Ever since you were a freshman, you’ve heard rumors about it: the constant exhaustion, the inevitable procrastination, the desire to rebel against everyone and everything around you…the list goes on. Now that you’re a senior yourself, you can’t help but notice that you’re starting to show some of the symptoms.

With second semester on the horizon, it’s more likely than not that you’ve come down with a case of senioritis. However, if you’re still not sure about it (or just too afraid to admit it) ask yourself if you’re experiencing any of these obvious signs.

1. Sweatpants have become your go-to.

It may only be first semester, but you’ve already mastered the art of the comfy-casual look.

2. Coffee is your new water.

And you wonder how you made it so many years without this stuff.

3. You haven’t worn makeup since homecoming.

You just don’t have that kind of time or energy in the morning like you did freshman year.

4. You take all homework assignments as “suggestions.”

Your teacher can’t honestly think you were going to fill out this study guide, right?

5. You can’t wake up without hitting snooze at least five times.

It happens almost subconsciously.

6. Your first period teacher rarely sees your face.

Actually, you’re not sure if she even knows your name…

7. You haven’t done a reading assignment since the first week of school.

You’re just hoping to fake it ‘til you make it.

8. You’re seriously okay with a C.

You’ve already been accepted to your dream school, so you’re just doing your best not to fail.

9. Your tolerance level for drama is at an all-time low. 

Because honestly, ain't nobody got time for that. 

10. You can't remember the last time you went a week without having an existential crisis. 

Because even though it's less than a year away, you have no idea what you want to do with the rest of your life.

11. Everyone keeps telling you that you have a big ego.

But who can blame you? You’ve been waiting four years for this.

Unfortunately, there is no real cure for the dreaded senioritis until graduation. Let the countdown begin, pre-collegiettes!

Your alarm goes off and you press snooze no less than six times before you realize that your bio lecture starts in ten minutes. With hardly enough time to get to class, showering is the last thing on your mind. But as soon as you look in the mirror, you realize you’ve got a much bigger obstacle to overcome than making it to your 9 a.m.: dealing with your hair. Have no fear—we talked to real collegiettes and hair stylist Riccardo Maggiore of Flatiron Salon in New York City to gather all the tips and tricks you need to make your hair more manageable.

1. Give in to dry shampoo

Whether you swear by it or you’re too scared to try it, you can’t ignore the buzz that surrounds dry shampoo. “I have thin, straight hair, but I know dry shampoo works for other hair types too,” says Elizabeth Huebsch, a junior at Davidson College. “If I skip a day washing my hair and it gets greasy at all, I use my foundation brush to put a little dry shampoo on my roots and it reduces the appearance of oil.”  

Maggiore confirms that this is the way to go. “If you have oily hair, the best thing to do is wash it with dry shampoo as it will absorb extra oil,” he says. “This will create movement to your hair and the resulting look will be soft.” 

Carly Griffin, a freshman at the University of Michigan, has had similarly positive experiences with dry shampoo. “I only wash my hair every three days because washing it can actually make it more oily,” she says. “Batiste is my favorite brand of dry shampoo, and I spray it on right when I go to bed so it rubs in as I toss and turn in my sleep.”

“Dry shampoo is a great time saver because it allows you to add texture, which makes it easier to style, freshen up, and restyle your hair without washing it,” says Maggiore. “However, make sure you use it properly by spraying at least six inches away from the roots and waiting at least ten minutes after before styling.”

If you’re unsure of what kind of dry shampoo is best for your hair type, talk to your hair stylist about the difference between powder and aerosol dry shampoos. If you’re still unable to find a brand that suits you, you can check out this recipe for homemade dry shampoo.

2. Try a leave-in conditioner

If leave-in or dry shampoo isn’t enough to tame your mane, there’s also the option to use leave-in conditioner. These conditioners are recommended for women with curly or frizzy hair who want a more sleek, shiny, controlled look.

“I have curly hair that can be super frizzy, so I always apply leave-in conditioner,” Carly says. “Garnier makes a great one that I apply to wet hair just to keep it in lock.”

If you find your hair feeling dry or dehydrated as well, using leave-in conditioner or a conditioner with extra moisturizer can help to restore shine and protect your hair from harmful chemicals.

“If you are swimming during the summer or swim regularly, wet your natural hair before going into the ocean or pool,” Maggiore says. “Then apply a leave-in treatment to seal the hair. This will help minimize the amount of salt water or chlorine that gets into your hair.”

However, protecting your hair from chlorine isn’t the only precaution that you should take during the summer months. “Remember that the sun can have damaging effects on your hair as well, so always choose products with SPF,” says Maggiore.

3. Experiment with an oil treatment

If you’re still having trouble taming your frizzy mane, and you’re looking for a product that goes beyond the typical shampoo and conditioner set, you may want to try an oil treatment to combat the dryness you face from constantly blow-drying, straightening, or applying other methods of heat to your hair.

“I apply the Garnier oil treatment when I get out of the shower, or even on the ends of my hair if it’s dry,” Carly says. Instead of reaching for the blow-dryer as soon as you get out of the shower, try air-drying your hair and applying an oil treatment instead. Not only is this process healthier, but it will also save you tons of time in the morning.

However, we understand that sometimes there’s no way around using a straightener or curler when you need to style your hair. “Just remember to always use styling products (such as oil treatments) that protect the hair before flatironing or using a curling iron,” says Maggiore.

Hair elixirs also work similarly to oil treatments to help you fight frizz in dry and curly hair.

4. Keep dryer sheets handy

That’s right, collegiettes—dryer sheets are no longer just for the laundry room. According to Courtney Klauber, a senior at Rowan University, using dryer sheets can help combat hair static throughout the day.

“I always have dryer sheets on me for when my hair gets too static-y, which happens to me a lot, especially in colder temperatures,” Courtney says. “I just run the dryer sheet over my hair, and bye-bye static!”

Why not stash a few dryer sheets in your purse or bag next time you go out? Who knows—they just may come in handy!

5. Switch up your part

When styling their hair, many collegiettes don’t put much thought into how their part falls. However, adjusting your part can turn your entire look around if you’re running late and don’t have time to shower—let alone straighten—your messy mane.

“Try switching up your part,” says Maggiore. “If you normally wear it on the left side, try parting it on the right. This will disguise any oily strands while adding extra volume.”

If you’re still desperate for a last-minute look, don’t count out tried-and-true options like the classic braid. “Braids and ponytails are always great options for on the go,” says Maggiore. “No matter how much or how little time you have put into styling your hair, you can always look pulled together and gorgeous by keeping a brush, bobby pins, and hair ties on your hand for quick, on-the-go hairstyles.”

Whether you’re fed up with frizz, sick of your straight hair, looking for better curls or for a way to control your oily scalp, there’s always something you can try to make your hair situation a little less stressful. Stay positive, collegiettes—good hair days are on the way!

We've been longtime fans of Maddie & Tae—ever since they released their girl power anthem"Girl in a Country Song" in 2014, we've had our eyes on this dynamic duo. They've been nominated for a whopping three awards for the 49th Annual CMA Awards, which takes place tonight—and as of this morning, it's been announced that they're taking home "Music Video of the Year." Since we can't wait to see what they'll be rocking on the red carpet, we checked in with the two country stars for their style tips on how to stay comfy and chic at major events... but because we (sadly) won't be hitting up any red carpet events in our college days, we had them weigh in on how to stand out at tailgates this season.

1. Night Sky Sweater Dress, $178, Lovers + Friends

As the weather starts to cool down, it can be tempting to head out in your well-loved sweats. But since you'll be Instagramming every moment, you still want to look chic—and luckily, there's a way to do that. This sweater dress is the proof! “Comfort is key! Even on the red carpet I wear a dress that is still comfortable,” Maddie says. “You can still look super cute but not be uncomfortable all day.”

2. Cotton/Linen Striped Scarf, $53.99, Banana Republic

You could wear a hoodie... or you could throw on a scarf in your school's color to stay festive and stay warm. “Scarves are a go to of mine—they keep me warm and looking adorable!” Tae says.

3. Hunter Green/Ivory Flannel, $138, Rails Clothing

Is there anything better than a cozy flannel? They come in every color combo, meaning you can pick a top that'll support your school. Maddie recommends pairing this with a pair of skinnies: “I love a good jean and flannel look for school. I normally throw a V-neck underneath—because every school is always freezing!”

4. Gray Turtleneck Dress, $19.99, Maykool

Not cold enough for a sweater dress, but not warm enough for your fave floaty dress? Opt for this long-sleeved turtleneck. “I LOVE DRESSES!” Tae declares. “And finding dresses that I can wear in the colder weather can be a struggle, but I just add leggings or tights with long boots. It's one of my favorite looks.”

5. Shipping News Sweater, $43.20, Free People

We're all about any outfit that involves leggings, and this oversized tunic sweater means you can pull on even your most well-loved pair and still look put-together. “Leggings and an oversized sweater make up one of my favorite campus looks. Super cute, and really comfy!” Maddie tells us.

6. Complete Eye Palette in Slate Blue, $60, Burberry

No need to paint your face in your school colors; instead, try a colored smokey eye! As Tae says, “Fall is the perfect time to start testing out a new smokey eye look. I think I'm gonna experiment with purples!”

7. Faux Suede Fringe Cross Body Bag, $39.90, Express

A cross body bag is key at any tailgate event—you want to stay hands-free all afternoon (and throughout the game), but that doesn't mean you have to forgo your daily essentials. “I always upgrade from my tiny cross body purse that I rock in the summer to a shoulder suitcase for fall and winter,” Tae says. “Well, not really a suitcase... but people make jokes because my purses are so big! But you never know when you're gonna need to pull out a pair of gloves, an extra scarf, tissues...”

Everyone loves a useful life hack, especially busy collegiettes. When you’re constantly on the go and have a tight budget, it can be difficult to look glamorous without employing some quick, money-saving tricks.

Many of us are guilty of scrolling through Pinterest in order to find clever beauty hacks to get our lashes on fleek or to achieve silky smooth skin. Unfortunately, some of the beauty “hacks” you might find online are not safe or efficient, and the following six are definitely not worth the risk. To get more insight, we spoke with Lisa O’Neill Flanagan, a Boston-based esthetician, who gave us the deets on why certain tricks are better left un-tried.

1. Curling Your Lashes with the Korean Fire Method

As the name implies, this new trend involves using fire as part of your lash curling routine. It’s become popular among women in South Korea, one of the top beauty destinations in the world, and promises to keep lashes curled and luscious all day long.

The first step is to curl your eyelashes with a regular eyelash curler before applying one or two coats of mascara. Next, you’re supposed to break the cotton portion off of a Q-tip, leaving only the stick. After starting up a lighter, the goal is to sway the Q-tip back and forth across the open flame, making sure you do not burn it in the process. To test for heat, it's recommended to place the Q-tip against your wrist to see if it’s too hot, because otherwise the high temperature can burn your lashes off. Finally, you run the heated stick horizontally up your lashes, and end with an extra coat of mascara.

The method aims to offer the same benefits of a heated lash curler, but isn’t exactly safe or practical (holding flames anywhere near the eyes or skin? No thanks). Instead, try a heated lash curler ($17, Sephora) to get similar results without worrying about burning your lashes or setting off the smoke alarm in your building.

2. Lengthening Your Lashes with Petroleum Jelly

Another trending lash trick that seems legitimate and useful involves coating your lashes with petroleum jelly to achieve extra length and body. This trick might have been circulated between various bloggers and celebs, but it turns out that it’ll do harm than good when it comes to the health of your lashes.

Petroleum jelly can be a useful eye makeup remover, but we don’t advise leaving it on your eyes for longer than necessary, since it can cause irritation. The delicate skin around your eyes needs to breathe, and when left on intentionally for a long period of time, the ingredients in petroleum jelly can clog your pores and make you more prone to infection.

“Petroleum jelly is a humectant, which is a protective barrier that draws moisture from the air and from the lower layers of skin,” says Flanagan. “It has no magic ‘growth’ properties to make lashes grow.”

If you’re looking to lengthen and grow your lashes, there are better alternatives. For extra length, incorporate a lengthening mascara such as They’re Real! Lengthening and Volumizing Mascara from Benefit Cosmetics ($24, Sephora). And to encourage lashes to grow, use a lash growth serum like the Diorshow Maximizer Lash Plumping Serum ($28.50, Violet Grey) from Dior.

3. Soaking Your Feet with Listerine and Vinegar

A Pinterest favorite, the Listerine foot soak advises that you combine a cup each of Listerine and vinegar with two cups of boiling water. The mixture is said to “reap antibacterial properties” and “exfoliate dead skins cells” according to bloggers and Pinterest users. It’s also rumored to treat athlete’s foot, calluses and other common podiatry issues.

This treatment is definitely appealing to collegiettes, since it doesn’t come at a high price tag and gives us an excuse to relax and soak our feet. It’s easy to imagine a nice Sunday night with Netflix, dark chocolate and a calming foot soak, right?

Believe it or not, we don’t recommend the Listerine foot soak. The high concentration of alcohol in the mouthwash will actually dry out your feet, and can even remove a layer of healthy skin if you’re not careful. The dye in Listerine will also color your feet blue temporarily after the soak, which isn’t exactly something you want your favorite campus cutie to see.

According to Flanagan, even if this foot soak was worthwhile, it would take more than a half hour of relaxation to gain any benefits. “To see any real effects from this treatment, you would have to soak your feet for a long time—at least eight hours,” she says. To us, no true hack should take that long!

Although we don't suggest that you try the Listerine foot soak, this doesn’t mean that you should avoid soaking your feet entirely! “Use Epsom salts instead!” suggests Flanagan. Simply mix a handful of Epsom salts into a bowl of warm water, grab a drink and the latest issue of your favorite magazine and get soaking!

Related: Beauty Hacks: What to Use When You Run Out of Your Fave Product

4. Using Cooking Spray to Make Your Manicure Dry Faster

A fresh manicure can make you feel on top of the world and ready to take on the week, but it definitely takes patience. For the most durable mani, we always recommend using a base coat, two coats of color and a top coat, but applying all of these coats and waiting for them to dry can be time consuming. Since many collegiettes know this struggle, it’s tempting to search for an easy fix to dry your nails quickly.

You may have heard about the cooking spray nail hack, in which you apply the spray to your nails in attempts to dry them faster and set the nail polish, but it actually doesn’t work as expected. This hack will allow your top coat to set quickly, but it also means that you’ll have two unset color coats underneath. As a result, your nails will still be prone to smudging, plus you’ll smell like Pam. Not the best combination!

The best remedy to make sure your manicure dries as it should is to simply give yourself plenty of time to let your nails dry. That being said, for the times when you really do need to a quick fix and a fast-dry spray, use one specifically designed for nails, such as the ULTA Professional Nail Dry spray ($2.99, ULTA).

5. Exfoliating Your Skin with Lemon and Honey to Minimize Blackheads

Yet another Pinterest beauty hack suggests that a genius way to get rid of blackheads is to apply 3 to 4 drops of honey to half a lemon, and then rub the lemon over your face. Next, you’re supposed to let this mixture sit on your face for five minutes before washing with warm water. The main goal is to exfoliate and address problem areas of the skin, while the lemon juice simultaneously “fades marks and dark spots.”

Once again, there are a few flaws in this hack. Lemons are extremely acidic, and they can do more harm than good when applied in excess to your skin. A few drops of lemon juice added to a face mask will not harm you, but using an entire half piece of lemon to scrub your face is irritation waiting to happen.

“Lemons are high in Vitamin C, which can irritate sensitive skin in large amounts. Its juice can also have a bleaching effect on the skin,” says Flanagan.

On the other hand, honey is a wonderful ingredient to include in your skincare routine. According to Flanagan, “honey is an antibacterial/microbial and also moisturizes.” And fortunately, you don't have to apply raw honey to your skin for benefits. Instead, we recommend using a face mask that includes honey for moisturization and a healthy glow. Try the Montagne Jeunesse Manuka Honey Peel-Off Mask ($1.99, ULTA) if you're looking for an effective and budget-friendly option.

A final note on the failure of this hack? Flanagan comments that “neither one of these ingredients has a chemical or physical exfoliating effect on the skin,” so Pinterest captions are false when they say the treatment is exfoliating!

6. Applying Toothpaste to a Pimple

This age-old trick has always been seen as an easy fix to dry out a pimple and clear your skin. But is it actually effective? We asked Flanagan to give us the scoop.

“Toothpaste on your irritated skin can make your skin red and more sensitive,” she says. “It also includes ingredients to whiten teeth—like peroxide—which if used on your skin can irritate your acne even more. In turn, the blemish you’re trying to heal will only take longer to go away.”

So, instead of breaking out the Colgate next time you get a pimple, reach for an acne spot treatment instead, which is specifically designed to heal your acne. We recommend the On the Spot Acne Treatment from Neutrogena ($7.99, ULTA).

Beauty tricks can save you time and money, but it’s always important to research hacks with caution. Some may be extremely beneficial, while others might be a waste of energy—or downright harmful. And hopefully, these tips will help you slay the beauty game by steering you away from advice that's overrated or ineffective. 

Admit it, collegiettes—we’re all foodies on one level or another. Whether you’re Chef Boyardee in the making, a frequenter of Whole Foods, or someone who simply loves the act of eating, Her Campus totally understands you. That’s why we’re giving away 5 signed copies of FOOD WHORE: A Novel of Dining and Deceit, to celebrate the release of Jessica Tom’s debut novel and to satisfy all of your foodie needs!

FOOD WHORE offers a witty and mouth-watering inside look at New York City’s exclusive dining scene in the tradition of The Devil Wears Prada and Kitchen Confidential.

It follows the life of Tia Monroe, an aspiring and struggling food writer in the Big Apple. When Michael Saltz, a celebrated New York Times restaurant critic, approaches Tia with his career-ending secret—the news that he has lost his sense of taste—Tia is presented with the opportunity to serve as his palate and ghostwrite his reviews in exchange for lavish meals, designer clothing, and a breakthrough in her career.

Although initially elated, Tia quickly turns apprehensive about her new line of work when she sees her reviews in print with Michael Saltz taking all the credit. Tia grapples with preserving her extravagant living style and maintaining her integrity and must ask herself what lengths she's willing to go to in order to achieve her goals.

Inspired by Tom’s experiences in the restaurant industry and as a Brooklyn writer and food blogger, FOOD WHORE appeals to every collegiate with a dream and the appetite to get there. Enter now for your chance to win!

FOOD WHORE

If you're a diehard Harry Potter fan (and let's face it, who among us isn't?), you'll probably be leaping for joy at news of the latest Starbucks concoction to hit stores. No longer will you be forced to choose between a vanilla soy latte or a caramel frappuccino, because after we reveal which new flavor is entering the menu we're certain your decision will be made up.

Brace yourselves... Starbucks is coming out with a Butterbeer latte. That's right: butterbeer. As in that wonderfully delicious fictional drink that Potter and his friends gleefully imbibe on a regular basis when they take trips to Hogsmeade.

Although the sweet and creamy "beer" is simply a figment of J.K. Rowling's magnanimous imagination, Starbucks is giving Muggles everywhere the opportunity to test it out for themselves (that's right, you no longer need to trek out to the "Wizarding World of Harry Potter" for a sip) this fall.

All you have to do is request a "Butterbeer Frappuccino" or a "Hot Butterbeer Latte," and be ready to have your tastebuds treated. If your barista isn't cool enough to know the recipe off the top of his/her head, we've pasted below the recipes for the iced and hot beverages below so you can have them handy to show. We hope you have a magical November collegiettes!

Butterbeer Frappucino

• Ask for a Creme Frappuccino base. Don’t skimp on the fat by asking for skim or 2% milk, as whole milk is required for the right consistency
• Add 3 pumps of caramel syrup
• Add 3 pumps of toffee nut syrup
• Top with caramel drizzle

Hot Butterbeer Latte

• Whole milk steamer
• Add Caramel syrup (2 for tall, 3 for grande, 4 for venti)
• Add Toffee nut syrup (2 for tall, 3 for grande, 4 for venti)
• Add Cinnamon Dolce syrup (2 for tall, 3 for grande, 4 for venti)
• Whipped cream and salted caramel bits on top (or creme brulee topping if you prefer)
• Optional if you prefer to add a coffee taste: Add a shot of espresso (2 for a grande or venti)

Finding the perfect shampoo can be a hassle. After all, you can't really know if a shampoo is the one just by looking at it—you have to actually try it out. That means once you find the perfect shampoo, you never want to let it go. So what on earth do you do when your shampoo stops working? On first thought, you think it's obviously you—no way did you spend so much money and time finding the perfect shampoo for it not to work! So you start changing up other aspects: shampooing less, conditioning more, washing less often... Nothing works. Unfortunately, the truth is, shampoo can actually stop working.

Think about it. You buy shampoo for a specific reason, whether it be to solve dull hair, flat hair, or whatever other reason. For a while, it's everything you hoped; your hair is shiny, full of moisture, dandruff-free and voluptuous. Problem solved!

But after some time, you might find that your hair becomes greasy or has too much volume. You used a moisturizing shampoo to give your hair life and now it has life. If you keep on using the same product, it'll end up overdoing it. Know what that means? You're going to need a new shampoo. And in a couple of months, you're going to need a new shampoo, again.

Don't fret though. You don't need to start your search all over again; instead, stick to something in the same product line! Opt for a more mild shampoo from the same brand, and keep on switching it up once your hair has acclimated. Shampoo problems, solved.

When applying for job or internship, there’s a good chance that employers want you to send a resume and cover letter for the position. While a resume is a good way to outline all your qualifications, a solid cover letter can help you convey your personality, explain your career goals and share stories to elaborate on your awesome accomplishments. 

However, writing a good cover letter can be tricky. It’s tempting to reuse an old cover letter for a different position, research templates online or include those clichéd phrases that make employers cringe, but resist that temptation! HC talked to career experts to find out cover-letter clichés that employers hate and what to do instead to make your cover letter the best it can be.

1. The cliché: Starting your letter with “To Whom it May Concern”

… or “Dear Sir/Madam,” or any other vague salutation. “There are hundreds of cover letter mistakes to avoid, but some of the worst ones include addressing the hiring manager as ‘sir’ or ‘madam’ [or] including the wrong company name,” says Heather R. Huhman, founder and president ofCome Recommended, a digital PR consulting website that help companies increase their online presence.

These phrases are overused and impersonal and tell the employer that you didn’t do enough research to find out his or her name. The last thing you want the hiring manager to think is that you don’t care, so it’s crucial you start your cover letter off right.

The fix: Address the employer by name in your salutations

Some job listings might have direct contact information (which would make this a super easy fix), but otherwise you might have to use your research skills. Check the company’s website to see who holds positions like “hiring manager” or “recruiter.” If the listing is through your career center, ask one of the career counselors if he or she has more information about the position. He or she may have a contact to an alumna/alumnus or someone in the company who might know to whom you should address your letter.

If you do find a name, make sure you’re appropriately addressing him or her with Mr., Ms., Dr., etc. Again, you might have to do some research. A quick LinkedIn search of the person should help you with this. And if you absolutely can’t find the name of the hiring manager? Laura Burrell, assistant director of experiential education at Pratt Institute’s career center suggests using the salutation “Greetings” because it’s considered more up-to-date. Your greeting is literally the first thing a potential employer reads, so show her you care by personally addressing her!

2. The cliché: Using buzzwords like “hardworking” or “team player”

With the number of cover letters employers read, it’s likely that they’ve seen dozens of “hardworking team players” or others with “strong communication skills” who “always give 110 percent.”  The point of a cover letter is to stand out, not repeat buzzwords you think will make you sound more legit.

The fix: Give lots of examples of why you’re a “hardworking team player”

While you probably really are a hardworking team player, there are other ways to convey that idea without using the clichéd buzzwords employers hate. “The best way to avoid these clichés is to be genuine and candid with your cover letter,” Huhman says. “Explain to the employer why you’re the best candidate for the position, and provide supporting examples.”

Burrell says that being genuine is all about self-awareness. “Ask yourself, ‘what am I really good at? What can I contribute to this company or organization based on the job description?’” she says.

The employer has your resume, so he or she knows that you were on the editor of your school’s newspaper. Use your cover letter to tell about a time that you had to rally your staff before a big deadline. Or recount an instance when you had to use your critical thinking skills to solve a problem with another group on campus. The key is to provide examples to show when you were hardworking or a team player instead of explicitly saying it.

“[An easy way to do this] can be, ‘My skills are more developed in X… or… When working on X, I have great command over Y and hope to pair these skills with Z, which I can learn as an intern/employee at your organization,” Burrell says.

If you can’t come up with concrete examples that are applicable to the position, consider why you want to work for this company in the first place. “Think about what [the] organization represents to you and how their work influences your work,” Burrell suggests. “[Describe] what you can learn while there [as an intern or employee], and make connections with the person reading your document.”

And while you might think it’s best to tell your potential employer every single example of when you worked on a team, conciseness is crucial for cover letters. “Ideally, you should be able to explain your relevant skills and experience in about three to four short paragraphs,” Huhman says. “Don’t worry about the nitty-gritty details of a previous internship or project. Simply share the most important details from your experience and talk about your results.” By using real-life, concise examples instead of overused adjectives, you’ll come across more genuinely, which is what employers are looking for.

3. The cliché: Starting every sentence or each paragraph with “I.”

This cliché seems a little counterintuitive because your cover letter is all about you… right? Not quite.

“Don’t start every paragraph with ‘I,’” Burrell says. “This document is about you in relation to the position.”

It’s important show off your accomplishments, but the point of a cover letter is to show how your accomplishments relate to a specific position. Plus, saying, “I did this” and, “I think I would be great because,” sounds a little, well, self-centered.

The fix: Focus more on the position and how you fit with the company’s values.

An easy way to change up your sentence and paragraph structure is to acknowledge the values or beliefs of the company and why you want to work there. “Pay attention to the company’s culture,” Huhman suggests. “You want to market yourself to the employer, so make sure you say things that will grab his or her attention. If you do this and show how your accomplishments relate to the company, it will come off as genuine and more relatable to the employer.”

How do you get to know a company’s culture? Most of your answers will be online. “A great place to start is by reading the company’s blog, the ‘About’ page and following the company on social media,” Huhman says. “This will help students learn the company’s voice and how it reflects that company’s values.”

Once you’ve done some research, connect your accomplishments back to the company. For example, if the organization you’re applying for is really eco-friendly, it would be beneficial for you to mention a time you started a recycling campaign on campus. Maybe the position requires a lot of research and technical work. Include how the skills you learned through an extensive research project makes you the best fit for the position. Cover letters are definitely an opportunity to sell yourself positively, but always remember to connect it back to the company and position. If you show them why you fit so well, it’ll be hard not to hire you!

4. The cliché: Closing with, “I look forward to hearing from you soon. Thank you for your consideration.”

This closing is basically how every applicant concludes their letters. Simply put, “This is boring and tired,” Burrell says.  Your closing is the last thing the employer will read, so use it to make a standout impression.

The fix: Be direct instead.

Instead of being passive in your concluding paragraph, be more direct. If you want the employer to look over your resume, say so! Do you want to set up a phone call or interview? Don’t beat around the bush; just ask for one.

“Try something interesting,” Burrell suggests. “Offer a nice (short) anecdotal statement about a unique qualification or special impact this company had on you. Try answering the question for them, ‘Why should I bring you in for an interview?’”

You can also reiterate why your skills make you a great fit for the position and express your enthusiasm. It will only reaffirm that you’re not only interested but also qualified to work for them. It can be as simple as, “Based on my experience with X and your company values of Y, I believe this position will allow my passion for Z to grow as an employee of your organization.”

Finally, Huhman suggests adding a sentence about a follow-up in the near future. It can be as simple as, “I am excited about this opportunity and would like to personally discuss the position in more detail. I’ll email you next week to check your availability.” Instead of waiting for the employer to call you, a direct closing allows you to follow up and again show your interest in the company. And, of course, be true to your word and actually follow up when you say you will!

No matter how you end your letter, both Huhman and Burrell agree that it should be genuine and direct. If you have a strong conclusion, you’ll be memorable.

Cover letters allow you to show off your personality beyond your resume. It can be the one thing that sets you apart from other applicants and lands you an interview or position. While it’s tempting to use clichés like everyone else, keep these tips in mind and your cover letter will be awesome and memorable!

Your fave is officially old news. 

On Tuesday, the social network put one of its most iconic features to rest: the favorite button. The little gold star that we once clicked to flirt, passive-aggresively blow people off, and show our amusement, support and agreement with other users' tweets has now been replaced by a heart, or a "like."

Twitter explained yesterday that the move came as a result of the company making plans to make the site simpler to use. 

"We want to make Twitter easier and more rewarding to use, and we know that at times the star could be confusing, especially to newcomers," wrote product manager Akarshan Kumar in a blog post. "You might like a lot of things, but not everything can be your favorite." 

This is just one of the many changes that Jack Dorsey has added since being reinstated as CEO of the company last month. In addition to adding the "Moments" tab that helps users follow trending stories, it was just announced last month that the social network may be undergoing changes that will allow for users to tweet past the 140-character count. 

We'll admit it—The favorite button probably was a little confusing to some users. When a tweet that's offensive or in poor taste goes viral, it can be pretty hard to distinguish which people favorited the tweet because they agree with the message or just to save it to their archives. The same can be said for tweets detailing negative news. Whatever the case, the company is now embracing the change.

"The heart...is a universal symbol that resonates across languages, cultures and time zones," Kumar wrote. "The heart is more expressive, enabling you to convey a range of emotions and easily connect with people. And in our tests, we found that people loved it."

Not surprisingly, many Twitter users had a bit of a meltdown. 

Others reacted to the change with humor. 

R.I.P favorites. Excuse us while we spend the rest of this day mourning while listening to Celine Dion's "My Heart Will Go On." 

Gender inequality is a sad reality in our lifetime––but it doesn't have to be. The cast and crew of the new movie Suffragette, starring three-time Academy Award winner Meryl Streep and Academy Award nominees Carey Mulligan and Helena Bonham Carter, are behind a new campaign to make gender equality happen today. The campaign is known as #HopeForOurDaughters and it is an initiative taking the world by storm.

What exactly is #HopeForOurDaughters? It's a movement that entails taking a photo and sharing it to Instagram, captioning the image with the hashtag #HopeForOurDaughters. "Share your hope for future generations of women," the official press release states. For every post, the film will donate $1 to Equality Now, an organization dedicated to the protection and human rights of women across the globe.

Check out the inspiring #HopeForOurDaughters campaign video below:

Worldwide, 75 percent of girls under the age of 14 are child laborers. 603 million women live in a country where domestic violence is not a crime. 62 million girls don't go to school, and two out of three people who can't read or write are women. Almost all women make less than a man––70 percent of the population living on less than a dollar a day are women. These are just a few staggering facts Suffragette has listed on it's official site. 

Both celebrities and individuals alike are posting pictures championing their personal wishes for "our daughters" (a.k.a. the future generations of women) along with the hashtag. Check out some of the powerful messages below:

Join the fight today!

Have you ever put together a really cute outfit that you just cannot find the perfect lip color to match? Or when you do find the perfect color, is it just too expensive? Don't worry, collegiettes, here is a way to fix all of your lip color problems: make your own lipstick! Don't worry, the process is way easier than you might think.

Using this tutorial, you can make lipstick in any color you want, and forget the stress of the search.

What You'll Need: 

• Some sort of container (An empty Chapstick container is usually the container of choice.) 
• A crayon in the color you want your lipstick to be (Yes, the glue holding your lipstick together is a childhood classic!)
• Half of a teaspoon of shea butter
• One quarter of a teaspoon of coconut oil
• One candle
• A lighter or match
• A metal spoon
• Toothpicks

Instructions:

• First, sterilize your container. The last thing you want is any bacteria making its way towards your mouth.
• Next, unwrap the crayon that you will use for your lipstick. Keep in mind that the color of the crayon you choose will be the color of your lipstick

• To begin the actual mixing process, heat the spoon over the candle. (Be careful not to burn yourself! We don’t want pretty lips and burnt fingertips.)

• Next, place the crayon onto the spoon. This step is easier if you break up the crayon into smaller pieces.
• Wait for the crayon to melt. 

• Add the shea butter and coconut oil. Stir with the toothpick until everything is melted and blended completely.  
• Pour the contents of the spoon into your container. Remember, don't touch the hot part of the spoon! 

• Finally, place your container in the freezer to cool for thirty minutes.

Once your lipstick has cooled and hardened, you are all set to start using it! Now you can follow fall trends without breaking the bank. Stay beautiful, collegiettes! 

After catching national attention for racist comments made by their Oklahoma chapter earlier this year, the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity is in the spotlight yet again after an incident at Yale this past weekend. Sofia Petros-Gouin, a Columbia University freshman who was visiting Yale over the weekend, told the Washington Post that she witnessed an SAE frat bro turn students of color away from a Halloween party after he stated "No, we're only looking for white girls."

This allegation comes despite the fact that, earlier this year, SAE's national chapter announced a set of initiatives ensuring that racist behavior would not be tolerated in any of its chapters across the country.

In a statement to the Yale Daily News, the president of the Yale SAE chapter Grant Mueller insisted that fraternity members did not racially discriminate at the off-campus event. However, the incident continues to fuel debate between students, with conflicting stories coming from multiple witnesses. While the fraternity member in question for making the racist comments is white, the members of SAE at Yale told the Washington Post that their fraternity represents a diverse group reflective of the entire university.

Neema Githere posted a public Facebook status saying she and her friends had been turned away from an SAE party on the basis of race the year before, and urged others to share their stories in the comments.

While there is no word on whether or not the SAE chapter at Yale will face any discipline for this, we can only hope that the incident will spark awareness and bring change amongst fraternity organizations as a whole, who continue to make headlines for not only incidents of racial discrimination but sexual violence as well.

Four were wounded in a stabbing Wednesday morning at the University of California, Merced, according to NBC News. Police shot and killed the attacker.

UC Merced tweeted that of the four who were injured, two were students, one was a staff member and one was a vendor. All are expected to recover.

The attacker was a student at UC Merced, but CNN reports that the school has not released any additional information about him.

The campus was on lockdown and classes were canceled for the day. Classes will also be canceled tomorrow.

“I can tell you that we’re really shocked and saddened by this,” Lorena Anderson, a school spokeswoman, told the Los Angeles Times. “We’re doing everything we can to contact family and parents to make sure everyone here is safe and secure.”

It's been a four years since the final Harry Potter film came out, but we're still experiencing withdrawals. Thankfully, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (another masterpiece from J.K. Rowling) is here to save us from our misery!

A few months ago, Warner Brothers confirmed that Eddie Redmayne would be starring in the film adaptation. Now, Entertainment Weekly has released an exclusive first look at the film adaptation, and we can't contain our excitement. On EW's cover, Redmayne stands outside the Magical Congress of the United States of America, armed with a wand and briefcase.  

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them is a prequel to Harry Potter's adventures at Hogwarts, and tells the story of Newt Scamander (played by Redmayne), a popular magizoologist who specializes in the study of magical animals. The film examines Scamander's adventures, which begin in New York, as he documents each beast he encounters during his travels. 

Seeing that the story takes place decades before the Harry Potter series, you shouldn't expect any surprise appearances from our favorite trio of wizards. However, the film is in good hands! J.K. wrote the screenplay, and she will be assisted by director David Yates and producer David Heyman—two familiar faces who helped make Harry Potter such a huge worldwide success.  

For more scoop on Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, check out the latest issue of Entertainment Weekly, available this Friday. And be sure to watch the film, scheduled for release on November 18, 2016!

Having a mixture of girl and guy friends can be a lot of fun. Sure, some people might believe that guys and girls can’t ever be just friends, but that’s not always the case. You can totally be friends with someone without any romantic feelings. Unfortunately, there are still some jealously issues that could arise when it comes to your guy friend’s girlfriend. Dr. Geoffrey Greif, a professor at the University of Maryland School of Social Work and author of Buddy System: Understanding Male Friendships and Two Plus Two: Couples and Their Couple Friendships, weighs in on maintaining friendships with guys who are in relationships.

Be cautious of your body language

It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and occasionally cross the line that separates friendship and flirting. Interactions between guys and girls who are friends might sometimes blur that line. “Accidental flirting is something you should definitely try to avoid,” says Dr. Greif. “You should also be more conscious of your body language, unless it’s how you interact with everyone, both male and female, and so it’s a part of your personality and never taken seriously.” Even just a playful punch on the arm might not seem so innocent to his girlfriend. It’s not like you can’t ever touch him, just be aware of how his girlfriend might perceive it.

Related: 4 Things You Shouldn't Tell Your Friends About Your Relationship

Be patient

When a close friend is in a relationship, it can seem like that’s all they care about. It’s even worse if it feels like his girlfriend is hovering or with him constantly, keeping you two apart. If it's a new relationship, cut him some slack! “People lose a piece of their friends’ time to their friends’ new relationships all the time,” says Dr. Greif. “Couples have a hard time finding time for each other, their families and for their own friends. Be aware that the friend is hoping to keep you in place while also pursuing an exciting intimate relationship, so be patient.” It’s easy to get jealous on both ends, but remember what’s really important--maintaining your friendship. "It is important to avoid spending more time with the friend than with the girlfriend," says Stacey Tanner, a sophomore at New York University. "As a friend, you should understand that he needs to spend a little more time with his girlfriend."

Don’t give his girlfriend a reason to worry

Just because she’s your friend’s girlfriend doesn’t mean you have to be best friends with her. Of course it’s nice if you can get along and all hangout together, but it’s also important to not be fake friends. Becoming friends with her just because you don’t want her to see you as a threat isn’t a great way to start a real friendship. You also don’t want her to think that she has to worry about you as competition. “It’s better to let her assume the best and know that your guy friend is trustworthy as opposed to making it seem like he could have other people interested in him,” says Dr. Greif. You don’t want to approach her telling her that you don’t have any feelings for him, because that will just make her worry. "The easiest way to show that you and your guy friend are just friends to his girlfriend is to keep your friendship as normal as possible," says Amber Layfield, a senior at Appalachian State University. "If you act like you're upset over him having a girlfriend, that shows her that there is something to worry about when there really isn't."

In the end, friendship is a two way street—so as long as you both put in the effort, his girlfriend won’t get in the way of that. While jealously can play a big role, you can do your part by not giving his girlfriend anything to be nervous about at all!

Choosing a major can be stressful, and you may be wondering if you made the right decision. Your college major should reflect your interests and be something you truly enjoy! So, take this quiz to see what your major should actually be.

Whether you’ve been drafting press releases since you were little or just recently discovered your love for scandals, there are certain things every public relations student knows to be true. So if you’re still a little lost on where you belong in the world of communications, here are 22 telltale signs your true calling is in PR.

1. You’re met with blank stares when you tell people what you’re studying. 

Mostly because they don't know what it is. Here’s a hint—it includes relations with the public.

2. You will be the next Olivia Pope.

Minus the whole affair with the president thing.

3. You can spot a grammar mistake from a mile away.

Will the general public ever understand the difference between your and you’re?

4. You’re a total pro at water cooler talk.

"Did you hear the latest?"

5. Networking is a personal skill.

"Nice to meet you. I'm your future employee."

6. You spend more time working on your resume than you do studying for exams.

It has to be perfect. 

7. You’re probably going to end up in NYC, Philly or DC after graduation.

Bye-bye suburbia. 

8. You ALWAYS know what’s going on in the news.

CNN is on speed dial.

9. You’re fascinated by company crises. 

What will they do next?

10. Social media is so much more than Snapchat and selfies.

Surrender to the power of the post.

11. Your online presence is the perfect combination of peppy and professional.

"Hi, I have fun, but I'm also super classy and professional."

12. Your schoolwork primarily consists of writing press releases and analyzing case studies.

Basically every paper ends in ###.

13. Your life goal is to get 500+ LinkedIn connections.

"I'd like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn" is practically your catchphrase. 

14. Writing is actually enjoyable.

Yes, it's a thing.

15. Your laptop is your life.

How did people live before these things showed up?

16. You consistently struggle between pursuing agency or corporate life.

"Do I have to decide?"

17. The internship search is never-ending.

Fall internship is done. Time to start applying for spring.

18. You love seeing politicians and/or celebrities try to get themselves out of hot water.

How do such smart people say such stupid things?

19. You live and die by AP Style.

Nothing is right unless the Stylebook says so.

20. You check your email way too often.

You mean normal people don't send emails at 3:00 a.m.?

21. You’re proficient in Adobe Photoshop and InDesign.

Because we all know PR majors have to double as designers.

22. You take deadlines very seriously. 

"I will have it to you no later than 11:59 p.m. EST." 

College is an expensive time. Not only is college itself expensive, but when you factor in all those expenses you never thought about in high school — food, drinks, activities — it quickly adds up.

We asked 19 college students about their budget (or lack of) and how they earn and spend their money.  

“I worked 50+ hours a week the summer before college and saved up money to buy my own cell phone and laptop — my parents said if I wanted them, I would have to pay for them myself. I don't receive any money from my parents, not even tuition or room and board. Occasionally if I'm struggling, they'll give me some money for food or lend me money until my next paycheck. I appreciate that I'm learning to pay my own way, and I feel like I'm earning my education — not having it handed to me on a silver platter. It's hard not to resent students whose parents pay for everything and have never had to work a day in their lives, but I've learned the value of money and working hard. It is difficult to keep up spending-wise with my friends, but I also realize that money isn't everything.”

-MJ, University of Notre Dame Class of 2017

“I don't work during the school year. I work during the summer to make enough money to pay for my personal expenses at school. I try to keep myself on a budget but get to spend money on clothes and going out to eat from time to time. My parents send me cash every once in a while as well but I don't rely on them. My friends and I are all pretty much in the same position money-wise so we understand saving money and splurging from time to time.”

-Shannon, Stony Brook University Class of 2018

“I have a job on campus that pays minimum wage and I rely on this job for spending money. My parents provide me with money occasionally, but I find it extremely difficult to keep up with my friends’ spending.”

-Carlen, University of North Carolina at Wilmington Class of 2017

RELATED: How it Feels to Be a Broke College Student

“I have a job on campus but it's not a very consistent job since I only work when there are sporting events on campus and it's a minimum wage job so it doesn't bring in very much. I don't really have a budget but I'm trying to get into the habit of creating and sticking to one because I feel like I waste my money as soon as I get it. I'm also trying to save up so I can spend my last semester abroad in Rome so I need to start a savings plan and cut unessential spending.”

-Anai, St. John's University Class of 2017

“I am fortunate enough to be able to go through college without any loans, and what a glorious feeling that is. However, I still have three jobs on campus, and try to spend my money wisely. My parents support me and give me what I ask. With that being said, I truly enjoy having my own spending money for shopping and multiple Chipotle excursions. I probably spend the most money on food, and I'm okay with that.”

-Julie, Saint Vincent College Class of 2018

“I am on a relatively tight budget but I do have a little wiggle room to do what I want. My friends and I are mostly in the same boat financially, so we try our best to do things that are free or inexpensive and stay away from shopping.”

-Lexie, Point Park University Class of 2016

“I have a job outside of campus at CVS, as a shift manager. I work on Sundays and make $15 an hour. I have been saving my entire life in a separate account, however I rely solely on my CVS money for spending. I refuse to take money from my parents; they're already paying $60,000 a year for me. I am often socially restricted because of work.”

-Melanie, Emerson College Class of 2019

“My parents give me money to do college things most of the time. Sometimes I don't tell them I need a new textbook and pay for it myself though. Other than that, I really try not to spend money at all, to be honest. My friends make fun of me for it.”

-Victoria, Siena College Class of 2016

RELATED: 7 Ways to Make the Most of Your Budget This School Year

“I saved a lot of money before college, and have dipped into those savings to buy the necessities for living (besides food and bills), but am still saving that money up for long term when I'm out of college. I still get money from my parents, thankfully. They help me out and buy groceries and things such as toilet paper or paper towels. By doing this I am still independent, but able to save up money to be fully independent and start a life/family when I graduate. I am able to do extras like shopping, movies, etc. because of my long-term savings and budgeting. I like to make sure I have a certain amount of money always in my checking account.”

-Brianne, Ryerson University Class of 2019

“I always have a job so that my savings account is never static. I had a lot of money saved before I started school but my parents and I alternate paying my tuition so it's quickly depleting. A lot of the time I see kids who have their parents’ credit card or something. And of course I'm not as willing to spend money that I’m trying to save. I’d rather be self sufficient than rely on my parents. They help me out enough and I completely appreciate it. But I recognize that I could've gone to a cheaper school and so I owe them a lot for letting me go here. In reality I try and spend as little as possible, but I’m not cheap. It bothers me when people use the excuse that their broke college kids to justify tipping low or mooching food.”

-Abby, University of Notre Dame Class of 2018

“I juggle a few jobs and a paid internship. I live away from my parents so most of the money I use is what I earn on my own. Sometimes there are days where I have to hold back from purchasing something or going out but for the most part it hasn't been difficult with money.”

-Amy, Waseda University Class of 2017

“I work between 20-30 hours a week in retail and am an editor for the school newspaper that gives a monthly stipend. I can do extra things like shop and eat out but not a lot. My refund checks are stretched to last me each quarter for rent and I pay the other utilities with my job. I am very reliant on my jobs because I am trying to be independent from my parents.”

-Aspen, Savannah College of Art & Design Class of 2016

“I'm very thankful to have parents that pay for my tuition, room and board, food expenses, and most of my personal expenses. My parents believe in doing this because they want me to stay focused on my academics. My parents give me a set monthly allowance for food, so I have to budget that accordingly. However, I have to ask for money for personal expenses on an individual basis, so that's more to their discretion. Sometimes I can't do extras like go shopping or to the movies, but I'm okay with that.”

-Juliane, George Mason University Class of 2017

“I had a summer job where I made the money that I spend on food and shopping and other fun things. My parents pay for a credit card that is for groceries, books, and other essentials. I feel like I am able to keep up with my friends on the day-to-day things, but when it comes to trips and larger purchases I fall behind. At BU it’s not uncommon to have kids totally supported by their wealthy parents and be able to buy expensive shit whenever they want.”

-Sophie, Boston University Class of 2018

“Yes I'm on a super tight budget! I am working part-time as a teller for a credit union and I pay everything myself without my parents. So I have to budget my paychecks I get every two weeks to pay for my rent, credit cards, insurance, phone, gas, groceries and other bills. Before coming into college, I saved enough of my hard-earned money to pay for all my textbooks and six months worth of rent. My parents definitely still help me out when I ask, but I want to help them out by not asking for help as often. I go shopping maybe once a month, but it's usually for when I splurge on one item, I can't remember the last time I went on a shopping spree. I don't find it difficult because I'm friends with a lot of people who work and pay their own bills as well. So we split a lot of bills when we go out or try to have fun on a budget.”

-Rachel, Virginia Commonwealth University Class of 2016

RELATED: The Hidden Costs of College & How to Budget For Them

“Every summer before the school year I work my ass off to save up money for the school year. My parents and grandma (God bless her heart) will give me some spending money every time I come home for breaks, but for the most part I rely on my summer reserve to pay for my stuff. For the most part, my friends are just as wise with their money, but there are some other acquaintances who spend and splurge on a lot. I have heard many times girls commenting on how their parents pay for their credit card bills, or they need to wait until their parents give them money, and that's so foreign to me, because I only rely on my parents to help out with rent and tuition. Everything else- groceries, shopping, going out, and utilities, I put that on myself to cover. Yeah sometimes I can't afford things I want but don't need, but it never disturbs me. I think college is the best time to learn how to handle your financials and to develop good spending and budgeting skills.”

-Victoria, University of Virginia Class of 2016

“I have a tight budget and have a job on campus. I rely on that job for my spending money, and also some from working over the summer and winter, however most of it goes to paying a part of my tuition (which ends up being only $1,000 or $2,000). I don't get money from my parents. I don't have money to do anything. I don't even have money for supplies. I dig through the garbage and recycling and other people's remnants for supplies. Most of my friends are broke as well.”

-Yee, Philadelphia University Class of 2018

“I have been doing internships so I have no time for a job. My parents give me a monthly allowance, which I usually spend on food since my campus food is terrible. I also have a slight shopping problem that I’m working on. It can be difficult to keep up spending wise because my friends love to go out to dinner, and New York City is pretty expensive.”

-Taylor, St. John’s University Class of 2018

“Sometimes I can't afford to go out with friends, or I have to know a few weeks in advance so I can save up for the occasion. Many of my college friends do not have to think twice about their spending habits, so sometimes it can be a drag. I currently have a nannying job every afternoon, but that money goes directly into my savings for my trip to London next semester.”

-Claire, Boston University Class of 2017

It’s no secret that college life can be tricky to navigate. Whether you’re a freshman still learning the ropes or an upperclassman well adjusted to the college lifestyle, there are several skills that every collegiette should check off her bucket list before she graduates and ventures out into thereal world. To help you get started on this quest for practical knowledge, we’ve compiled a list of nine can’t-miss life skills that will make your day-to-day college experience a little less stressful.

1. Mastering the 20-minute nap

Between early-morning psych lectures, club soccer practice, all-night study sessions and sorority dinners, there are simply not enough hours in the day to fit in a full night’s rest. However, a quick 20-minute nap between classes is a great way to recharge and catch up on some much-needed zzz’s.

“Twenty minutes is the ideal length for a power nap,” says Dr. Michael Breus, a sleep expert. “It reduces the amount of sleep drive, so you wake up feeling refreshed.”

If you’re feeling extra sleep-deprived, Breus advises the 90-minute nap. “The ideal nap [beyond 20 minutes] is actually 90 minutes, because it is the length of a full sleep cycle,” he says. “Anything between 25-90 minutes will just leave you feeling more tired than when you started.”

Not only is there an ideal length for napping, but there is an ideal time of day to nap as well. “The best time [for napping] is at 1:00 in the afternoon,” Breus says. “Your body temperature drops, which releases melatonin and helps your brain fall asleep.”

2. Chugging water to avoid a hangover

While it may be tempting to come straight home and crash after a long night out, your Sunday-morning self will thank you if you rehydrate with a bottle of water before bed.

“When you’re dehydrated, your blood thickens, and this affects the supply of oxygen to the brain,” says Dr. Alexander Mauskop, founder and director of the New York Headache Center. “This can make you feel lightheaded, dizzy and even cause fainting.”

Needless to say, sipping water throughout the night and in between drinks is a great way to avoid dehydration, which is the cause of most headaches the morning after drinking.

3. Balancing a checkbook

Nothing says adulthood like managing your own money, right? While the majority of our generation will manage banking online, learning how to balance a checkbook is the best way to ensure you’re consciously keeping track of your spending and monitoring any deposits or withdrawals you make. Not to mention, if your credit or debit card is ever fraudulently used or double-charged, you’ll have tangible financial records to reference. Keeping a folder for receipts with your checkbook isn’t a bad idea, either.

4. Managing stress with tea

With final exam season coming up, it may not be a bad idea to stock up on hot tea, which boasts a surprising amount of health benefits.

“When I’m frustrated, sad or stressed out, I drink vanilla chamomile tea with honey,” says Ashley McDonald, a senior at Central Michigan University. “Chamomile tea helps you sleep better, boosts your immune system and just relaxes you in general. It definitely lowers my anxiety.”

5. Making no-bake cake balls

Because dorm life doesn’t have much to offer when it comes to baking supplies and appliances, no-bake recipes are the easiest way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Follow these easy instructions to make a dozen chocolate-covered cake balls in your dorm!

Ingredients:

• One pack of Oreos
• One container of cream cheese
• Two large Hershey’s bars

Directions:

1. Crush the Oreos in a resealable plastic bag.
2. Mix crushed Oreos in a bowl with the cream cheese.
3. Roll the crushed Oreo/cream cheese mixture into individual balls.
4. Place Oreo balls in the refrigerator for an hour.
5. Heat the Hershey’s bars in a microwave-safe bowl to the point where they are melted (but not burnt!).
6. Dip the refrigerated Oreo balls in the melted chocolate.

While they may not be true “cake” balls, they’re definitely the next best thing!

6. Programming with C++

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be a computer science major to learn to program with C++, a general-purpose programming language. There are many free online tutorials available that walk you through the programming process step-by-step.

While knowing how to program may not seem relevant to you right now, it’s a great way to enhance your resume and job prospects for the future—especially if a career in business, information technology or game design interests you. While many college grads seeking employment are familiar with Word, Excel and similar applications, learning how to program can help set you apart.

7. Storing leftovers

Leftovers can be a lifesaver when you’re running low on meal points and feeling too lazy to go grocery shopping. Luckily, there are several tips and tricks for keeping your favorite foods fresh. Check out this set of guidelines outlined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

8. Keeping a first aid kit

There’s no such thing as a predictable college day, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Putting together a homemade first aid kit to keep in your dorm room or car is the best way to ensure you’ll never be caught unprepared. Grab an old shoebox and be sure to include basics like Band-Aids and pain medicine.

“Ibuprofen is great for any pain—menstrual cramps, headaches or even hangovers,” says Dr. Darria Long Gillespie, the executive vice president for clinical strategy and chief doctor at Sharecare.  “I recommend alcohol wipes for any cuts or bleeding, as well as the sterile gauze that comes in individually wrapped packs. Cortisone cream can also help an allergic reaction or developing rash.”

Prepare for any medical or emergency situation that could arise, and you’ll thank yourself later!

9. Popping tags

While Macklemore made thrift shopping seem like much less of an art and much more of a joke, it’s one of the best solutions for college students on a tight budget. If you’re willing to search through piles of clothes in your local Goodwill or thrift store, you’ll likely come across a plethora of cool, one-of-a-kind T-shirts, jackets, accessories and more at ridiculously low prices. Thrift and antique shops are also great places to find random dorm or apartment supplies like mugs, picture frames and posters.

When it comes to college life, sometimes the smallest changes can make the biggest differences. We hope this list of life hacks and skills empowers you to become the most organized, most creative and savviest version of yourself yet. Best of luck, collegiettes! 

If you’re interested in both studying abroad and getting an internship, why not intern internationally? Interning abroad can be a great way to get two fulfilling experiences at once; it allows you to gain hands-on experience in your desired field while also immersing yourself in a different culture. If you’re interested in finding an internship abroad, consider this your go-to guide for the process!

One year before: Do your research

While study abroad program applications probably won’t be available for a few months, it’s always a good idea to get started early with some initial research. Think about what countries you might want to live in, what fields you could work in and what kinds of programs you want to commit to. Depending on the options available at your school, you’ll either go abroad through your college or through an external program. Either way, start off the process by doing some research and seeing if interning abroad is something you’re interested in. Check out what is required financially, whether or not your course schedule will allow it and what sort of visa requirements there are for each country.

If your school offers study abroad information sessions, don’t hesitate to take part! Information sessions are often a great introduction to the application process. If your school doesn’t offer such sessions, consider sitting down with a study abroad advisor. They should be able to offer you some information about what internship programs are available and what students have done in the past.

“Be diligent,” says Gretta Dattan, a senior at the University of British Columbia who interned in the United Kingdom. “Start looking for summer internships in January, and check out positions you normally wouldn’t.”

If you’re not sure where to start your search, there are tons of great resources online! Check out some great external program websites such as Intern Abroad, or peruse past study abroad students’ blogs for a little more insight.

7 to 9 months before: Narrow it down

As you get closer to the study abroad application deadline, start narrowing down your search. Decide where you want to study and intern abroad, and pick one or two study abroad programs you might want to apply to. By now, you should have a good idea of where you want to go and what you want to do in terms of an internship. Look at which programs are designed solely for studying abroad and which programs offer internship placement. 

“Definitely look for a program that has lots of options in whatever field you want to go into after graduating,” says Natalie Kelly, a senior at Santa Clara University who studied and interned abroad in London. “I chose my program based on the location, but there weren't too many options for my major. While they were able to find me a good placement, it was not necessarily what I was hoping for when I went into it.” 

Though Natalie may not have gotten the position she was hoping for when she initially applied to intern abroad, she still learned a lot throughout her experience—which is often the case.  

“The biggest piece of advice I would have for students thinking of interning abroad is to be flexible and not to get stuck on where they'll be interning,” says Michelle Kasmauskis, the Program Manager of Internships at Arcadia University. “Any placement will provide a valuable experience with transferable skills that can be used again in future internships and jobs.” 

To get ready to submit your internship program application, start by figuring out exactly what materials you'll need to submit. Chances are that there will be parts of your application that you’ll have to work on separately, like letters of recommendation or a resume. In order to have these documents ready to submit along with your application, reach out to past professors, mentors and supervisors for their help. Ask if they’ll vouch for you in the form of a reference or write you a recommendation letter for your program. Additionally, be sure to update your resume so it’s ready to be sent out to potential internship programs.

4 to 6 months before: Apply and interview

Most study abroad applications are due between four and six months before the departure date, though the timeline greatly depends on the country you’ll be traveling to. For example, countries like Australia operate on completely different schedules, so application deadlines might vary. Either way, it’s a good idea to start working on the application well before the due date.

Many programs that include an internship have an internship placement program, which means that when you apply for the study abroad program, you’re also filling out forms to apply for an internship.

“I applied in April, which is about five months before I started,” says Kristina Udice, a senior at Emerson College who interned abroad in London. “I sent out my resume and whatnot and in July, I got an interview!”

Most internship programs will help you polish up your resume and prepare for interviews, since they have already established relationships with the internship site. Most applications will ask for your GPA, references and a resume, as well as supplementary questions. Be sure to take your time and complete the application thoroughly!

3 months before: Sort out logistics

After you’ve been accepted into a program, it’s time to sort out the specifics—for instance, obtaining a visa, updating your passport and starting to learn the language. Just because you've submitted your application doesn’t mean there aren’t other important ways to prepare!

Natalie, who went through the Foundation for International Education to secure her study abroad experience, says, “I had to get a Tier 4 visa, which FIE helped us out with getting. This visa restricts the number of hours you work, since you are also supposed to be a student with it.”

If you’re staying more than a few months, chances are you’ll have to obtain a special visa in order to intern abroad. The standards vary from country to country, but in many places, you’ll need special documentation in order to work. Check out your country’s regulations far in advance so you can apply for and obtain your visa before you go abroad.

“The biggest challenge for me was interning in a country where I did not speak the language,” says Kristina Zagame, a senior at the University of South Carolina who interned for six weeks in Chile. “Even though I Love Chile was an English-speaking workplace, going out for assignments was a little tricky because I didn’t know Spanish and couldn’t really talk to a lot of people if they didn’t speak English.”

If the country you’re going to has a primary language other than English, this is the time to start learning! Even if your classes or internship will be in English, it’s always important to immerse yourself in the culture and learn the local language.

1 to 2 months before: Make final preparations

Now that you're anxiously awaiting your departure date, it’s time to make those final preparations! Take the time to research the culture of your host country. Not only are you about to live in a different part of the world, but you’ll also be immersed in the work culture as an intern, which might be vastly different than the kind of culture you’re used to. Look up how people dress, how they interact and what is considered disrespectful in the workplace. 

“My biggest advice for collegiettes interning abroad is to try to learn and understand cultural differences before you start working!” says Kristina. “Time is a very loose concept in Chile, and this took a while to get used to in the work place (although, I did enjoy the unimportance of punctuality)! It is important to understand that what might be completely acceptable for us in the workplace may be seen as disrespectful or rude or weird in another country, and vise versa.”

If you have any questions about cultural differences, ask your future employer or study abroad advisor before you arrive so you know what to expect and how to act.

Between updating your resume, interviewing for positions and obtaining a visa, preparing to intern abroad can be a long process! But the opportunity to get two great experiences in one makes all of the work totally worth it in the end. Good luck, collegiettes!