Studying abroad is an incredible opportunity that will undoubtedly leave you a different person than you were before leaving the country. We asked collegiettes who studied (or are studying) abroad to weigh in on the most important lessons they learned from living in a foreign country. No matter where you go, you’re bound to learn these five lessons after studying abroad. When you return to your home country, you’ll be a smarter, savvier collegiette ready to take on whatever life may throw at you.

1. Flexibility is crucial

While studying abroad, you never know what will happen, so it’s crucial to go with the flow. “Be open and accepting to wherever life abroad takes you,” says Steph Black, a junior at SUNY New Paltz currently studying abroad in Spain. “Some of the best memories I’ve had so far have been my friends and I getting off at the wrong metro stop by mistake or struggling through a conversation with a random stranger in a completely different language.”

Life always has ups and downs, which is why it’s important to be flexible in all situations. “I lost my phone the first weekend and thought it’d be the end of the world, but honestly, it’s just taught me how addicted I was, and I’ve been able to really soak in a lot more without it,” Steph says.

2. Becoming independent is important

Studying abroad with a group is typical, so it can be difficult to break away from the clan. However, being independent is key in having the full study-abroad experience.

“The most important thing I learned while studying abroad was to grow independently in a city where I didn't know one person,” says Lindsay Rock, a senior at Marist College who spent a semester in Italy. “I was able to learn another language, understand culture differences and explore my own interests and passions.”  By being independent, you’ll open yourself up to so many opportunities you may not have had before.

“Once you are comfortable with your surroundings and feel confident to go out on your own during the day once in a while, do it,” says Megan Sweet, a junior at Michigan State University who’s currently studying in London. “Even if it's just to a coffee shop or for a walk. Exploring a new place also helps you learn a lot about yourself.”

When you’re with a group, it can be easy to get lost in the crowd and follow what everyone else is doing. When you’re on your own, you can explore what interests you have without having to worry about keeping up with the pack.

3. Say yes to everything

Well, not everything. However, there will be few times in your life where you’ll be presented with the opportunity to live in a foreign country and truly immerse yourself in its culture, so you should definitely take advantage of it. Hannah Orenstein, a senior at New York University who studied in Paris this past spring, says, “Some of my favorite experiences while abroad were things that were never on my study-abroad bucket list, like visiting a city I didn't have much initial interest in and sightseeing at places that didn't appeal to me on paper.” So go for it—you never know what these experiences may bring!

Kasia Jaworski, a senior at Villanova who spent six weeks in Siena, Italy, has a similar outlook. “One of the best things I learned was not to be afraid of being adventurous,” she says. “We would make travel plans on a whim because we felt like it, or even stay an extra day in a city because we wanted to. I hiked on cliffs and went on a super-high chairlift because I knew it was a once-in-a lifetime opportunity. I tried new food and sometimes only spoke in Italian. Just don't be afraid to be adventurous and step outside your comfort zone.”

Maddie Schmitz, a senior at Boston College, says, “The things that scare you the most are usually the things that are worth doing. Every time I was pushed to do something scary, it turned out to be an incredible experience!”

4. The world is bigger than you think

People often say, “It’s a small world,” but is it really? After studying abroad and experiencing an entirely new culture, you’ll realize how many different people and places there are in the world.

Marie Dillulio, a sophomore at Penn State who studied abroad in Italy, says, “The most important lesson I learned while abroad was that other places and cultures are amazing to visit and experience.” With so many different lifestyles and customs, it’s pretty incredible to immerse yourself in something you aren’t used to.

Katherine Varga, a junior at the University of Rochester who spent a semester in Bath, England, learned this lesson while abroad. “Being so far from home and encountering so many different people and cultures made me think about how incomprehensibly huge our world is—how many people have lived on this planet and how many buildings, pieces of art, stories, scientific discoveries, etc., have been contributed,” she says.

Once you’ve witnessed this for yourself, you’ll have a greater appreciation for other cultures as well as your own. It’s easy to get stuck in the bubble of your own experience, but studying abroad teaches you that there’s so much more out there. Bring this wisdom back home, and you’ll find that your perspective will be much more open.

5. Don’t be afraid to make new friends

Making friends is extremely important no matter where you go, because who wants to be alone all the time? While abroad, befriend the locals for an even stronger cultural and social experience.

“I had a group of Parisian friends while I was abroad, which added so much to my experience,” Hannah says. “They were an invaluable resource for me to practice French, ask questions about the culture and learn about cool spots around the city.”

Studying abroad is a once-in-a lifetime experience that you should make the most of. Take this advice from these collegiettes, and you’re bound to have the time of your life.

Of all the women in Hollywood, Jennifer Lawrence and Amy Schumer are among the most coveted when it comes to which celebs we want in our dream #squad. So of course, it blew our minds (we were equal parts jealous and excited) when photos of the two vacationing together hit Instagram. Everything seemed right with the world.

In an interview with the New York Times yesterday, J.Law revealed a tidbit of information that makes this friendship even better than we ever could have imagined: She and Amy are writing and starring in a screenplay together. CASUAL. 

"We play sisters," Jen told the Times (news that makes our hearts sing). "We're almost done writing. It just flowed out of us. We’ve got about 100 pages right now."

She went on to say that she and Amy "were creatively made for each other"—we're pretty sure we could've told them that. Though neither funny lady has given any additional deets as to what this screenplay is about, a peek at their texting convo might clue us in to the type of humor we can expect from these two. "I spilled the beans to the New York Times. Is that O.K.?" J.Law said in a text to her new BFF, who texted back, "That you're gay? Totally! It's exciting!"

Given the absolute gold we've seen from each of these women over the courses of their careers, we have no doubt this project will be a total gem—and we can't wait.

College can be tough. As you're trying to balance school, work and a social life (all while being fueled on nothing more than dining hall food...), you’re bound to want to find a group of collegiettes who are going through the same struggles as you are. If rushing a sorority doesn’t seem like your thing, you may be at a loss for where to find your new female BFFs. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! We’ve found six all-girl group on campus you can join—that aren't a sorority.

1. Join a major-specific organization

Lots of colleges have organizations tailored specifically to women in certain programs or majors. Are you majoring in science, tech, engineering or math? Look for organizations geared towards women in STEM, which encourage the same scholastic standard and achievement for women as men. Who doesn’t love an organization that fights to prove equal intelligence among genders? Or, if you're in the humanities or social sciences, look for groups catered to your interests, like a foreign language club or an organization for writers. These groups encourage academic excellence while simultaneously allowing collegiettes to make connections and build friendships with those who share their passions. Some common major-specific organizations across college campuses include:

• WiSE (Women in Science & Engineering) 
• Society of Women Engineers 
• Women in Computer Science 
• American Medical Women’s Association 
• Association for Women in Communications 
• Financial Women’s Association
• Journalism and Women Symposium

Collegiette Jane Johnson* explains the benefits of getting to know others who share your interests: “Find a club or group that interests you and you'll be sure to find people there who are similar to you! College is about trying new things, so even if the club isn't a great fit, you know you tried it out.”

2. Get involved in your campus’s chapter of Girl Up

There are so many ways to volunteer and make a difference for women! Girl Up—the United Nations Foundation’s campaign for adolescent and teenage girls—has many chapters on college campuses that work to encourage strong, independent and intelligent females to advocate for the education, health, safety and leadership of young women worldwide. If your campus doesn’t have a chapter, don't worry—you can start your own by registering to be a Girl Up Campus Leader. 

This organization provides a platform for women on college campuses to further foster a sense of community internationally. Plus, Michelle Obama endorses it, so joining this organization gets you one step closer to the White House… right?

3. Try out for a sports team

Many young women are eager to get involved with intercollegiate athletics, but are afraid to face the pressure of making the team (we can’t all bend it like Beckham!). Joining a sports team is a fantastic way to stay healthy and enjoy the sport you love while still making friends and having fun. Intercollegiate sports, club sports and even intramural teams are all fantastic options for athletic collegiettes at all skill levels. Check out your school’s athletics department for a list of all women’s sports teams and information about how to get involved. 

4. Join a professional society for women

You’re not bossy; you’re a boss. Joining a professional society for women is a fantastic way to make connections with experts, to get to know others who are just as driven as you are and to learn the true value of a pencil skirt. Your campus career center is full of resources, but sometimes, you might want to take a step further because you're looking for personal connections rather than a how-to guide on resume writing.

Check out your campus’s chapter of Sisters for Professional and Academic Achievement, the Professional Women’s Association, the American Association of University Women and the National Organization for Women. Some of these organizations are campus-specific, so check your college’s organization website to find these professional societies at your campus—or start your own!

5. Check out events held at the women’s center on campus

Chances are, your college campus has a women’s center. Typically, a women’s center hosts events tailored to women and gender equality each month. Examples include workshops, socials and guest speakers—and they're all are a wonderful way to make connections and get to know the other women at your school. Not only that, the campus women's center provides you with a safe space to share your experiences and thoughts. Check out your school’s website to find the location of your women’s center and a calendar of upcoming events!

6. Join your school's Her Campus chapter!

This is a given, but your college’s Her Campus chapter will provide you with a sense of community and a group of women who share your passions. If there isn’t a Her Campus chapter at your school, you can start your own! You are bound to find a group of smart and social collegiettes just like you.

These are just six of the many ways to find an outlet or safe space for women on your own campus. To find more organizations specific to your college campus, visit your college’s student life website and search “women.”

* Name has been changed.

Last year, Aerie launched a spring campaign titled "Aerie Real," showcasing unretouched and unairbrushed models. In an effort to challenge current beauty standards and promote healthy body image among their key demographic (girls between ages 15 and 21), Aerie is adding some star power to their campaign. Earlier this week, the popular intimates and loungewear brand released photos of their first celebrity promoter: Emma Roberts. 

At 24 years old, the Scream Queens actress is no stranger to public scrutiny. While most celebrities would probably shy away from a campaign that exposes their natural imperfections, Emma is embracing them (and we love it)! “Partnering with Aerie was a natural fit for me because #AerieREAL is a message I personally identify with, particularly being in an industry that is quick to judge flaws,” Emma said in a recent statement. Modeling Aerie's super cute flannel tops, bras, and undies, Emma exudes confidence in the campaign ads. 

Aside from encouraging consumers to embrace their natural bodies, this campaign has personal significance for Emma. "I have a little sister who's 14, and I see how insecure she gets looking at photos on Instagram and Twitter. People post photos that aren't real. So to be able to be like, 'This is me as Emma, not Emma Roberts,' was important to me. As an actress, who's always doing shoots getting their hair and makeup done, putting on these outfits that aren't necessarily you, I felt it was important to do something that was me," Emma said.  

We can only hope that more celebrities take Emma's cue and opt for unretouched photoshoots. “I feel so honored to be part of a movement that reassures women that real doesn’t mean flawed—real is sexy, real is cool,” Emma shared. Personally, we can't wait for Aerie's fall collection to hit the shelves!

The dating pool in college is already pretty small, especially on more isolated campuses, and by now, you’re probably sick of seeing Tinder taunt you about having no one new around you. It only complicates things when you don’t know which girls on campus are into girls – there’s no secret code, after all. Don’t worry, though; there are plenty of available cuties around. You’ve just already met them!

It might seem awkward to rekindle things with girls you’ve already ended it with or to chat with an acquaintance from two years ago, but look at it this way: You get to skip the small talk. People change a lot in college, so maybe the girl who wasn’t right for you first semester is senior year’s Princess Charming.

1. The Girl From Orientation

Okay, so your freshman orientation was a long time ago. And yes, sometimes you cringe when you think about the people you met there whom you thought would be your BFFs but now you just awkwardly avoid in the hallways. But it wasn’t all bad – maybe it’s time to reconnect with the girl you were flirting with before college life made you way too busy. The next time you see her around, find an excuse to grab coffee and see if she’s just as great as you remember.

2. Your Floormate From Last Year

You've basically lived together, so by now you probably know each other pretty well. After all, sharing a bathroom gets people pretty comfortable with one another! So now that dormcest is no longer a concern, maybe it’s time to get to know each other in a different way. Grab a bite to eat and see where reminiscing leads.

3. The “Is She or Isn’t She?” Girl

You guys have talked and joked, but you were never quite sure if she was really into girls (and maybe she wasn’t sure if you were either). But it’s a new year, and you might just find that it’s worth a shot. Break out those snooping skills, and see if you two are destined to be more than friends!

4. Your Former Lab Partner

You could feel some sparks (ones that weren’t from the Bunsen burner), but you figured it was too complicated; what if you broke up and were stuck mixing chemicals together for the rest of the semester? That’s no longer a concern, and you already know each other well enough that it’s totally not weird to text her to hang out. What do you have to lose?

5. The One Who Got Away

It happens. You were crazy about her, but a stupid fight or a semester abroad really messed up what you had going. If she’s available, swallow your pride and see if getting back together is a good idea or if you were really destined to be a sad Taylor Swift song. The worst that can happen is you stay broken up, but if it works out, you’ll be closer than ever.

6. The Girl You See Everywhere

She’s president of the Pride chapter at your school. You sat near her in your writing seminar. She always seems to be ahead of you in line at Starbucks. Make the plunge and stop skirting around each other; you can’t help but notice how gorgeous she is every time you see her, and you know you have similar interests. Find an excuse to talk, whether through a mutual friend or even by saying exactly what you’re thinking—“I feel like I see you everywhere!”—and see where it takes you.

7. The Cute Freshman

A three- or four-year age difference used to be weird, but in college, a junior dating a freshman isn’t out of the ordinary. It might a little complicated, but it’ll be nice to see a fresh face or two around campus once the new crop of freshmen arrive. Strike up a conversation and flirt your way to a new relationship with a great girl.

8. Last Year’s FWB

Maybe you were too busy for a real relationship, or maybe you were just more interested in hooking up than dating, but last year, it was totally great to have FWB situation. Now, you’re looking to settle down, and you find yourself missing last year’s girl. Maybe feelings complicated things last year, but it’s time to talk about it! Put your pride aside and ask her if she’s interested in starting over.

9. The Girl From Home

LDRs are hard, but when you go home for vacations, it’s nice to have someone you can hang out with (especially if a lot of your high school friends have fallen by the wayside). You had a good thing going before you had to end it and leave for school, so shoot her a message and catch up. If it’s meant to be, it’ll be worth the trouble.

Finding other ladies to date around campus can seem impossible, especially when you think you’ve met them all and the LGBTQ+ community is smaller than you’d like. If you look around, though, you’ll notice all the great girls and see the awesome relationship potential that you may have missed when you first met them. Don’t limit yourself, and definitely don’t be afraid to go out on a limb –  you might just find your perfect match!

As collegiettes, our lives are consumed with selfies, but when our camera phones follow us into the polling stations, are we threatening our voting privacy by Snapchatting who we have placed that all important vote for, without even knowing it?

The New York Times reports that “ballot selfies” are invoking the concern of buying votes and voter intimidation: “But with the ubiquity of cellphone cameras, the argument goes, that hard-won privacy and security for voters is in danger. Vote-buyers, or a boss demanding that you support a candidate, could demand a photograph of the completed ballot to prove how you voted.”

Earlier this month, a New Hampshire federal court overturned a 2014 ban on voter selfies as a clear violation of voter secrecy, following in suit with laws in Indiana. A fine of $1,000 was set in New Hampshire for those who fail to comply with the voting selfies ban. “It’s a sacred area where you vote,” said William M. Gardner, the secretary of state of New Hampshire.

However, Gilles Bissonnette, the legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union of New Hampshire finds voter selfies to represent something entirely different. “The problem with this law is that it was an outright ban on an innocent form of communication,” said Mr. Bissonnette of the A.C.L.U. “It didn’t ban displays involved in vote buying or intimidation. It banned all displays, including ones that carried political messages.” The A.C.L.U. has subsequently sued in Federal District Court, with the plaintiffs being two Republican candidates that candidly posted their voting selfies on social media, along with a third plaintiff, a NH civilian whom was so disillusioned with the candidates that he wrote in his deceased dog’s name on his ballot. This resulted in all three receiving calls from the authorities and sparking fellow acts of voter selfies in NH on a common Facebook page.

On August 11, the law was struck down, as the state cited there wasn’t “an actual or imminent problem with images of completed ballots being used to facilitate either vote buying or voter coercion,” Judge Paul Barbadoro of Federal District Court in Concord said. “The new law is invalid, because it is a content-based restriction on speech that cannot survive strict scrutiny.”

Still, there are many who oppose the overturn and plan to appeal, believing it births the new era of buying and selling votes, no matter if the voter is even visible in the photo.

Let’s just hope emojis don’t squeeze their way into the discussion.

Admit it: You have a hardcore addiction to your local coffee shop. You can’t start your morning without going, the campus barista knows your order by heart and you aren’t afraid to say you love a good Pumpkin Spice Latte. But if you’re like us, $4 (or more!) a drink burns quite a hole in your pocket, and as a cash-strapped collegiette, you’re looking for a better way to get your caffeine fix without going totally broke in the process. Don’t worry—we’ve found a solution so obvious it’s genius: You need to make your coffee drinks at home. We know, we know—holding that Starbucks® cup feels oh-so-cool on your way to your 9 a.m. lecture, but hear us out: you can recreate your coffee drink favorites at home for much, much cheaper.

Before you rush out to buy your favorite soy milk (which no longer costs 50 cents extra when you brew at home, btw!), you’re going to need a Keurig. Make it a must-have on your back-to-school shopping list: The Keurig® 2.0 K250 brewing system is probably the best thing to ever happen to coffee, and is the fastest and easiest way to make all of your favorite drinks in the comfort of your dorm. It’s compact so it doesn’t take up much room, comes in seven fun colors (like Strawberry, Violet, Orange Zest and Turquoise) to perfectly match your dorm room theme and can brew over 500 beverages (including coffee, teas, hot cocoas, lemonade and more) from over 75 brands that you already know and love—hello, Starbucks®, Dunkin’ Donuts®, Snapple® and Green Mountain Coffee®! Luckily for you, we’ve curated the ultimate make-at-home coffee beverage list, so it’ll be almost no effort at all to make that PSL!

1. Mocha Frappuccino

There’s seriously nothing better than a Mocha Frapp on a hot afternoon after class. Brew your K-Cup® pod and then blend all ingredients to get a delicious Starbucks®-inspired drink!

What you’ll need:
Starbucks® Pike Place Roast Coffee K-Cup® pod 
3 tablespoons sugar or sugar substitute
3 tablespoons cocoa powder
3/4 cup milk of your choice
2 cups ice
Small blender

2. Chai Latte

Have a hot date with your engineering textbook tonight? Brew yourself a creamy, spicy Chai Tea Latte to keep you warm during late night study sessions. Simply brew your tea and then add as much milk as you want. Add a little sugar if you like yours sweeter!

What you’ll need:
Bigelow Vanilla Chai Tea K-Cup® pod 
4 ounces milk of your choice
Sugar or sugar substitute to taste

3. Caramel Mocha Latte

Sometimes you just want to feel extra indulgent. Allow us to introduce you to your new favorite coffee drink: the Caramel Mocha Latte. Make yourself a nest in bed and grab your favorite book and this drink to have the ultimate night-in.

Recipe adapted from Keurig®. 

What you’ll need:
Starbucks® Sumatra Coffee  K-Cup® pod 
4 ounces milk of your choice
4 teaspoons caramel syrup
1 tablespoon chocolate syrup

4. Vanilla Iced Coffee with Milk

If you’re an iced coffee kind of girl, you might be surprised to know your Keurig also brews cold beverages! We think this is the perfect way to get your caffeine fix on a warm September day.

What you’ll need:
Starbucks® Sweetened Iced Coffee K-Cup® pod
1/4 cup milk of your choice
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup of ice

5. Salted Caramel Coffee

A little salty, a little sweet—this coffee drink should be your new go-to. It’s seriously the perfect pick-me-up—and if you’re feeling extra indulgent, don’t forget the whipped cream!

Recipe adapted from Keurig®.

What you’ll need:
Green Mountain Coffee® Caramel Vanilla Cream Coffee K-Cup® pod 
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
1 1/2 tablespoon caramel sauce
1/2 cup milk of your choice
Pinch of sea salt
Whipped cream (optional)

6. Pumpkin Spice Latte

Who says you need to wait until the fall for your favorite drink? Perhaps the best thing about making your own coffee drinks is that you don’t need to wait until your fave coffee stores launch their seasonal recipes. We say PSLs are delicious year-round!

What you’ll need:
Green Mountain Coffee ® Pumpkin Spice Coffee K-Cup® Pod 
1/4 teaspoon allspice or pumpkin pie spice
4 ounces milk of your choice
Whipped cream (optional)

You’re going to be amazed when you see how easy it is to brew your favorite coffee drinks with the Keurig® 2.0 K250— and how it’s also way more affordable than buying a drink every day! 

Parks and Recreation may have ended, but the show’s memorable cast will always hold a special place in our hearts. Leslie, Ron, April, Andy and the rest of the quirky characters are some of the most relatable (fictional) people to ever grace our screens. Although they are all lovable in their own way, chances are, you identify with one character more than the others. Here’s what your favorite character from Parks and Rec says about you.

1. Leslie Knope

If Leslie Knope is your go-to Parks gal, then you’re probably extremely motivated. You’re always working on five things at once, but you still take time out of your busy day to spend with your closest friends. Chances are, you organize an annual Galentine’s Day, and waffles are your favorite food.

Classic quote: “We need to remember what’s important in life: friends, waffles, work. Or waffles, friends, work. Doesn’t matter, but work is third.”

2. Ron Swanson                                                                             

If you love breakfast food, working with your hands and short conversations, then Ron Swanson is likely your spirit animal. Not that you believe in spirit animals, of course. Like Ron, you have a rough exterior that can only be softened by those closest to you. You value hard work above all else, and you may have one or two crazy exes.

Classic quote: “There has never been a sadness that cannot be cured by breakfast food.”

3. April Ludgate

If April Ludgate is your favorite Parks character, you won’t admit it to anyone. After all, you hate most people. You’re fluent in sarcasm, and you love wasting time by being unproductive. Underneath all that, though, you have a big heart and the unique ability to bring real joy to people. You’re secretly a hard worker, and you are extremely smart.

Classic quote: “I don’t want to do things. I want to not do things.”

4. Andy Dwyer

If Andy Dwyer is the best part of Parks and Rec for you, then you must be a kid at heart. You love candy, games and solving mysteries. Sometimes you don’t feel like a functioning adult, but your friends are always there to help you out. You find joy in the little things, and you have an impressive alter ego (a la Burt Macklin).

Classic quote: “My whole life is a giant mess and I love it.”

5. Tom Haverford

If Tom Haverford is your fave, then you probably abbreviate most words you say (or tweet!) You’re addicted to social media, and you’re always coming up with the next great idea for a business or invention. You appreciate the finer things in life, and you’re all about treating yourself to them on a regular basis.

Classic quote: “Love fades away. But things… things are forever.”

6. Ben Wyatt

If you laugh at Ben Wyatt’s accounting jokes, then you’re probably a self-proclaimed geek as well. You appreciate nerd culture, you’re vocal about your love for Game of Thrones and Star Wars, and you wish you could play The Cones of Dunshire in real life. There’s much more to you, though, like your kindness and sense of humor.

Classic quote: “Just call me Bond, Municipal Bond!”

7. Ann Perkins

If you love everything about Ann Perkins, then you’ve got some competition (Leslie Knope is her best friend, after all). Like Ann, you’re passionate and you speak up for what you believe in. You’re patient, funny, and a little lost in the love department. Don’t worry, though, you’ll find your soulmate soon enough.

Classic quote: “Jogging is the worst. I know it keeps you healthy, but god, at what cost?”

8. Chris Traeger

If Chris Traeger is your inspiration, you’re literally superhuman. You exercise like a fiend, only eat healthy foods, and almost always have a positive attitude. It can be hard for your friends to keep up with you sometimes, but you’re constantly providing them with encouraging words and a big smile.

Classic quote: “Carob cookies and berries are literally my favorite dessert alternative.”

9. Donna Meagle

If your role model is Donna Meagle, then you’re pretty much the most fabulous person on earth. You can be found tweeting hilarious tidbits or casually mentioning aspects of your remarkable life (much to the surprise of everyone around you). You’re confident, sassy, and you speak the truth—no matter who disagrees.

Classic quote: “Treat yo’ self!”

10. Jerry Gergich

If Jerry is your favorite person in the Parks gang, well… you’re probably alone in that. You may be awkward around people at work, but you have a beautiful family and you’re actually really happy. You’re always willing to do the tedious tasks. Don’t let people make fun of you, though, and remember that you have a lot going for you!

Classic quote: “I think that Comic Sans always screams FUN.”

So, tell us—which character speaks most to you?

It’s the set of rules to avoid girl drama, the answer to all those tough friendship situations and the guidelines to promote respect among all women. It’s more than an MTV show and even though it’s supposed to be unspoken, we’re speaking up about it. That’s right—we’re talking about girl code.

So, why is girl code so important in the first place? According to Jessica Rozler, co-author of Friend or Frenemy?, girl code is the female twist to the Golden Rule, aka treating others as you’d want to be treated. “I think EVERYONE should treat each other with respect,” Rozler says.  “It can’t hurt to have some rules to remind us of this fact. And yes—all of us need reminders from time to time.”

With this guide, collegiettes can get on the same page so we can all avoid the tears and drama we tend to cause one another. We’ve surveyed more than 40 collegiettes about boys, friends and how we treat other women overall. Get ready for the real girl code!

Rule #1: Avoid dating your friend’s ex—but if you can’t, talk to her about it.  

So you’ve found yourself falling for you bestie’s ex-boyfriend. Needless to say, you’re truly between a rock and a hard place. While you can’t deny your feelings, you can’t shake the fact that you’ve shared a pint of Ben & Jerry’s with her while she cried her eyes out over him. What to do?

A whopping 75 percent of the surveyed collegiettes say that dating a best friend’s ex is completely off-limits. It’s particularly a big no-no if they dated for a long time, it ended badly or your bestie is clearly not over it.

“Personally, I wouldn’t date a friend’s serious ex,” Rolzer says. “I also wouldn’t date a guy my friend had even casually dated if it made her feel uncomfortable.”

However, the other 25 percent of surveyed collegiettes say it’s okay if the guy was a casual ex-hookup. A hook-up buddy or a casual fling implies that your friend wasn’t extremely emotionally invested in the guy, so it’s more acceptable for you to go for him.  

“If your friend wasn't super into the the guy and she told you that she’s completely okay with it, then I think it would be alright,” says Kathy*, a senior from Gettysburg College. “But if she still has feelings for him, I would say no.”

Regardless of their answers, 60 percent of the surveyed collegiettes emphasized talking with your friend before starting any sort of relationship with her ex.  

“If it happens you like your friend's ex, don't wait to talk about it,” says Sandra*, a senior at Furman University. “In fact, your friend should be the first to know that you may even have the smallest feelings towards him. Putting it off could ruin the friendship.”

Bottom line: tread lightly with dating ex-boyfriends. The best scenario is to eliminate that possibility completely, but if you really feel strongly about him, talk to your friend first. You never want to make your bestie feel uncomfortable or hurt by your decision.

Rule #2: If it’s your ex your friend is crushing on, be honest to your friend about your feelings for him.

What if the roles are reversed and your bestie has fallen for your ex? You really can’t picture your ex with anyone else (you were a pretty awesome girlfriend, after all), and it might be really weird to think that his “someone new” might be your best friend. Do you prohibit your friend from dating him or give her your blessing?

“Feelings are feelings,” says Lauren*, a junior at the University of Virginia. “Don't go banning your ex from people, because it'll just make you look and feel immature.”

That being said, be honest with your friend (and yourself) about your feelings toward your ex. Regardless if you’re over him or not, be honest about how you would feel if she dated him. Don’t give your bestie the go-ahead if you know it’s going to hurt your feelings or jeopardize your friendship.

“Just be honest about how you feel and don't do anything rash that could ruin a really good friendship,” Lauren says. “Over him or not, it still might be weird for your friend to date your ex, and that's expected. But don't act like it's all going to be okay unless you are actually okay with it.”

Give your friend props for talking to you first and have an honest conversation with her. At the end of day, you both just want each other to be happy. With an open conversation, you can reach a solution that you’re both comfortable with.

Rule #3: It’s sisters before misters; don’t let a guy get between you and a friend.  

It’s the classic tale of two girls liking the same guy. He’s cute, smart and athletic… how could either of you resist? Even though it might be hard to get over his amazing blue eyes or adorable smile, 59 percent of surveyed collegiettes say it’s best for both of you to back off.

“If both [of] you like the same guy, he should be off-limits to both of you,” says Amanda*, a recent grad from Villanova University. “It will end badly, and no friendship is worth ruining over a boy.”

Things could become a little more complicated if the guy is clearly into one of you over the other, in which case, you should be honest with each other about it. “If you and your friend respect each other enough and care about the friendship enough, you would have an honest conversation about it,” Kathy says. “Either way, you shouldn't let it get in the way of your friendship.”

Ultimately, no guy is worth ruining a friendship over (100 percent of the surveyed collegiettes agreed on that!). You’re better off choosing friendship instead of a guy, because, at the end of the day, there are other fish in the sea, and you’re going to want your bestie there to help you catch one.

Rule #4: Always tell your friend if her boyfriend is a cheater.

So you saw your bestie’s SO locking lips with another girl last night. Even though it will probably break her heart, 89 percent of surveyed collegiettes say that you should tell her immediately—no exceptions.

“I would tell her ASAP,” says Michelle, a sophomore from Rutgers University. “If her boyfriend finds out I ratted him out, I wouldn’t care because she deserves better.”

Your bestie’s boyfriend is clearly disrespecting her by being unfaithful. It’s your duty as a friend to keep her best interests in mind and then support her through the aftermath. “I would tell my friend immediately and support her decision,” says Kelsey, a senior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. “Then just be there to listen and take her mind off it when she’s ready.”

If you’re friends with the boyfriend, this situation could get a lot more awkward. That’s when 11 percent of surveyed collegiettes say you should approach him and give him a chance to explain himself to your friend before you say anything to her.

“Give him a chance to tell her,” Sandra says. “By doing this, you stay out of a messy situation. But if he doesn't follow through, tell her. You would want to know if you were in her shoes.”

It’s a tough situation, but your friend would feel extremely betrayed if she found out you knew her SO cheated and you didn’t speak up. However she decides to handle the situation is her choice, but she will appreciate the fact that you have her back!

Rule #5: Little white lies are okay, but honesty is the best policy.

Your friend just got her hair cut in a bob (it’s not her best look), and you smile and tell her that it’s different and chic. Or when she asks you if you thought the exam you just took was super unfair (it wasn’t, she just didn’t study as much as she should have), you immediately agree and comfort her about her C. Even though our mothers told us that we should never tell a lie, we find ourselves harmlessly fibbing to our friends from time to time. “I would be lying if I said that we should never, ever lie!” Rolzer says. “I think we all tell little lies to spare the feelings of people we really care about.”

While these little white lies are okay when you’re keeping your friend’s best interests in mind, 67 percent of surveyed collegiettes say that honesty is the best policy. “There’s really no reason to lie,” says Cassidy, a junior at Tulane University. “Things are always better when people are honest.” 

Forty-seven percent also specifically say you should never lie to a friend about important stuff. Be real about how you feel if she likes your ex (see rule #2), if that $150 dress she’s about to buy is actually flattering (be gentle) or when you’re angry or upset with her (don’t say you aren’t when you actually are).

You trust your friends to be honest with you about the things that matter most. While you might fib that her homemade lasagna is to diiiiie for (you’re not the biggest fan), keep it real when it comes to the important things.

Rule #6: Help a girl out and tell her she has spinach in her teeth.  

Most of the time, we walk around like we’re ***Flawless (#bowdown). But even if we woke up like this, sometimes our appearances are less than perfect. We’re talking smudged makeup, spinach in our teeth and toilet paper on our shoes; those annoying things that we realize once we look in the mirror after hours of being in public. Don’t you wish someone had just told you?

Part of girl code is helping other women out, which means saving them some embarrassment. While it might be awkward to tell a complete stranger that her lipstick is smudged, 77 percent of surveyed collegiettes say they would want to know. “Of course I would tell her!” says Kacey*, a sophomore from Saint Joseph’s University. “Nicely and discretely, of course. I’d want someone else to do that for me.”

It doesn’t matter if it’s the girl you occasionally see in calc class or if it’s your best friend; just let her know. If you’re at dinner, discretely motion wiping off your mouth if there’s something on her face, or quietly tell a stranger in the bathroom that there’s a run in her tights. It might be embarrassing for her in the moment, but just think how you would feel if you didn’t know you had a rip in your skirt or raccoon eyes all day!

Rule #7: Don’t be catty; no one likes a trash-talker.

Girls get the rep of being catty and fake behind their friends’ backs. While we don’t like to admit it, we’re all a little guilty of gossiping. However, there’s a difference between venting and malicious trash-talking.

When you’re in college, you see your friends all. The. Time. While most of the time it’s great, their dirty dishes in the sink and their consistent tardiness can occasionally get on your nerves.

“Everyone needs to vent,” says Rachel*, a senior at New York University. “I love my friends to death, but there are times they get on my nerves and I just need to rant a little.”

However, venting turns into trash-talking when you insult your friend’s behavior or personality, accuse her of things that may not be true or act nice to her in person and secretly diss her behind her back. “It's NOT okay to completely insult your friends behind their back,” Rachel says. “If you realize you’re saying hurtful things to the point you shouldn’t be considered friends, that’s not cool.”  

Most girls like to talk through their problems and get advice from others. If you’re expressing your feelings about one of your friends, try not to vent to someone she’s also friends with, because that just causes more problems. Instead, talk to your mom or maybe a sibling; pick a neutral source so you don’t cause any more conflict.

Hear someone else trash-talking your bestie? Most collegiettes say to either try to change the subject or defend your friend in a calm way. “If I don’t agree with someone, I say why I disagree nicely,” Michelle says. “You don’t want it to blow up into an argument that could lead to more trash-talking.”

Of course our friends get on our nerves, but it’s better to avoid talking behind their backs. If there’s something really bothering you, it’s better to just confront your friend directly about it without getting others involved.

Rule #8: It’s really not cool to call her a sl*t.

“Sl*t-shaming” is making derogatory remarks about a woman’s sexual behavior. Have you ever thought, “Oh, wow—what is she wearing?” when you see a girl scantily dressed at a party? Or quietly whispered about a collegiette doing “the walk of shame” across campus? You may not realize it, but what you’re doing is sl*t-shaming.  

“Sl*t-shaming, in my opinion, is our least attractive quality as women,” says Sarah, a senior at Pennsylvania State University. “For every time we’ve looked at a girl and judged her with no means to back it up, just think of all the times someone else has probably done that to us.”

Labeling another female a “sl*t” or a “wh*re” is simply disrespectful. We all want to be respected no matter what, and that respect should start woman-to-woman. “Keep your judgments to yourself,” Rolzer says. “It's bad enough when men do this, but it's especially terrible when women do it. It perpetuates this stereotype that women are catty and can't get along.”

Instead of mentally chastising a girl in a tight miniskirt, give her props for having the confidence to rock it. If you hear a rumor about what so-and-so did with a guy the other night, avoid the negative labels, because it doesn’t really affect you at all. It’s every woman’s choice to act or dress however she’d like; it’s not really your business or your place to judge them. 

As females, we owe it to one another to support and respect one another’s decisions. “Women should be building each other up, not putting them down,” Sarah says. “In the end, sl*t-shaming makes us look ugly and mean, and that’s never a good look for anyone.”

Rule #9: Look out for one another, especially when alcohol is involved.

More often than not, you can see a handful of girls who are just a little too drunk at a party. While everyone has the right to their cocktails and tequila shots, every high-school health class taught us that too much alcohol doesn’t lead to smart decisions.

“NEVER abandon a friend that you go to a party with,” says Heather*, a junior at Yale University. “I don’t think it’s even okay to leave a party and go to a different one without the girl you came with. If you go out together, you stay together!”

While most of us have our friends’ backs (and will take care of them if they drink too much), keep an eye out for other girls at a party, even if you don’t know them. “We should look out for other girls, whether they’re friends or strangers,” says Kaela, a junior at Clemson University. “Being drunk can make you more vulnerable. If we take it upon ourselves to look out for each other when we’re out, there might be one less drunk girl taken advantage of.”

Ask your friend if she wants some water if she can’t keep her balance, approach a girl who’s leaving with a guy to ask if she’s okay or pull your friend down from the bar when she starts dancing a little too crazily. You can prevent a girl from making a decision she might regret or save her some embarrassment. Everyone wants to have a good time, and looking out for others can ensure that the night doesn’t end badly for anyone.

Whether it’s figuring out a boy dilemma or avoiding a fight with your besties, knowing the basic guidelines of girl code can help you navigate any situation. The basic idea of girl code is to treat others like you would want to be treated. Keep this in mind so you can avoid the drama and strengthen your friendships with other women!

*Names have been changed.

We all know that Pumpkin Spice Latte season is coming, but Starbucks just did something AMAZING that will help tide us over. Let us introduce you to your new Frapp favorites: Strawberry Shortcake and Blackberries & Crème! 

So what's inside these "Last Sips of Summer," as Starbucks has named them? The Strawberry Shortcake Frappuccino includes fresh strawberries, strawberry puree, milk, ice and vanilla and hazelnut syrup. The Blackberries & Crème blends together real blackberries, vanilla bean, milk, ice, cinnamon dolce topping and whipped cream. They sound seriously delicious! 

But get these before they're gone--you can get these beauties from now until Sunday, September 7. Run, don't walk! 

Ever since Lizzie McGuire hopped onto the back of Paolo’s Vespa, we’ve all thought about how great it would be to travel abroad, romance a handsome stranger who has an adorable accent and spend a few weeks exploring another country with our dreamy, foreign fling. Studying abroad is all about exploring new places, trying new things and being spontaneous, so this could be the perfect time to have a casual fling with a hottie who can show you the ropes to this new, foreign lifestyle of yours.

If you’re studying abroad, the prospect of finding love can sound more appealing than ever. The only problem is, you may not know where to look for it. Whether you’re looking for a nonchalant fling or even a serious boyfriend while you’re studying abroad, here’s a little advice for how to make it happen!

Looking for a casual fling?

Whether you’re planning on studying abroad for a few weeks or a few months, it’s inevitable that you’re going to have to go home eventually. That’s why sometimes it’s better to keep your study-abroad romance more on the casual side. This guy won’t be the kind of guy who’s going to introduce you to his parents, but you’ll definitely want to take lots of pictures with him to show off to your friends back home!

“I was studying abroad in Florence, Italy, this past semester and ended up hanging out with this one guy I met at a bar almost the entire time I was there,” says Katie*, a collegiette at the University of San Diego. “I told him upfront that I was only going to be there for a few months, so we decided to keep it super casual and I ended up having a really great time with him! I knew there were no strings attached and I would be leaving soon anyways, so I didn’t feel any pressure to make it work or impress him.”

Hanging out at local bars and clubs is a great way to meet cute local guys. Just make sure he’s not a skeezy local before you decide to make a move and put your flirting skills to the test.

“I would say that most of the locals know where the American college students like to hang out, so they’ll go there to pick up girls,” Katie says. “They know what they’re doing! They’ve done it before. You just have to be okay with the fact that you might not be their first American fling.”

Studying abroad is all about exploring new things and being a little bold, so don’t shy away if a dreamy Italian man asks you to dance or the hot guy from Madrid offers to buy you a drink. One of the most important things about studying abroad is seizing every opportunity that’s thrown your way, and we definitely consider a good-looking guy with a cute accent a worthy opportunity! Just make sure you’re being safe; if a guy is really giving you the creeps, don’t ignore your instincts, and don’t accept a drink you didn’t see the bartender make.

Don’t be afraid to approach a guy and start a conversation or invite someone to dance with you either. Men in other countries are often much more forward when it comes to romancing a pretty lady. While not every suave foreigner you meet will be looking for a lifelong romance, don’t let that stop you. When you keep things casual, you won’t have to deal with painful goodbyes or lingering feelings once you’re back in America. You get a few weeks of carefree fun before it’s time to head back home. No strings attached!

Looking for real romance?

Whether you’re under the Eiffel Tower, admiring the coasts of Greece or salsa dancing in Spain, you can’t help but let the beauty of your surroundings make you feel all lovey-dovey inside. And while the nightlife is one of the best parts about studying abroad, you’ll have a much better chance at a lasting romance if you meet a guy in a more casual setting. Maybe you’ll meet your dream guy at the café around the corner, or maybe he’s waiting for you at the local museum. Exploring the city around you may just lead to you running into someone who could be your next great love.

Taylor, a student at the University of San Diego, may not have found the love she was looking for while studying abroad in Italy, but her best friend sure did!

“My best friend Lindsay* and I were studying abroad in Italy, and the first week we were there, she met this guy while we were exploring Venice,” she says. “We were sitting in a little café reading and he came up and asked her about the book she was holding. I felt like we were in a movie. I was surprised they hit it off so fast, but even more surprised when she told me she was in love with him after the third week of knowing him! I thought she was crazy and that it would fade once we got back home, but it’s been over a year now and they’re still dating!”

There’s no one place you should go when looking for a real romance. The guy of your dreams could be anywhere; you just have to keep an open mind! He could be a street artist in Paris or a waiter at the restaurant you and your friends go to, or you could meet him right after you throw that lucky penny into the Trevi Fountain. When you truly immerse yourself in the culture and make an effort to talk to the people around you, you’re bound to meet at least one worthy love connection.

Learning a little bit of the native language may help you in your endeavors to find your foreign fairy tale as well. If you can converse with the natives in their language, they’ll appreciate it. A language barrier can really hinder a budding romance, so make an effort to learn at least a few words and phrases before you embark on your study-abroad adventure. This could be the perfect excuse to put those years of high school Spanish, French or Italian to the test. Make sure you at least know the word amore!

While finding your one true love in another country sounds super romantic, it’s also important to remember that long-distance relationships can be hard. Before you commit to your super cute Italian/Spanish/Australian/Irish boyfriend, make sure you’ll be willing to put in the effort to make it work once you get back home.

Don’t overlook the cute American!

While you may be stuck in the mindset that your study-abroad fling is going to speak a different language and show you around his city, it’s important to remember that there will be tons of other college guys studying abroad with you, too. The best part is, they’ll get to go back to the States with you when your semester comes to an end!

“I think when you’re studying abroad with other guys from your school, it’s not as big of a deal if you hook up,” Katie says. “Since you’re in another country, you’re a little more carefree and you kind of feel like the rules don’t apply. What happened in Italy stayed in Italy!”

Whether he goes to your school or not, nothing will make you guys bond like attempting to read foreign maps, trying new foods or getting lost in the city. Plus, you won’t have to worry about any language barriers with this guy.

Another plus to dating an American in a foreign country is that they’ll be just as stoked as you are to see all the sites. Your American fling will be just as excited as you are to put a lock on the love bridge in Paris or take pictures pretending to hold up the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

“I was on a tour in Rome while I was studying abroad and met this really cute guy in my tour group,” says Natalie, a collegiette from Seattle University. “We really hit it off and I found out that he goes to University of Washington, which is really close to my school! I think everyone hopes to go to another country and meet some hot foreign guy—I know I did—but I never expected to fall for an American while I was in Rome. I guess it’s kind of ironic that I had to go to another country to meet him!”

Don’t be shy if you meet a cute American who you’d like to get to know better. The fact that you’re both immersed in a new culture is the perfect excuse to bond and a great opportunity to invite him to explore the city with you. Invite him to try the cute pizza joint around the corner that everyone has been raving about or to check out a local art gallery with you.

Moral of the story: if you can’t find the Paolo to your Lizzie McGuire, then you can always go searching for Gordo!

Whether you’re looking for a lasting romance or a short-lived fling, a study-abroad romance could be the perfect addition to your foreign adventure. He may be the guy of your dreams or he could just be just a fun story to tell your friends about later––either way, we hope you find a little amour wherever you study abroad!

*Names have been changed.

With all the excitement of getting back to campus after a long summer break, it's easy to forget what you'll unfortunately be returning to in a few weeks: schoolwork. Take a look at some of the thoughts every college girl has the night before class starts.

1. Do I know where my classrooms are?

Especially as a freshman, it's easy to get lost in the sea of busy students and buildings on your way to class. Make sure to figure out where you need to go a few days before  so you aren't the person staring at Google Maps as you walk straight into a tree.

2. I have to set an alarm for when??

Unless you've been working a 9-5 job all summer, there's no way you're accustomed to waking up for that early morning class. Nobody wants to think about how soon they'll be forced to start pressing the snooze button!

3. Are any of my friends in this class?

If you're lucky enough to be taking a class with some of your friends, you'll be sure to be texting them about where to meet up so you can walk in together and pretend you aren't super nervous.

4. Is my outfit ready?

While first-day-of-school outfits may not be the big deal they were in high school, you'll probably want to look decent for one day before you dive into the rotation of sweatpants and leggings.

5. Do I actually have to start reading the books I just bought?

It's one thing to search for good deals on Amazon and be proud of how much money you just saved. It's another thing to actually READ the books.

6. Who will I meet for lunch?

If the answer to #3 is an unfortunate no, you'll find yourself making lunch plans with your besties to catch up and dish about your new professors.

7. Where's the party tonight?

With syllabus week comes minimal work and some time to let loose, so you'll definitely be figuring out where to pregame and head out for the evening before having to set your alarm and start all over again.

Becoming an established member of a bar takes time, skill and a lot of confidence. Whether you just turned 21 or you’ve been hitting up bars for a year, Her Campus has 12 tips for you so you can become the best bar-frequenter ever.

1. Know Your Drink

Ordering at a bar is just like ordering at a restaurant: before you flag down the bartender and hold up the line, know what you want. Don’t be afraid to try something new or ask for recommendations, but don’t stand there and say, “umm…” It’s always safe to know which type of wine, beer and cocktail you prefer.

“Do ask if there are any specials,” recommends bartender Alex Norton, a senior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.  “It could save a lot of money.”

2. The Money Situation

Everyone has an opinion on whether cash or credit is better for the bar scene. If you’re a cash person, have enough to pay for your drinks and tip generously. If you have a card, open a tab and hand it over early in the night so you don’t waste the bartender’s time. When you “open a tab,” you give the bartender your credit card to have your drinks charged to it automatically throughout the night. At the end of the night, you “close the tab,” or go up and sign for the bill.  Always make sure to close your tab (and leave a good tip!).

“Don’t open a tab and then leave it without closing,” Norton says. “Nothing is worse than standing in line for 20 minutes, finally getting to order your drink and then realizing your credit card is still at the last bar.”

3. Three is the Magic Number

If you are going to a bar to meet people, it may not be the best time to invite your entire sorority. A group of three is the perfect number for a night out, but it also makes you approachable because it makes it possible to couple off: When a guy approaches, you won’t be leaving one friend to fend for herself, and the guy also won’t have to fight through a pack of friends to get your number.

4. Blend In

Take in the scenery of the bar—is the music pumping, is the game on or is everyone speaking in whispers above smooth jazz? If you want to be a regular at a bar, work on blending in with the general atmosphere. Every song that comes on the speaker isn’t “your song”—especially if it’s not karaoke night. Keep the singing along to a minimum. 

5. Patience is a Virtue

Fighting through the crowd and snapping your fingers at the bartender is not a good way to be a welcome customer. Leaning over the bar and slurring flirtations isn’t much better. You’re not going to get a free drink, and you’re not going to be put ahead of the rest of the people wanting a drink. Be assertive, not aggressive; be friendly, but not a floozy. And above all, be patient.

“Wait your turn at the bar, but don’t be a pushover or you’ll never get a drink,” Norton says.

6. Keep it Classy

A bar is not a frat party. The point is not to be puking in the bathroom; it’s to enjoy the libations. If someone asks you to leave, you’re not doing it right.

7. Play it Safe

Watch your drink and trust your gut. Be aware that bars can be as dangerous as they are fun. Don’t leave a drink unattended, or you risk getting drugged. Watch the bartender make your drink, and definitely don’t accept drinks from strangers unless you saw the drink being made. Overall, be smart!

Another important safety tip is to keep track of how much you’re drinking. Consider making a small pen mark on your finger or a discreet note in your phone to keep track; everyone will just assume you’re checking your texts instead of your sobriety.

8. Own It

If you’re out with a guy, it is not his job to buy you every single drink. Be willing and able to pay your own tab, and understand that he, too, is a college student with a college student’s budget.

9. Closing Time

The staff can’t go home until you do. It’s rude to stay after hours, and chances are the bartender is just ready to go home. Consider moving the party to a late-night pizza restaurant if you’re really that set on staying out.

10. This Isn’t Starbucks

We’re all adults here. A good customer does not overcomplicate things with their skinny, extra bitters, with-a-twist, shaken-not-stirred martini on the rocks. Throwing out excessive lingo and a ton of demands isn’t becoming. Ask the wine bar for a glass of wine, and the dive bar for a beer. Don’t be complicated.

11. Befriend the Bartender

A friendship with a bartender is one of the most beneficial relationships you can have. If you’re going to frequent a bar, be friendly and make an effort to build a rapport with the bartender. Soon, your new best friend will be recommending new, niche drinks and making sure your cup doesn’t run empty.

12.Do Your Own Thing

If you don’t like beer, don’t feel pressured to drink beer. If you don’t like complicated cocktails, don’t order them just to look like you’re an alcohol expert. This isn’t a job interview, and you’re not out to impress everyone with your ability to toss down an Old Fashioned like Don Draper from Mad Men if that’s not your thing. Buying drinks is only fun if you like what you’re drinking.

It’s time to own your bar savvy. Be polite, have fun and be safe!

Ever since its release as a full series on Netflix on January 1st of this year, Friends has become a sensation once again. Many collegiettes are guilty of binge-watching the show from start to finish—maybe even more than once. But, as it's been posted on many websites this week (including TIME), there's a fan theory circulating the web about the show's ending that, if true, would make the entire series much, much darker.

The show's actual ending leaves audiences with a feeling of closure, as each character says goodbye to the apartment—which all six had lived in at one point or another—and leaves their keys on the counter. To this day, the episode is one of the most-watched finales in television history. According to a Huffington Post list, it comes in at #5 after drawing 52.46 million viewers when it aired in 2004. In this new theory, however, as suggested by Twitter user @strnks, the show should have instead ended with the revelation that all of the events in the series were figments of a homeless Phoebe's drug-induced imagination.

Of the six friends, Phoebe Buffay was always the one with the most interesting and wild backstory, and throughout the show mentioned many times that she lived on the street for a part of her life. This, on top of the countless other off-the-wall storylines that were never elaborated upon—including that she apparently mugged Ross years prior to the show's timeline, and that her mother committed suicide, then didn't turn out to be her biological mother—does give some feasibility to @strnks's theory. Even if it was given that some of Phoebe's stories were true, it would explain how she would have come to be living on the street and dreaming up friends in a coffee shop.

Whether or not you buy into this theory, it's certainly one that you won't be able to get out of your head as you binge-watch the series... again.

We spent our middle and high school days watching and envying beauty gurus on YouTube. Afternoons were spent lusting after their lavish beauty hauls with the latest and greatest makeup available, and trying hard to copy their tutorials for the perfect smoky eye. We admit that binge-watching these videos was (and still is) one of our favorite pastimes, and it has taken the faces behind the fame quite far. Now, YouTube beauty sages are more popular than ever, coming out with their own makeup lines, books and even country-wide tours. We have compiled a list of the eight best beauty videos from our favorite vloggers, focusing on tutorials that perfectly balance being relatable, fun and helpful.

1. The Ultimate Red Lip: Kandee Johnson

Kandee Johnson is a veteran beauty aficionado, covering everything from everyday makeup looks to product reviews to full on transformations. While Kandee is lauded for her entire video collection, this one stands out as a perfectly simple tutorial for a unique but totally wearable take on the classic red lip. Instead of using red lipstick, she uses two different red lip liners to create a gorgeous look that flatters all skin tones—an original and totally innovative approach other vloggers don't offer.

2. Easy and Effortless Winged Liner: Michelle Phan

Michelle Phan is one of the most famous makeup masters in the world, with nearly 8 million subscribers, a book, a makeup line and more. In this video, she dishes out a few of her tricks on how to create the perfect winged liner—talk about a useful go-to! We all know to proceed with caution when it comes to liquid liner, as it can be tricky and difficult to work with. Luckily, Michelle addresses the most common struggles that other tutorials don't account for, giving us a few different options to help create the perfect winged eyeliner look with ease.

3. Quick, Soft and Luscious Curls: Blair Fowler

Blair is the younger sister of Elle Fowler, and both are well known in the beauty vlog world. She's adorable, sassy and totally relatable, which makes her videos super fun. In this particular tutorial, she demonstrates her everyday hair routine and unveils the products she uses for soft, speedy curls. It's a great curling tutorial for both beginners and experts, as it introduces some exceptional styling formulas, and the entire process is complete in under 15 minutes—making it so accessible!

4. Full-Coverage, Acne Foundation Routine: Cassandra Bankson

Cassandra is a model who has cystic acne (she's gorgeous regardless!)—she created a video on how to do a foundation routine specifically for those with acne, pimples, scars, blackheads, oil and problematic skin. It's a standout video for a wide variety of audiences, be it those who are just looking for a full coverage foundation look or those seeking pointers on how to cover up problem pimples or blackheads.

5. Natural Beauty: Dulce Candy

Dulce Candy has been making videos on beauty, fashion, lifestyle and more for years. In this video, she collaborated with Cosmopolitan and Olay to create the perfect “no makeup” makeup look. We love this pick because it enhances natural beauty and focuses on soft, smooth skin—who wouldn't want that?

6. Effortless, Lazy Hairstyles: Zoella

Zoella has been a rising star in the beauty vlog world with her adorable accent and helpful tips and tutorials. This video is perfect for the days when you don’t feel like putting a lot of effort into your hair, but still want it to look totally fab. She shows a variety of quick, easy and fashionable hair tutorials that work on many different hair types, meaning this video surpasses others with its versatility and diverse solutions.

7. Foolproof Makeup Routine: Jenna Marbles

Jenna Marbles is one of the funniest lifestyle vloggers on the internet. She's incredibly relatable and always keeps it real, and this makeup tutorial is no exception. Of course, she looks flawless as always, but gives super easy (and much needed!) instructions for those who aren’t totally skilled with makeup. Jenna makes her everyday makeup routine understandable for all women, and is super versatile in what products and applicators she uses.

8. Countouring for Beginners: Jaclyn Hill

Jaclyn Hill is a makeup artist with hundreds of millions of views on videos such as how to shape and sculpt brows, how to do the classic smoky eyes and how to master flawless foundation routines. In this video, Jaclyn gives us a step-by-step tutorial on basic face contouring. This video is a must-have for anyone afraid to experiment with contouring, as Jaclyn demonstrates a method that looks good while remaining achievable at home.

So, whether you want a brand new makeup look or need a few tips on finding the perfect lipstick shade, you can always turn to the beauty gurus. Sometimes, we just don’t know how to do something, or want to perfect our skills, and the masters of hair and makeup are always there to help. Even better, in addition to providing a useful tutorial, each video in our top eight really showcases the different personalities of each vlogger. So go out, have a laugh and nail that winged liner, collegiette!

It's no secret that textbooks are expensive. It's one of the things you can count on every semester: you'll need to set aside a good chunk of money to pay for your books, and there's no way around it. But chances are, you could be spending more on them.

A recent study done by Priceonomics collected and analyzed data from the University of Virginia, and made a list of the most expensive majors, based on the average amount that students of each major spent on new textbooks every semester. Economics majors top the list at an estimated average of $317 (seems rather cruel that economics students have to spend the most money), while African-American studies students spend the least, averaging only $80 per semester.

While these numbers are specific to UVA, the list is a good indicator of trends. The top end of the list seems to primarily be the math and science majors, while the art, history, language or literature classes seem to fall toward the bottom of the list. Interestingly, the most expensive major costs almost four times as much as the least.

So, if you're feeling the weight of your textbooks on your bank account, just remember that you could be an economics major. Unless you are an economics major, in which case you may not have chosen the most economical major.

We can always trust the ladies of the UES to bring life back into our wardrobes when we’re in a rut. And with a change of season right around the corner, why not let Blair, Serena and the rest of the gang inspire our fall style with these 15 looks?

1. Summer lovin’

If you’re not ready to ditch your brightly printed sundresses just yet, a lightweight coat can accent your summer sheaths quite nicely.

2. Sweater weather

Keep your fuzzy knits in storage. Breathable sweaters and flippy minis are the way to go instead.

3. All about autumn

All our fall wardrobe must-haves—an olive green jacket, riding boots, scarves galore… the list goes on—are rolled into this one ensemble. Would Queen B let it slide if we chose to swap those black pants out for a stretchy pair of leggings? Probably not, but we’ve got to take advantage of this college excuse as long as we can.

4. Trench please

We never much cared for Sage, but that trench coat is a whole other story. Three words. Eight letters. We’re yours.

5. A matchy-matchy masterpiece

Sometimes all you need is a simple yet show-stopping dress. Blair’s monochromatic palette gives this look an infusion of sophistication that’s easy to replicate.

6. Spotted: the blazer of our dreams

No fall wardrobe is complete without a killer blazer. Serena had some trouble holding down a job, but this internship-ready outfit is on point.

7. All the leather

Vanessa’s inclination for earth tones should make her an expert at this whole dressing for fall thing. We applaud her leather leggings, booties, and tunic combo, but V will forever remain on our GG blacklist. Sorry, not sorry.

8. Tights are not pants…

...but they work awfully well when you’re trying to cover up your legs while wearing a cute tweed skirt.

9. Smooth transition

In a move smarter than marrying Gossip Girl himself, S pairs high-waisted pastel pants with a barely-there tank. We xoxo it, too!

10. Tee-rific

Forget Little J’s spiral for a moment and appreciate her layering genius. Excuse us as we try to figure out how to pull this off as effortlessly as the former Brooklyn babe.

11. You know you love sleeves

Individuals with information as to how we can locate a cape as mind-blowingly chic as Serena’s should contact us immediately.

12. Denim does exist

We really heart denim, but jeans are few and far between on the Upper East Side. Leave it to wild child SVDW to mix things up and trigger major outfit envy.

13. Best dressed

When you’re searching for new fall finds, a few can’t-live-without-‘em dresses become inevitable buys. If sleeveless sheaths with short hemlines are not realistic for your climate, try topping them with a cardigan or jacket like B’s. We may have solved that problem, but the money you spent shopping is definitely still gone.

14. The short of it

Current mood: wondering why we didn’t think of pairing shorts with thick tights and a structured blazer before. We're obsessed with this entire menswear-inspired look!

15. Winter is coming

Well, all else has failed and it’s cold enough to break out your coat. Though that beanie is not exactly for warmth’s sake and pants would probably be useful right about now, we refuse to succumb to winter until we absolutely have to.

Which of these looks inspires your fall style, collegiettes?

The transition from college to the real world can be extremely difficult, especially when it comes to maintaining relationships with friends. You’ll go months without seeing one another before suddenly realizing that everything and everyone is different, and you don’t even know how that happened! Read on to prepare yourself for the type of people your friends become after college. 

1. The workaholic 

This friend has an amazing job and is totally focused on making her way to the top. When she’s not working super late hours, you can find her at home with a glass of wine... still doing work. We love that she’s so career driven and ambitious, but it would it kill her to relax every once in a while? 

2. The disappearing act 

Have you seen this girl? She used hang out with you all the time and always texted her friends back, but now, you can't even remember the last time you heard from her. This is the girl who has gone completely MIA, whether it’s due to a new job or relationship. You’ve basically done everything short of sending a carrier pigeon to track her down. 

3. The grandma

She was the life of the party. The one encouraging you to drunk text your ex. The one who never missed a night out. She now stays in every weekend with a book and glass of wine. Who is this girl? We feel like we don’t even know her anymore. 

4. The jetsetter

This girl is basically living the ‘eat, pray, love’ life. Her Insta feed is filled with photos of her world travels, and you wish the two of you could switch places for a bit. After all, you too want to ride on Vespas and eat gelato until you’re sick. 

5. The ‘go hard or go homer’

She hasn’t changed much since her college days, other than the fact that she parties even more. It doesn’t matter what day of the week it is; you’ll find this girl ripping shots at the bar or dancing in the club like it’s the first week of class. You can always count on her for a good time.

6. The Med/Law/Grad student

Every time you see this girl, her face is shoved into a book and she’s usually… (ok she’s always) over-caffeinated. 

7. The marriage-obsessed

You always knew she’d be the first from your friend group to get hitched, so it’s no shocker that this friend is ready to settle down and have babies. And lots of them. 

So there you have it—say hello to your new friend group! They may seem a little different than what you remember from your college days, but life in the real world is a time for reinvention and change. At the end of the day, though, as soon as you're back with your squad (even though it might take some effort to pull #3 out of the house!), it'll be like nothing even changed.

Prepare yourselves for the iPhone 6s! That’s right, the newest iPhone is expected to be officially announced on September 9. The new phone’s hardware won’t be vastly different than the iPhone 6. However, the one big change will be the addition of a rose gold pink color option to go along with the silver, gray and gold phones already offered.

Some of the highlights of the new phone are a new force touch screen that uses the same technology as the Apple Watch. Explained simply, force touch is a special technology that Apple uses to make it feel as if you’re pressing a button when you apply more force to the screen, even though the screen remains flat. Force touch will be used for a number of shortcuts such as adding songs to an Apple music playlist with a long press.

For all those Insta addicts out there, the camera will also be receiving a significant upgrade. The current camera on the 6 is eight megapixels while the camera on the 6s will be 12. No word yet on whether the selfie camera will improve, but it seems fairly likely based on other improvements.

Still have a year left on your contract? Never fear, you’ll be able to download iOS9 to your current phone. The new operating system will feature improved shortcuts, a new smart caller ID feature, multi tasking skills and improved battery life, just to name a few.

It’s rumored that you’ll be able to preorder the iPhone 6s starting on September 11. In the meantime you can dream about how fly you’ll look with your new pink iPhone!  

We’ve been counting down the release of Justin Bieber’s new song for what feels like forever. And the wait is at long last over!

Naturally the Internet exploded when “What Do You Mean?” dropped this morning. Not only did Justin give us the catchy tune he’d promised but there’s a lyric video, which shows Justin skateboarding shirtless along with pros Ryan Sheckler and Chelsea Castro. Because why not, right?

This track is the first single from Justin’s upcoming album; our only hint as to when we can expect its arrival is “soon.” And that’s not all, Beliebers! Expect to see Justin performing “What Do You Mean?” live for the first time at the MTV Video Music Awards on Sunday.

There’s no danger of us growing tired of this upbeat tune that we’ve already listened to approximately 1,372 times—a totally normal amount by the way! So while we keep it on repeat, we’re just going to leave these amazing Twitter reactions to Justin’s new song right here.

Are you loving the Biebs' new single?