If you’re used to running three or four miles a few times a week, then chances are you’ve got your routine down pat. You know which treadmills are the best at the gym or which trails you prefer in your area. You know when you prefer to run, whether it’s in the morning before your day gets too crazy or in the evening after everything settles down. You fall into a rhythm. And though it’s great to maintain that kind of healthy habit, why not change things up a little?

If you’re looking for a great way to boost your speed and loosen up your hips, then consider adding extra strides after your run! This extra strides running workout from Women's Running will keep your stride length fresh, and the almost-sprints will make your hips happy after your usual three-to-four mile run. You’ll be running faster than ever in no time! 

Prince Charming may be closer than you think. If movies like He’s Just Not That Into You and Just Friends have taught us anything, it’s that after years of looking for Mr. Right, some girls end up with their best guy friend. In a way, it makes sense: he listens to your pointless rants and remembers your birthday, and you obviously enjoy hanging out with him. But like any other type of relationship, this kind of romance has its drawbacks. Before you decide whether or not you should give him a chance, see what our relationship gurus and other collegiettes have to say about dating your best guy friend.

The Pros

No Awkward “Getting to Know You” Conversations

What’s your favorite movie? How many siblings do you have? Where did you grow up? Sometimes, dating feels like a cruel game of “20 Questions.” When you date a guy who’s already your friend, you can skip the small talk. “We already knew each other extremely well when we started dating, so we didn’t have that awkward ‘getting to know each other’ period,” says Julie*, a senior at Northeastern University who dated her male best friend. Since you already know your guy’s interests, the two of you can jump into more serious conversations early on.

Dating Your Best Friend may Lead to a Long-Term Relationship

Who doesn’t want to end up with a guy who has Chris Hemsworth’s face and Ryan Gosling’s body? But, as every collegiette knows, looks aren’t everything. Since a set of killer abs will be replaced with a beer belly before you know it, it’s important to be in a relationship with a guy who you enjoy spending time with.  According to Susanne Alexander, relationship coach and author of Creating Excellent Relationships: The Power of Character Choices, a best guy friend fits the bill. “The reality is that a sustainable relationship or marriage requires the best qualities of friendship as part of the foundation,” Alexander says. We’re not encouraging you to pick out your wedding dress and force your guy to say “I do” from the get-go, but if all goes well, the two of you may be together for many years to come.

Your Friends Already Love Him

As much as you may like a guy, he won’t make the cut without your friends’ seal of approval. Unless your potential beau has serious beef with your besties, there’s a good chance that your buddies already know and like him. “[My friends] were friends with him, so it wasn’t awkward when we all hung out,” says Gemma* a senior from Boston University who dated her best guy friend. “Plus, I knew they all approved of him already and I got to avoid the ‘meet my boyfriend’ introduction.” At the same time, you won’t have to worry about if your boyfriend’s friends like you. Awesome? We think so.

You’ll Feel Free to be Yourself

While a girl rarely says no to a romantic dinner or movie outing with a new guy, these dates can carry a lot of pressure with them. What’s the dress code for that super trendy French place? Who pays?  What should you order (a burger is too messy while guys sometimes pity the girl who orders the salad)?  When you’re dating your best guy friend, you can finally relax and just enjoy hanging out with him.

“There’s no need to put on a façade; you can just be yourself,” says Patrick Wanis, a human behavior expert and author of Get the Man You Want. Since you’re already so comfortable with your beau, there’s no need to laugh at jokes that aren’t funny or go to his favorite, expensive Indian restaurant when the thought of curry makes you a little queasy.

“We do random stuff that I would do with my other friends, like staying in all weekend and watching movies,” says Emma Squire, a senior at Vanderbilt University. To avoid being complete couch potatoes, treat yourselves to a date night each week.

The Cons

You May be Dating Him for the Wrong Reasons

Even if you claim to love “the chase,” there’s something very appealing about a convenient, stress-free courtship. If your friend has feelings for you and you clearly enjoy hanging out with him, why not give it a chance? But be warned, collegiettes: convenience is rarely a good reason to date someone.

“You may be entering it out of comfort and familiarity, not necessarily because you want something romantic,” warns Wanis.  “I have one client who’s dating a girl because he likes the way she loves him. He’s just interested in receiving what she has to offer because she’s a good friend [to him].” Before you and your guy friend go out on a date, think about why you’re willing to give this a shot. If convenience and comfort are your only reasons, it may be smart to move onto the next guy.

It may Change the Dynamic in Your Social Circle

Just because Monica and Chandler’s group wasn’t hindered by their relationship in Friends (thank you, television gods) doesn’t necessarily mean yours will be the same. No matter how much you like a guy, spending time with just your friends is crucial. But what if he’s there during that time, too? 

“If I didn’t feel like seeing him or if we were in a fight, it’s awkward when he’s either there and you aren’t speaking to each other, or he can’t hang out with his friends because you’re there,” Gemma says. All this time together may have you dreaming of the days when your boyfriend and best friends were two separate entities.

You Risk Losing Your Friendship

Let’s be honest: staying good friends with an ex is extremely difficult.  Whether you broke his heart or he was the one who left you crushed, grabbing lunch and catching up with an old flame is never fun. Unfortunately, this unhappy ending doesn’t change when you’re dating a friend.

“What’s scary about moving a friendship to a relationship is that it’s very difficult to go backwards,” Alexander says. “It raises the risk of losing a best friend.”

Though awkwardly bumping into your former flame is a normal occurrence for a lot of collegiettes, breaking up with a best friend can feel more like Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used to Know.”

“I used to talk to my ex every single night before we started dating. I haven’t talked to him since we broke up,” says Madison*, a senior at Boston University. “He unfollowed me on Twitter and unfriended me on Facebook. I guess it was that painful [for him].” If you’re not willing to risk a friendship, you may want to think twice about dating your partner in crime.

Though our collegiettes’ dating experiences had their own set of pros and cons, it’s important to remember that no two relationships are the same. As cheesy as it sounds, it’s important to go with your gut. Whether or not you and your best friend are soul mates, we promise that Prince Charming is on his way!

*Name has been changed.

When we’re not busy praying our favorite Pretty Little Liars make it through one of A’s twisted games, we’re secretly wishing we could be one of them. Alison, Spencer, Aria, Emily and Hanna are a killer squad who have it all, from beauty to brains to personality! So which liar are you? Take our quiz and find out!

Join the Her Campus co-founders at Trident Booksellers from 6:30-8:30 on Thursday, September 10th for a book signing and talk on everything you need to know about college this fall! Invite your friends on Facebook and RSVP below!

If you RSVP, you will automatically be entered to win a PRIZE PACK including a brand new HC Mason Jar, and HCXO teeshirt, and a $25 Gift Card to Trident Booksellers! Winner will be announced at the event!

From bonding with your roommates, to adjusting to college academics, to picking your extracurriculars, navigating the party scene safely, and much more, we've got you covered. All attendees will receive a goody bag! For more information about Her Campus's book, The Her Campus Guide to College Life: How to Manage Relationships, Stay Safe and Healthy, Handle Stress, and Have the Best Years of Your Life, visit www.hercampus.com/book.

RSVP here:

Discussion & Q&A With Her Campus Co-Founders: How to Survive College, Land Your First Job, & More!

Sexual harassment on college campuses is making headlines once again, this time at Old Dominion University. Administrators have suspended the school’s chapter of the Sigma Nu fraternity for allegedly hanging offensive, misogynistic banners to “welcome” freshman girls to their orientation. New students were greeted by banners reading “Freshman Daughter Drop Off,” “Go Ahead and Drop Off Mom Too…” and “Rowdy and Fun, Hope Your Baby Girl is Ready for a Good Time.” ...Just what every girl wants to see when she’s coming to a new and entirely unfamiliar place on her own for the first time.

After other ODU students expressed their disgust and protested the banners on social media, administrators had them removed and are now investigating the incident. University President, John R. Broderick, then released a statement. “There is zero tolerance on this campus for sexual assault and sexual harassment,” he said. “This incident will be reviewed immediately by those on campus empowered to do so. Any student found to have violated the code of conduct will be subject to disciplinary action.” In the statement, he recalled that one female student he talked to seriously thought about going home after seeing the banners. Instead, though, she took pride in seeing her fellow ODU students protest the action of one small group that “did not reflect the Old Dominion she has come to love.”

In response to the banners, student leaders at ODU created a video reinforcing their commitment to ending sexual harassment on campus. “While we constantly educate students, faculty and staff about sexual assault and sexual harassment, this incident confirms our collective efforts are still failing to register with some,” Broderick also said. It’s true--we have a long way to go before we eradicate the ever-present issue of rape culture on campus. But at the very least, it’s heartening to see so many students committed to continuing the fight.

Ready or not, college application season is here! You’ve spent months touring campuses, researching schools and narrowing down your list, which means it’s finally time to put your preparation to the test. Lucky for you, countless collegiettes have survived the process and are here to share their advice. We’ve put together a list of the most important tips you need to know before you start applying to schools.

1. Remember to request your transcripts

Your high school transcript is one of the most important elements of your college application. However, most high schools put the responsibility on you to ensure that your transcript ends up in the hands of each college you apply to.

Because every high school is different, it’s important to talk to your guidance counselors and teachers now about the process your school uses to request and deliver transcripts. If your school requests transcripts electronically, they should refer you to a website like Parchment, which allows you to create an account and the site breaks down the steps from there. It's important to request a transcript for each school and scholarship you're applying to as early as you can, rather than waiting and requesting one at a time, as this can slow down the application process.

"When it came to requesting transcripts, I realized having more of them than I needed was better than not having enough and having to go through the process of ordering more when there were deadlines to meet," says Summer Ford, a senior at Boston University. "I realized [later on] that it would have been better if I just had my transcript on hand and ready to use as soon as I completed an application, rather than finishing the application and having to wait for a new transcript to be processed."

Remember, a college won’t even look at your application until they’ve received every part of it—including your transcript. Don’t wait!

2. Familiarize yourself with each application

Whether you’re using the Common Application or individual applications for each school, be sure to familiarize yourself with the format before you dive in and start filling information out. “Plan out your schedule and when you’re going to complete each application,” says Emily Settle, a freshman at the University of Southern Illinois. “Many applications are a lot more tedious than they initially look, and you don’t want to find yourself rushing through it because you didn’t save yourself enough time.”

Which applications require long essays? Which require resumes? These are all important questions to ask yourself ahead of time so that you’re prepared when it comes time to start filling them out.

3. Know the “letters of rec” etiquette

While asking a teacher for a letter of recommendationmay not seem like a big deal, it’s important to remember that you are only one out of the 10, 20 or even 50 students who are requesting a letter of recommendation from them this year. Not to mention, scholarship applications are often awarded last-minute and usually require a letter as well. 

"I remember my teachers telling us that they wouldn't be writing any letters of recommendation over winter break, and that we should ask them well before then," says Summer. "Of course, I applied for a scholarship over winter break at the last minute with a deadline that came right before our break ended. I was nervous about asking my teachers for more letters, considering what they had told students, but I asked anyway. They ended up falling back on their word and writing my letter of recommendation on their vacation. They told me that since I was such a hard worker in their classes, there was no way they could say no. It pays off to be a diligent student and have a good relationship with your teachers, because they'll likely be there during crunch time when you need it!"

Be courteous of their time and ask now to avoid the rush that comes right before the November 1 application deadline. Talk to them in person before submitting your application, and be sure to follow up with a thank you card or something sweet. After all, they’ll be much more inclined to write you a killer letter if you make the effort to ask for it face-to-face (rather than just letting the Common App send an email for you!)

4. Make sure your essays are proofread

With the start of a new school year comes new classes and a never-ending pile of homework, which means it can be hard to find time to dedicate solely to your college essays. However, recruiting an older friend, guidance counselor or trusted teacher to proofread your essays can help you ensure you’re submitting your best possible work.

"Having two or three sets of eyes [look over your essays] is certainly better than one," says Emily. "Not to mention, having someone who has been through the application process is even better because they have an idea of what colleges are looking for. It's really easy to skip over your own mistakes." 

Before completing your applications, make it a goal to have at least two or three people look over each of them. Whether you receive positive feedback or constructive criticism, you’ll feel more prepared and less stressed when it comes time to submit your final drafts.

5. Own the process

Amidst the stress of the college application process, it can be easy to lose sight of yourself and what you really care about. “Everyone says this, but at the end of the day the college process really is yours,” says Diana Muha, a freshman at Denison University. “It’s not your parents or your friends so you have to do what you want.”

While many people will offer input and their own advice, stay true to yourself and remember what you’re truly looking for out of your college experience! If you let your passion and personality show through your applications, completing them will be a lot less tedious.

When it comes to the college application process, the sooner the better! Manage your time, organize the necessary information and start working on your apps as soon as you can. Leaving yourself time to research, seek help and ask questions is the most important thing you can do for yourself throughout the entire application season. Take it from us—you’ll thank yourself later. Take a deep breath, collegiettes! You’ve got this!

Whether we're making our way out the door for an early class or for our first day at our internship, we all have those days when spending extra time on our hair just isn’t a priority. Sometimes we’d rather sacrifice our appearance for a few extra minutes of sleep (and there’s nothing wrong with that). For days like these, we turn to our handy-dandy list of hairstyles that can take us from drab to fab in five minutes or less. Whether you woke up late or your hair just isn’t cooperating, these six quick and easy hairstyles can help you pull yourself together in no time.

1. Loose side braid

So you’ve never been very good at braiding hair. Lucky for you, you don’t have to be a pro at braiding to pull off this style. This is a perfectly imperfect hairstyle that will give you a bit of a romantic look while also allowing you to show off your inner boho girl.

Tutorial from A Beautiful Mess 

1. French braid your hair from the back to the side.
2. Use a hair elastic to tie a side ponytail.
3. Using a comb, tease the ponytail as much as possible.
4. Braid the teased hair into a regular braid.
5. Pull the braid so that it's uneven and loose.
6. Cut the top hair elastic off.

2. Ballerina bun

You don’t have to be a ballerina in training to wear this look! A ballerina bun is a great go-to hairstyle for collegiettes who want a look that’s simple but chic. The bun can be worn right on top of your head or lower down.

Tutorial from Beauty High 

1. Brush your hair into a high ponytail and secure with an elastic at the top of your head. Make sure there aren’t any bumps in your hair. 
2. Put a hair donut at the base of your ponytail and begin wrapping your hair around the donut, securing with hair pins to keep your hair in place. Continue pinning until your hair completely covers the donut and wrap it under the base.
3. Apply a spritz of hair spray to keep the bun in place and make sure there aren’t any loose hairs getting out.

3. High ponytail

Believe it or not, there’s more to a ponytail than just throwing it up on the top of your head and wrapping it with an elastic. The key to a great ponytail is its volume and staying power.

Tutorial from Beauty High 

1. Give your hair some texture. If your hair is freshly washed and a little too smooth, add some hair spray to your hair. This will allow your ponytail to stay in place all day long.
2. Pull your hair up towards the crown of your head.
3. Holding the ponytail in place with one hand, brush out any bumps with the other hand to ensure a smooth, sleek ponytail.
4. Once you have found the perfect ponytail placement (center of your head, visible from the front), take your hair elastic and secure the pony into place.
5. To keep your ponytail looking chic and not like you just came from the gym, take a 1-inch section of hair from the underside of your ponytail and wrap it around the hair elastic. Secure the hair with a bobby pin to hide the elastic, pushing the bobby pin in on the underside of the hair elastic so everything is covered up.
6. For some added volume and texture, tease the ponytail with a fine-tooth comb, gently combing hair upwards and towards the front.
7. Spray a toothbrush with hairspray and brush down any flyaways.

4. Hair bow bun

A unique take on the classic high bun, this style is cute, easy and fun. Watch this tutorial from Mr. Kate for reference.

1. Gather all of your hair on the top of your head and start a ponytail with an elastic.
2. Loop your hair through the elastic. On the last pull through, don’t pull your hair all the way through, and instead create a loop, leaving the tail of your hair (the ends) pointing toward your forehead.
3. Divide your loop into two halves.
4. Take the ends/tail of your hair and fold it back through the space in your two looped halves, creating the center “knot” part of the bow. Secure the ends in the elastic behind the bow in the back of your head.
5. Fluff up your bow by spreading out the loops and gently tugging them tighter.

5. Knotted bun

Simple enough to do in a matter of minutes but elegant enough to pull off at even the fanciest of occasions, this hairstyle is a must-try!

Tutorial fromOnce Wed

1. Gather your hair to one side and place it in a ponytail behind your ear.
2. Begin twisting and wrapping the ponytail as if you’re tying a knot.
3. As you tie the ponytail into a knot, do not pull the tail all the way through.
4. Secure the knotted bun with large bobby pins.
5. Gently pull and tug the hair from the crown and throughout the bun to create texture and fullness.
6. Spray with a finishing product. 

6. Half-crown braid

You get the best of both worlds with this look by being able to wear your hair down without it being in your face.

Tutorial fromHair Romance 

1. Start by taking a 1-to-2-inch section of hair on one side of your hair above your ear. Split this section in three and make a braid.
2. Angle the braid back around your head and secure the end of the braid with a small, clear hair elastic.
3. Repeat on the other side, taking a section above your ear and making a braid. Secure the end with a small, clear elastic.
4. Bring the first braid across the back of your head and pin in place with bobby pins.
5. Cross the second braid over the first and tuck the end in behind the first braid. Secure it in place with bobby pins.

Not every late morning has to result in a bad hair day. Whether your alarm conveniently decided to not go off or you just needed a few extra minutes with your bed this morning, these simple yet chic hairstyles will get you out the door in no time.

After a demo leaked a few months ago, the studio version of Lady Gaga’s newest song, “Till it Happens to You,” has finally been released. Co-written by Gaga and renowned songwriter Diane Warren, the song is inspired by the singer’s struggle with the aftermath of being sexually assaulted by a record producer when she was nineteen years old. She revealed the traumatic experience in an interview with Howard Stern late last year, in which she said, “I don't want to be defined by it. I'll be damned if somebody's gonna say that every creatively intelligent thing that I ever did is all boiled down to one [expletive] that did that to me.”

The haunting ballad is featured in the The Hunting Ground, a documentary about rape culture and sexual assault on college campuses. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival to great critical acclaim, and has even generated some Oscar buzz. Gaga’s song is also set to become the focus of a PSA video about campus sexual assault directed by Catherine Hardwicke and starring Nikki Reed.

This certainly isn’t the first time the megastar has used her talent and influence to promote important social issues—she’s also advocated and raised money for causes like HIV/AIDS prevention, LGBTQ+ rights and bullying prevention. With one of the world’s most popular and influential people now taking a stand, the rampant issue of sexual assault and harassment on campus will become even harder to ignore.

When we were in middle school, we were so hyped to wear our new Lizzie McGuire T-shirts from Limited Too on the first day of class. Now, it’s a bit more difficult to figure out what to wear as we start a new semester. We want to look fab, but it can be so tempting to just give up and turn to our beloved sweatpants.

Comfort is everything when it comes to campus fashion, but your inner fashionista might be craving a change. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite outfits that will have you ready to slay, without worrying about high heels or body-con anything.

1. Ravishing Romper

 

Miss Selfridge short romper
johnlewis.com
 

 

O'Neill gladiator sandals
swell.com
 

 

Herschel Supply Co wine bag
selfridges.com
 

 

Apt 9 yellow diamond ring
kohls.com
 

 

Since the weather will still be warm by the time we enter our first classroom of the semester, wearing a romper to class is perfectly acceptable. Choose one with a floral pattern if you’re looking for a cheerful and easygoing look (or, opt for a neutral solid if you're looking to stay classic). To keep the look comfortable and casual, pair it with your favorite pair of gladiator sandals. You’ll look put-together without being too dressed up.

2. Black Leggings

 

Long sweater
blackfive.com
 

 

River Island black legging
riverisland.com
 

 

Topshop flat shoes
topshop.com
 

 

Wanderlust Co pendants necklace
revolveclothing.com
 

 

Every collegiette needs black leggings (it's a total wardrobe staple!), and there is no better time to rock yours than on the first day of class. Just like a supportive friend, they make you happy and they’re always there when you need them.

To keep the look simple with a little bit of flair, pair your leggings with a black and white striped top and a delicate necklace. For comfort all the way down to your toes, finish the look with a comfy pair of nude flats, which will pull the rest of the look together perfectly.

3. Distressed Boyfriend Jeans

 

Madewell cotton tee
madewell.com
 

 

Zara boyfriend jeans
zara.com
 

 

Birkenstock sandals
barenecessities.com
 

 

Kate Spade necklace
saksfifthavenue.com
 

 

Jeans might have been seen as too casual at your internship, but on campus they tend to lean on the dressier side, especially compared to all of the leggings collegiettes are rocking on a daily basis. If you find that you’re ready to wear jeans on the first day of class, opt for a pair of boyfriend jeans, which exude chic and are not nearly as binding as your fave skinnies.

For a lived-in vibe, reach for a pair that is distressed and plan the rest of your outfit accordingly, letting your pants steal the show. A basic scoop neck tee works perfectly with the texture of the jeans, and leaves room for a simple necklace.

Don’t forget the shoes! We recommend pairing this ensemble with a pair of metallic Birkenstocks for a comfy and edgy look.

4. High-Waist Shorts

 

Forever 21 tank
forever21.com
 

 

Topshop torn shorts
topshop.com
 

 

Superga sneaker
yoox.com
 

 

Coach black bag
coach.com
 

 

We know saying goodbye to summer break is hard, so make sure you wear your favorite pair of shorts a few more times before you put them away for the fall. Denim shorts are so versatile, so feel free to get creative.

For an athletic twist, pair them with a cropped baseball tee and a pair of colorful sneakers. It’s definitely a casual look, so you’ll feel comfortable just being yourself as you reunite with all of your campus friends on your way to class.

5. Fashionable Jogger Pants

 

Zara crop top
zara.com
 

 

Jogger pants
nordstrom.com
 

 

Soludos slip-on shoes
revolveclothing.com
 

 

Alex Mika choker necklace
nordstrom.com
 

 

The best part about patterned jogger pants is that they are just as comfy as your favorite baggy sweats, without actually being sweatpants. It’s definitely the best of both worlds! Opt for a statement-making printed pair, and wear it with a solid black top; we love the idea of sporting this cropped tank. Keep the comfort going all the way down to your toes with a pair of espadrilles, which are basically slippers you can wear in public, making it feel like you never changed out of your loungewear once you’re taking notes during your morning lecture.

No matter what you wear on your first day of class, we know you’ll rock it! As long as you’re comfortable in your outfit of choice, you’ll be able to take on the semester by storm, and these outfits prove that cozy and chic can come together in harmony.

Between classes, extracurriculars, internships, and hopefully getting to the gym and (hello!) having a social life, we collegiettes have got a lot on our plates.  It can be hard to remember when you’re supposed to be where, or what needs to be turned in on which dates.

Instead of frantically trying to keep track of every part of your busy life, just organize it! We teamed up with Erin Condren to give away two of her amazing LifePlanners, so two lucky collegiettes are about to totally revolutionize the way that they organize and live their lives.

Featuring a calendar, journal, exercise log, meal planner, motivational quotes, “thankful thoughts,” and blank pages for notes, the LifePlanner is your guide to not only scheduling life, but celebrating it! And that’s not all—this year’s LifePlanner will also include a snap-in “Party Pops” bookmark, a two-sided pocket folder, and a perpetual calendar, so you’ll never miss a deadline (or a party!) again.

What are you waiting for? Enter now to win one of these amazing LifePlanners! 

Erin Condren Giveaway

If you don’t know about Megan Amram by now, you should listen up. Megan Amram is a comedian, writer, and Harvard graduate. She wrote for a little show called Parks and Recreation, authored a hilarious book—Science…for Her!—and is now starring in a new web series on Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls network.

“Experimenting with Megan Amram” is a smart and comical show in which Megan pokes fun at the gender stereotypes and double standards that exist for professional women. She draws the viewer in with her jokes, and then moves into an interview portion. Megan features one female in a STEM field per episode, and asks questions about her current projects and research.

By featuring women in predominately male fields, Megan is empowering young girls and teaching them to pursue their interests in science, technology, engineering and math. At the end of each episode, Megan includes a link to a downloadable science experiment that kids can do themselves, such as making a potato clock or a baking soda and vinegar volcano.

Watch the first episode below, and check out the rest on Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls. Don’t forget to tune in on Smart Girls every Monday to see a new guest!

College may be over, but that doesn’t mean you have to cancel your Netflix account or give up TV and movies for good. It simply means you can no longer binge-watch all six seasons of Gossip Girl in a single weekend. That being said, we're giving you full permission to curl up with a glass of wine to spend all night watching these seven movies—because they completely relate to you and your post-college journey! 

Not only do these movies have awesome story lines and cast members, they also cover every possible situation you might find yourself in after you graduate. Whether you choose to spend the months after graduation enjoying yourself at the beach, working all day or traveling the world, these movies have got you covered.

1. Crossroads

Three very different girls (and former childhood best friends) take a spontaneous road trip across the country after graduation and quickly learn that sometimes, taking an unexpected turn can get you exactly where you need to be. Not only does this movie star a young Britney Spears, it also encompasses the true meaning of learning that things might not always turn out the way you planned—and that it could be a good thing.

2. St. Elmo’s Fire

St. Elmo’s Fire is a classic movie that encompasses what it means to be a college grad struggling with the idea of growing up and becoming an adult. Although it’s about a group of friends, the film magnifies each person’s life individually, bringing issues to light each character didn’t even realize they had. You’ll relate to this movie because it shows the stress others put on you to follow the path society sets for graduates. As soon as someone hears you graduated, they immediately ask, “Well, what do you do now?” The movie demonstrates the importance of being true to yourself, no matter what anybody else says or expects of you.

3. Into the Wild

Based on a true story, Into the Wild shows the value of adventure and being out on your own with a clean slate. Christopher McCandless graduates as the top student of his class and decides to donate his entire savings to charity, leaving all his possessions behind him as he sets off on a journey to Alaska. He hitchhikes all the way there and stops along the way to stay with complete strangers who change his life. Eventually, Christopher arrives in Alaska and lives off the land in order to survive. This is truly an eye opener for everyone, especially post-collegiettes who might think earning money and prestige is what is most important at this point in their lives.

4. The Nanny Diaries

Recent graduate Annie Braddock (Scarlett Johansson), receives her diploma and lands an interview with Goldman Sachs. During her interview, however, the interviewer asks, “So tell me. Who is Annie Braddock?” As soon as she hears the question, Annie realizes she doesn’t know the answer and runs out of the interview. Suddenly (a few scenes later), a nannying job falls into her lap and soon Annie faces obstacles that help her figure out who she is and what she truly wants to be.

5. Reality Bites

The title of this movie says it all. The main character, Lelaina, graduated as valedictorian of her college class and is now an aspiring filmmaker in Houston, Texas. To reach this career goal, she makes a documentary, titled Reality Bites, which follows the lives of her friends and captures the struggles of life after graduation. Grads will relate to this movie because it covers a wide range of issues… and those issues aren’t just about being unable to find a job.

6. Adventureland

Adventureland is a comedy starring Jesse Eisenberg and Kristen Stewart. Although it came out in 2009, the movie takes place in the summer of 1987. After James Brennan (played by Eisenberg) graduates college, he plans to take a trip to Europe before attending graduate school in New York City. Unfortunately, like many of us graduettes, James’s financial problems stand in the way of his trip and force him to take on a summer job. After numerous failed interviews, he ends up accepting a job at a local, rundown amusement park called Adventureland. Here, he meets and falls in love with his co-worker, Emily (played by Stewart), and the couple embarks on adventures of their own that help James paint a clear picture of what he really wants from his future.

7. The Graduate

You knew this one was coming. This classic 1967 movie features a college grad, Ben, who ends up torn between an older woman he is having an affair with, Mrs. Robinson, and Mrs. Robinson’s daughter, Elaine. In the beginning, Ben’s parents throw him a party to celebrate his achievements in college, but he is uncomfortable and tries to avoid conversation. When his father asks him what’s wrong, he explains that he’s worried about his future, and wants it to be different. This movie provides a great lesson to graduettes: you will never be able to move forward and progress toward your future unless you handle the issues you currently have on your plate. Ben tries to avoid his future by having an affair, which ends up complicating things even more. The Graduate also teaches you to make your own path in life. Not everyone has to go to college, graduate, and immediately find a job. You may want to travel or explore your options before settling down—and that's totally okay.

No matter what you’re doing after graduation, remember that this is your life and it’s up to you to make it great. So what are you waiting for? Go grab the remote, log back in to Netflix and start embarking on your journey to the rest of your life.

Looking for some serious style this back-to-school season? From gorgeous boots to internship basics, to train tickets and software, we know what you need to go back to school in style. Here are our top 11 picks to add to your shopping list this fall!

1. The Frye Company

One of our favorite brands, Frye, offers 10 percent off to college students! Call it the ultimate college staple: Frye boots are built to last a lifetime, so you’ll be rocking yours in college and beyond. Frye products have unparalleled craftsmanship—if you’re looking for one item to splurge on, this is it.

2. Amtrak

If you live on the East coast, taking an Amtrak train is an amazing and affordable way to get back to campus and home for breaks. Sign up for the Student Advantage card and get 10 percent off adult fares on Amtrak trains all year long. Talk about serious savings!

3. J.Crew

J.Crew’s got you covered for preppy staples that will look classic on any college campus. Bring in your student ID to any J.Crew and score 15 percent off!

4. Apple

We’re seriously obsessed with Apple products—but they’re definitely a little pricey. Soften the blow to your credit card with Apple’seducation pricing. You could save up to $200 on a Mac and up to $20 on a new iPad.

5. ASOS

Need a last minute dress for your sorority formal? Make ASOS your go-to. Your college email will you get 10 percent off! We love ASOS for bright party dresses, crazy-cool accessories and sexy rompers.

6. Spotify

If you’re a college student, you can get access to Spotify’s complete music library (no ads!) for $4.99 a month. You’ll never have to wait through ads when you’re listening to Taylor Swift on the treadmill again!

7. Adobe

If you’re in art school or even just studying something creative, you’re definitely going to want Adobe’s Creative Cloud. Students save 60 percent! Time to brush up on your Photoshop skills!

8. Amazon

Ah, Amazon. From the incredible savings to the free shipping, it’s one of our most-loved websites. Sign up for Student Prime and get two-day free shipping on basically everything. The best part? Your first six months are FREE—and even after that, it’s still 50 percent off the normal Amazon Prime membership!

9. Greyhound

Remember that Student Advantage card we talked about? With this magical membership, you get 15 percent off Greyhound bus tickets! Perfect for those spontaneous weekend getaways with your friends!

10. Ann Taylor

You’re going to need fab pencil skirts and blouses for your fall internship—make Ann Taylor your go-to. Your student ID will get you 15 percent off in-store AND online. We’re totally loving Ann Taylor for its classic blazers and crisp white tees.

11. Subway

We know pizza is super tempting as a post-party meal, but trust us, you’re feel way better in the morning sans grease! We love Subway’s sandwiches and as students, we get 10 percent off!

College is expensive, but using these discounts throughout your year will definitely lessen the burden on you (and your parents!) Shop smart, collegiettes! 

Your mom and your middle school health teacher weren’t far off when they called breakfast the most important meal of the day!

“Tried and true—eating a healthy breakfast will repay you in energy benefits,” says Carol DeNysschen, an associate professor in the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at Buffalo State College.

Not only will eating breakfast chase away those embarrassing stomach roars that always occur just as your professor pauses to breathe, but if you eat the right foods, they can also give you more energy, which means a whole lot more productivity and positivity for the rest of your day.  Not sure where to start?  No problem! Her Campus has compiled a list of seven foods that will get you ready to tackle whatever life throws your way.

1. Steel-cut oats

When some of us think of breakfast, images of pancakes, waffles, bagels, toast, pastries and donuts float through our minds.  What do all of those foods have in common?   They all fall into the grain category, but not necessarily in a good way.  Before you reach for that white toast or bagel, think it through.

“Try to stick to whole-grain carbohydrates,” DeNysschen says. “Keep in mind that the whole-grain carbohydrate source will digest more slowly, so that enhances a steady level of blood glucose, or blood sugar.”

Fiber-rich steel-cut oats will help keep you full until lunchtime, unlike those pancakes and pastries!

2. Eggs

Scrambled, over easy, hard boiled, poached—on their own, eggs are a great power food any way you crack them.

“Eggs are a great source of protein,” which means they’ll keep you fuller longer, says Dr. Mary Kay Meyer, professor and chair of The College of Human Environmental Sciences at the University of Alabama. “Don’t be afraid to include them several times a week.”

Give yours an extra energy boost by whipping up an omelet with healthy greens, like spinach or kale, and other vegetables, like mushrooms, tomatoes or peppers.  You’ll have a healthy breakfast that is sure to get you ready for whatever the morning throws your way.  You could also try “framing” your eggs in a piece of whole-grain toast or half of an avocado.

3. Canadian bacon

While eggs may be a great source of protein, some classic breakfast meat won’t hurt either.

“I believe in the old adage, ‘Eat like a king in the morning, a queen at lunch and a pauper at dinner,’” Dr. Meyer says.

If you want to get some protein the healthier way, try Canadian bacon.  It’s leaner than its more traditional counterpart: “Two ounces have only 1.2 grams of saturated fat,” says DeNysschen.

Eat it grilled alongside some eggs, or mix it into an omelet for extra protein that is sure to keep you powered through anything.

4. Low-fat yogurt

Woke up late?  While a breakfast bar might be a quick and easy option, it may not be as healthy as you think.  “They are usually full of sugars,” DeNysschen says.

Instead, she recommends an alternative source of protein that also takes no prep time: low-fat yogurt.  With all of the yogurt varieties available today, there’s something for everyone.  Try Greek yogurt, which has even more protein than regular yogurt.

However you choose to enjoy it, yogurt is packed with protein, potassium, vitamin B12, calcium and more.  Just be sure to choose a low-fat version that isn’t full of added sugars.  Be wary of versions with fruit mix-ins; you can avoid excessive sugar by adding in your own fresh fruit!

5. Coffee

With all the high-calorie, sugar-packed, fancy varieties of coffee drinks available at every coffee shop today, coffee has become more of a dessert than a pick-me-up morning favorite.

“There is nothing wrong with a cup of coffee—just avoid high levels of sugar added in,” DeNysschen says.

If you aren’t quite ready to drink your coffee black, try it with skim milk and small amounts of natural sugar instead of artificial sweeteners.

You pack a lot into your days, so make sure that your food packs enough energy for you! However, we all know that mornings are often rushed and hectic, especially in college.  Try preparing as much of your breakfast as possible the night before so that you won’t have to scramble (no pun intended) around half asleep in the morning trying to make your meal. But when even your best-laid plans don’t pan out and you sleep through your alarm, at least grab a yogurt on your way out the door. Whatever you do, Dr. Meyer reminds us, “Do not skip breakfast!”

Happy Women's Equality Day! Today marks the 95th anniversary of when American women won the right to vote in 1920—basically, a HUGE deal. There’s no doubt we’ve come a long way since then—but more progress must be made. We don't have a constitutional amendment that guarantees women equal rights. Women still only make up 20-25 percent of elected officials at the state and federal level. There’s a lot to be done, but we’re confident that our generation will create even more change.

We are SO grateful to all of the inspiring women that came before us, and, in honor of today, we present to you nine totally empowering quotes from a few of our favorite feminists. 

1. Beyoncé:

2. Emma Watson: 

3. Malala Yousafzai:

4. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: 

5. Gloria Steinem: 

6. Lena Dunham:

7. Ellen Page:

8. Melinda Gates:

9. Patricia Arquette:

Happy Women's Equality Day, collegiettes! 

Each fall, fashion girls everywhere make a beeline to the newsstands to pick up every September issue they can get their hands on—the most important one being Vogue, whose annual fashion bible is so epic there's an entire documentary based around it. It goes without saying that Vogue is the magazine women look to as the authority on fashion and with that, there comes responsibility.

We've seen so many positive changes in the fashion industry recently—prominent voices (all eyes on Cara Delevingne!) are speaking out, brands are taking a stand against body-shaming, new lines empowering all bodies are emerging and even the fashion week runways are becoming more diverse. 

That's why it's so disappointing to see that across 832 pages of fall fashion, in an issue with a coverline that calls out "The Rule-Breakers Defining the Way We Dress Now," the only two pages where you'll find plus-size models is a Lane Bryant ad teasing an upcoming campaign with the hashtag #PlusIsEqual. Sure, having a full spread in such a popular and coveted issue is great for visibility, but when the only time Vogue will feature plus-size models in its September issue is when a brand has paid hundreds of thousands for them to be in those pages, it becomes clear that the progress we've made towards body acceptance is far from where we want—and need—it to be.

According to the ad, the #PlusIsEqual campaign, which can be found at plusisequal.com, will launch September 14 this year. We're counting down the days—and hoping that the campaign will enlighten the likes of Vogue and the entire fashion industry to truly help make plus equal.

Both historically and today, college is considered the ultimate relationship breeding ground. If you're not currently in a relationship, you've either just exited one or are preparing to enter another (or maybe you prefer more casual encounters to a steady SO). With a good percentage of your school's population (and your friend circle) engaged in some sort of love life, being single is almost a stigmatized condition. Of course, seeing all those engagement announcements on Facebook doesn't help either.

It can be a pretty tough boat to ride in, but a new study out of New Zealand suggests that boat might not be such a gloomy place. 

According to the psychological study, released by researchers at the University of Auckland, in their survey of some 4,000 kiwis (that's lingo for New Zealand natives!) they found that those who were single and trying to avoid conflict-ridden relationships were just as happy as those in secure relationships. As the study puts it, "although prior research suggests that single people experience lower well-being than those involved in romantic relationships, the effect of relationship status is small. Moreover, relationships can be a source of hurt and conflict, which single people can avoid." They also found that single people who "strive to enhance relationship closeness experienced greater life satisfaction/well-being."

So what does this all mean in layman's terms? Essentially the key takeaways are that single people who avoid love life angst are just as happy as those in a relationship. And single people who actively try to be more intimate and close with loved ones tend to be happier, and this only continues once they actually do enter a relationship. In other words, it's okay to be single and drama-free, just as it's okay to be coupled. 

These findings are a wakeup call for people in unhappy relationships, who might be staying together out of fear of being single. There's absolutely no reason to fear being single -- if you live your life to the fullest, actively try to make the most out of the relationships you do have and don't mind being spending some alone time once in a while, there's no reason why you should be unhappy. 

Before summer vacation ends and you’re forced to return to that institution known as college, there’s one movie you absolutely MUST check out: We Are Your Friends. Starring Zac Efron and Emily Ratajkowski, directed by Max Joseph, and featuring a wide range of electronic dance music, this is the perfect film to cap off your summer. For the past few days, Zac, Emily and Max have been traveling the world on a whirlwind press tour, ranging from cities like London to Toronto. We had the opportunity to attend an exclusive screening of the film in NYC, which included a surprise appearance from the cast! Needless to say, everybody in the room (us included!) whipped out their camera phones to snap some candid pics.

Following the screening, we met up with Max, Zac and Emily at the after party, where we chatted about all things related to the movie! Important side note: Yes, we can confirm that Zac Efron is just as dreamy in person.  

We Are Your Friends is a coming-of-age film that examines the life of Cole Carter, an aspiring DJ (played by Zac Efron), who’s on a quest to create the one track that will propel him to fame and fortune in the electronic music world. At the same time, he finds himself involved in crazy shenanigans with his three closest friends (played by Johnny Weston, Shiloh Fernandez and Alex Shaffer), who all have a strong desire to leave "the valley" for a more promising future. Along Cole's journey, he is mentored by James Reed (played by Wes Bentley), a veteran DJ who has issues of his own. However, things get complicated when Cole fosters a relationship with Sophie (played by Emily Ratajkowski), James’ younger girlfriend and personal assistant. 

What separates this movie from others is the unique backdrop of the electronic dance world, a perspective that hasn’t been showcased much in modern movies. Max Joseph’s attention to detail combined with comedic one-liners and catchy tracks lace together to form a cohesive and enjoyable film for all audiences. For Max, having a low budget for the film was also considered a good thing, since he was able to exercise more creative freedom. “When you’re making a movie and you don’t have a lot of money, people let you do your own thing creatively,” he told us during our interview. Having a small budget also allowed Max to focus on more “emotionally powerful” scenes, rather than large scale, pyrotechnic moments that typically occur during a music festival.

While the film's music seemed to fit perfectly with the storyline, Max assured us that selecting the right songs was no easy feat. “It’s very daunting to represent all of EDM in one movie,” he shared with us. Moreover, Max’s ultimate goal was to make a movie that wasn’t about electronic dance music. Instead, he aimed to examine the lives of the characters and their journeys, with music tying the entire concept together. “We really wanted to represent as many different types of electronic music as we could,” Max said. Considering that the movie is an hour and half, we think he was quite successful in accomplishing that (with help from a music supervisor). In order to create Cole’s defining track, Max worked closely with Pyramid, a 26-year-old bedroom DJ and producer based in France. Throughout the movie, EDM fans will recognize pieces from the many sub genres of electronic music, such as “trap,” “synth pop,” and “progressive house.” The film’s soundtrack (available now on iTunes and streaming on Spotify) features tracks from well known artists including Hook N Swing, Pyramid, Justice, and Simian. DJs Nicky Romero, Dirty South, Dillon Francis and Alesso (pictured below with Zac) also make cameos in the film! 

Although we all know Zac has natural musicality (as seen in Hairspray and HSM), this movie enabled him to experiment with another facet of the music industry—DJing. While Cole is an aspiring DJ, Zac pointed out that he himself had only basic knowledge of the EDM world prior to filming. “I was aware in the mainstream sense. I knew what was popular and easily accessible, but I hadn’t really delved deep into all the sub-genres,” Zac told us. Luckily, Wes Bentley (Zac’s costar) had experience with making music as a DJ. “He sort of got me into SoundCloud and taught me about so many sub-genres of electronic music. He taught me about minimal house and minimal tech, and I like those a lot. When I was filming, that’s what I was listening to most.” 

With DJ/producer Jason Stewart (also known as Them Jeans), Zac was able to learn the basics of DJing over a short period of time. “I worked a lot with Them Jeans, he was kind of like my coach,” Zac shared with us. “I learned how to do a whole set. I could do a transition, make new transitions, add effects, have fun, and play around.” To get more acquainted with the equipment, Zac bought his own decks, and spent time experimenting with all the buttons and knobs. “I would sit and spend time going back and forth until I got so lost that I would entirely pass out. There’s actually a lot of math going on,” Zac said, laughing. For him, the best part of the process was “learning stylistically what DJs do to make it entertaining.” By observing artists like Alesso, Zac learned how to get the crowd pumped up through simple gestures, like jumping and throwing his arms in the air. “On the deck, it’s just the twist of a knob, but he turns it into an event, and I thought that was really cool,” Zac said. We think Zac’s training paid off. He looked like a natural at the DJ decks!

After wrapping up the interview, Max, Zac and Emily joined the large crowd gathered at the after party. While Zac did a little DJing of his own at the decks, exclusive We Are Your Friends T-shirts were tossed into the crowd of enthusiastic concert attendees. Based on this photo Zac posted on Twitter, we think he had a blast in NYC! "I'm not a DJ. I just play one in a movie. These guys made me sound good. #WAYF international DJ Crew #WAYFtour #NYC," he captioned the silly photo (which includes Max, Pyramid, and Them Jeans). 

While we won’t give away any spoilers regarding the conclusion of the film, we can guarantee that you’ll absolutely LOVE it. To see what happens, be sure to check out We Are Your Friends, in theaters Friday, August 28!

For those of you in a long-distance relationship, you know that it can get pretty tricky. Whether you go to school an hour apart or across the country, you’re bound to have these feelings at some point or another. Don’t worry—you’ll be reunited with your SO before you know it!

1. You can’t wait to go back to school, but you don’t want to say goodbye to your SO.

2. You’ve only been apart for a week, so why does it feel like a month?

3. The funniest thing happened to you today—you can’t wait to tell your SO about it!

4. When you FaceTime, your day is made.

5. Dress up for class? Nah, your SO won’t see you.

6. It’s Friday and you’re ready to rage! If only your SO could party with you.

7. Stay out all night or have a Netflix “date” with your SO? Hmm, I wonder.

8. Figuring out a weekend to visit each other is so frustrating.

9. You finally figured out a weekend—let the countdown begin!

10. The week before goes by super slowly…

11. When you finally see each other, you’re on cloud nine.

12. Saying goodbye after a weekend together is really hard.

13. Once you’re back at school, you can’t stop thinking about your SO.

14. …and it all begins again.

15. You may be miles apart, but you’re always close at heart.

Being in a LDR can be tough, but it’s not permanent. If you continue to communicate with your SO and visit each other when you can, you’ll get through it. Try to focus on the positives and live in the moment. Good luck, collegiettes!

Another summer has come and gone, and with the next academic year quickly approaching, we’re trying to figure out what this year of college will bring us. While we’re still fantasizing about finally achieving our summer bod or meeting our soulmate, we’ve compiled this list of expectations and (too real) realities for going back to school—

Only this time, we’re going to college, and it’s a whole new playing field.

1. Buying school supplies

Expectation: 

You probably think that with every new school year comes a whole new set of pens, pencils and adorable notebooks, right? You know, the ones that you see all over Tumblr reblogged onto the studyblrs, or the colorful Kate Spade notepads that you keep repinning.

Reality:

The truth is, you’re a broke college student just like all the movies said you would be. No, you can’t afford to buy those Moleskine notebooks that all the hipsters use, and you probably still get excited when you find a pen someone left behind in the section before yours. In reality, the only new supplies you’ll be buying are highlighters and index cards for the excessive amounts of flashcards you always tend to make.

2. Meeting your soulmate

Expectation:

New year, new people—or at least, that’s what we tell ourselves every night before the first day of school. Your high school hopes and dreams of meeting that cute transfer (or rekindling an old flame) carry on into college, and you anxiously await your first encounter with “the one” as soon as you turn 18. It happens in the movies, so why couldn’t it happen to you, right?

Reality:

Wrong! Turns out, the only thing on your mind on your first day of a new year at college is whether you should take this GE pass/fail. Why would you even consider finding a soulmate when you can barely remember where you left your student ID, let alone the hundreds of key terms for that one Art History class to fulfill your last requirement?

3. Weekend plans

Expectation:

College: a big kid’s playground where 18-23 year olds party hop till they drop. Now that you’re into your young adult years (but not quite grown up yet), you’re probably going to have nightly invites to the hottest parties—and you’ll always have a date. 

Reality:

In reality, your Friday nights will consist of staring at a screen until your computer overheats—either from marathon-ing too much Netflix or cramming for your week three midterm. Weekends will be your time to recharge, and if you can squeeze a Thirsty Thursday in, it will be right after you electronically submit that essay way too last minute.

4. Food

Expectation:

You probably think that college is the place where you can eat cereal and ice cream for dinner every night and French fries are in constant supply. You get excited over the idea of mixing Cocoa Puffs with coffee ice cream and your parents can’t do anything about it.

Reality:

The truth is, the food in the dining halls isn’t everything you’ve been dreaming of. For the first few weeks, you are in awe of the variety, but by week four you realize that you miss your parents' cooking even more than you thought you would. Better rethink that unlimited meal plan because you’ll be craving buttermilk waffles and homemade dinners your mom and dad always told you to finish (but you never wanted to).

5. Dorm room aesthetics

Expectation:

You’ve been searching Pinterest for dorm inspiration since you were a second semester senior in high school. You’ve scoured the Anthropologie website for Tumblr-worthy bedding and your phone is filled with lists of websites where you’ve found the best twinkle lights.  Even your laptop case has to match the bohemian-princess theme you’ve decided on.

Reality:

In reality, you’ll be living in a shoebox for the next year. You may be on the bottom bunk, and you don’t have nearly as much wall space to display those 50 Polaroid pictures you’ve taken this summer. But even though your room is way smaller than you imagined, you will still try to make it your own safe haven, free from (some) weeknight distractions.

6. Homework

Expectation:

Syllabus week? No problem! Why would your professor assign homework during the first week of a new semester? I mean, they don’t want to have to start grading papers this soon…

Reality:

You have assignments before you’ve even moved into your dorm. You’ve received emails about the textbooks you need since three weeks before the year started, and you have an online quiz due on the second day of class.  Study group at Starbucks, anyone?

8. Friendship

Expectation and Reality:

College is the place where your life truly starts. It is where you truly find yourself and meet life-long friends who will stay with you throughout the years of midterms and breakups, coffee dates and all-nighters. This is what you expect it to be, and this is what it really is. Whether you’re just starting college for the first time or you’re beginning the first day of your senior year, you tend to expect something entirely different than reality, but sometimes reality ends up being a whole lot better than you expected.