn, is a 26-year-old who’s from small-town Maryland, moves to New York and can’t find her place. She thinks she’s found it when she falls in with an old-money crowd and is suddenly flitting between Adirondack camps and Upper East Side parties. She lies in order to fit in, and those lies snowball quickly. I started the novel years ago, put it aside because I didn’t think I could do that plus my job and picked it back up because Evelyn kept nagging at me. She’s this smart, witty, very flawed character, and I couldn’t get her out of my head. We’ve all tried to be someone we’re not, we’ve all wanted something that’s not good for us, and I had to see what happened to Evelyn.

When I started writing regularly again, about five or so years ago, it turned out to be an even busier time in my life: I switched beats at the Times, I got married, I had a baby, I got two cats. I realized, though, that no one was going to hand me a stretch of time and, like, an oceanside writer’s cottage. I had to fit novel writing into my existing life. So I looked at my schedule, figured out that from six to eight [in the morning] was fairly predictable uninterrupted time and decided I’d write it then.

My deal with myself was all I had to do was get up and sit at my computer for those two hours. If I wanted to spend them staring at the ceiling, that was fine. That took a lot of the pressure off — at 6 AM, if I had to decide whether I felt like getting up and writing that day, I would’ve decided “no” virtually every day. Taking the decision-making out of it ended up being incredibly freeing.

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

​SC: There are so many, but one who stands out is Jane Berentson. Before my senior year of college, I snagged an internship at Worth magazine, a personal finance magazine in New York. Jane oversaw what I did, and she encapsulated New York for me: she was so smart, so glamorous, so wry. She encouraged me to go beyond just making copies and doing research, pushed me to pitch stories and made sure I got a couple of bylines. She was a great advocate for me even though I was a random intern. I ended up working for her again years later, at Inc. magazine, where she sniffed out great stories from miles away, pushed us to present our stories creatively and always knew how to make a story work when we were stuck. I learned so much from her.

What words of wisdom do you find most valuable?

​SC: My dad gave me great advice when I was in high school: Figure out what you like to do, then find someone who’ll pay you to do that.

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

​SC: It had to have been the day Everybody Rise sold at auction. I’d been writing it for years on my own, barely telling anyone what I was working on – I didn’t want the pressure of having people ask “so, how’s that novel coming?" (Of course, I missed so many events as a result of working on it that I’m sure my friends thought I’d been drafted by the CIA.) I didn’t know until my agent sent it to editors what the response would be. I was in court that day, covering a political corruption hearing, and because cell phones barely work in the courthouse, I’d run out during breaks to get an update from my agent — then get a call from the Times copy desk on the other line. I remember standing outside the courthouse with tears in my eyes, realizing this was going to be a real book, then answering a copy-desk question about the spelling of someone’s name.

What do you look for when considering hiring someone?

​SC: The Times, wisely, does not put me in charge of hiring! What’s impressed me in the interns and younger reporters I think are most promising is humility mixed with ambition: They’re eager to learn, ask a ton of questions and also recognize that learning means doing lots of non-glamorous stuff, and they do that without complaint.

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

​SC: Don’t be disappointed about starting at the bottom. The entry-level jobs in journalism, like fact-checking, actually teach you a ton; a good fact-checker becomes a careful reporter with respect for how much work goes into a story. When you’re starting at the bottom, though, be aggressive: In your free time, pitch story after story after story. Read your publication, read its competitors and always be looking for stories. (One useful exercise I’ve done is, after reading the paper every day, to write down five new story ideas based on what I read – it got me in the habit of thinking of story ideas all the time). Most editors are going to say no to your ideas. The helpful ones will explain why they’re saying no. You’ll get better at pitching, you’ll get better at writing and eventually you’ll get to where you want to be.

Navigating the job market can be tricky—especially when in search of a creative career. Writers, designers and artists—among a plethora of other applicants from creativity-driven fields—can struggle when trying to simultaneously showcase their inventive personalities and maintain a professional demeanor. But job applications—including resumes, cover letters, interviews and supplemental materials—don't require an entirely technical approach, void of innovation or intrigue. In fact, one's personal brand plays an enormous role in securing a career, which means that plopping some personality into every aspect of the job search can be incredibly rewarding.

But how, where and when is it appropriate to add a little originality into your professional presence? We've outlined some of the best mediums (and accompanying dos and dont's) so that you can let your character shine risk-free.

1. Cover Letter

Cover letters are great at demonstrating personality because they give you room to vocalize. Avoid a robotic tone and instead opt for something more conversational if you don't want to get lost in the stacks. While you shouldn't use slang, curse words, or tell stories about your wild Spring Break in Cancun (unless you can creatively use those stories to demonstrate a personal quality that nothing else could), you can use some quirky and unexpected anecdotes to get your point across.

Just re-listing your resume is guaranteed to make you seem mechanical. Instead, touch on things that the interviewer would have no idea about otherwise, and try to come up with innovative ways to describe yourself. Everyone tells the story about how their minimum-wage pizza counter job taught them the meaning of hard work and long hours. Go for something entirely unprecedented and unpredictable for a lasting impact, and again, adopt a voice you're proud of, not one that would put you to sleep.    

2. Personal Website

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While LinkedIn is a good start in terms of a comprehensive collection of work, a full-blown online portfolio is the easiest way to achieve personality in the professional realm. With tons of digital options to choose from, creating and maintaining a personal website is incredibly easy and also incredibly rewarding. If you're a designer, you can showcase your natural talent for creating eye-candy with an innovative layout and gorgeous imagery. If you're an artist, you can maintain an ongoing digital collection of all your work. Writers can establish personal blogs, showcasing their voice through what they do best. There's no better way to get all of your information out there seamlessly and beautifully. The best part about websites? You can easily insert eye-appealing links to your various social media channels, creating a one-stop hub of all you have to offer. Convinced you need one yet? Good.

But choosing the right medium for website creation can be daunting—how do you know which service will suit you best? What if you don't know how to code, or are worried about cost?

Professional website building platform Squarespace answers all of the concerns you're craving to sooth. At only $8 a month, you can build a personal portfolio that's breathtakingly beautiful and painlessly easy to generate. And, pro-tip: College students get a 50 percent off discount for their first year! Don’t worry--you don't have to know anything about web coding to optimize your website experience. Squarespace can provide domains, images, award-winning templates, personalized logos, and ecommerce web stores, so that your personal brand will leave nothing out. With an online presence as visually stimulating, comprehensive, and clean as Squarespace's, you'll have the Human Resources department at that elite design studio or magazine drooling over your application.

3. Resume

Resumes are often the first application item an interviewer sees. If you're looking to stand out from the crowd of black-and-white, Times New Roman fonts, get creative, but only tastefully. While turning your resume into an incredible infographic or Buzzfeed-esque listicle will definitely demonstrate personality, it's important that you're extremely careful with what you do. Only undergo the task of designing an original resume if you're inherently artistic and can guarantee your product will look sophisticated rather than childish. Steer clear of colored, or even worse, fragranced papers (Sorry, Elle Woods)! You should also digitize your resume and put it within your online portfolio—Squarespace is the perfect platform for that, too.

If your creativity lies in your writing, weave your voice into the resume discreetly but effectively. While resumes shouldn't include large paragraphs, specific word choice and stylistic intuition can really improve a normally-structured resume.

Either way, remember that as soon as you stylize or re-word your resume, you're transforming it from a standard application item to a representative piece of your greater works, so when in doubt, stay simple.

4. Attire

You've heard again and again how important it is to dress for success, but what does that really mean when lines are blurred and your desired industry may not adopt the classic business wardrobe?

Start-ups, tech companies, design firms and fashion labels may expect something more than a pantsuit or pencil skirt. In fact, they may take your lack of unique style as an indication of a lack of personality!

Do your research to determine what the proper dress code is in your industry. One often-overlooked method of doing so is checking out the company's social media accounts, especially Instagram. Oftentimes, younger or more creative companies utilize Instagram frequently to showcase their cool and quirky desks or take group photos in the office lounge. Do a little stalking (we give you permission!) and check out what your future co-workers are wearing. Maybe you see a younger woman who comes across as especially fun and inviting. Note her look, then, find similar items in your closet and generate your own outfit that's inspired by (not copied from!) theirs!

Just don't go too trendy—this may come off as overly daring, and true style stars know how to blend new items with timeless classics. And if you're the conservative type, even opting for a different color blazer can make you more memorable!

5. Instagram

Thought social media was a complete no-no in the professional world? Not anymore! Professionals, especially those in creative, imagery-based fields, often utilize Instagram to show off their stuff.

Aspiring photographer? Show your creative eye by taking elegant, imaginative photos. Aspiring lifestyle writer? Show your knack for decorating, party throwing and food-making. The possibilities are endless, as long as you maintain a classy Instagram persona that's not compromised by inappropriate posts. Of course, that's not to say that you need an account that's entirely business-geared. Mix a little work and a little (tasteful) play for the perfect personality-showing potion. After all, the hiring manager probably doesn't want someone who never goes out and only takes photos of cool patterns all day—boring!

6. Pinterest

Similar to Instagram, Pinterest can showcase your unique interests and eye, without the intimidation of having to take your own photos. If you're not sure you can take awe-inspiring snapshots, browse our favorite pinning site and create a personal collection of inspired boards.

Ready to get hired at a tech start-up? Create technology-inspired boards. Want to be a stylist? Show your stuff by pinning outfit boards or organizing boards by clothing type. Even if you're an aspiring writer, you can use Pinterest to your advantage. Name your boards with buzz-worthy titles that really show your pun-tastic personality.

7. LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a glorified resume with the added benefit of attaching documents, images and links to your page. After you fill out every section of your profile (paying special attention to the empty slate that the "Summary" section provides!), find creative ways to insert works you've done that really demonstrate your talent.

Also utilize LinkedIn's cover photo feature. While this shouldn't be an image of your latest group selfie or your two kittens (that's for Facebook, people), you can still add some character to the cover. Think of something industry-related that you could post, such as a simple and sophisticated image of your art table, complete with a few of your latest paintings scattered about.

Finally, you can join various groups and follow various companies and organizations on LinkedIn. While following your dream company (and anywhere else you're applying to) is a must, you don't have to limit your alliances to one specific industry. An employer will definitely want you to show extreme interest in your desired field, but they might also be pleasantly surprised to find that you belong to a Barre group, which just happens to be their favorite form of exercise!

Overall, there are more ways than you think to flash some character in your next application. The proper mix of creativity, care, caution and class can bring you from cover-letter clone to top-choice candidate. And with an personality-infused website from Squarespace, we promise you’ll beat all of the competition! 

Women have been historically underrepresented in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math. Many colleges and universities with STEM programs host way more male students than female students, making it incredibly hard for women STEM majors in gender-biased classrooms and with the lack of female role models. Luckily, however, there are some incredible colleges out there determined to combat the STEM gender gap. These inspiring and supportive campuses are the perfect homes for any girl who's a math mastermind, aspiring engineer, tech-obsessed computer whiz or scientist-in-training!

10. MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (Cambridge, MA)

Chances are, you've heard of MIT. It's constantly being referred to as one of the best tech colleges in existence, and what makes it even better is its special focus on helping female STEM students succeed just as well and as often as their male counterparts.

MIT has its very own Women's Initiative program all about women in science, aimed at making future female STEM students feel welcome, appreciated and supported in the field. The Women's Initiative program brings presenters from MIT around the country to reach middle and high school girls before society slams down their STEM dreams—it's a mission that's truly inspirational.

9. WESTMINSTER COLLEGE (New Wilmington, PA)

Westminster earned the #1 spot on the Forbes list of the 10 Best Colleges for Females in STEM, as well as a spot on the 2015 STEM Jobs Approved Colleges list due to its unstoppable commitment to helping women succeed in STEM. In 2012, it was reported that 50 percent of students in the college's math and computer science departments were female (compared to a national average of only 15 percent), and Westminster was also reported as being one of the only colleges out there to graduate more female STEM majors than male STEM majors! The school's STEM departments are well-regarded for outstanding female faculty role models, and the college has even been granted funds to help bring underprivileged Pennsylvania schools better quality STEM teachers—providing brighter futures for STEM students in the generations to come.

8. COLBY COLLEGE (Waterville, ME)

Colby has a history of being female-friendly—it was the first all-male New England college to begin accepting women, after all! The school has also hosted career and feminism workshops via the incredibly valuable Colby Forum for Women in Science. And with impressive female enrollment in the college's science and mathematics divisions, you'll be sure to find some empowering female study buddies to rock your classes with!

7. HOWARD UNIVERSITY (Washington, DC)

Howard is a historically black university, meaning it fully understands the struggle of achieving a STEM education as a minority. Thus, Howard is devoted to paying special attention to women and other underrepresented and underprivileged students.

In 2014, the school was selected to receive up to $300,000 to be used towards increasing the diversity of STEM departments on campus, which means that there are substantial funds being dedicated solely to STEM success!

Additionally, Howard has an Advance It program which focuses on giving faculty members who are also women of color the resources they need to be game-changers in reducing the gender gap in education, which is especially important in the STEM fields.

6. BRYN MAWR COLLEGE (Bryn Mawr, PA)

Bryn Mawr's been taking names in the STEM world for quite some time. In 2013, Bryn Mawr welcomed the first-ever STEM Posse—a group of women pursuing STEM majors that may have otherwise been overlooked by the application process.

In 2014 the college was also awarded a $1.65 million grant dedicated to increasing research on improving math education with a specific focus on increasing diversity in the mathematics field.

Bryn Mawr has consistently been a nationwide leader in producing chemistry, math and physics graduates, many of whom then go onto earn graduate degrees. As an all-female college, these accomplishments are absolutely exceptional.

5. CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (Pasadena, CA)

CalTech was ranked an incredible #1 on U.S. News' list of Top Ranked Universities That Grant the Most STEM Degrees (tied with Colorado School of Mines). The school has specific targeted recruitment goals to ensure a greater female presence in classrooms and has been working on an initiative to double the school's number of female faculty members—pretty cool, if you ask us.

4. NEW YORK UNIVERSITY (New York, NY)

NYU is a highly acclaimed university, and the Polytechnic Institute—home of the university's engineering school—is no exception. The school has above-average female participation in STEM, active recruitment of female applicants and a focus on female mentorship on campus.The Polytechnic Institute even offers pre-college STEM development programs, and the school's Hacking the Glass Ceiling conference aims to advocate for women entering cyber security fields—talk about bada**!

3. TUSKEGEE UNIVERSITY (Tuskegee, AL)

Much like Howard, Tuskegee is a historically black university that works to assist all of its students, but with a special focus on empowering minority scholars. Its specific commitment to women is especially notable and praiseworthy.

The university was ranked #6 on the Forbes list and even maintains partnerships with big-time STEM-related companies, including Hewlett-Packard and Xerox, to provide qualifying students with incredible internship experience to slap on their resume.

2. HARVEY MUDD COLLEGE (Claremont, CA)

Harvey Mudd is a liberal arts college with a special focus on science and engineering—two major components to any STEM education. Like Westminster, Mudd was just featured on the 2015 list of STEM Jobs Approved Colleges, which is composed of schools chosen for meeting industry demands, having valuable programs and resources, and for supporting diversified student bodies and faculties.

Taking great care to ensure that an extremely diverse (and female-inclusive) pool of applicants is selected each year, the college is majorly appealing to any science-driven and techy girl. And so far, the school's diversifying efforts have proven to be extremely successful—the college's president, Maria Klawe, recently quadrupled Harvey Mudd's number of female computer science majors!

1. CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY (Pittsburgh, PA)

Carnegie Mellon has achieved #2 status on a list of the 10 Best Colleges for Females in STEM Fields and came in at #12 on the newest Jobvite ranking of the best colleges for landing a job in Silicon Valley. Why? The university apparently increased its percentage of female computer science students from a mere seven percent to over a whopping 40 percent in just a decade—amazing!

Carnegie Mellon has also hosted afterschool Techbridge events that bring young and aspiring STEM students on-campus to explore the universities' STEM programs.

Sheryl Root, an Associate Professor of Software Management at the school's Silicon Valley campus, was also just inducted into the Women in Technology Hall of Fame, so you can be sure that if you're looking to succeed in STEM at Carnegie Mellon, you'll have some incredible mentors backing you up.

In case you hadn’t heard, college can get stressful. But between guided meditation, farming and picturesque campuses surrounded by nature, students at these schools are more than well equipped to confront those finals (if they even have grades at all!). Check out our list of best schools for yogis in the making.

10. COLORADO COLLEGE (Colorado Springs, Colorado)

This picture-perfect campus is located in the Pikes Peak mountain region, and encourages students to use the outdoors to contemplate and discuss the issues that matter most to them. The Wellness Resource Center has an impressive holistic approach to health, and is dedicated to intellectual, socio-cultural, emotional, physical wellness and more! It offers plenty of stress management workshops, so that students can feel and do their best all year long. As for residence halls, they are "oases" to retire to, and the plentiful on-campus eateries promise the option of enjoying a meal made with all-natural ingredients.

9. ECKERD COLLEGE (St. Petersburg, Florida)

Aside from its amazing waterfront location, this small liberal arts college promotes overall student health through fitness classes like yoga, pilates and tai chi, plentiful annual wellness education events and a financial incentive for students and faculty who register for local fitness events—think 5Ks and triathlons.

"We have a Reflective Service Learning course that focuses on yoga," says Julia, a junior at Eckerd. "Before any of the Service Learning events, the Director of Service Learning leads the group in meditation and yoga. Walk past South Beach and Kappa Field at sunset on any given day and you will see a handful of individuals becoming one with nature. Most students walk barefoot everywhere; in fact, we are classified as a barefoot campus! We are all proud of the zen vibe we give off and we truly embrace Eckerd's motto, 'Think Outside.'"

8. BOWDOIN COLLEGE (Brunswick, Maine)

Ranked #15 on Greatist's list of the 25 Healthiest Colleges in the U.S. in 2014, Bowdoin has some of the best dining hall food in the country. It's not surprising, considering many of the ingredients come from the school's very own student-initiated Organic Garden! The garden produces tons of vegetables and even maple syrup! Mmmmh.

There are also plenty of yoga classes to choose from, as well as free meditation and Qigong. The Wellness Center offers seminars, workshops and retreats for students to learn about acupuncture, massage, reflexology, Chinese Medicine and integrative medicine approaches to health and wellbeing. We feel more relaxed already.

7. UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (Seattle, Washington)

So Huskies like to throw the word "mindfulness" around, in true Washington State fashion. The UW Mindfulness Project is a work in progress run by students, faculty and soon, yoga and mindfulness instructors, to promote holistic wellbeing on campus. But for the time being, students already have access to yoga and meditation classes, and the Yogis at UW club has a huge membership and a blog with yogi highlights, healthy recipes, mindful tips and more! Namaste.

6. HAMPSHIRE COLLEGE (Amherst, Massachusetts)

Hampshire academics are the definition of laid-back, with broad, personalized concentrations instead of majors and detailed, comprehensive narrative evaluations in place of traditional grades.  As for the spiritual life department, it goes way beyond religion, offering yoga and meditation workshops and an alternative health fair. The department also brings in health practitioners to speak to the student body. Finally, there are plenty of relaxing fitness activities to choose from, including yoga, Aikido, hiking and—wait for it—Japanese Zen archery. We could probably deal with that.

5. WARREN WILSON COLLEGE (Asheville, North Carolina)

Originally founded as a farming school, it’s no wonder Warren Wilson is so committed to healthy living! The student-run farm still operates today and makes a point of producing meat and vegetables through sustainable practices. The Wellness Program on campus offers activities like "yoga, vegetarian cooking, and workshops on topics such as herb identification, gender-specific health, healing arts, meditation and Earth skills," whatever that is. And in the Warren Wilson Wellness Apothecary, students can learn all about herbal healing practices. Sounds pretty zen to us!

4. LEWIS & CLARK COLLEGE (Portland, Oregon)

Lewis & Clark offers students the opportunity to apply for themed housing programs called Living-Learning Communities (or LLCs), including the Holistic Wellness LLC. This program encourages its students to develop a personal philosophy of holistic wellness through meditation, community service, exercise, proper nutrition, stress reduction and relationship building. And apparently, L&C's dining services were the first to commit to a whole bunch of sustainable food practices, such as reducing antibiotic use in farm animals and supporting local agriculture. Plus, the school gym offers pilates, meditation and yoga classes.

3. GREEN MOUNTAIN COLLEGE (Poultney, Vermont)

GMC takes wellness through meditation to whole new level. The campus labyrinth (yes, you read that right) "offers a space for prayer, meditation and centering." The chapel and meditation room host artwork inspired by many religions, ranging from Judaism to Taoism. It is furnished with chairs and meditation cushions, and equipped with a sound system and a collection of spiritual music and guided meditation CDs.

This eco-friendly campus also features a student-motivated farm and a meditation space and medicinal garden, where students can meditate in the midst of medicinal herbs and plants. The Wellness Center offers plenty of activities, like yoga, massage therapy and—surprise, surprise—guided meditation. And Green Mountain students are totally into it, participating in organizations such as Healers Club, a New Age spiritual group, and HERBAL Tribe, which aims to "educate the community about the health benefits of herbal remedies."

2. UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO AT TAOS (Taos, New Mexico)

At UNM-Taos, students can basically minor in yoga and meditation, thanks to the Holistic Health and Healing Arts Certificate program. To become a yoga instructor, they can take a training course right on campus. And if their stress levels are still high, the Lobos have plenty of relaxing events to choose from on campus, which have previously included a Pre-Finals Blow Out, the Taos Sustainable Living Symposium and "Live Happy: Five Habits for Less Stress and More Fun" with author Ellen Wood.

1. UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT (Burlington, Vermont)

"Stress" isn't in UVM students' vocabulary. Between FREE drop-in meditation groups, yoga, pilates, Vinyasa classes and massages, finals will never get the best of the Catamounts. And if that wasn't enough, students and faculty can head over to the campus Relaxation Room between classes.

For those who want to take their passion for yoga one step further, UVM offers a yoga teacher training, and an annual yoga conference is held on campus. And because eating right is a big part of being healthy, Catamount Educational Farm sells organic produce from early June to mid-October. Staying healthy in college has never been easier!

At these schools, the weekends are not just for partying and watching Netflix. Students organize rallies and protests on the reg, because they’re here for one reason: to change the world. Between police brutality and women’s rights, poverty and sexual assault, no issue is left out. Check out our list of the most socially conscious schools!

10. COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY (New York City, New York)

In 2014, then senior Emma Sulkowicz vowed to carry a mattress around with her as long as her alleged rapist remained at Columbia, symbolizing the weight she carried. In support for Emma, groups of students have imitated her, going as far as leaving mattresses at the school President's home.

These events are in line with a long history of student activism at Columbia, of which one of the most memorable events was the 1968 protest against racism, organized by Students for a Democratic Society, which resulted in a surge of violence against the participants. Tradition lives on.

9. AMERICAN UNIVERSITY (Washington, District of Columbia)

Located in the nation's capital, it comes as no surprise that American University is so reputed for its political activism. "American University. Literally always holding protests," says Grace, a senior at the school. "I can't count how many rallies there have been in the last semester alone, whether it's concerning police brutality, environment and divestment, or what have you, there's probably at least two every month, but probably more."

Students are engaged in a full range of social justice organizations on campus, from Amnesty International to Eco-Sense, which landed them fourth position on the Princeton Review's list of most politically active students in 2014. Alumni include Alice Paul, who created the Equal Rights Amendment to advance gender equality, as well as dozens of local, national and international political leaders.

8. HOWARD UNIVERSITY (Washington, District of Columbia)

This historically black university aims to eliminate all inequalities due to race, class and political convictions. The school considers it its mission to provide service to the nation and the community. It offers programs that are open to the public, such as health education and legal assistance. Among Howard alumni are many prominent civil rights activists, including Vernon Jordan, Jr., Stokely Carmichael and James Farmer. As for current students, they are involved in countless social justice organizations, such as Circle K and the Red Cross Club.

7. KENT STATE UNIVERSITY (Kent, Ohio)

The tragic police shooting of 13 Kent State students who were protesting the Vietnam War in 1970 has shaped the school's values and emphasis on nonviolent social change. The school holds a biennial Democracy Symposium to commemorate the events and engage students and faculty in meaningful discussions that will help to change the world around them.

"We are a very liberal school, so there are protests daily," says Danie, a junior at KSU. "Whether it is Pride, Black United Students or just a protest because someone doesn't like that there are 8 a.m. classes."

More recently, the university has held the Women’s Leadership Symposium to promote women's rights. As for residential life at KSU, all students can expect to be treated equally, thanks to the student-led Social Justice Committee, which upholds diversity, education and inclusion.

6. BRANDEIS UNIVERSITY (Waltham, Massachusetts)

Brandeis describes itself as embodying founder Louis Dembitz Brandeis's values of academic excellence and social justice. The school counts 26 student groups for political activism, including Liberty in North Korea (LiNK) and the Feminist Majority Leadership Alliance.

"Students spend their free time organizing and attending weekly peace vigils, conducting sit-ins to protest university sexual assault protocol, and taking to social media to share and discuss views on current events," says Emily, a junior at the school.

Students have demonstrated against such important issues as sexual violence, tuition raises, justice for disabled students and pollution. All of these issues culminate in the annual "weeklong festival of social justice" on campus, ‘DEIS Impact!,’ when "the whole Brandeis community comes together," according to Emily. These kids really put the “social” in “social justice!”

5. BARD COLLEGE (Annandale-On-Hudson, New York)

The Center for Civic Engagement at this liberal arts college encourages Bard students to make an impact on the world around them, whether in the U.S. or abroad. Hundreds of students participate in volunteer work through the Center, tutoring local kids or fighting for racial justice. The Trustee Leader Scholar program pushes students to create their own civic engagement initiatives. Through this program, Raptors have started the Red Hook ESL Center, which aims to teach English to non-native speakers in the area, and Sounds of Social Change, which mentors young musicians in Colombia, among many other amazing projects. Bard students have also made moves to "expand social justice education" in response to the Ferguson protests and die-in movements.

4. CHATHAM UNIVERSITY (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)

Chatham students were super active in the anti-Vietnam War protests, but this college, which went co-ed in 2014, is especially concerned with women's rights. It is home to a Center for Women's Entrepreneurship and the Pennsylvania Center for Women and Politics. The latter has a weeklong intensive program to promote female leadership, a cause that speaks to us at Her Campus. “HC Chatham partnered with PCWP on screenings of ‘Miss Representation’ and 'Madame Presidenta: Why Not U.S.? Vamos Meninas!,'” says Mara Flanagan, a recent Chatham graduate and a Campus Correspondent for HC.

As if that wasn’t enough, “many students are engaged in advocacy independently of campus institutes,” Mara says. “Chatham’s program in Creative Writing hosts Words Without Walls, inviting MFA candidates to teach at the Allegheny County Jail. Undergraduates are active in organizations including All Faith Gathering, Amnesty International, Cross Cultural Communications, Green Horizons (environmental awareness) and Naturality (food justice, green living, etc.).”

3. UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA (Gainesville, Florida)

UF in the sixties was nicknamed "the Berkeley of the South" for its role in the anti-war and desegregation movements. University alumni include Judith Brown, who actively participated in the second wave feminist movement of the sixties and seventies, and Eleanor Smeal, former president of the National Organization for Women. The school has a long history of fighting for minorities, and joined the ranks of the Ferguson protestors in 2014.

"UF has a very vocal student body," says Abbie, a senior at the school. "We have demonstrations, rallies, protests and talks on everything social justice-oriented. We held a #BlackLivesMatter 'die-in' this past year, held rallies and demonstrations for the Israel conflict, Syria, police brutality and much more. There are political groups and social justice groups in our main plaza every day talking to students about current issues. UF students have strong opinions about current events and voice those opinions every day."

Gators have battled for abortion rights, and participated in anti-war movements, as well as many other hot-button issues. You won't be surprised, then, that UF has sent more of its recent graduates to the Peace Corps than any other school in the Southeast.

2. UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT BERKELEY (Berkeley, California)

Of course the birthplace of the 1964 Free Speech Movement would make the cut. At the time, students fought for their freedom of expression and right to engage in political activism on campus.

Cal has since been a hotbed for social justice movements, holding an annual student-led Social Justice Symposium, and participating in every important fight, frequently making headlines for protesting such issues as police brutality or tuition hikes. And when they're not sparking up full-blown movements, students help to rebuild the Gulf Coast and work to bridge the racial achievement gap, all while including the larger community in their efforts. Go Bears!

1. BENNINGTON COLLEGE (Bennington, Vermont)

So Gloria Steinem was the commencement speaker this year at Bennington. No big deal, though. The school website itself shows its students and faculty's commitment to social justice, with the usual "campus life" and "academics" categories being supplemented with "Think. Act,""Plans in Action" and "Bennington and the World."

Bennington is, and we quote, "the only college to require that students spend a term - every year - at work in the world." This is the Field Work Term, when students intern at various companies and organizations, working to reform the education system, forming and leading their own NGOs, helping to fix issues in NASA projects and distributing private funds to respond to "the world's most pressing problems." All that as undergraduates!

From the landmark Supreme Court ruling to legalize same-sex marriage in all 50 states to Caitlyn Jenner’s Vanity Fair cover, it’s been a big year for the LGBTQ+ community. If you’re searching for a school with an open-minded and accepting student body, look no further. Whether it’s an inclusive LGBTQ+ support system, an awesome Pride Week, gender-neutral bathrooms or an LGBT Studies minor, these colleges all have active LGBTQ+ communities.

10. WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY (Middletown, Connecticut)

Do you want to room with other individuals in the LGBTQ+ community? Wesleyan University’s “Open House” is a literal safe space for LGBTQ+ students. Any student is welcome to apply for this inclusive housing option that celebrates all aspects of queer life. Wesleyan also uses preferred pronouns, meaning professors and students don’t assume that others use gendered pronouns such as he or she. Instead, they ask individuals about how they prefer to be addressed—with a gender-neutral pronoun, for example.  Additionally, 59 of Wesleyan's 67 academic and administrative buildings currently have single-use “all gender” restrooms. Yes Wesleyan, yaass!

9. SKIDMORE COLLEGE (Saratoga Springs, New York)

If you haven’t heard of Skidmore College, it needs to be on your radar. We think Skidmore should be known for its accepting student body and active LGBTQ+ community. Skidmore also has gender-neutral bathrooms on campus. “Skidmore is notorious for being an earthy-crunchy, liberal school and it's true!” says Sara Pion, a junior. “Everyone accepts their peers no matter how they choose to live their life. Our LGBTQ community is strong, active and widely supported.” Now that’s what we like to hear!

8. UNIVERSITY AT ALBANY – SUNY (Albany, New York)

It’s time we recognize Upstate New York for something other than snow. An LGBTQ Advisory Committee was established at University at Albany - SUNY in fall 2009. There is gender inclusive housing, and an LGBTQIA Alumni Constituency Group, which enables LGBTQ+ graduates to remain connected to the university and to each other through networking and events. The University has a Sexuality Week each year. The event includes exhibits, speaker presentations, film screenings and discussions, workshops and programs. In 2015, Laverne Cox was the keynote speaker.

“We have a growing Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies department which is open for…everybody to learn about the history of the LGBTQ+ community and their ongoing accomplishments,” says Tabia Robinson, a senior at University at Albany – SUNY.  “I am very proud of my school when it comes to LGBTQ+ awareness.” Talk about school pride!

7. ECKERD COLLEGE (St. Petersburg, Florida)

Not only is Eckerd College located in warm and sunny Florida, but it also has a flourishing LGBTQ+ community. Eckerd has gender-neutral housing as of Fall 2014. Many LGBTQ+ events are held throughout the year, most notably an annual Pride Week that includes a Drag Show. “Students can compete in [the drag show], but we also brought in local professional drag queens,” says recent Eckerd graduate Danielle Buchanan.

“We have a strong LGBTQ+ community,” says Julia Tanquary, a junior at Eckerd. “Every spring, the EC Queer-Straight Alliance club hosts a Pride parade around campus and holds an ‘Allies Rock’ Concert to support allies.” Sounds fun (and beneficial) to us!

6. UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, LOS ANGELES (Los Angeles, California)

If you’re looking for a school with plenty of LGBTQ+ resources, check out University of California, Los Angeles. UCLA’s LGBT Campus Resource Center promotes events such as a social for first years and transfers, and an annual LGBTQ Fall Resource Fair. The website has a campus “OUTLIST,” a tool for students that lists the names and titles of all LGBTQ+ affiliated individuals on campus, links to LGBTQ scholarship applications and UCLA's Rainbow Connection, a confidential service that allows students to chat with trained peer mentors. The Rae Lee LGBT Center Library is one of the largest libraries of its kind at a college. There are close to 4,000 books and periodicals for and about LGBTQ people.

“UCLA has a thriving LGBTQIA center, an LGBT sorority and a gay fraternity,” says UCLA senior Iris Goldsztajn. “There is a campus-wide ally week [each year] with tons of events. Academically, the LGBT studies and gender studies programs have brilliant professors and guest speakers (I’m a gender minor).” When can we enroll?

5. SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY (Syracuse, New York)

Another LGBTQ+ friendly school located in Upstate New York is Syracuse University. Syracuse has an LGBT Studies minor that is open to all students. SU also holds a First Year Forum Class dedicated to LGBTQ issues. There is even an LGBTQ Learning Community that hosts activities and events, such as whitewater rafting and a trip to Washington, D.C. to explore historic LGBTQ+ neighborhoods, plus a retreat for freshmen and sophomores.

4. HARVARD UNIVERSITY (Cambridge, Massachusetts)

Move over Mark Zuckerberg, Harvard is about to be known for someone new. The university will have the first openly transgender swimmer in NCAA history when Harvard student Schuyler Bailar competes for the university's swim team this fall. The Harvard Office of BGLTQ Student Life has an “Out at Harvard” section that lists faculty and staff who identify as LGBTQ. Harvard has a queer Jewish organization, a group for LGBTQ business students and many more LGBTQ groups on campus.

3. OBERLIN COLLEGE (Oberlin, Ohio)

Why should you consider applying to school in Ohio? Because of Oberlin College. Oberlin’s Multicultural Resource Center offers tons of LGBTQ-related organizations, workshops and programs. These include a Transgender Advocacy Group, and a group called Queer Peers, which “aims to teach awareness and acceptance of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning issues in middle school and high school communities.” What an amazing resource for teens.

2. STANFORD UNIVERSITY (Stanford, California)

Speaking of progressive, let’s talk about Stanford University. Stanford recently hired an openly gay woman, as well as an LGBTQ activist, for their Dean for Religious Life. The university has also topped the Princeton Review's list of most LGBTQ-friendly schools in the U.S.

And students agree! “I can tell you that pretty much everyone on campus is very accepting and respectful of those who identify in the LGBTQ+ spectrum,” says LoMo Phillips, a junior at Stanford. “There is a lot of LGBTQ+ issue awareness brought up by a core group of activists, especially pertaining to the constant killings of trans womyn of color; however, I think Stanford students should be more participatory in not only acknowledging these issues, but also being a part of the fight against them.” While Stanford is undoubtedly a great place to be if you’re on the LGBTQ spectrum (or an ally!), we love that these students know there is always more work to be done.

1. EMERSON COLLEGE (Boston, Massachusetts)

Emerson College has been named the Princeton Review's #1 LGBTQ-friendly school, and for good reason. As a small college for communication and the arts, the Emerson community is very accepting. “When students apply to attend Emerson, there are multiple choices aside from the traditional male and female options on their applications, including genderqueer/androgynous, intersex, transgender, transsexual, cross-dresser, FTM (female-to-male) and MTF (male-to-female),” says Emerson junior Jacqueline Weiss.

“E.A.G.L.E. (Emerson’s Alliance for Gays, Lesbians and Everyone) is an organization that sponsors functions for the community on issues relevant to LGBTQ+ culture,” Jacqueline says. “Additionally, the environment at school from both your peers and faculty as a whole is very accepting of students of every sexual orientation.” As an example, in 2013, Emerson's Phi Alpha Tau fraternity raised awareness and money for a transgender brother's “Top Surgery” when he found out that his medical insurance wouldn't cover it. There’s no question why Emerson is our top LGBTQ+ friendly school.  

Your dog has been by your side since you were in diapers. He's listened to and loved you on countless occasions, and you can't bear the thought of saying goodbye for college—even if it's only temporary. Luckily, you're not alone, and you may not have to say goodbye after all! Nowadays, colleges and universities nationwide are recognizing the fact that tons of collegiettes are absolutely dreading going pet-free and have come up with a multitude of solutions to heal both homesickness and pet-sickness. Whether they allow pets in dorm rooms or simply boast dog-filled quads on a regular basis, these colleges share your love of animals and guarantee opportunities to interact with some four-legged friends.

10. LEHIGH UNIVERSITY (Bethlehem, PA)

Lehigh boasts an extensive Greek life program, and we have a hunch as to why! Apparently, there's some extra incentive to rushing come fall—each sorority and fraternity has the option of allowing either one dog or cat to pledge! So if you're all about a fur-filled life, and have been considering going Greek, Lehigh may be your animal-friendly haven.

Best of all, that cat or dog could be yours! The rules? If you come to find that your house has a pet vacancy, simply discuss the prospect of adopting one and follow specific identification, vaccination and insurance policies to apply. As the legal owner of the house's pet you'll take on some additional responsibilities, but the prospect of bringing Fluffy from back home is well worth the commitment!

9. CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY (Cleveland, OH)

At Case Western, pet approval is not uncommon—so long as your companion is cageable, non-poisonous (no poison dart frogs, ladies) and on the small side. So while dogs, cats and ferrets are a campus no-no, you can definitely make a case for bunnies, guinea pigs, harmless lizards and fish.

And like Lehigh, going Greek comes with added benefits. Greek houses have the right to appeal the normal pet policy to bring some fur into their living space. Under the label of "mascots," these pets are given special permission to experience college life alongside their two-legged friends—how cute is that?

8. SWEET BRIAR COLLEGE (Sweet Briar, VA)

While you may not get away with bringing man's best friend to this Virginia college, you have the option of bringing your horse. Yes, you read that right!

If you belong to Sweet Briar's riding program, your horse from home can attend college alongside you, so stock up on those carrots! Your horse will be given the best of care, with veterinarians, equine chiropractors and equine dentists available. And with spacious fields and gorgeous stables abound, you might just like his or her living quarters better than your dorm room!

7.  WASHINGTON & JEFFERSON COLLEGE (Washington, PA)

Washington and Jefferson's Monroe Hall, appropriately deemed the "Pet House," allows all of your usual pets: cats, dogs under 40 pounds, hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, small birds, turtles and fish. Sounds like a live-in pet store to us—score! Worried about allergies? Pass up on Monroe Hall and live in any other dorm on campus—every residence hall allows aquariums! But what if you're worried about the commitment altogether? Fear, not, as there's a solution for that too—Monroe Hall also allows daytime visits from at-home pets.

Just remember to consult your roomie before bringing Fido along—Washington and Jefferson caps occupancy at one dog or cat (or two small animals) per room. Of course, stay in the Pet House for multiple years and you'll have the option of scoring a double-as-a-single—so yes, you really can have a dog as a roommate.

6. STETSON UNIVERSITY (DeLand, FL)

Stetson is a pet-lover's dream, offering four different animal-friendly residencies at their DeLand campus. Qualifying pets include cats, dogs (not exceeding 50 pounds), gerbils, chinchillas, fish and more. And if you're worried about your dog adapting to college life, never fear. He'll make as many friends as you do, thanks to the on-campus dog park!

Additionally, students at Stetson also have the option of participating in a dog-training program, as Stetson partners with various service dog organizations. We're all for a good cause—and especially one that involves adorable animals.

5. STEPHENS COLLEGE (Columbia, MO)

Cats and dogs are regular tenants at Stephens'"Pet Central" Searcy Hall and the entirely pet-friendly Tower Hall, as well as on specific floors in some of the other residencies. What's more, lizards, birds and fish are also allowed (among other pets), and unlike other colleges, Stephens has no pet weight restrictions.

Worried about what your pup will be up to while you're in class? Just send her over to Stephen's Doggie Daycare. And if that's not enough to make you and your pet feel at home, the president's office offers doggy treats, the bookstore offers dog toys and there's an annual Halloween pet costume parade (How adorable is that?!). Best of all, Stephens College partners with no-kill shelters to offer students the option of being a pet foster parent—charitable and dog-loving? Sign us up.

4.  UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN COLORADO (Greeley, CO)

Catching on to the pet-friendly craze that's sweeping college campuses, the University of Northern Colorado started their pet program just last year! One hall on campus allows cats and dogs to reside on three of the dormitory's floors, aiming to help students acclimate to college life while also teaching new levels of responsibility (because trust us, caring for a pet isn't a walk in the park). One goal of the new program is to make campus housing more homey and comfortable in attempts to keep students living on-campus longer. Apparently, it's working, because students are thrilled at the news!

3. UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT (Storrs, CT)

UCONN has an on-campus farm complete with cows, horses, chicken and sheep! The barns are open to the public and often house newborn animals which is a fact that's almost too cute to handle.

But why does UCONN house animals, anyway? UCONN's College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources offers 18 different degrees and has an incredible partnership with Iowa State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, allowing five students to attend vet school for in-state tuition costs every single year. UCONN is rightfully ranked as a top 10 pre-vet college, making it the perfect place for animal lovers who want to make their pet passion a career.

There are also 11 animal-related clubs on campus—seriously impressive!—and the school mascot is coincidentally a beloved husky.

2. VASSAR COLLEGE (Poughkeepsie, NY)

Vassar College may not allow anything other than small caged or tanked animals in their residence halls, but that's no problem considering the amplitude of pets constantly visible on campus! Students have been granted permission to house everything from lizards to bunnies, and at one point the on-campus co-op Ferry House was home to—wait for it—chickens! As long as your roommates or housemates consent to housing an approved pet, you're golden.

And if you're not about rodents, amphibians or reptiles, Vassar will give you a daily dose of dog exposure, guaranteed. It's not uncommon for professors to walk their dogs around campus (or bring them to class!) and they often hire students as dog walkers. Additionally, the House Advisors and House Fellows that live in residence halls alongside students are likely to own furry companions as well. This means that even if you can't host a furball in your room, you'll still constantly find pets roaming the halls and relaxing in the lounges just waiting to make friends!

1. KENT STATE UNIVERSITY (Kent, OH)

Dr. Kathy Adamle, an Assistant Professor at the College of Nursing at Kent State, founded the Dogs on Campus Pet Therapy Program after realizing just how many students considered pets as family members and experienced true separation anxiety from their furry friends when entering college.  

Dogs on Campus began by bringing canine companions to Kent State, but has since expanded so that students at other colleges can request visits to their own campuses. The program has inspired pet therapy and stress-busting initiatives at colleges and universities across the nation, but nothing beats the original game-changing program housed at Kent State. The dogs provide support for students, faculty and staff alike, and you can find the four-legged participants sharing doggy kisses and barks of joy in residence halls, classrooms and even the library during finals week. If that's not enough, the dogs also make emergency visits for special circumstances, so that students never have to be alone during hard times.

So if you just know you're going to have a tough time saying goodbye to your best friend, Kent State is here to help. Promising to "bridge the gap between home and the heart," Dogs on Campus at Kent State will ensure you feel welcome and comfortable with your new college family.

Where Lilly Pulitzer is always in and Sperrys are the norm, these preppy schools take their style seriously. With mottos like “guys in ties, girls in pearls” and nicknames like “J.Crew U,” you know you’ll find grade A prepsters at these 10 schools, probably Longchamp or Vineyard Vines bag in hand.

10. GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY (Washington, D.C.)

When a Georgetown alumna dedicates an entire blog to preppy style, you know this ranking is well-deserved. If you visit The Tombs, a popular hangout for students, you’ll see guys rocking Sperrys and salmon shorts and girls carrying their designer bags. This shouldn’t come as a surprise since the university is known for attracting “aspiring Senators, presidents and D.C. socialites.”

It was also rated the #1 preppiest college by Huffington Post in 2012, probably because the majority of Hoyas love to shop on M Street at places like Barbour, J.Crew and Kate Spade. Whether Georgetown students are socializing at a tailgate or heading to class, you know they’re dressed to impress.

9. MIAMI UNIVERSITY OF OHIO (Oxford, Ohio)

Nicknamed “J.Crew U” and “the mother of fraternities,” Miami University of Ohio gets an A+ for its preppy style. It’s a place where North Face jackets and UGG boots are a must in the winter, and boat shoes and sundresses are staples for the summer. It’s not uncommon to see guys in khakis and button downs on a normal day either. Oh, and 85 percent of the student body receives emails from J.Crew.

Preppiness is usually associated with Ivy League schools, but Miami of Ohio fits the stereotype because it was officially named a “Public Ivy” by Richard Moll in his 1985 book The Public Ivys: A Guide to America’s Best Public Undergraduate Colleges and Universities. Plus, the students like to consider their school the Harvard of the Midwest. Can’t get much preppier than that.

8. TRINITY COLLEGE (Hartford, CT)

With Chatham, Harwich Port, Montauk and Nantucket close by, it’s easy for Trinity students to get their preppy style fix. J. McLaughlin, Tory Burch and Sail to Sable (which was started by a Trinity grad!) are all popular stores for students to get their prep on.

Trinity was also named the preppiest school in New England in True Prep by Lisa Birnbach, aka the bible of all things preppy. “I have to stand by my decision,” Birnbach told the Trinity Tripod in 2011.  “I’m willing to say that Trinity is the preppiest school in New England.”

Even Trinity’s HC Campus Correspondent, Molly Schineller, wrote an entire article on how her college made her preppy. Take it from Molly; sometimes you just have to embrace the Sperrys.

7. ELON UNIVERSITY (Elon, NC)

Known for its strong Greek life and good-looking student population, Elon University was an easy pick for this year’s preppy list.

When you're exploring Elon's manicured campus, chances are you'll run into collegiettes wearing Lilly Pulitzer dresses and guys sporting Vineyard Vines and Sperry's. The vibe you get when walking around campus is that the majority of the student body is preppy and put together. 

Where it’s a sin to wear pajamas to class, and there’s an unspoken rule to rock a sundress to a tailgate, Elon is the perfect school for northern and southern prepsters alike.

6. FURMAN UNIVERSITY (Greenville, SC)

Located in Greenville, S.C., Furman University is a small southern school with a big preppy punch. It’s also known as the “Country Club of the South,” where terms like “sororadorable” and “frat-tastic” are common amongst students.

According to College Prowler Off The Record,“Furman has an unusually attractive student body. People work out all the time and generally dress rather well for classes. It’s a preppy school, so if you like the country club, Lily Pulitzer, Ralph Lauren look then” Furman is the place for you.

Girls, if you’re looking for the perfect outfit for a tailgate or formal, you can stop by Pink Bee, a popular store in Greenville that sells Lilly Pulitzer, Vineyard Vines and Barbour. Guys, just stick to bowties and you’ll fit right in.

5. PRINCETON UNIVERSITY (Princeton, NJ)

This list wouldn’t be complete without at least one Ivy League school. One of the preppiest and most popular events during the year is “Spring Lawnparties,” which are basically an excuse for girls to break out their sundresses and guys, their bow ties. If you check out Ajibike Lapite’s fashion article on Princeton’s Her Campus chapter page, you’ll find countless photos of Princeton students rocking pastels, cardigans and button downs.

Good thing for these Ivy League students, preppy fashion is never hard to find considering the proximity of J.Crew and Ralph Lauren stores, as well as some Princeton exclusive boutiques like Nick Hilton. According to the Princeton Found blog,“preppy is a lifestyle,” proving that it’s possible to have style and smarts.

4. UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA (Charlottesville, VA)

If there were one way to describe UVA, it would be “Guys in Ties, Girls in Pearls.” Not only does the phrase have its own Facebook page, but it’s also the unofficial dress code for the school’s tailgates and campus-wide events.

“There really isn’t a better way to describe [UVA’s] student section during football games,” says Carolyn, a current junior at UVA. “Students fill the hill in Scott Stadium to cheer on their ‘hoos, and girls can be seen rocking orange and navy dresses with pearl necklaces, accompanied by boys in button up shirts, bow ties and croakies.” Carolyn also says that the student section is on a steep incline, but that doesn’t stop the girls from wearing their cutest shoes.

In the springtime, UVA’s preppy style kicks into high gear, especially during the Foxfield Races, or simply “Foxfield” to students. “Foxfield is a beloved event in Charlottesville,” Carolyn explains. “Although it’s rare to actually see a horse, one is sure to witness a sea of Lilly Pulitzer dresses and boys in turquoise and pastel button up shirts with bow ties.” It’s also likely you’ll spot Vineyard Vines whale hats or huge monogrammed floppy sunhats.

3. VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY (Nashville, TN)

As a true southern school, Vanderbilt never has a shortage of guys in seersucker or girls in pearls. “Vanderbilt is clearly one of the preppiest colleges in the country,” says Christina, a sophomore at the school. “Our location in Nashville and prestigious national ranking [attract] Southern belles and New England prepsters.”

Named a top contender for “Preppy Tailgate Central” by Southern Living, Vandy students take their looks seriously, no matter if they’re cheering on their football team or going to class. “I thought when I went to college, I would start wearing sweatpants all the time,” Christina says. “Not true. I started dressing nicer at Vandy than I did at home. Now I wear dresses or skirts at least twice a week and dress up all the time.”

2. SEWANEE: THE UNIVERSITY OF THE SOUTH (Sewanee, TN)

Believe or not, Sewanee actually has a school-wide dress code policy named the “Dress Tradition” which states: “Class Dress varies with the seasons but typically men can be seen wearing khakis, a collared shirt or coat and tie; female students typically wear slacks or a skirt and a nice top or a dress.” Talk about taking preppy seriously.

“Sewanee is the University of the South for a reason—we have southern prep down to a T,” says Kate, a current sophomore at Sewanee. “Our tradition of class dress means sharply dressed men and women heading to class in a rainbow of pastels, and nothing looks better walking around a ten thousand acre campus than the pairs of Jack Rogers and Sperrys that students are always sporting.” As the #2 preppiest school ranked by the Huffington Post in 2011, Sewanee’s preppy style is more than just fashion; it’s part of the school’s tradition.

1. COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON (Charleston, SC)

This preppy southern school was named in The Official Preppy Handbook by Lisa Birnbach and certainly deserves the recognition. With King’s Street nearby, students have easy access to stores like J. McLaughlin, Brooks Brothers and Palm Avenue.

It also made Huffington Post’s preppiest list a few years ago, particularly due to the school’s tradition of all women wearing white dresses and men sporting white dinner jackets during graduation. 

Eating at the same university dining halls throughout the school year can really make you crave a home-cooked meal. Unless you attend one of these schools with amazing food on campus, that is. From cooking competitions to food studies classes, these ten colleges each have an exceptional culinary presence, not to mention delicious cuisine.

10. GRINNELL COLLEGE (Grinnell, Iowa)

Grinnell College is unique in that it has an incredible Culinary Intern Program. This program provides students with unique opportunities for learning, and gives them hands-on experience in the kitchen. Grinnell’s award-winning dining program also has a Dining Services Committee, which works to identify and meet the needs of students, faculty and staff.

9. OCCIDENTAL COLLEGE (Los Angeles, California)

Do you think you have what it takes to be the next top chef? If so, maybe Occidental College is the school for you! The college has a school-wide cooking competition called Oxy Iron Chef, and a Chef's Showcase where staff chefs prepare their favorite recipes for students. Occidental also has tons of food studies courses available to students, including “Restaurant Culture” and “Music and Food.” There is even a student-led class that aims to teach sustainable food practices, and takes place in the student-run FEAST organic garden. Individuals enrolled in the class learn cooking and gardening skills, and have the opportunity to listen to guest speakers lecture on topics ranging from nutrition to the restaurant industry. How cool is that?

8. YALE UNIVERSITY (New Haven, Connecticut)

Do your college goals include becoming a wine connoisseur? If your current experiences with vino are a little less “sommelier” and a little more “Barefoot and The Bachelorette,” you should consider applying to Yale University. Yale has tons of food-related events every year, including the 'Reality Bites' series, which offers programs on mixology, wine and meal pairings and formal dining etiquette to graduating seniors. There is also an annual, school-wide student culinary competition. Additionally, the Yale Dining mobile app, website and dining newsletter help keep students up-to-date on what there is to eat (and do!).

7. TUFTS UNIVERSITY (Medford, Massachusetts)

Tufts University has a “Think Global, Buy Local!” motto, which is carried out in several ways. There are weekly on-campus farmers' markets, a Trayless Initiative and a Mug Discount Program that provides discounts for students who utilize reusable mugs and water bottles. We’ll drink to that!

6. MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY (East Lansing, Michigan)

If you’re interested in learning how some of your favorite foods are made, you need to check out Michigan State University. The school has its own dairy plant, which produces various types of cheeses and ice cream. The products are then sold at MSU's Dairy Store. There are tons of flavors of ice cream and varieties of cheese.

According to Caitlin Taylor, a junior at Michigan State, “The MSU Dairy Store is absolutely amazing! All of the ice cream, cheese and milk is made fresh from MSU dairy cows raised on our agricultural land,” she says. “There are tons of different flavors of ice cream, many that are representative of different universities. A few of my favorites are the Sesquicentennial Swirl, Buckeye Blitz and Purdue [Tracks].” Plus, the store serves as an educational and outreach center. “Our campus is huge on anything agricultural,” Caitlin says. Moo-ve over Ben & Jerry’s, looks like there’s a new ice cream manufacturer in town!

5. VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY (Nashville, Tennessee)

If you’re all about local and organic food, Vandy’s the place for you. Vanderbilt University's Taste of Nashville program gives students up to $250 per semester (depending on their meal plan) to spend at participating local restaurants. “Even when we’re not eating in our award-winning dining halls and [enjoying] specialty food options, we’re eating world-class cuisine in the South’s finest eateries,” says Vanderbilt sophomore Christina Albert. Delicious home-style Southern cooking? Count us in!

Vanderbilt’s on-campus eateries are indeed fantastic. “Vanderbilt's vegetarian restaurant, Grins, was voted the top vegetarian restaurant in all of Nashville, which is a pretty hip city that has a lot of trendy food options,” says Christina. Grins is also accessible to the public.

4. UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, LOS ANGELES (Los Angeles, California)

UCLA is one of the most vegan-friendly universities in the country. A delicious, healthy dining hall called Bruin Plate, or BPlate for short, is a student favorite. “Dining services totally changed the game with Bruin Plate,” says UCLA senior Iris Goldsztajn. “Everyone fights to eat there—it's just that good! It features only wholesome ingredients and innovative dishes. All the dining halls are good, though, and offer a vegetarian version of every entrée,” Iris says. Of course, sustainability is also an important aspect of BPlate. “Students have an intense allegiance to BPlate,” says Christina Rice, a junior at UCLA. “All the ingredients are classic LA.” We’re talking quinoa, kale and oats.

There are more than 500 staff members (as of 2013) working in dining services, plus a dietician right on campus. As if all that wasn’t enough, UCLA students “are in the heart of LA surrounded by Beverly Hills, Santa Monica and Venice with all the best restaurants and dessert spots,” Christina says. Like we needed yet another reason to dream about moving to sunny CA!

3. EMORY UNIVERSITY (Atlanta, Georgia)

Are you passionate about Thanksgiving food? Would you attend an entire event celebrating tomatoes? If you answered yes to either of these questions, you should add Emory University to your list of potential schools. Emory has awesome dining events throughout the year, like a Welcome Street Fair (the food has a different theme each year), a Heritage Harvest Feast in November and an Heirloom Tomato Festival. Emory's Student-run Food Advisory Committee brings students together with dining staff. The committee holds monthly meetings open to the public. Just writing this is making us hungry!

2. WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY IN ST. LOUIS (St. Louis, Missouri)

With more than five events per week, including interactive cooking classes and chef demonstrations, Washington University in St. Louis is on top of the dining game. Not only are there themed dinners like Dr. Seuss night, but Wash U also has a strong commitment to sustainability. They compost as well as turn fryer waste oil into biofuel, which powers campus trucks!

1. BOWDOIN COLLEGE (Brunswick, Maine)

Is outstanding cuisine a top requirement for your future school? You’ll be drooling over Bowdoin College, our number one #foodie school. The dining halls have tons of gourmet options, and most of the vegetables are grown in Bowdoin's own organic gardens. There are on-campus farmers’ markets, too. “Common meals include parmesan risotto, white wine mussels and New England clam chowder,” says Bowdoin junior Phoebe Bumsted. “The Bowdoin Logs are infamous. I’ve even seen the dining hall serve roasted bacon-wrapped quail.” Sophomore Isel Fitzgerald agrees. “There is such variety among the dining options, which is great because meals never get repetitive,” she says. “One of my favorite meals is the annual home recipe dinner, where dining cooks meals from recipes submitted by students or their family. It’s delicious!” Sounds like we would barely even have room to be homesick for our parents’ cooking.

The Bowdoin Dining website tells students what’s on the menu for each meal, plus it has favorite recipes that you can make at home. There’s even an iPhone app! “The Bowdoin Dining website is my most-used site because I'm constantly checking to see what’s for lunch or dinner,” says sophomore Wendy Dong. “Students are actually excited when it comes to meal times and are always satisfied.”

College is first and foremost a place to receive an education, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun along the way! While it’s important to hit the books and make the grade, the students at these schools know the importance of working hard and then playing even harder.  When it comes to academics and partying, they go big or go home.

10. WASHINGTON & LEE COLLEGE (Lexington, VA)

With its #14 ranking on U.S. News’ Liberal Arts Colleges list  and 18 percent acceptance rate, Washington & Lee is a pretty impressive school. Plus it’s the nation’s ninth oldest institution of higher education, so it’s safe to assume it has academics down to a T.

We should also mention that 80 percent of the student population is involved in Greek life and BroBible recognized the school as having some of the best fraternity parties in the nation. W&L students may spend over 45 hours a week on homework, but they also make time to party.

9. COLGATE UNIVERSITY  (Hamilton, NY)

Ranked #6 on Business Insider’s“Work Hard, Play Hard” list, this top 25 school has students who will impress you academically and then show you a great time. Only 26 percent of applicants get to enjoy Colgate’s work hard, play hard mentality, and Buzzfeed ranked it #3 on its Smartest Party Schools list. If you can stand the long winters, Colgate is a great school for a solid education and thriving social life.

8. MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (Boston, Massachusetts)

As if you don’t already know, let us remind you of MIT’s unprecedented status as the #1 best university in the world three years in a row according to BBC. It’s globally known for its science and technology research, and with a 7.9 percent acceptance rate, it’s safe to assume that MIT students excel at the “work hard” part of this list.

Yet working hard usually warrants some playing hard as well, which is why MIT topped Business Insider’s“Work Hard, Play Hard” list in 2014. With 49 percent of males in fraternities and 32 percent of females in sororities, Greek life also plays a role in MIT’s party scene. Students often go to parties in the brownstone mansions converted to frat houses or hit the bars in Boston. But after every crazy weekend, you know that MIT students are back to the books come Monday morning.

7. UNIVERISTY OF PENNSYLVANIA (Philadelphia, PA) 

Nicknamed “The Social Ivy,” Penn students have perfectly balanced their academic responsibilities by blowing off steam. Ranked #8 in the country by U.S. News & World Report, Penn also sends more graduates to Wall Street than any other U.S. college and has more billionaire undergraduate alumni than Harvard.

While it’s topping the charts academically, Penn was also ranked #1 on Playboy’s Top 10 Party Schools list in 2014, beating out notorious party schools like Syracuse and University of Miami. We really shouldn’t be surprised though, considering more than 25 percent of the undergraduate student population is involved in Greek life, and Penn’s Spring Fling is known for getting incredibly rowdy. We guess brains and booze do mix after all!

6. UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (Los Angeles, CA)

The Trojans at USC seem to have it all. They’re known to be an academic powerhouse—their incoming Class of 2019 was chosen at a school-record-low of 17.5 percent acceptance rate. But they also know how to turn up on the weekends. In 2013, USC came in at #4 in Playboy magazine’s list of Top 10 Party Schools. As if going to school in L.A. couldn’t get any cooler, the school has a thriving Greek scene, along with the menagerie of bars and night clubs in the city proper. Each December, USC’s  annual “Frost” party brings both Greeks and non-Greeks together for an all-white extravaganza complete with ice bars and snow—sounds like enough to make you forget you’re living in Southern California!

5. WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY (Winston-Salem, NC)

Wake Forest, or “Work Forest,” is ranked #27 in the nation for its academic rigor and prestige. But the overwhelming amount of work doesn’t stop the Demon Deacons from having some fun. “We know the academics aren't easy, [so] to blow off steam, we have Wake Wednesdays which gives us an excuse to go out on a Wednesday night,” says Haleigh, a sophomore at Wake Forest.  “Fridays and Saturdays are always ragers with on-campus parties, off-campus throw-downs and bar crawls in downtown Winston Salem.”

Additionally, the majority of students are involved in Greek life (39 percent of guys, 58 percent of girls), so having a social life is always a priority for Wake students. “Students are always stressing about schoolwork and getting the best grades possible, but at the same time the student body, as a whole, is super social—students are either in the Greek system or they have friends in the Greek system,” says Raquel, a senior at Wake. “The library always seems filled with students who are trying to get their work done so they can enjoy their night out later!”

4. DUKE UNIVERSITY (Durham, NC)

Besides having an amazing basketball program, Duke is also known for its academics. Consistently ranked in the top 10 by U.S. News & World Report, this prestigious university also has highly ranked graduate programs.

When the Blue Devils aren’t winning national basketball championships or hitting the books, they’re probably drinking somewhere. On the last day of classes, the entire school throws down in a campus-wide party, which usually includes a concert and lots of drinking. Of course students will buckle down the next day for finals, but at least they get to go hard beforehand.

3. VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY (Villanova, PA)

While commonly nicknamed “Villa-no-fun,” any true Nova nationer would strongly disagree. Consistently rated the #1 University in the Northeast, Villanova has a 98 percent employment/graduate school placement rate across all four colleges.

“As one of the most selective Catholic universities in the country, [Villanova] students work incredibly hard, have impressive resumes, unbelievable accomplishments and excel in school,” says Kristin, a current Villanova senior. “However at night, especially on the weekends, Villanova students play as hard as they work and know how to have a good time.”

Basketball season is one of the highlights of the school year, and Nova’s student section was ranked #44 in fan attendance this year, with an average of 9,600 students at each game. “We have an insane amount of school spirit. The [basketball] season typically feels like one big party from the games to the tailgates to the after parties,” Kristin says. While Nova students do take their studies seriously, they’re also successfully shaking their “Villa-no-fun” reputation.

2. UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL (Chapel Hill, NC)

The smarties at UNC not only take their studies seriously, but they also never miss an opportunity to rock that Carolina blue. Students go absolutely crazy during football and basketball season, yet still make time for their academics, giving UNC the #30 spot in the national U.S. News & World Report College Rankings.

With over 3,000 students involved in Greek life, the party scene is always available for those done studying in the library. Plus, everyone goes to the Carolina Cup, aka the biggest drinking event of the year. Buzzfeed also named UNC its #2 on the Smartest Party Schools list, simply proving that the Tar Heels truly know how to work and play hard.

1. UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN (Ann Arbor, Michigan)

With its 32 percent acceptance rate and 29^th standing in the U.S. News & World Report National Universities Rankings, there’s no doubt that University of Michigan is an academic powerhouse. But don’t let Michigan’s impressive education fool you into thinking students don’t have a great time. Known for their abundance of school spirit during football season, the Wolverines live by the unofficial motto, “Win or lose, we still booze.”

“Michigan is known for its work-hard, play-hard mentality,” says Rebecca, a senior at Michigan. “[We] know how to wake up at the crack of dawn for a football Saturday, then hit the library all the next day.” While they’re not cheering on their team or hitting the books, Michigan students are participating in Greek life, with over 60 fraternity and sorority chapters on campus. Usually you can find a frat party any day of the week.

“With 8 a.m. football tailgates, prominent Greek life and a wide array of bars and clubs, we Wolverines truly know how to party while keeping our Public Ivy academic status,” says Emily, a sophomore at Michigan. “It's this balance that makes Michigan such a fun and challenging school."

Through all 20+ seasons of America's Next Top Model, we've all learned a thing or two about modeling: smizing is the single most important thing you need to make it in the industry, and never cry during your TYover, because Tyra Banks knows best. But over the years, the show has taught us quite a few life lessons, too... like the importance of being fierce. Here's what we know about staying flawsome, courtesy of ANTM:

1. Always have confidence in yourself

Because let's be real, you KNOW you're on top.

2. Don't let anybody else define who you are

PREACH.

3. It's about who you are on the inside

Hair or no hair.

4. Own your quirks

Flaws + Awesome = FLAWSOME.

5. EVERY body is beautiful

So we want you to do you on the catwalk at College Fashion Week—if you're in Boston, NYC, DC or Atlanta, apply now to rock the runway (and get pampered with some VIP treatment)!

6. Accept that you have needs

So have dessert, always.

7. Set goals

And have high expectations.

8. Take responsibility for your mistakes

Or Tyra Banks will be after you.

9. Put your problems into perspective

And know you can work them out.

10. Don't be afraid to voice your opinions

What you have to say is (almost) always important.

If you have what it takes to be on top, join our #CastMeCFW casting call and tell us why for a chance to walk the College Fashion Week runway in Boston, NYC, DC or Atlanta!

The college dining hall is an unfortunately familiar scene on college campuses: unidentifiable meat, pizza every night and sky-high prices. Every day, you trek to the caf, grab the same boring food, and pray that the food poisoning your friend got a week ago was a fluke occurrence. You dream of the day when you’re no longer required to be on the meal plan, and you look forward to making delicious, fresh meals in your room.

But the first night of your plan-less living, you may stare inside your fridge (stocked with a mismatch of items) and come to a conclusion: there is nothing to eat.

For students who are used to home-cooked or cafeteria-prepared meals, living without a meal plan can seem difficult at first. However, there are many benefits to going sans plan — it’s often cheaper, and you’ll get more control over what you eat every day! But of course, preparing and shopping for food takes time. Here’s what you should keep in mind when living without a meal plan.

Get the Right Cooking Supplies

One of the best parts of living on a meal plan is the fact that the food is ready to be eaten the moment you scoop it onto your plate. Without a plan, you’re on your own. But that can actually let you be more flexible in what you eat!

Buy the Basics

There are a few customary supplies you should have before you can make your own meals. Here are the standard kitchen supplies that collegiettes recommend bringing, beyond plates and silverware:

• At least one pot and one pan
• Can opener
• Cutting board
• Knife sharp enough to cut veggies or meat
• Large spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Microwave
• Mixing bowl
• Slotted spoon
• Spatula
• Toaster
• Tongs

Consider Specialty Items

Beyond the basics, you probably have favorite meals that require specific kitchen supplies.

“One of my roommates brought a panini maker, which also turned out to be a godsend,” says Kaitlin, a recent graduate of William & Mary. “We could eat paninis for every meal of the day, and sandwiches are easy because as long as you have bread, you can find any number of ingredients in your kitchen.” You could also make paninis on a mini grill, such as a George Foreman Grill, which will also allow you to cook meat, chicken and fish easily.

Collegiettes recommended blenders as well for easy smoothies. Torri, a recent grad of Penn State, says she loves her NutriBullet. “It's great, super-compact and easy to clean (which means easy for the average college girl on the go), and [it] can make healthy smoothies within minutes,” she says. “Low prep time, plus the mixer acts as a portable cup — I love it!”

For other high-quality cooking supplies, like blenders and combination toaster/coffee makers (so convenient!), try BELLA Housewares.

Just be sure to check with your housing department that you’re allowed to bring these specialty items before you pack them!

Save money on supplies

Looking to find affordable cooking supplies? Try unexpected places, like hand-me-downs from relatives. “In terms of cooking supplies, my housemates and I used pots and pans from grandparents, parents, older siblings who had already lived in apartments - pretty much anything we could get for free!” says Nicole, a senior at Marist College.

Shop Smart

Here are some things to keep in mind before you go grocery shopping:

Make a Budget

The amount of money you’ll spend on food will vary dramatically based on how much you eat, how expensive your chosen grocery store is and how often you eat out as opposed to cooking at home. Especially in college, it can be tempting to load up on snacks, which can raise your grocery bill quickly. “I spent about $70 every two weeks on groceries and tried to go to the store with a strict list so I wouldn't go overboard on junk food and snacks,” Nicole says.

Consider shopping once a week or once every two weeks and sticking to a budget so you don’t overdo it on food you don’t really need. If you set a strict limit for each grocery trip, that extra box of cookies will look a lot less tempting!

Scope Out the Cheapest Groceries

Many grocery stores near college towns will jack up their prices because of the proximity to hungry college students. Ask upperclassmen about the stores that carry the cheapest, best foods. Take advantage of any local farmer’s markets, too, which often carry great, in-season foods for a fraction of the price you’ll pay at a supermarket.

“I think it's way healthier and cheaper to stay in and cook versus eating out or meal plan, and you're learning some valuable life lessons (e.g. just because you're broke doesn't mean you have to starve or live off of Top Ramen),” Heather says. “I bargain shop whenever possible; I do my shopping between Trader Joe’s and WinCo.”

Eat a Balanced Diet

Sure, Ramen is cheap, but it’s not doing you in favors in the nutrition department. Make sure you’re eating a balanced diet of grains, veggies, fruit and protein.

“I usually either eat cereal or cook an egg (fried, scrambled or poached) and make toast for breakfast,” Heather says. “For lunch and dinner, I'll make a salad, pasta, rice dishes, quinoa, sandwiches, stir-fry, curry, noodles, potatoes, vegetables, you name it. Vegetables are not as expensive or difficult to cook as people think!”

Get Creative!

You don’t need a stuffed pantry to make good meals. Keep your apartment or dorm stocked with essentials like chicken, bread, pasta, pasta sauce and rice, and add a few fruits and veggies to the mix. A lot of great dinners only require a few ingredients. Spices, for example, add a lot of flavor to meals but don’t cost very much (and don’t add unnecessary calories!). Need inspiration? Check out seven ideas for quick, easy recipes you can make at home!

Living without a meal plan will offer you a ton of flexibility in what you eat and how much you pay for it. Because you probably won’t have tons of expensive cooking equipment at your disposal, your recipes will likely be more healthy and simple. “I found that eating off the meal plan almost immediately improved my eating habits,” Kaitlin says. “When I ate at the caf, I would really stuff myself for one or two meals a day to ensure I got my value's worth and also because I only had a certain number of swipes.

“Now that I eat off-campus, I can eat a lot more, and much smaller, meals throughout the day, which has been better for my energy levels and body in general,” she says.

While cooking for yourself for the first time can seem a bit daunting, there are actually a ton of options, and you will likely be healthier and might even pick up some culinary skills along the way!

The University of Texas has announced plans to conduct a new study of campus sexual assault—the biggest and most comprehensive one ever. Under Chancellor William McRaven, who was appointed last year, the university will invest $1.7 million into the project, called Cultivating Learning and Safe Environments (CLASE). McRaven is a retired United States Navy Admiral, and recognizes the problem of sexual assault both on college campuses and in the United States military. The university’s study is partially inspired by recent efforts by the military to study the prevalence of sexual assault and the effect it has on servicemen and women.

The study is unique in that it will explore not only how often sexual assault occurs (past studies have found that about 1 in 5 college women have experienced some form of sexual assault), but also the process of reporting assaults and how these reports are handled. According to the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN), 68 percent of sexual assaults go unreported to police altogether. McRaven told the Huffington Post that he hopes the study will be able to address the reasons students are reluctant to report incidents in an effort to encourage students to come forward. "We will provide a better campus infrastructure to handle sexual assault complaints if we determine what is currently working and what is not," he added.

The University of Texas has a large, diverse student population and spans across several campuses, which researchers say are ideal conditions for conducting such a comprehensive study. After researchers collect survey data from a randomly selected sample of students about the prevalence of assault, they will conduct focus group sessions to gain a deeper understanding of the results. They will look at the psychological and economic effects of an assault. Such a trauma can result in victims missing school, work, or delaying graduation. According to another study by UT earlier this year, a single sexual assault case can incur costs of up to almost $450,000.

After the surveys are analyzed and focus groups conducted this fall, studies of both victims and nonvictims will continue over the next four years to gain an understanding of how their knowledge of and attitude toward sexual assault has changed over time. Though universities usually conduct these studies with an end goal of creating or changing policies, the greatest challenge surrounding the issue is still social stigma--while a university may employ stricter policies for what constitutes assault and provide better resources for victims, college students may still avoid reporting incidents for fear of being blamed or not being believed, especially if the assailant is someone they know. It will be interesting to see how UT translates its findings into actual, effective changes.

When you get home from a long day of classes, the first thing that you want to do is curl up with your favorite series on Netflix. Or you might want to blast Taylor Swift until you forget all about your Calculus final. Or maybe you want to chill out by playing a few minutes—okay, hours—of your favorite game.

Chances are that right now, you would complete any (or all) of those tasks on your laptop. But wouldn’t you rather use all of the latest electronics and streaming devices instead?

Luckily, we teamed up with Pandora  to give away an awesome electronics prize pack that will totally upgrade your dorm room. One lucky winner will receive a Roku streaming stick(allowing you to watch hundreds of free channels and top streaming services like Netflix and Hulu), a Pebble SmartWatch (you’ll always have all of the information you need, right on your wrist), an Xbox One (with the greatest lineup of games in Xbox history, you’ll be the envy of those cute gamer boys across the hall), and an Amazon Fire TV Stick(so you can watch over 250,000 TV episodes and movies).

Don’t wait! Enter to win this amazing electronics prize pack from Pandora now. 

Pandora Giveaway