Lifestyle – CollegeFashionista

All the Best Shows to Binge-Watch This Fall

Even though September is full of changes, adjustments, and growing schedules, it’s important to enjoy what free time you have. Personally, I love to watch—well, binge-watch—my favorite shows. Though not maximally productive, I believe that entertainment and storytelling are such significant parts of culture. You can gain a lot from decompressing with a sweater, a warm blanket, and a Netflix subscription. The following shows are my personal picks for chilling out while also getting into the spirit of fall.

PHOTO: Anna Coke

1—Gilmore Girls

When it comes to fall television, one of the first shows on my mind is always Gilmore Girls. The little town of Stars Hollow is the epitome of cozy—even when flowers are in bloom and the sun is shining. The tight-knit relationships of all the different characters mixed with a seemingly old-fashioned setting make for the perfect hot cocoa binge-watch session (with a cute mug, of course). Plus, Rory’s trials and tribulations with friends, school, and relationships often offer some pretty sound real-life advice.

PHOTO: Rachel Zuckerberg

2—Stranger Things

Second is the best, right? Stranger Things is the perfect addition to this list for a multitude of reasons. Not only is the show literally set in the fall of 1983, but the ’80s music, fashion, and overall vibe easily put the viewer in a mood most naturally paired with fall months. With season two set to premiere late this October, now is a better time than ever to put on some snuggly tacky socks and binge-watch. Stranger Things may be hyped-up to no end, but the hype is very much lived up to.

PHOTO: Jordyn Wissert

3—Master of None

If you’re a fan of laughing in general, then there is no reason why this Netflix-original shouldn’t be on your to-watch list. Comedian Aziz Ansari and writer Alan Yang, the creators of the show, never fail to deliver hilarious moments without traditional set-ups and punchlines. Master of None is clever, charming, and straight up funny: the perfect combination for back-to-school viewing. There’s also something about the New York City setting that always makes me feel transported and inspired.

PHOTO: Kelly Rogowski

4—The Vampire Diaries

Much like Gilmore Girls‘ town of Stars Hollow, The Vampire Diaries‘ setting of Mystic Falls provides a quaint small-town atmosphere that complements snugging-up this season. Of course, it goes without saying that the fantasy world of vampires, werewolves, and witches screams “Halloween.” Additionally, the outlandish drama of TVD’s core group of high schoolers often helps to distract me from any of my own problems or anxieties—even if just for 45 minutes.

What’s on your to-watch list for this season? I’d love to read your suggestions in the comments below! If you’re searching for other ways to get into the fall spirit, check out college fashionista’s Pinterest mood boards.

Featured photo by Jordyn Wissert.

Here Are 4 Ways to Fall in Love with Your Solitude

The words in Rupi Kaur’s New York Times bestseller Milk and Honey struck my soul in more ways than one. A page that particularly opened my eyes to the internal struggles of the world quoted, “fall in love with your solitude.” This led me to wondering, what is it that makes our generation so terrified of being alone?

I took it upon myself to challenge these fears and defeat the dependence we all drown in throughout our daily lives—this made me realize that being comfortable on your own is practically a superpower. Requesting a table for one gives you the opportunity to occupy yourself with nothing but your own thoughts, feelings, and desires, and it’s absolutely liberating. It can teach us fortitude and the ability to satisfy our own needs, while also bringing forth the longing to explore and confidence to be an individual. So why is there such a negative stigma?

Total solitude is meant to be celebrated—all it takes is one killer experience and you’ll be hooked. So if spending a weekend solo is a prospect you do not find wildly appealing, I’m here to change your mind. Beginners, here’s what to do:

1—Manage your time

As life pulls you in several different directions, always remember to never let a busy schedule force you to give up the things you love. Write your poetry. Read your books. Go on those nightly runs. Even when it feels like there’s not enough time in the day, it’s so important to make time for yourself.

PHOTO: Emily Truong

2—Find your safe place

In a culture that thrives on constant stimulation, the trick to enjoying the accompaniment of your own mind is to never be bored. Finding a place that satisfies all your needs is key. Intimidated? Take baby steps and try a matinee movie or mid-day shopping trip. An hour a day is sure to keep you feeling refreshed and ready for the big leagues in no time!

PHOTO: Amber Sudra

3—Disconnect

Because we live in an age where you’re reasonably presumed dead if you don’t answer your phone in a certain period of time, airplane mode is truly an electronic saving grace if you want total peace going off-grid. Instead of investing your “me time” in everyone else’s whereabouts on Snapchat, you owe it to yourself to pull the plug.

PHOTO: Daisa Harris

4—Journal

Now that you’ve ditched your cell, bring a pen. During the loner phase, you’re forced to speak less and listen more—whether that be to your personal thoughts or eavesdropping on the quirky couple behind you, write it down. Self-reflection is the first step to personal growth.

PHOTO: Natalie Miller

No matter what place you’re at in your journey, be easy, take your time, and remember, you can always come home…to yourself. It’s time to start living and spend time just doing you.

Do you crave alone time? If so, let us know how you’re spending it in the comments below!

5 Reasons You Should Incorporate Yoga Into Your Workout Routine

As we start the new school year, everyone is eager to hit the gym and sweat out their stress. The workload is crazy, and we all need time to ourselves to release some of that energy. Read on to see why you should incorporate yoga into your daily routine:

PHOTO: Kelly Rogowski

1—De-stress yourself

We all need something to give us a little break. Maybe you have three tests coming up or you’re preparing for a big interview—whatever the case, you need to unwind and relax. That’s where yoga comes in. Whether you have time for an hour-long class or only a 10-minute video, that’s all it takes to feel calmer, relaxed, and ready to take on anything the day throws at you!

2—Get a sweat session in

Some of you may read this and think, “Yoga, as a workout?” Well, I’m here to tell you that you can very well break a major sweat during a yoga session (my sweaty mat during hot yoga is proof enough). Simply look up the class schedule at your gym to see the different variations of classes. Vinyasa, power flow, hot yoga, etc. are some examples. Then just pick which one works best for you! All you have to do is go, be present, and sweat it out!

PHOTO: Kelly Rogowski

3—Meet some new friends.

Joining a fitness class is a great way to make friends. Maybe take some time before or after class to get to know the person on the mat beside you. Your yoga teacher is almost always very willing and excited to talk after class about anything, from constructive criticism to just getting to know you a little bit better! If making friends on the fly isn’t your thing, you can always grab a buddy or two to take with you and make it a shared experience. The more, the merrier!

4—Embrace the zen

A yoga practice is your time—and your time only—to get in touch with what you’re feeling that day and clear your headspace. This can be achieved in a class or on your own. Shavasana (also known as corpse pose), often done at the end of the class, is the perfect time to appreciate your body’s abilities, and to reflect on yourself and your attitudes. Even five minutes can really brighten your outlook!

5—Wear cute workout clothes.

You didn’t think I’d end this post without mentioning the endless array of yoga leggings, did you? Attending a class is the perfect excuse to wear leggings all day and own the athleisure look. With plenty of cute and comfy options for everyone out there, you’re sure to rock the yoga studio all day long!

Lastly, yoga is not about judgment or comparison. It’s about self-improvement and getting in touch with your mind and body. So I encourage you to attend a class, and see for yourself how amazing it is!

What’s your favorite way to break a sweat? Let me know in the comments below!

How Goal Setting Can Lead to a Successful Semester

Heading back to school after a relaxing summer can seem chaotic and overwhelming, and settling back into a daily routine sometimes takes a while. Whether you’re juggling a job with clubs and classes, or just focusing on academics, it’s important to consistently keep your 20/20 vision in check with goal setting and planning.

Planning

Using a planner is extremely helpful for organizing daily, weekly, and even monthly events and deadlines. Writing out your schedule of classes, work, and clubs helps to visualize how much free time you have. It’s suddenly much easier to make time for school work, friends, and most importantly, yourself, once everything is laid out.

Some great planners can quickly get on the expensive side, but that shouldn’t deter you from organizing and planning your little heart out. You can always create your own scheduling or to-do list templates on a spreadsheet program like Microsoft Excel or even Google Sheets. Creating your own planner will encourage you to keep up with it, and even allow your creative juices to flow every once in a while. All it takes to create your dream planner is a few clicks and colorful pens.

PHOTO: Kenia Viezcas

Goal Setting

While using a planner is great for the smaller picture, goal setting is just as important. Planning for the future can be intimidating and overwhelming, but setting up a plan for achieving your dreams makes it much easier. The most important step in goal setting is writing them down. Whether you keep them on your computer, journal, or hang them up in your bedroom, it’s important to be able to look at them on a daily basis. Whenever you’re struggling, simply think back to your goals to remind yourself why you’re doing what you’re doing and give yourself a little pep talk.

Breaking down your goals into manageable bits makes them much less intimidating. Your goals should always be specific, measurable, challenging, and timely. For example, if you want to work towards an active lifestyle, challenge yourself to exercise at least three days a week. Once that becomes too easy, start working your way up to six days a week, or simply increase the amount of time you spend working out. Always keep a record of your progress to remind yourself how far you have come from wherever it is you started (and don’t be afraid to occasionally reward yourself.)

PHOTO: Madison Paloski

Above all, your goals should be achievable. Don’t try to make the big leap at once because it’s easier to lose motivation that way. Start with the smaller steps and create a schedule for yourself, no matter how long it takes. Once you set your goals, write them down, plan your timeline, and you’ll be able to take on this (and every) semester with a clear vision and a new dose of productivity.

What goals are you currently working toward? Tell us all about them on social media by tagging @Cfashionista.

Additional photos by Emily Truong

5 College Girls Get Real About Apartment Roommates

College is all about making lifelong friendships, but sometimes it can be hard to navigate the social scene once the days of orientation and residence halls are over with. As a disclaimer, I do still live in on-campus housing. If it means trading total freedom for loosely enforced quiet hours and the occasional floor meeting, I am putting off paying actual rent for as long as possible. I live with three roommates in an apartment with a full kitchen, living room, bathroom, and two double bedrooms. It is also a ‘wet’ building, so it might as well be a full-fledged apartment without dealing with the hassle of a New York City landlord.

PHOTO: Kenia Viezcas

As we progress through college, whether living on-campus or off, it becomes a major challenge to meet new people and adjust to living with new roommates. Although you might think having an RA who makes you fill out roommate agreement contracts is a pain, it really is comforting to know there is someone to go to if problems arise. Getting older though, the disagreements are no longer just minor annoyances about alarm clocks and unmade beds, but instead, they are often about washing pots and pans and keeping the bathroom tidy. To combat anxieties about getting along with roommates in an apartment, I’ve gathered some advice from some of my most trusted friends on their best tips and tricks for a successful year.

PHOTO: Rachel Zuckerberg

1—Communication is key.

“My best advice is being open and honest right off the bat. Don’t let anything that’s bothering you fester, just have open communication with everything upfront.” -Lauren, ’18

2—Make cleaning a habit.

“Clean a little each day so that you’re not left with a huge mess at any given time. This way, there are never marathon cleaning sessions being done by any one roommate.” -Katherine, ’18

PHOTO: Anna Coke

3—Always be considerate.

“I think the most important part of sharing an apartment is being considerate. In the kitchen, for example, being aware of what you use and making sure you’re keeping things clean is a great way to avoid conflict between roommates.” -Annie, ’18

4—Take advantage of the extra space.

“If you’re going to be up late doing homework, go into the common room to do it that way you don’t disturb your roommate who can sleep. Also, everyone has pet peeves about kitchen, bathroom, and how they like things kept, so before living together, make a list of this so everyone is aware of them.” -Gabriella, ’18

PHOTO: Daisa Harris

5—Ask before you host.

“One of my biggest pet peeves is roommates assuming every hour is social hour. I think a great rule of thumb is to always ask before inviting friends over, as you never know who might be studying or heading to bed.” -Antonia ’18

Have any other tips for living with roommates in an apartment? Leave us a comment or let us know on social media @CFashionista!

10 Ways to Cope with the New Semester Blues

We’ve all felt it: that anxious pit in our stomachs as we transition from the carefree days of summer into the jam-packed school days of a new semester. How will I manage to finish all my schoolwork while also planning for post-grad life and maintaining a social life and keeping up with my extracurricular activities? Even if I can do all of that, how will I keep my sanity?

So, I’ve compiled a list of 10 great ways to deal with the new semester blues that’ll help you de-stress whether it’s your first semester of college or your last!

1—Perfect your bedroom décor

First, whether you live in a dorm or commute from home, make your bedroom a calming space by taking the time to add décor that inspires you, whether it’s twinkling lights, fluffy pillows, or pictures of your friends and family!

PHOTO: Jordyn Wissert

2—Organize a super cute planner

Planners don’t have to make you feel super stressed out! Check out a store that you like and see if they have any planners that motivate you, or choose a plain notebook and totally customize it!

3—Go on adventures in your city

Before classes pick up, take the time to go on a few spontaneous adventures in your city. It’ll be a fun way to kick off the semester, and it’ll be perfect bonding time with new roomies or friends you haven’t seen over break.

PHOTO: Kenia Viezcas

4—Link up schedules with your friends

Compare schedules with your pals, so you can figure out the perfect time to grab lunch or hit Starbucks together.

5—Set goals

Make this semester your semester by writing down a few #goals you hope to accomplish. Then, go out and make them happen!

PHOTO: Jordyn Wissert

6—Make time to journal

While your mind is on overload, you should take time to unleash your thoughts into a journal, or paint or draw if that’s more your style.

7—Unwind with music/movies

If the stress of imminent classes sets in, then plan a movie night with your girls or simply pop in your headphones and unwind to your favorite songs.

8—Update your wardrobe

Go on a back-to-school shopping trip or simply re-purpose some clothes you already have; a fresh wardrobe will have you feeling ready to take on the new semester in style.

9—Cleanse your life of negative vibes

Negative friends? A toxic relationship? A major or extra-curricular activity that totally stresses you out? Then leave those behind! Start off this year on your terms, leaving anything that weighs you down in the past.

10—Take care of yourself

Finally, put yourself first! Schedule time to eat right, get enough sleep, and be active. Most importantly, have fun, because you have your whole life ahead of you to work; college is a time to enjoy yourself, find out who you are, learn, and grow.

How do you deal with the stress of a new semester? Tell us on social media, and don’t forget to tag @CFashionista!

3 Back-to-School Hacks That Will Keep You Healthy and Energized

It’s that time of the year again—back to school has begun! With the start of the semester comes new classes and new routines. Getting back into the swing of things can be tough, but these three hacks will make getting back to school a breeze. These back to school hacks are all about keeping you healthy and energized, all while saving you money. What more could you ask for?

PHOTO: Amber Sudra

1—Cold brew on-the-go

Caffeine is necessary for college, specifically coffee. If you are in college and don’t drink coffee, what are you doing? Seriously, get on board! Brewing coffee and trying to get out the door before 8 a.m. can be tough, and normally results in a stop by Starbucks on the way to class. However, if you plan ahead, you will avoid spending $3 a day at your local Starbucks and save money by prepping your coffee at home. Simply brew a full pot of coffee and let it sit out until it is room temperature. Pour the coffee into a pitcher and place into the fridge. Once chilled, this coffee is now cold brew that you can enjoy whenever you need your coffee fix. I love pouring this in a to-go cup when I’m racing out the door and need a pick-me-up.

PHOTO: Kelly Rogowski

2—Free workout classes

When life gets busy, it’s often hard to always get that workout in. However, working out gives us energy and boosts our overall mood, so it is essential to squeeze in while at school. Getting in a workout rut is easy to do if you do the same thing every day. Trying different types of workout classes is a great way to mix it up and try new things. Plus, you can bring all your friends with you and make it an outing. Almost all workout class studios offer a free week trial or at least a free class. Take advantage of this and try out all the studios’ free options. You are guaranteed to not get bored if you have a variety to try out. Some of my favorites are yoga sculpt, kickboxing, and pure barre.

PHOTO: Rachel Zuckerberg

3—Backpack snacks

I know what you’re thinking. Backpack snacks? But trust me, this is a lifesaver! With a full day of classes, it’s tough to find time to run home for a snack or sit down for a meal in the middle of a busy day. Just taking a few minutes in the morning to throw a few snacks in your bag will save you from making a vending machine purchase when you’re hangry. You will save money and have healthier options if you have something packed. Some of my favorite snacks to pack are mixed nuts, RX Bars, and carrots with hummus.

Which hacks are you trying this semester? Comment below with your tips!

Five Easy Steps for Successfully Moving Back to School

As the summer comes to an end, the thought of moving back to college and actually going to class can be a little daunting. While there is so much excitement surrounding moving in, reconnecting with friends, and being back on campus, the actual act of waking up early and going to class is a little less exhilarating. To help you get back into the hang of school, here are some steps to help you start off the semester strong.

PHOTO: Jordyn Wissert

1—Go to sleep. I know you do not want to go to sleep early the first week back at school, but you might want to start going to bed earlier the week before school starts. If you can come to college with a healthy sleep schedule, you will hopefully revert to it, or at least know you can get up at a decent time in the morning. Trust me, once you start waking up every day at 11 a.m., it’s hard to get out of bed to do homework or go to morning classes. Start the year off with good habits!

2—Buy cleaning supplies Aside from your basic soap, shampoo, conditioner, and other toiletries, know that you’re going to need extra supplies to keep yourself and your room clean. Especially when you first move in, you want to have a clean and fresh space to work in. You can store these supplies in cute boxes, but you should always have them in case you need to clean.

PHOTO: Jordyn Wissert

3—Organize your room. Now that your room is clean and you’re prepared for future disasters, you need to get organized. It’s hard to work and focus when your room is a mess. You can always use unpacking as an excuse not to study. Make yourself a space that you’re comfortable in, and then focus on your studies. Get to school as early as you can so you have time to move in and set up before classes start.

4—Buy food. You’re going to get hungry at some point while you’re studying, and you are then faced with the dilemma: Do I go out and get food or do I stay here and study while hungry? While it’s important to take study breaks, you can also waste a lot of time and money going out to find food. Keep some healthy snacks in your room so you can eat in without interrupting your research or essay writing.

PHOTO: Jordyn Wissert

5— Get a planner. When you’re trying to juggle classes, social events, club meetings, deadlines, and tests, you need to have a central place to write everything down. Some people might like using Google calendar or their phones, but I’m personally a big fan of physical planners. Planners can be really cute, and you can color code, highlight, and cross off the tasks you’ve finished.

Have more tips or fun stories to share about moving back to college? Let me know in the comments!

6 Essential Tips for Preparing to Study Abroad

The importance of spending time as a student abroad is often highlighted by counselors and professors. This is in hopes that we will take advantage of the opportunity to escape our comfort zone and step into unfamiliar territory. I am currently spending the school year abroad, and as a result of running essential errands last minute, checking extra luggage, and worrying about whether Amazon orders would arrive on time, I wanted to make this guide for other students on how to prepare for study abroad.

PHOTO: Natalie Miller

1—Start planning early

While your departure may seem decades away at first, time flies. It’s important to make sure you have everything you need instead of stressing at the last minute. It’s super helpful to start jotting down a list that you can add to anytime something you’re missing or may need to pack pops into your head. It is nearly impossible to keep all of these in your head.

2—Unlock your phone

This is a vital step for moving abroad if you wish to be able to use your phone outside of Wi-Fi range while abroad. After this, you can start a small plan with a local provider and use your data free of international fee fears!

PHOTO: Lex Kelly

3—Pack in layers

It can be very tempting to bring along your favorite (yet also heaviest) heels and sweaters and dresses. But consider it rationally. You will come back with more than you left with. Take this from someone who had to check an overweight carry-on bag.

4—Make sure your luggage complies with your airline’s luggage restrictions

You do not want to get stuck at the end of the check-in line while running late for your flight to find out you have to take a few pairs of shoes out of your suitcase.

5—Stay open-minded and curious

If there is a foreign language spoken, don’t be afraid to butcher words and ask questions. Locals will only appreciate your efforts. Also, be aware of cultural differences and customs. It is always useful to do some research prior to your arrival.

PHOTO: Lex Kelly

6—Be prepared to experience a culture shock

We all react to change differently, and this may never occur, or occur one month later. Don’t be afraid to step back and take things at your own pace. We’re all human!

Where are you studying abroad this semester? Let us know in the comments below and be sure to share your travels with @CFashionista on social media.

4 Easy Ways to Start the Semester Off Right

Summer is over, and classes are back in session. As much as I would love to still be spending hours at the beach or staying in my pajamas all day, I have to change up the pace. Starting the semester off right will better the chances for a productive and a less stressful school year; here are a few tips to help get back into the swing of things!

1—Get organized and stay organized

PHOTO: Valerie Cammack

Let’s be real, we have all gotten a planner or calendar and only used it once before finding it again at the end of the semester in the bottom of a drawer. Start this semester off by not only getting a planner to map out your days but organize your space as well. Creating a more relaxing environment can help you take on every task that comes your way.

2—Balanced diet

PHOTO: Lex Kelly

You can’t be great if you don’t feel great! I often use the excuse of being too busy to prepare a proper meal or eat more than once a day, but maintaining a balanced diet will allow you to have more energy and fuel your productivity. Remember to stay hydrated; water is an essential part of your diet.

3—Set a sleep schedule

PHOTO: Jordyn Wissert

College can get hectic, resulting in some serious sleep scarifies (procrastination can have a lot to do with it). Setting a sleep schedule and sticking to it will keep your body on a routine and ensure that you are well rested. If you stay organized, procrastination won’t win this semester, and you can focus on your beauty rest!

4—Don’t forget to have fun

PHOTO: Kenia Viezcas

Yes, school can be stressful, but don’t forget to have fun too! Pencil-in fun days with your girls or even some one-on-one time. “Treat yo’ self” to a day out with your friends or a relaxing day of self-care with your favorite skincare products. No matter what mood you’re in, it’s always important to schedule-in some regular time to unwind and enjoy!

What are some additional good habits to practice this semester? Let us know in the comments below.