Spring is right around the corner. Trends are changing, and it is nearly time for spring cleaning. While you're going through your old clothes, why not give them some fashionable upgrades? Below are 15 cheap ways to upcycle your clothes and give them new life.

1. Turn your old T-shirt into a cropped tank

We all have an overflowing T-shirt drawer. Try turning those old tees into a cute knotted tank that will soon be essential to your wardrobe.

2. Turn your old T-shirt into a dressy one-shoulder top

Maybe you have enough casual tanks and are in dire need of something for Saturday nights. So, dress that old tee up a bit. This one-shoulder shirt will be your new go-to for girls' night out.

3. Turn your flannel button down into a cutout top

Flannels are so fall. Update your closet by transforming your fave flannel into this cute cold-shoulder top that's perfect for spring.

4. Add a few simple tears to your denim shorts

Tired of wearing the same pair of denim shorts every summer? By adding a few holes and rips, your denim shorts will get a new boho look, and you don't even have to buy that expensive distressed pair you've had your eye on.

5. Make a tie-dye beach cover-up from a plain T-shirt

First comes spring, then comes beach season. And we are all on the hunt for a fabulous beach cover-up. A little tie-dye and an oversized tee can make this one a reality. 

6. Use your old jeans to craft dip-dyed denim shorts

Time and time again we buy new jeans. Because we need them of course! But then we're left with pairs we never wear. Turn them into dip-dyed cutoff shorts with a couple of snips of your scissors. 

7. Turn a sweater into a pillow

Sweaters shrink. It happens to the best of them. But why cry over a shrunken sweater when it can be repurposed into a decorative pillow?

8. Repurpose flannel pajama pants into an infinity scarf

Flannel pajamas are so comfy. But when you own more pairs than you can count, it's time to give those PJs a new look.

9. Make a rug from old T-shirts

Who needs old, ratty tees with stains and holes? Not us! Put those T-shirts to good use by making this adorable rug.

10. Turn that boxy tank into a peplum top

Forget boxy tanks—peplum tops class up any outfit.

11. Transform your LBD into a sexy cage dress

We all have that LBD that could use a little spicing up. This DIY should do the trick.

12. Make oversized T-shirts into a dress

Who doesn't need a new dress?

13. Add lace inserts to your most boring shirts

Super easy, affordable and adorable—this DIY has everything we like.

14. Upgrade tees with this fashionable crochet trim

This is the update your old tee has been waiting for. Plus, if said T-shirt just so happens to be too small, it will fit perfectly after doing this.

15. Add a simple bow to any sweater

Old sweaters tend to get boring, which just makes us want to get rid of them. Instead, add a pretty bow and your sweaters will be as good as new.

Beyoncé was, per usual, the star of the show when she stopped by Blue Ivy's school fundraiser this weekend to perform a couple of her hit songs, "Crazy in Love" and "XO," as well as Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You." The whole performance was dance-inducing and also a bit emotional.

The other parents at Blue Ivy's school, not to mention the faculty there, were already incredibly lucky to occasionally be in the same parking lot as Queen Bey. But now we know they have the added privilege of seeing her live kind of whenever they want.

Don't you wish you could have been in the crowd at the "elementary school gala" (yes, that's what they're calling it!) when Beyoncé jumped on stage? We sure do!

Kim Kardashian’s 62.5 million followers were in for a surprise when they checked Instagram this morning. The reality TV star posted a mirror selfie around midnight last night, which was nothing out of the ordinary…except it was of the NSFW variety. The photo shows Kim posing in front of a bathroom mirror completely naked (with two black bars tastefully censoring her body, of course). Her reasoning? She had "nothing to wear LOL."

As always, some commenters praised her while others shamed her. Yet no one could deny Kim appeared to be in great shape just three months after giving birth to her second child, Saint West. This led to some speculation about when the selfie was actually taken. She first debuted her plaitnum blonde hair at Paris Fashion Week last year but has since returned to her natural brunette locks—though she did briefly don a blonde wig at Kanye's Yeezy Season 3 and The Life of Pablo launch last month.

Kim later clarified the confusion by posting another photo of herself with blonde hair captioned "Paris flashback BTS," confirming that the previous selfie was in fact from last year.

Whether it was an old photo or a more recent one, Kim looks great. With the media's constant scrutiny of her body, when she's pregnant and even when she's not, all power to her for being confident enough in her body to share such a selfie with the world.

Last night, Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders debated in Flint, Mich., where lead-poisoned water has caused a crisis—And people want answers from government. The two candidates couldn’t match the high drama of the GOP debates if they tried, but there were some tense moments. The discussion mostly revolved around some pretty serious policy, making the night much more substantial (if not more fun to tweet about) than most debates. Here are some of the top moments.

1. Both candidates said they would work hard to hold people accountable in the Flint water crisis, and to make sure nothing similar happened anywhere else in the country.

Both candidates said they would conduct a thorough investigation, and that people would be fired if they knew about the crisis before it was uncovered and failed to do anything about it. Clinton and Sanders also both called for the resignation of Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder. Audience members spoke movingly about how hard it is to live when you have to go get water every day and can’t use anything from your tap for fear of sickness or death.

2. Clinton started to interrupt Sanders, and he said, “Excuse me, I’m talking!”

The moment came when Sanders attacked Clinton for supporting Wall St. during the 2008 financial crisis, and she tried to butt in. The “Excuse me, I’m talking,” line, delivered in Sanders’ typical yell, seemed sexist to some—How many women have felt the humiliation of getting shut down by a male classmate or colleague? At the same time, candidates have to carefully guard their time during debates, so getting interrupted is understandably something Sanders wanted to avoid.

3. Both candidates were asked about their support of the 1994 crime bill.

The bill, which disproportionately harmed black Americans, has been a big point of contention in the election because it was passed during Bill Clinton’s presidency, with support from the First Lady—Hillary. Clinton emphasized that while she may have supported the bill then, she’s now focused on serious reform of the criminal justice system and the racism inherent within it. Sanders said he voted for the 1994 bill because of provisions he liked for domestic violence and assault weapons, but that he spoke out about the bad parts of the bill at the time.

4. The candidates clashed on gun control.

One of Sanders’ weakest points is his position on gun control. While he often brings up his D- rating from the NRA, he doesn’t support taking away immunity from gun sellers and manufacturers—a move that Clinton enthusiastically supports. Sanders says taking away immunity would end gun manufacturing in America, but Clinton says gunmakers need to be held responsible for what people may do with their product.

5. Both candidates talked about their white privilege, though they didn’t use those words.

Moderator Don Lemon of CNN asked the candidates about their racial blind spots. Clinton responded that, “Being a white person in the United States of America, I know that I’ve never had the experience that so many of the people in this audience have had.” Sanders sounded a similar note, telling stories he’d heard from black acquaintances about the impact of racism on their lives. He noted that white people never have to deal with the same kind of prejudice.

6. Sanders said he’s proud of his Jewish heritage.

One audience member asked Sanders about the role of God in his life, and about worries from some that he puts his Jewish faith in the background. “I am very proud of being Jewish,” Sanders said, and referred to family members who were “wiped out” in the Holocaust. The same audience member asked Clinton about her prayer life, to which she gave a long answer about how she prays every day.

This wasn't everything that was discussed in the debate! Check out more recaps here and here.

You’ve been listening to Adele on repeat, crying into your (third) glass of wine and eating your feelings with Ben & Jerry. Any collegiette knows that these are the telltale signs of a recent breakup.

Although wallowing is an important part of grieving a relationship, there’s a point when you realize that you have to move on. The only problem? It’s easier said than done. And while you’ve heard of the term “closure,” you’re not quite sure what it means or even how to get it. Well, fortunately for you, HC has asked the experts on what closure is, how you can get it and why it’s so important to move on. So turn off the Adele and read on!

What is closure?

According to Jeffrey Sumber, a licensed professional clinical counselor, closure is, “a mutually agreed upon experience where both people leave with resolution or peace. Both parties can walk away with a sense of finality.”

In a breakup, closure is when you and your ex accept that your relationship is over and you both feel a sense of resolution. Even if you or your ex felt more strongly about ending your relationship, Sumber says that you can still gain closure. “It’s possible to end [a relationship] with understanding and kindness…You can walk away and not leave a door open,” he says. “It allows you to heal quicker.”

It’s important to note that closure doesn’t necessarily means that you’re ready to date again, but rather that you’ve closed the chapter on your past relationship and are ready to move forward. It’s an important part of getting over an ex and the breakup so you can feel confident starting a new relationship down the road.

How to get it

What worked for your friend might not necessarily work for you, mostly because you had different situations. Similarly, what worked for you in past relationships might not be as helpful now.

“If you don’t move on, you’re unlikely to be emotionally available for a happy and healthy relationship in the future,” says Jasbina Ahluwalia, dating coach and founder of Intersections Match by Jasbina. “View it as a growth and glean anything you learned about yourself and your needs in a relationship.”

Every breakup is different, and the time it takes for you to get closure greatly depends on how the relationship ended and if you’re still talking to your ex. You may need more or less time to heal.

When you’re on speaking terms with your ex

In this scenario, closure can come in the form of a conversation. However, consider taking some time after the breakup before having this type of conversation. “A bit of communication hiatus is recommended, [like a week or two],” says Jodi RR Smith, etiquette consultant and president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting. “It’s important to process the feelings and emotions [to avoid] a major scene at some later point.”

When you feel ready to have a conversation, contact your ex and decide on a meeting place. Your meeting place should be private enough that you can have an open conversation, yet still public enough that you’re not put in an uncomfortable position. For example, a coffee shop might be a good setting to speak about your relationship; just don’t choose the Starbucks that you know all your friends go to.

“Even consider a walking trail so you can walk and talk,” Smith suggests. “And it should be short; keep it to 45 minutes maximum. Otherwise the conversation could go south quickly and won’t be as productive.”

Sumber also encourages picking a neutral location and to start the conversation on a positive note. “I encourage people to start with by sharing positive feelings. [For example], share with an ex all of their greatest qualities,” he says. “Then, ask permission to speak what could have gone differently or better only if your ex is interested in hearing [and sharing] feedback about the relationship.”

The main goal of speaking with your ex shouldn’t be getting back together, and don’t expect to it automatically cure the post-breakup pain. Rather, the main point of the conversation is to gain perspective on your past relationship and gain some insight for your future ones.

“[To do this], some questions you might want to ask are what [your ex] appreciated about your relationship and what [he/she] felt detracted from your relationship,” Ahluwalia says. “Get their view on how you may have contributed to that detraction [or lack of connection].”

Once you feel like you’ve gained some perspective, end the conversation amicably, maybe give your ex a quick hug and then go your separate ways. “Keep it short and keep it neutral,” Smith says. “Then it’s up to you to take care of yourself and move on.”

By recognizing all the good things you had in your relationship while also identifying what could have gone better, it helps you learn and process the relationship. “We don’t engage in relationships just because they feel good,” Sumber says. “We engage in them to grow as individuals and closure allows us to drive home those learning opportunities.”

When you’re not talking to your ex

For one reason or another, you might not speaking to your ex. While most people think that closure has to include both partners, most experts say that’s not the case. “You cannot rely on an ex to provide closure,” Ahluwalia says. “It’s an inside job.”

The experts suggest doing something active to physically gain closure from a breakup. “Incorporate a tactile, closing ritual that you can’t get in person,” Sumber says. “For example, journal things you would normally say to an ex, or burn a present. You could even bury something… Just make it something tactile.”

You might find it helpful to write a letter to an ex expressing everything you want to say but can’t because of the circumstances and shred it (never mail it!).  Or, you can start working out to physically “sweat out” and get rid of your past relationship.

Ahluwalia even suggests saying all the things you want to say aloud, either to an empty chair or to a friend or family member. “Imagine your ex sitting in an empty chair, and say what you didn’t have a chance to share,” she says. “Or speak to a family member [or a] friend, or consider counseling because counselors can provide objective feedback.”

Lastly, you might find it helpful to change your environment to help you start thinking differently about your breakup. “Changing your environment can help you change your state of mind,” Ahluwalia says. “It can take form in a vacation or even redecorating… Get physical and emotional distance from your ex.” Without constant reminders of them, you can start to focus on yourself and your own needs.

Whether you’re on speaking terms with your ex or not, you can gain closure from a relationship in a healthy way that helps you move on. Try one thing or a combination to find what works best for you!

What closure feels like

So you know what closure means and have taken all the right steps toward it, but how do you know when you’ve actually moved on?  Most experts say that you will feel a sense of freedom and acceptance.

“[You] can feel like the weight of emotional baggage has been taken off your shoulders,” Ahluwalia says. “Or [you won’t] have strong feelings or attachment to your ex. It’s freeing.”

Similarly, Smith explains that an ex will always have a place in your heart, but you start to feel more normal again. “You won’t always be bursting into tears or falling to pieces when something reminds you [of your ex],” she says. “You’ll be having more fun and functioning normally. And one day you might wake up and realize that if an ex doesn’t see how fabulous you are, then [he or she] is not worth it.”

Of course, there will be times that you miss your ex and even get upset over your breakup in the weeks or months afterwards. But eventually those intense feelings fade and you start to feel happy again.

Moving on takes time. You might have some good days and some not-so-good ones – it’s all part of the process. “It’s important to allow yourself time to grieve,” Sumber says. “But then it’s important to move on, because you have to grow. Process the past as fertilizer for your future.”

By accepting that you and your ex did the best you could in the relationship and viewing it as a learning experience, you can move on fully and get rid of any emotional baggage before your next relationship.

“It’s important to move on, because you’re young and you have your whole life ahead of you,” Smith says. “It is possible to be alone without being lonely. Enjoy being by yourself, and you’ll know when you are ready to date again.”

Taylor Swift and Calvin Harris have been our relationship goals for a while now, so it's hard to believe they've been together for only one year. The couple celebrated their first anniversary yesterday, and both of them took to social media to share with fans how they celebrated their special day.

The 26-year-old singer posted a photo on Instagram showing a romantic gift from her DJ boyfriend: a golden locket engraved with their anniversary date. Swift simply captioned the post by saying, “3.6.15 One year down!"

While Harris opted not to post a picture on Instagram to commemorate their anniversary, he did share part of his day with Swift on his Snapchat story. The video shows a homemade cake decorated with two hearts and “1 Year” spelled out in icing. Swift, who presumably baked the cake, is seen nodding happily as Harris enthusiatically repeats, "We got one year cake!"

Read More: 9 Reasons Why Taylor Swift and Calvin Harris are Perfect for Each Other

From what we've seen, their anniversary celebration (and their relationship in general) was simple and sweet. Where can we find a love like this?

There’s some tragic news out of Ithaca, N.Y. today. Cornell’s president of less than a year, Elizabeth Garrett, died last night at the age of 52 after a battle with colon cancer. Her passing comes mere weeks after she announced her diagnosis.

Garrett was the first female president of the Ivy League school. Since taking office this past September, she had made several important decisions, including reversing the 2035 carbon neutrality goal, creating a College of Business and approving the opening of a new student-run grocery store, according to The Cornell Daily Sun.

While some of these changes weren’t well received, she always held the school’s students and faculty in the highest regard.

“Our students are simply amazing,” Garrett said in an address shortly after her September inauguration, the Sun reported.

Before arriving at Cornell last year, Garrett was the provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at University of Southern California. She attended University of Virginia School of Law, where she recently received a distinguished alumnae award.

In an email to the Cornell community, the Chair of the Board of Trustees Robert Harrison called Garrett a “remarkable human being” and a “vibrant and passionate leader. There are few words to express the enormity of this loss.”

Governor of New York Andrew Cuomo, released a statement offering his sympathies and called Garrett a “visionary leader.”

Two Northeastern University students, one of who survived the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, died tragically in a car crash in Dubai over the weekend. The students, Victoria McGrath and Priscilla Perez Torres, were roommates taking a personal trip together.

McGrath survived serious leg injuries that she got at the marathon bombing. A picture of her being carried to safety by firefighter James Plourde became famous after the attacks.

It’s with heavy hearts that many mourn the passing of two vibrant young women. Northeastern President Jonathan E. Aoun issued a statement on Monday about the accident.

“Each were kind, talented young women, with exceptional futures before them,” Aoun wrote in an email to the Northeastern community, according to The Boston Globe. “Their passing leaves a grievous absence in our community and in our hearts.”

“It’s been said that I helped to save her life, but the truth is Victoria saved my life after the marathon as her love, support, and friendship helped myself and my family deal with the acts of 4/15/13,” Plourde, the firefighter from the photo, said in a statement printed by the Globe. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the McGrath and Perez Torres families as they deal with this unimaginable tragedy.”

McGarth and Perez Torres were both scheduled to graduate this spring.

The arrival of spring may bring the promise of warmer weather, flip-flops and short sleeves, but there are likely to be a few lingering chilly days that require some light layers. Now is the opportunity to ditch the drab winter coats and wool sweaters in favor of pastel cardigans, bright blazers and hip leather jackets. Spring layering is all about mixing textures and patterns for that fresh and youthful vibe you’ve been missing since summer. Take inspiration from the streets with these stylish looks that prove just how creative you can get with your layering this spring.

1. Classic Cuts With a Punch

A patterned suit makes for a bold ensemble and serves as the perfect base for an edgy leather jacket. The combination of color and texture brings this look to life and transitions easily from a crisp spring morning to an afternoon lunch al fresco. A colorful bag and wedge sandals add a touch of fun to a polished suit silhouette, but classy heels and a clutch can instantly take this look into date-night territory. When you’re not feeling chilled enough for the jacket-on-blazer combo, just drape that fabulous coat over your shoulders to channel your inner off-duty model.

2. Double Dress, Double the Fun

Layering doesn’t have to be restricted to stuffy cardigans—try out a layered dress look this spring for a fresh take on a classic pairing. Layering two dresses is the perfect solution when the mid-thigh grazing mini just doesn’t give you enough coverage. Try a fitted sweater dress over a longer shirt dress or a tunic top over a knee-length dress. If you’re doing a little wardrobe revamping, invest in some classic pieces like chambray shirts and tunic sweaters to breathe new life into some of your favorite warm weather pieces!

Related: The Spring Break Uniform You Need For Every Destination

3. Get Creative With Crop Tops

Your favorite summer crop top that was doomed to stay in the back of your closet until June can make an early appearance this spring. A crop top makes for a great layering piece over a button-down or sheer top. Pair it with high-waisted pants for balanced proportions and a little extra coverage. A cropped sweater is another great winter to spring transition piece and a versatile addition to dresses and tank tops. Look for cropped pieces that hit just below the rib cage and wear them over shirts that fall below the hips. This will elongate your torso and make you appear taller.

If you’re looking for a single new piece to carry you through the unpredictable spring temperatures, a cropped statement jacket is the way to go. It’ll go with everything you already have in your closet, including your favorite jeans for a modern casual look or a sleek skirt for those internship days.

4. Feminine Meets Functional

When you just can’t decide if it’s really spring yet, the sweater and mini-skirt combo is your go-to solution. You can show a little skin but still keep yourself protected from the elements with a couple extra layers up top. Try a sporty version of this feminine style with a chunky sweater and utility jacket layered over your favorite mini. Heeled booties make a sleek finish, while wedged sneakers make the look extra sporty cool.

5. Minimalism at its Best

If you haven’t tried your hand at a jumpsuit, now is your time! It’s the perfect spring piece: it's versatile, effortless and suitable for any number of layering combinations. A long sleeve tee underneath, a sharp leather jacket or a loose, boxy-blazer on top are just some of the ways to style this trendy garment. If it’s your first one-piece, try a foolproof cinched or belted waist. If you’re short, make sure the legs hit just above the ankle to achieve the best proportions. Work it with sandals, booties or pumps depending on your mood (and the weather of course).

6. Sweaters for Spring

As the weather warms up, a long sweater is the ideal piece to take the place of your heavy down jacket. A dramatic cardigan that hits just below the knee will add a bit of flair to your favorite jeans and tee or even a feminine spring dress. There are endless possibilities for accessorizing an oversized cardigan, but to avoid looking drowned in miles of fabric, bare some leg and sport a pair of heels or booties. A belt tied at the waist will also give a loose sweater more shape and can help take the look from day to night.

After a long, dreary winter, the thought of breaking out your spring wardrobe is exhilarating. But for that period in between winter’s end and full-fledged sunshine, layer some of your favorite pieces from both seasons. Spring layering is all about combining light airy pieces, a touch of texture and a fun mix of prints and patterns to joyfully welcome the start of a new season. So take some inspiration from these street style looks and get to layering!

Former mayor of New York City Michael Bloomberg has officially announced that he will not be running for president, regardless of a potential Trump nomination. Bloomberg recently announced he’d been contemplating entering the race as an independent. This gave many voters, who felt trapped in the two-party system, a new option.

Bloomberg detailed his reasons not to run Monday in an article on his website, Bloomberg View. "I believe I could win a number of diverse states,” he wrote, “but not enough to win the 270 Electoral College votes necessary to win the presidency.”

He believes that splitting the voting population could lead to the exact thing that he wants the country to avoid: President Donald Trump.

“Extremism is on the march, and unless we stop it, our problems at home and abroad will grow worse,” he said, referring to what he sees as extreme, uncompromising views on both sides of the political spectrum.

Bloomberg has long been the light at the end of a tumultuous primary campaign for many moderate voters. Still, many political analysts and Bloomberg himself believe that if he were to run, the electorate would be so evenly split that the ultimate decision would go to congress.

“The fact is, even if I were to receive the most popular votes and the most electoral votes, victory would be highly unlikely, because most members of Congress would vote for their party’s nominee,” Bloomberg wrote. “Party loyalists in Congress—not the American people or the Electoral College—would determine the next president.”

Having appeared on “The Apprentice” twice, Bloomberg is no stranger to the Donald. However, he believes that Trump's political policies are downright dangerous for the country.

“We cannot 'make America great again' by turning our backs on the values that made us the world’s greatest nation in the first place,” Bloomberg said.

Without a 'centrist' option on the table, it looks like many will have to head back to campaigning for the popular choice: Anyone but Trump.

Some may think being pale is pretty, but in reality it ain’t always pretty. Seeing your own blue veins are a constant reminder of how you can never develop a tan, and sometimes avoiding light just causes damn exhaustion. Whether you take pride in your paleness or blame your genes for your lack of melanin, you are bound to relate to these 19 struggles.

1. You know that beauty [burns] come in all different shapes and sizes

Raccoon

Farmer

2. Buying bronzer is an ordeal

3. People tend to comment you on your “tan” after breaking just a slight sweat

4. Spray tans are a nightmare

5. Prom was a very sensitive time in your life because every girl besides you sounded like this:

6. You’re sick of people assuming that being called a porcelain doll is a compliment

7. You’re haunted by your parents forcing you to wear a T-shirt at the beach as a child

8. You’ve learned to expect the unexpected when falling asleep outside…

9. You’ve learned to say no to many colors. For example: red is only acceptable during patriotic holidays and Valentine’s Day

10. You based your college decision off of not wearing those pale producing colors

11. A slight darkening of your skin = an extreme confidence boost

12. Selfies aren’t even a thing

13. You wear a permanent Halloween costume 365 days of the year

14. You can’t run, you can’t hide

15. Even when you hit the slopes in the winter…

16. Every day is a new opportunity to brand your skin with a bruise

17. You blow your savings on sunscreen every summer

18.  And your hands feel like this after applying sunscreen every 10 minutes

19. But at the end of the day...

Disney Channel in the 2000's was a dream; with Hilary Duff, Raven Symone and the Sprouse twins reigning supreme, it was clearly the best time in Disney history. This was the rise of some iconic Disney Channel Original Movies (Thirteenth Year, anyone?) and memorable shows like Phil of the Future and Even Stevens. If you were a Disney kid, you would remember all of these and more--in fact, if you're a Disney kid, every single thing on this list will make you say YAAAASSS.

1. The teaser trailers leading up to a new DCOM had you like:

2. Mash-up episodes like “That’s So Suite Life of Hannah Montana” were everything.

3. The Disney Channel Games was practically your version of the Olympics.

4. When sing along versions to Camp Rock and High School Musical aired.

5. You’ve seen every installment of the best DCOM series: Halloweentown, Zenon, HSM, etc.

6. You and your girl squad were obsessed with the Cheetah Girls (you guys also fought over who was Bubbles and who was Aqua)

7. Pretending you had a secret double life like Hannah Montana.

8. Whenever you were on the computer, you were almost always on the Disney channel website playing Lizzie McGuire’s makeover game.

9. You tried your best to rock as many Hannah Montana/Lizzie McGuire-esque outfits that your Limited Too wardrobe would allow.

10. You learned everything you know about food from Brenda Song’s “Pass the Plate” mini-series.

11. Rooting for your favorite power couples from the very beginning: Kim and Ron, Lizzie and Gordo and so many others.

12. All you wanted was to live in Smart House.

13. Thinking you and your sister/BFF could be fierce witches after watching Twitches.

14. You perfected the way you'd draw the Disney logo with your wand if you were a star

15.  Your number one goal in life was to be a guest star on literally ANY Disney show and meet all of your idols.

Do you ever have those moments when you are watching your favorite rom-com or soapie and wish you could be wined and dined like Carrie Bradshaw? No? Just us? Anyways, the struggle has never been more real than in the dating world as a broke girl. To make things easier for you, we’ve made a list of all of the best, and fanciest, date ideas that will make you feel like the luckiest girl in the room, but without putting you in debt.

1. Bring the date to your place

There is one major and obvious way to save money—staying in with your date. But just because you don’t leave the house doesn’t mean you have to settle for Netflix & chill. To shake things up and keep it classy and cheap, invite your partner over for a night in. Clean up your kitchen and make it look fancy—set the table, put out some clean dishes and throw on some heels. When you’re done, it won’t even look like you stayed home to cook. You can have an amazing time together by wearing your best and cooking a romantic dinner together. To make it even better, light some candles and make some DIY cocktails.

2. Go to a museum and dessert 

In the world we live in, there are very few things that are free. One of the best is art museums, especially if you are student. Whip out your ID card and spend a night with Van Gogh. A perfect date night includes your best outfit, a date and a cozy night in a museum. You save money and you don’t actually have to talk much, which he may say he hates, but we know he secretly loves it... well, maybe. Just remember that there are other museums besides ones that involve staring at a painting for two hours. Make sure to look into history museums, science museums and other interactive exhibits. It's important to find something that both of you enjoy. As well, to make things even better, you can head out for wine and dessert and discuss what inspired you, whether it was a Monet or a monkey. You save money by getting in for free so you can spend more on ~ChOcOlAtE~.

Related: 5 Dates Your Guy Hates (But Won't Admit It)

3. Make Groupon your best friend

You may have scowled at your mother when she suggested you do this five years ago, but now you'll thank her. Groupon is a website that has the best coupons and deals for everything that you could possibly imagine. From a three-course meal to couples massages, you can get the fanciest stuff for way less than retail price. Interested in salsa dancing? Done. Feeling like going to a wine tasing? Done. Groupon has anything and everything that you could possibly imagine that leave you feeling like you own the world (without spending the world). Jennifer, a junior at Columbia University, says, "For my two year anniversary with my boyfriend, we decided to try something new and get a Groupon for two at a super fancy steak house. We got three courses and wine all for $25 a person and it was absolultely perfect. For what we got it should have been at least $40 each but because of the deal, it was perfect. I would do it again in a heartbeat." Much like Jennifer, other students say that using groupon is a "cheap" and "fabulous" way to save money and stay classy. 

4. Enjoy a picnic in the park

You may have seen it in all the movies and thought that it was so cheesy, but there really is nothing better, or cheaper, than a picnic. Pack a bag with all of your favorite foods, grab your date and find a nice cozy spot in a park to sit and chat. Bonus points if you pretend like you’re in the 1960s and wear an era themed dress--just don’t forget the wine opener! You save money by not going out and most times you already have all the food you need in your house. You would be surprised at how upscale mac and cheese feels when you eat it on a pretty plate outdoors! Plus you get to feel like you are in your favorite romantic comedy and what really could be better? Nothing.

5. Drink champagne under the stars

There is one thing that happens every night (most times) that does not cost any money to look at: the stars. Grab a blanket and a bottle of champagne (cheapest if you get the $5 stuff from Trader Joe’s) and hit the road with your date. Find a nice overlook on a clear night and relax and enjoy the moment. There is nothing more romantic than a night sky and someone you care about. It makes you feel like you're worth a million bucks, but without actually spending that much. Ushaia, a sophomore at New York University, says, "I surprised my girlfriend and took her to a local park to star gaze after a night of cooking in. She was so happy that we got to spend time together outside of our apartment but also super excited that I went the extra mile and brought a bottle of sparkling wine. I never thought I would be the kind of guy to like this sort of stuff but I got to admit, it was truly romantic and the only thing that cost money was the wine. My girlfriend loved it so much she told all of her girl friends to do the same with their dates." Sounds good to us!

6. Check out the student center

If you're still in school, chances are you have a student center that offers many discounts to local attractions and shows. If this is the case, there are so many ways that you can get tickets to Broadway shows and operas at a very cheap price. You still get to enjoy the classiness of a night out but without spending full price. For example, at New York University they have a full student central ticket box office. They offer discounted movie tickets, theatre productions, ballets and excursions that the students can use for themselves and for guests. One student, Liz, says, "I never took advantage of the student offers my senior year and I wish I had known about it sooner. So far this year I have saved so much money on dates because of the student discounts and it's not like it's stuff nobody wants to see, it's the big hits such as Aladdin and Spring Awakening. They even offered a program for students to apply in bulk for the Hamilton lottery, which is so cool." Although the student discounts differ from school to school, it is important to check it out sooner rather than later. It's known that the good stuff usually tends to go fast because of high demand. 

7. Indulge in a spa night

We know you love giving yourself a face mask every now and then, but what about your date? Bring out the candles and scented bath salts and turn your ordinary bathroom into a bubbly heaven. You can use materials you already have at home such as oatmeal and honey to create a body scrub that both of you will love. As well, the act of creating some DIY products will definitly be a bonding experience for both of you. Once again, buy some cheap-but-delicious wine, pour yourselves a big glass and enjoy. At the end of the night, you both will feel like you went to a five-star spa, but without the debt. Bonus points if you take turns giving each other massages. But make sure that your date gives you one first because you deserve it!

Overall, there are so many cheap and incredible ways to save money while still giving yourself a date that you're happy with. But let's be real, one of the most important things to remember is that it doesn't matter how much money you spend or don't spend as long as your date makes you feel like you're Queen of the World.

The best cure for the midwinter blues is looking forward to the next fun thing on the horizon, and one of the greatest parts of college is planning for spring break! Although it’s only a month into the semester and your days of fun in the sun may seem far away, that glorious week off will come sooner than you expect. If you’re planning on traveling during spring break this year, it’s a good idea to plan ahead so that you have extra spending money. Check out our list of ways that you can cut your spending this winter so that you have plenty of cash come March.

1. Cut out unnecessary spending

The key to saving money is to not waste money on things that you don’t really need!

“It’s important to understand what your true needs are, and that what you want isn’t necessarily what you need,” says Jeffrey Goodman, first vice president of investments for the financial services company Raymond James & Associates. While your twice-weekly (or even daily) Starbucks drinks can feel like a necessity, they really aren’t. Try to limit your coffee runs to once a week, or even better, switch to making your own coffee at home before you run to class.

Let’s say that you get your Starbucks fix twice a week. At approximately $4 per drink, you’d save $8 a week, which adds up to $48 saved by March!

Another unnecessary expense that could get in the way of your saving is that inevitable trip to the campus café for a quick bite to eat between classes. Instead of falling into that snack trap, plan ahead and bring something with you to snack on, like nuts, a granola bar or fruit.

You could also consider investing in a bobble, a filtered water bottle that you can refill over and over, instead of constantly shelling out money for bottled water.  bobbles are great for the environment, too; using one bobble for two months equates to using 300 single-use water bottles!

2. Get a part-time job

Getting a job isn’t just good for bulking up your resume; it can also help you put some extra money in your pocket during the semester. Do some research to find out if your university is offering any on-campus, part-time student jobs, like in the student union, in the library or at the campus bookstore, and check out the restaurants around campus as well.

Odd jobs here and there such as babysitting can also be a good option. “I asked my sorority sisters for any babysitting families they wanted to ditch for a night or two,” says Kirsten Ballard, a recent graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill. If you work a part-time job that pays $10 an hour for 10 hours a week, you could earn an extra $600 by March!

3. Keep your money out of sight

You’re being careful with your money and watching what you spend, when all of a sudden you come across a pair of heels that you just can’t resist—and your credit card is within your reach. We know it can be incredibly hard to make good financial decisions when it’s so easy to whip out a card to pay for a meal or online shop. We suggest keeping your card out of sight so that you won’t be tempted and only withdrawing enough cash for what you need for the week or month.

“I took my credit cards out of my wallet and just get cash out once a week for gas and necessities,” Kirsten says.

If you do have extra cash on hand, make sure to keep it in a safe or somewhere it can’t easily be found.  

Beverly Harzog, author of Confessions of a Credit Junkie: Everything You Need to Know to Avoid the Mistakes I Made, says it’s important to keep track of anything you buy with your card and limit how much you charge to it.

“…If you have credit cards, be sure you don't charge more than you can pay off when the bill comes in the next month,” she says. “This is where having a budget and tracking your spending can help you stay out of credit card debt. Be very diligent about this, because you don't want to graduate from school with both student loan debt and credit card debt.”

4. Stick to your budget

When you have a specific event to save up for, it’s important to create a realistic budget and stick to it. While this isn’t the easiest thing to do in the expensive world of college, Goodman says “it’s important to have discipline and self-control when it comes to your budget.” Plan your week in advance and think about how much money you’ll need for the necessities, like snacks, groceries and gas (while allotting some of your funds for the fun stuff).

Learning to effectively budget now is a skill that will be beneficial for the rest of your life. The sooner you know how to handle money, the better! For more budgeting tips, check out our article on how to make your college budget.

5. Download apps to help you stay on track

Harzog suggests “downloading one of the budgeting apps so that you can keep track of your spending via your smartphone.” For example, the free Mint app can help you stay on top of your expenses by connecting directly to your bank account and tracking your transactions. The app even lets you set goals for yourself! All you have to do is set a date for your spring break trip and enter how much money you’ll need by that time, and Mint will do the rest.

“There are several similar budgeting apps on the market, so do a little research and find the one that you’re comfortable with,” Harzog says.

6. Cook your own meals

Cooking for yourself means improving your culinary skills, eating healthier and, of course, saving money. Eating out can be extremely expensive, especially if you go to college in a big city, and those weekly dinners out can quickly add up.

One of the easiest ways to save money is to make meals yourself in your dorm or apartment kitchen. “My roommates and I would sometimes cook together instead of going out to eat,” says Becky McColl, a recent graduate of the University of Delaware. “It's a lot cheaper than going out, so it's a great way to save money, and cooking together is a lot of fun!”

If you live with roommates, you could have one day a week where one person makes a meal for everyone else, or have fun dinner themes, like Mexican night! 

If you do go out, try to limit yourself to only eating out every other week, and be sure to check out websites like LivingSocial and Groupon first for coupons. Kirsten suggests ordering water instead of soda, which will also help you stick to your budget. Since restaurant portions are often hefty, save and bring home half of your food so that you have a free meal the next day.

7. Take advantage of your student ID

Make the most of your student ID and use it at local businesses that offer student discounts or for free admission to museums and local events.

“When you do go off campus for entertainment, take advantage of your student discount whenever possible,” Harzog says. “And don't be afraid to ask the manager of a restaurant or a store if they'd consider giving you a student discount.”

8. Use your friends as motivation

There’s power in numbers, which means that you’ll have an easier time motivating yourself to restrict your spending when the people around you are doing the same thing! If you and a group of friends are planning a spring break trip together, you can motivate each other to make decisions that will result in more money in your wallet (and less post-spending regret).

“The environment you’re in can make a difference,” Goodman says. “Spending time with people who have common interests and goals will help you stay on track.”

Tape photos of beaches and palm trees all over your dorm room, create a “Spring Break Fund” jar that you and your friends can put extra change into over the course of the semester or even print out a Ryan Gosling “Hey Girl, Save Your Money” meme for extra motivation—whatever it takes! When you do go out with friends, plan ahead and make sure that you both can afford it so that you don’t end up footing the bill for a friend and going over your budget.

Saving money can be easy as long as you commit and make a conscious effort to do so every day. By creating a budget, limiting extra spending and looking for ways to have fun for free, you’ll be on your way to growing your spring break fund in no time!

Did you sit through the snoozefest that was last night’s Women Tell All special? Well, we sure did, which is why we’re here to discuss it at length. Not only was the episode boring, but boy was it nauseatingly fake. In particular, we found these 11 moments to be totally unbelievable.

1. That chicken was completely quiet during the whole show

Um, we don’t know many chickens personally, but we’re pretty sure they don’t sit quietly in their owner’s lap while filming an explosive reunion special in front of a studio audience. Bring on the noise, Sheila.

2. Someone is not Team Jubilee

The situation between Jubilee and Jami/Amber was extremely hard to figure out. We came into their argument with no background info, and we were thrown into a debate over comments Jubilee may or may not have said off camera. Whoever had the idea to stir the Jubilee pot again obviously doesn’t understand that literally everyone is Team Jubilee.

3. Shushanna suddenly speaks English

Oh, so you couldn’t speak English when you were around your American boyfriend. But as soon as you want to interject into an argument that doesn’t even remotely involve you, you know the language. Isn’t that convenient?

4. All those nameless girls pretending they were even on this season

There were at least three women in attendance that we swear we’ve never seen before. All props to those crafty ladies for convincing security, producers and Chris Harrison that they participated on Ben’s season.

5. Olivia tries to pull off the Taylor Swift circa 2015 Billboard Awards look

The short haircut. The white jumpsuit. We know what you’re trying to do, but it’s never going to work. So cut it out, Olivia.

6. Chris Harrison calls Jubilee “complicated”

Newsflash: we’re ALL complicated. That’s what makes us human beings, Christopher.

7. That guy who had a (fake?) tattoo of Lace’s face on his body

There was something off about that tattoo, right? Also, sit back down or Pauly will dismiss you.

8. Olivia cries

But was she crying? We think not. Regardless, we really don’t care about her fake apologies or tears. She's not a very convincing actress.

9. LEAH—all things Leah

What are you doing, Leah? Cannot get a read on you. We really never want to see you again if that’s okay with you (and also if it’s not).

10. Caila’s desperate plea for America to accept her as the new Bachelorette

We’ve all heard the rumors—belated spoiler alert if you hadn’t. The Bachelor producers were clearly offering Caila up as the show’s heir apparent during WTA. And we saw right through every second of it.

11. Ben with those on-point answers

Ben was saying all the right things to his rejects. Was he being fed those lines? Or is our Bachelor actually that eloquent? We may never know, but he looked good doing it.

Did you find the WTA to be oh-so-fake, collegiettes?

Winter got you feeling flat and not sure what to do? Pump up the volume with a hair revival kit from Not Your Mother’s Hair Care! Not Your Mother’s products are packed with everything you need to fight the frizz and stabilize the static. All 100% cruelty free products free of sulfate, phthalate, synthetic color, and gluten – you could only go wrong by not entering this giveaway!

Not Your Mother’s high volume shampoos, conditioners, finishing sprays and blow drier accelerators will leave your hair looking and feeling clean and fresh– even in the cold winter months! 1 lucky winner will win this prize pack that values well over $100!

Put your best part forward and finish the semester off not a hair out of place – thanks to Not Your Mother’s!

Not Your Mother's

It’s no secret that there is a lack of diversity in Hollywood, with celebrities like Zendaya regularly voicing their opinions on the issue. But it looks like things might be taking a turn for her and Hollywood, as Deadline revealed yesterday that Zendaya has landed a major leading lady role in the upcoming Spider-Man reboot. The publication reports that she will be playing a key character named Michelle. There is no word yet on whether or not Zendaya will be playing Tom Holland’s (a.k.a. Spider-Man's) on-screen love, but many insist the details we have thus far make it unlikely.

The currently untitled project is expected to come out some time in 2017, but we already know this is a movie you will not want to miss.  

You know you identify as LGBTQ+, whether you’re bisexual, lesbian, asexual, transgender or genderqueer—and you’ve come to terms with it yourself.

The question now is, “How will I know when it’s time to come out?” The truth is, there’s no one specific, concrete answer to this question. It really is a personal and complicated issue that you have to work out for yourself. The answer isn’t the same for everyone, and it really does depend on the person or people you’re thinking of coming out to, as well. We do, however, have some tips for getting started.

1. Are you getting uncomfortable not telling people?

What’s the easiest way to decide that you’re ready to come out? When not telling people starts to feel like lying or makes you feel sad. When you’re still just figuring out your own identity, it doesn’t feel like you’re keeping a huge secret, but just taking time to soul search. But if you’ve known for certain for a while, it can start to get uncomfortable.

“The guilt of hiding something so big from my parents who are such a big part of my life really started to eat away at me,” says Kayla Layaoen, a freshman at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Kayla felt particularly guilty when her parents would joke that she or one of her friends was gay.

You have to take time to ask yourself, “Is it bothering me more to hide who I am than it would to tell this person the truth?” If the answer is yes, you may be ready to come out.

Alyse Knorr, an editor for The Parents Project, says, “I knew that I was ready to start coming out to people because when they were like ‘Are you dating any guys?’ I knew I'd have to lie to them again.” Knorr started to feel as though she was hiding something important from the people in her life. With that in mind, Knorr he stresses that you’re in no obligation to come out just because you’re starting to feel this way. It really is an individual process, and people feel comfortable with the idea of coming out at different times.

If you’re starting to feel really upset about keeping the truth from someone, you may want to take the time to ask yourself if now is a good time to come out to them.

Related: The Ultimate Guide to Coming Out in Your 20s 

2. Have you talked about your identity with a support group, trusted ally or counselor?

The best thing to have on your side besides your own intuition and self-confidence is at least one person you trust who knows about your gender identity or sexual orientation. You can find this person at a counseling center, especially if you’re living on or near a college campus, or at a nearby LGBTQ+ support group or Queer Straight Alliance.

Alyse Knorr suggests reaching out to a counselor that you trust, or if you’d prefer to talk to peers, seeking out the existence of a campus support group. If one doesn’t exist already, you could even start one! You could talk to the members of your school’s Queer Straight Alliance (or Gay Straight Alliance, as they’re sometimes called) or the Office of Diversity on campus to get started.

You can also find this ally among your own family and friends. Lucy Hallowell, a writer for AfterEllen, says, “Having a single ally is a big deal and can make you feel so much less alone. You probably already know which friends or family members are going to embrace you regardless of your sexuality and those who may be more difficult.”

If you know one of your friends or family members is already a part of the LGBTQ+ community, you might consider reaching out to them for help and support. Or, you might know someone who is likely to be a strong ally despite not being a part of the community—someone who has spoken out about their stance before.

This person can help you make decisions about coming out to others, and can help you practice or walk through different scenarios. It’s always a good idea to have at least one supportive person to talk to while you’re making these difficult decisions.

3. Does the idea of coming out make you feel happy?

As uncomfortable as the actual act of telling someone about your identity—especially if they don’t react well—can be, after the fact, you may feel relieved and even happy that you’re letting people know the real you. “I reached the point of realizing that coming out was the only way I was going to feel better," Hallowell says.

If you tell one person or a few people and you find that it makes you happy, even when it’s difficult, you’re probably doing what’s best for you. Coming out is a complicated process, because not everyone you come out to will react the same way. But if your overall response is relief and happiness that you’re being honest, then you’re probably ready, even for the more difficult coming out moments. 

“When I started telling people, it felt very comfortable,” Knorr says. She also admits that it can feel both comfortable and uncomfortable at the same time, because it means sharing something about yourself that not everyone understands or accepts. “You have to learn to be comfortable with those contradictions, and the fact that it's different for everyone.”

Overall, if you feel happier after telling people, even when they may not accept or understand you right away, then you’re doing what’s best for yourself and there’s nothing wrong with that.

The most important thing, of course, is knowing yourself and not basing your coming out on outside pressure. “It doesn't matter if it seems like everyone in pop culture or your peers or just 'everyone' around you is coming out,” says Marissa Campbell, a junior at Framingham State University. “You have to do it on your terms.”

You’re the person who knows you best. Don’t come out because a significant other is pushing you to. Don’t come out because everyone in your friend group has come out. Don’t come out because you feel like you “have to.” You are under no obligation to tell anyone anything—it’s your life, and your identity. When you feel like you’re ready, you can start coming out to people, but until then, it’s absolutely nobody’s business.

Amidst all of Kesha's drama with Dr. Luke, Kelly Clarkson is sharing her side of the story, as she openly claims that she was forced to work with the producer. “The last time I worked with him I got blackmailed by my label,” she explained to Australia’s Kyle & Jackie O Show. "They were like, 'We will not put your album out if you don't do this.' It was really hard for me. I try to make the best of the situation." The infamous producer worked with Clarkson on her hit songs, "Since U Been Gone" and "My Life Would Suck Without You."

She also makes clear that working with Dr. Luke put a monumental strain on her life, as he is known to have a less-than-enthusiastic attitude when working with recording artists. However, despite this information, a source told E! News that Clarkson actually requested to work with the producer on more than one occasion. "Luke was asked to work with her and that Kelly had actually returned to do more music with him," the source explained. 

Clarkson did clarify that she never experienced the abuse that Kesha suffered. When Clarkson was asked why she didn’t come forward, she told the entertainment outlet that she didn’t know the full extent of Kesha’s situation—which is understandable, but this could be very pertinent information regarding Kesha’s overall case.

Dr. Luke continues to deny all of the allegations made against him regarding the Kesha case. In the end, Clarkson admits that she worked with Dr. Luke because she did not want to hurt those involved. "Sometimes you have to make decisions that you just have to swallow that pill."

Do you think Kelly made the right decision, collegiettes?

Although the gender gap has yet to be bridged, there are more female leaders and entrepreneurs to look up to today than ever before. Here are just some of the most inspirational women out there who are changing the face of their respective fields one piece of wisdom at a time.

1. Sheryl Sandberg, chief operating officer of Facebook and author of Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead

Sheryl Sandberg encourages women to stop taking a back seat in the business world. Having been extremely successful straight out of Harvard Business School and now juggling motherhood with a high-powered job, she's the perfect inspiration for so many women, whether they are young graduates or working moms. The COO of Facebook since 2008, Sandberg graduated from HBS in 1995 and has since been one of the biggest names in business, serving as a management consultant for McKinsey & Company before becoming the Vice President of Global Online Sales and Operations for Google. The author of Lean In continues to inspire and empower us through the Lean In website, her powerful TED talk and her articles in Cosmopolitan.

2. J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter book series

Whether you’re a die-hard Potterhead or you just read a couple of the books a long time ago, you can’t deny that J.K. Rowling is a total powerhouse. After receiving her degree from Exeter University in French and Classics, she had various jobs before she started writing the Harry Potter series during a train delay. The Sorcerer’s Stone was published in 1997 and soon became a success far beyond any expectations. Since, Rowling has received various awards, such as France’s Légion d’Honneur and the Hans Christian Andersen Literature Award, and was even the commencement speaker at Harvard University in 2008, all while being a single mom to daughter Jessica. No big deal.

3. Tory Burch, chairman, CEO and designer of Tory Burch

You love Tory Burch accessories and clothing, but do you know about the awesome lady who started it all? Burch was a Kappa Alpha Theta at the University of Pennsylvania and is an entrepreneur every collegiette can look up to. When she launched Tory Burch in 2004, most of the stock ran out that same day! The brand soon grew into the worldwide success it is today, and Burch is currently ranked #17 on Forbes’ America’s Self-Made Women list and #73 on their list of Power Women. Pretty impressive, if you ask us.

4. Laverne Cox, actress, producer and LGBTQ+ advocate

You love Laverne Cox as Sophia Burset in Orange Is The New Black. She is the first trans woman of color in a leading TV series, and that’s pretty awesome, if you ask us. But beyond Cox’s thriving acting career, her documentary on the transgender experience, Laverne Cox Presents: The T Word, was met with impressive ratings and nominated for a Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation Media Award. And this is only one example of her advocacy for queer rights! She has since made countless media appearances and was named one of Glamour’s Women of the Year in 2014, serving as an inspiration to us all.

5. Arianna Huffington, chair, president and editor-in-chief of The Huffington Post

Huffington co-founded The Huffington Post, one of the most influential online news sources, in 2005. She is also a radio host, columnist and author of—wait for it—14 books. She even ran for governor of California in 2003 against Arnold Schwarzenegger. Although she eventually withdrew from the race (and successfully blew off the critics), this didn’t stop her from becoming the powerhouse she is today—and imparting the wisdom she has acquired on us.

6. Ellen DeGeneres, talk show host, actress, comedian, writer and producer

You know Ellen DeGeneres for her sitcom Ellen and her syndicated talk show—and she’s hilarious in both. But the TV host is so much more than just funny; she was one of the first women in high-profile media to come out publicly, and she is also a fervent animal rights advocate as well as a humanitarian. As such, she was rated #50 on Forbes’ list of Power Women for 2015.

7. Hillary Clinton, presidential candidate and former U.S. senator, secretary of state and first lady

Hillary Clinton is in the running to become America’s first female president, and that alone shows her courage and conviction. She is determined to fight inequality between races, sexual orientations and income levels. She was instrumental to the creation of the Children’s Health Insurance Program during her husband’s presidency and gave a memorable speech about women’s rights at the UN World Conference in Beijing in 1995. She has since taken on the battle against the gender wage gap and shown her support for LGBTQ+ individuals and families, among other achievements. As a role model for us, she has offered so much wisdom over the years.

8. Michelle Kwan, professional ice-skater

Michelle Kwan embodies every athlete’s dream: She has won nine U.S. figure skating championships, five world championships and two Olympic medals, making her the most decorated skater in the history of America. In 2006, Kwan became a public diplomacy ambassador for the U.S., a position that made her want to pursue a career in public policy. She attended the University of California at Los Angeles for one year after high school before concentrating on ice-skating, and eventually transferring to the University of Denver, from which she graduated in 2009. She went on to receive her masters in law and public policy from Tufts University in 2011. In 2012, she became a State Department senior advisor for public diplomacy and public affairs. Talk about well-rounded!

9. Lena Dunham, actress, author, screenwriter, producer and director

Let’s face it—we all secretly wish we we could be Lena Dunham. She is the writer, director and star of the hit show Girls, for which she has won two Golden Globes. She also directed a feature-length movie, Tiny Furniture, and wrote the bestseller Not That Kind of Girl: A Young Woman Tells You What She's Learned. Dunham is the definition of self-made and self-confident, and we have so much to learn from her.

These women are so successful in their respective fields, and they all got to where they are by taking chances, seeing opportunity where others didn’t and believing in themselves. And you know what, collegiettes? You can get there too—live by these mantras, and you'll get to where you want to be!