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 Skills Every College Student Should Master Before Graduating

Before you know it, your four years in college will pass by and you’ll be wondering where the time went. I’m currently a junior in college, which means I’m halfway done—but it also means I’ll be in the real world soon! Graduating from college is both exciting and full of uncertainty. Luckily, there are five skills every college student can master that will help you in life and your future career.

PHOTO: Ali Bell

1—Time management

College is filled with endless distractions, and it’s easy to waste time on social media. Procrastination is every college student’s worst enemy when it comes to completing that long to-do list. If you’re easily distracted, turn off your phone and use a temporary website blocker to eliminate the temptation to procrastinate. Be sure to use a planner to help you stay on top of your assignments as staying organized will help you manage your time effectively.

2—Teamwork

A lot of college students hate doing group projects in class, but it’s important to learn about collaboration before you enter the workforce. Teamwork teaches you to listen to other people’s ideas, respect the opinions of others, and use persuasion to develop ideas. A company is stronger when individuals work together as a team.

PHOTO: Julia Michael

3—Empathy

College is the best time to connect with people of different backgrounds and learn about different perspectives. Getting involved in the community helps you become a more empathetic person. Being empathetic decreases the risk of conflict in the workplace and helps employees work together; bosses who are empathetic are proven to be more successful.

4—Public speaking

Public speaking is a lot of people’s greatest fear, but it’s a valuable skill to learn if you want to advance in your career. Whether you pitch an idea to your boss or lead a company presentation, public speaking will get you where you want to go. Most jobs require lots of interactions with people, so learning how to effectively communicate is important both in your personal and professional life. Don’t forget that your outfit also communicates who you are as a person and a professional, so don’t forget to dress appropriately and make a good impression.

PHOTO: Lex Kelly

5—Networking

College is the best time to start networking. Go to career fairs, maintain good relationships with your professors, and be sure to create a LinkedIn account to show your accomplishments and keep in touch with your connections. Don’t forget to connect with your peers as well, especially if they are in the same industry as you. College fashionista has given me the opportunity to connect with Style Gurus around the world who have a passion for fashion; we all inspire each other, and this community gives me a taste of what the fashion industry will be like in the future.

What skills have you utilized in an internship or job? Let us know in the comments below.

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.

5 Things College Taught Me About Friendship

We all know how scary college is. One thing that can make the experience less frightening is finding some great friends that will stick by your side through it all. College taught me a lot about friendships. Here are a few of those lessons.

PHOTO: Kenia Viezcas

1—You’ll meet many friends

Throughout your college experience, you are going to meet a lot of people. You will also get the chance to meet a lot of friends. There are so many people on campus for you to meet and become friends with. Between the residence halls and your classes, you are bound to meet at least one person that you want to consider a friend!

PHOTO: Maddy Haller

2—Don’t jump into friendships too quickly

Last spring semester, I met a couple of people who I swore would be my best friends forever and ever. When fall semester rolled around, I was not on speaking terms with those people. It is not like we had a falling out and were angry with each other—it just sort of happened. People get busy, move off campus, or you don’t see them as often. It’s always sad, but it does happen—and that’s okay.

PHOTO: Layne Miller

3—Don’t be scared to talk to new people

Sometimes, you might just be overthinking it. I have had moments where I really wanted to talk to someone, but I was scared to. Then, after talking to them, I realize that they were amazing and wanted to talk to me, too! Whether you mention their cool headphones or their cute backpack (like this one), a compliment is always nice—not to mention a great conversation starter!

PHOTO: Lex Kelly

4—Getting involved is a great way to make friends

This semester I decided to get involved in my school’s welcome week for new students. I have created a bond with them that I probably would not have had I decided to skip out on this program. Getting involved is a great way to meet new people and make new friends. Joining student organizations will help you find people who have the same interests or maybe even major as you.

PHOTO: Valerie Cammack

5—Friends come and go

While you may make many new friends that you hope to be friends with forever, sometimes friendships do not last. It is not a bad thing, that is just how life is. So, if you make friends with someone who later ends up disappearing from your life, do not be sad about it. Instead, appreciate the time you got to spend with that person.

Do not be scared about whether or not you’ll make friends in college. Chances are you’ll make many. Just get out there and be the best you!

Featured photo by Kenia Viezcas.

5 Tips to Revamp Your Morning Routine in the Transition to Fall

As the weather gets colder and the days get shorter, habits can be created and broken. With the responsibilities of school, work, and some sort of social life, everything can get stressful. Dedicating the time in ourselves wisely in order to be productive, efficient, and most importantly happy is detrimental in having a successful semester. By trying these my five tips to have a better morning routine your fall transition will be a breeze!

PHOTO: Amber Sudra

1– Fuel Your Body

We are all guilty of hitting the snooze button a few more times than necessary, thus leading to a highly stressful and messy rush to get to class. Making it a priority to wake up not only early, but with enough time to sit down and enjoy a small and healthy breakfast will radically improve your day. Breakfast comes in a variety of ways, and it’s okay to experiment with what works best for you and your appetite.

PHOTO: Rachel Zuckerberg

2–Take Care of Your Skin

I’ve learned that our skin routines must continuously be tweaked in order to protect ourselves from harsh weather. Hence, in the colder weather, it’s extremely important to moisturize! As you get ready in the morning, just throw on a low-maintenance face mask to keep you hydrated.

PHOTO: Lex Kelly

3–Dress for Yourself

I get it, it’s dark outside and you’d rather go to class in your pajamas and get some extra z’s in the morning. Trust me, I understand. But I will tell you that I have 10x more productivity on days that I actually put a little effort in my look rather than not. By dressing more purposefully it boosts my confidence and allows me to tackle the day with focus and pride.

PHOTO: Hanna Benoski

4–Do Something for You

By waking up with a little more time and a lot less hurry, you create an opportunity to invest your time into something just for you. With just ten or fifteen minutes, I can dedicate my time to cultivate things that are important to my mental health. Reading, listening to a podcast, or even putting make-up on can change the way I view the rest of my day. Cherish this time and ensure that it’s incorporated into your routine.

5–Prepare Ahead of Time

Finally, my favorite tip and the most important, plan ahead. Utilize the time you have before bed to meal-prep your lunch, pick out what you’re going to wear, and what you’ll need for classes/work the following day. Planning in advance will remind you of things you would have forgotten in the morning as you rush out the door. This step will ensure a smooth morning routine and a stress-free semester.

PHOTO: Cassidy Clark

The seasons to come are full of adventures, achievements, and wonderful memories; don’t miss out on them! These easy tips have helped me get through the cold months and will help you too.

Tell us how these morning routine tips worked to help your fall transition in the comments below!

Featured photo by Lex Kelly.

5 Simple Tips for a Happy and Healthy Lifestyle

Between pulling all-nighters, gaining the freshman 15, and overindulging in coffee, college life can be stressful and unhealthy. It’s no secret that these habits are detrimental to your mind and body in the long run. Try incorporating these five simple tips into your routine for a happy and healthy lifestyle.

PHOTO: Kelly Rogowski

1—Meditate

When you’re feeling upset or anxious, release all the pent up negative energy through meditation. It provides time for introspection and relaxation to boost your mood. Find a quiet place, close your eyes, and slowly take some deep breaths. Try going to a local park with a yoga mat and sitting calmly without the distraction of social media or school work for 15 minutes. Even a little bit goes a long way in improving your happiness and health.

PHOTO: Kelly Rogowski

2—Stay hydrated

Coffee is a staple of college life, but too much negatively impacts your health. It’s important to stay hydrated throughout the day, especially if you are an avid coffee drinker. Carry a reusable water bottle as a reminder to constantly drink water when you’re on the go in between classes and other activities. It’s such a simple step with so many benefits that will add to a happy and healthy lifestyle.

PHOTO: Kelly Rogowski

3—Exercise

Though your schedule may feel overbooked, routinely exercising is absolutely necessary for a happier and healthier lifestyle. You don’t have to engage in intensive training; try easing into a more active lifestyle with a 15-minute walk and 5 minutes of planks. Anything that gets your body moving and your heart rate up will improve your mood and productivity levels. Throw on a cute activewear outfit and start exercising your way to a happy and healthy lifestyle.

PHOTO: Kelly Rogowski

4—Eat healthy foods

It may be easier to grab a slice of pizza or indulge in some late night junk food, but eating healthy foods is a key part of living a happy and healthy lifestyle. Maintaining a balance is crucial to feeling better about yourself and staying healthy. Try sticking to a regular eating schedule that involves a mix of all the different food groups.

PHOTO: Kelly Rogowski

5—Appreciate the little things in life

When it feels like the entire world is against you, take a step back and appreciate the little things in life. It’s totally okay to have a bad day or even a bad week, but when it feels like everything is spiraling out of control, there’s always something positive hiding in the background. The best thing you can do is take a step back and think about all the little things that make you happy. Turn off your phone, go for a walk, and appreciate all the beautiful little things life has to offer.

How do you maintain a happy and healthy lifestyle? Leave a comment and let us know!

4 Essential Work Pieces Every College Student Should Have

Summer, you will sincerely be missed—but now it’s time to take on new adventures. As we continue to settle into our fall semester of school, time management can become quite difficult, especially if you landed your dream job or internship. Finding the perfect work wardrobe should not be an additional stress to your schedule. Here are four essential work pieces every Fashionista should have.

PHOTO: Lex Kelly

1—Kitten heels

High heels are practical for special occasions, like dates and weddings, but not for the office. Spare yourself the pain and discomfort from wearing high heels and buy kitten heels instead. These shoes have thin, low heels and come in handy if your job or internship requires you to run several errands throughout the day. While you are shopping for kitten heels, try on each style, and see which fit is best for you. If your foot is slender, I suggest searching for kitten heels that have straps. Straps provide extra comfort and help prevent your feet from slipping out of your shoes. Pair these heels with a pencil skirt or a pair of slacks, and you’re set for a chic and comfortable day in the office.

2—Pencil skirts

Pencil skirts are fabulous pieces to have because they offer a wide range of possibilities for your work wardrobe. Colored pencil skirts add a great pop of color to your outfits; however, make sure you buy at least one black pencil skirt. Black pencil skirts offer more wardrobe possibilities and will help you save time. Another great thing about pencil skirts is that they can be styled into casual outfits after work. Swap your blouse and kitten heels with a T-shirt and some Converse, and you’re ready to go have lunch with your friends.

PHOTO: Kenia Viezcas

3—Blazers

Since blazers are so versatile, they make great basic work pieces. They can help you create tons of cute outfits while also saving money. You should buy at least one black blazer, and don’t forget to make sure it is the same shade of black as your pencil skirt.

4—Button-down shirts

Last but not least are button-down shirts. Button-down shirts are classic pieces that pair perfectly with fitted pencil skirts or sleek work pants. Select an array of colored shirts, and have fun creating endless amounts of outfits. You can tuck in your button-down shirts for a more polished look or leave them out for a casual work day outfit.

What are your essential work pieces? Show us on social media! Don’t forget to tag @Cfashionista.

Additional photo by Lex Kelly.

These 3 Fitness Classes Will Help Relieve College Stress

Once school starts, one thing is for sure. Stress seems to become a constant presence. When the homework piles up and the late night studying becomes the norm, it can be hard to find the time to take a breather. In any case, it’s easy to get lost with all the things you have to do. In between buying groceries and dealing with all college has to offer, it is important to take time for yourself. Now the question is how to relieve stress? I have found that fitness classes are one of the best ways to relieve stress. Nothing feels better than sweating out the negative stress of the day. Even if you’re just looking for a class to spend an hour focusing on yourself, here’s three fitness classes to relieve stress.

PHOTO: Kelly Rogowski

1—Yoga

Yoga is one of the best stress-reducing exercises. After one class of meditation and therapeutic breathing, you’ll feel like you blew out all your stress. Each class includes easy breathing exercises to refresh you from a long school or work day. In addition to beginner yoga, many studios have classes with heated rooms and even weights. With a wide range of class types to choose from, there is one to fit what you like. Invest in a cute yoga mat, and get ready to relax.

2—Cycling

Looking for a way to sweat out all your stress? Cycling classes are definitely for you. Try a class at SoulCycle or check your university for student classes. Due to the fast paced movements and upbeat music, all you’ll be thinking about is cycling to the beat. Pack a water bottle and towel and get ready to sweat your worries away.

3—Barre

This class combines ballet, Pilates, and yoga for a unique fitness class. You’ll strengthen and tone your entire body in one class. After a long day sitting in classes or hunched over a computer, taking a barre class is the perfect way to stretch out. With songs you can sing along to, you’ll forget the project you’ve been stressing about all day. Don’t forget your gripper socks to complete your ballet barre look.

PHOTO: Kelly Rogowski

What’s your favorite fitness class to relieve stress? Have one to add to the list? Let us know in the comments below or tag @CFashionista on social media!

Additional photos by Kelly Rogowski.

Here’s What Happened When I Turned My Traveling Dreams Into Reality

Most of us have a list of dream travel destinations that we like to fantasize about. Back in high school, I used to scroll through my Tumblr feed and blog photos of cityscapes I longed to visit one day. England was the top country in my long list of dream travel destinations. For many years, a dream is all it was until last winter break when I decided to enroll in my university’s summer study abroad program in Southern England. Here’s how my life changed when I started traveling and turned my dreams into plans.

The moment in my counselor’s office when I decided I would apply to the study abroad program felt so liberating and empowering. Deciding to make that dream a reality gave me a boost of confidence and a sense of control over my life. I spent the following winter months planning and applying for scholarships to fund my trip. Spring semester flew by, and I was soon boarding a plane to London with my Barbie pink suitcase. It was my first time flying on my own. I had been 21 for a couple of months, yet that was one of the first times I truly felt like an adult.

PHOTO: Lex Kelly

My trip only lasted 16 days, but it changed me. When I came back from England, I claimed the independence I had felt while abroad. I finally got my driver’s license—another great feat for me. Transforming my perspective about traveling also transformed the way I viewed my other dreams. I am about to begin my senior year of college, and I have an amazing internship writing for college fashionista. I also just came back from a road trip to Boston with my boyfriend, and I’m currently planning an upcoming trip to Colombia and a trip to Europe.

Whether your dreams are to travel, advance your career, and/or reach your personal goals, all you need to fulfill your dreams is to change your mindset about them. Actively work to pursue those dreams by researching, organizing, creating spreadsheets, making mood boards for inspiration, journaling—whatever works best for you to plan those goals. You’ll be surprised by the possibilities that open up when you change your perspective.

How do you plan on making your dreams a reality this fall semester? Comment down below or tag us @Cfashionista on our social media platforms!