College is full of busy days with a mix of deadlines, meetings and responsibilities. It's easy to let breakfast become something that you only make when you have time, which usually ends up being pushed off and never happens because you're too busy running out the door to make it to class on time.

Don't leave breakfast on the back-burner; it can be easier than you think with these quick and easy recipes that don't require a microwave or stove, so they can be made right in your dorm room with just a few ingredients.

1. Oatmeal
If you’re looking to step up traditional instant oatmeal, try overnight oats, which are even easier because they don’t require any microwaving. Just add water or milk to rolled oats and store it in a glass jar or container for a few hours or overnight. In the morning, all you have to do is add the toppings – anything from nuts to dried or fresh fruit, and your breakfast is ready.

2. Smoothie
Making a smoothie can be made easier than you think with a single-serve blender, which is portable for your convenience. Add frozen fruit, veggies and yogurt or protein powder to some water or milk for a quick and delicious drink to take with you as you head on your way.




3. Yogurt parfait
It may sound fancy, but making a yogurt parfait is a simple and tasty breakfast that won't make you feel guilty because of its healthy ingredients. Pair up your favorite plain or flavored yogurt with dried or fresh fruit, nuts and granola. For an extra sweet touch, drizzle a little honey over the top.

4. Toast with peanut butter and bananas
To fix up a breakfast that only requires a few basic ingredients, fix up some toast. To make a sophisticated version of the toast you ate as a child, cover a slice of your preferred bread with peanut butter and then add slices of banana to top it off. This sweet treat is the right way to kick off your busy day. 

5. Avocado and egg toast
For a breakfast packed with nutrients, eating hard-boiled eggs and avocado as your first meal can help you start your day off right. Spice up a regular piece of toast with slices of hard-boiled eggs and avocado. For additional convenience, buy ready-to-eat hard-boiled eggs or have them peeled and ready to slice onto your toast. For extra taste, add a light drizzle of olive oil and some salt and pepper for a wholesome meal.

By: Emily Dabau | Image: Source, Source 2

With busy schedules balancing a heavy course load of classes, extracurriculars and relationships, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and feel like you’re forgetting something. That’s where organization becomes key.
In addition to important deadlines and test dates, it’s also critical to remember friends’ birthdays and that date you planned with you best friend months ago. As a college woman, you want to keep it together and make it look easy. Planners, lists, and sticky notes can help with that.
1. Keep an agenda

Have your planner with you at all times; anywhere and everywhere. It might seem unnecessary to carry it at all events, but it’s surprising how new plans can be made unexpectedly. Once you have your agenda, then follow through with it. Update it constantly as new plans are made and due dates are assigned, and check it regularly to make sure you don’t miss any important dates.
2. Make lists

Keep to-do lists everywhere if you have to. Just make sure to check each of them. Using sticky notes is also helpful in serving as a constant reminder of things to do. Written lists on paper, in your phone and on your laptop can keep you up-to-date with what is coming up and when you need to have a paper or project completed by. 
3. Use smartphone apps

Whether you have an iPhone or not, there are apps out there to help you simplify your days. The iPhone has a reminders app to alert you of important meetings and dates, but for the non-iPhone users, there are similar apps. There are also apps to take study notes in, make flashcards and slides, or track various lists, from homework assignments to grocery shopping necessities. 
4. Use labels

Keeping notes, binders and your laptop clearly labeled will simplify things for you when you’re looking for something. Use specific folders on you computer for better organization. Having a separate folder for each of your classes to save assignments in will make it easier for you to find those notes from the beginning of the year when studying for the final, and it’ll save you some stress. Labeling each class’s folder or using tabs in a binder to separate classwork by sections (notes, assignments, study guides, etc.) can help you keep things in an appropriate place so you can refer back to it when necessary.

5. Prepare ahead of time

Sometime it’s necessary to relax and take a deep breath. At the beginning of each week, take a moment to think about what needs to be done and how you can get that accomplished. Start your week off with the right attitude by knowing what your priorities are, and when work needs to be completed.
By: Emily Dabau | Image: Source

With summer passing us by, I'm not quite ready yet to start the school year. One thing I'm already looking forward to, however, is back to school shopping! My weakness, besides shoes, is cute school supplies.

During summer, it's easy to forget that juggling a full course load, a part-time job, and extra-curricular activities is not easy. It’s nice to have something to write down assignments, exams, and important events in, and it really does help me keep organized. Although you can easily use a calendar app on your phone these days, I find that writing things down helps me figure out my schedule better. I personally love using these colorful Pilot G-2 gel pens to plan my days. I also use my planner to write down some short term and long term goals.

To start the year off on a good note, I'm making sure to invest in a school planner. I don't want just any planner. After looking at these chic planners on the web, I just can't go back to my school's generic ones anymore:

Dealing with a guy who’s a little more than a friend but not exactly a boyfriend can be more than confusing because you have no commitments and thus, no obligations to each other. Navigating through a flirtationship -- a situation where you flirt and have special feelings for a friend but do nothing more -- is no easy feat. Feelings can get hurt, and friendships can be damaged. Read on for some information on how to safely handle your flirtationship!

Take stock
Evaluate the situation. There is nothing wrong with a little harmless flirting here and there. It’s perfectly healthy, especially when you’re in college. If you and your guy friend are content with the occasional kiss on the cheek or going for a hand-held walk through the park without crossing any lines, then good for you! It can be nice to have that type of affection without having to commit to a serious relationship. What’s most important is that the two of you are on the same page.

What should you do when you realize that you want more than a flirtationship? You can either tell your friend that you have a bit of a crush on him or you can keep it to yourself. Both scenarios have pros and cons. If you tell him and discover that he feels the same way, you’ve opened the door to what could grow into a wonderful relationship. On the other hand, if he doesn’t feel the same way, it could be awkward or tense. If you don’t tell him, you protect yourself from a possible embarrassing scenario. However, you could possibly be cheating yourself out of a great situation due to your own fear. Either way, you’re taking a substantial risk, so it’s something to think about.

What if he wants more?
It can be equally weird if your guy expresses romantic feelings for you, but you don’t exactly feel the same way. In situations such as these, it’s best to be as straightforward as possible. Try to steer clear of telling him how it’s not him, it’s you or declaring how at some point he’ll meet a girl that’s perfect for him. Although you may think you’re being comforting, after being rejected, your guy might feel as though he’s being patronized. Let him know that while you think he’s great, you simply don’t view him in a romantic way. Give him some time to process. If you two are able to return to your friendship after that, stay away from the physical affection, as it might lead to confusion and him feeling led on.

Friendships with guys are always tricky. As much as we’d like to believe that we could be strictly platonic with the opposite sex, the lines always seem to blur. Having a flirtationship is dicey, so it’s important to stay on the same page and keep the lines of communication open and clear. Doing this will protect you, your guy and the friendship that the two of you share.

By: Adjoa Bruce | Image: Source

With finals right around the corner, nighttime library runs are more common than not. Late night studying is the worst, but you never know, you could run into a cute study buddy. Try these three outfits to be cute and stay comfortable while at the library.

Too Chic for School





You can’t go wrong with a chic sweater and a pair of dark skinny jeans. Keep warm while studying with this gold-collared Chanel sweater and Burberry jeans. Pair it with gold flats and a stylish, convenient bag. This Michael Kors satchel will keep you looking chic but can easily contain all the studying materials you will need.

The Brainy Basics

Want to be a little more comfortable but still stylish? Try sticking to the basics. Leggings and an oversized sweater with riding boots is a classic library look. Add an adorable backpack to carry all of your school needs. Now you can stay cute and be cozy.

Laid back Library Look



Is it getting way too late, and there is no way you have time to put effort into your outfit? Don’t worry, the sporty look is laid back and classic. Throw on some yoga pants and a jacket for the ultimate laid back library look. Carry this Victoria’s Secret gym bag to hold all of your essentials, and you’re guaranteed a successful night of studying at the library.

Whether you are camping out at the library all night or just making a quick stop, with these three outfits, you can’t go wrong. Study on, fashionistas!

By: Alexandra Abboud | Image: Source

If you’ve made the decision to get a tattoo, congratulations! You’ll soon be part of the group of over 45 million Americans that have gone through the process of getting inked. Because making this permanent life decision shouldn’t be taken lightly, it helps to be prepared. Before your appointment, make sure that your experience will be enjoyable and worry free with these seven essentials.

A Well-Thought Idea
Try not to forget that the tattoo you will receive will be on you forever. Due to this, you’ll want to make sure that you think long and hard about what you decide to place on your body. The tattoo doesn’t necessarily have to be a memorial piece, but it should have meaning to you in some way. If you like a design just because it’s “cute and pretty,” then please think about whether or not it will be cute and pretty in 10 years.

A Sterile Shop
The most important and essential aspect of a breathtaking tattoo is to pick a shop that is sterile and sanitary. By doing so, your entire process will be much easier. Remember that your health, safety and happiness are on the line, so do not compromise these essentials by visiting a random shop that you haven’t researched.

A Reputable Artist
After you’ve chosen a sterile and friendly shop, make sure that you find a reputable artist to complete your tattoo. It helps to look through their portfolio to see the types of pieces that they have done and are comfortable doing. You can also meet a potential artist while you’re visiting the shop to get a sense of their personality to see if you will mind sitting with them during your tattoo. Another helpful tip is to get your design done by an artist that specializes in the type of design that you want, whether it’s new school, American tradition, Japanese, or whichever else you desire. An exception is if you’re getting a script tattoo because many artists can complete them just fine.

A Small Scale Tattoo
Even if you have a normally high pain tolerance, you’re still unaware of what a tattoo will feel like, so don’t pick out a large scale tattoo for your first piece. Ideally, try to choose a piece that will take an hour or less, rather than a piece that will take several hours and more than one session. Nothing is worse than having to walk away with a half-finished piece if you find that it’s too uncomfortable for your liking.

A Healthy Meal
Before any big event, it’s important to fuel up with proper nutrition. The same rule applies when getting a tattoo. It may be tempting to skip this step if you’re anxious and not in the mood to eat, but it will benefit you in the long run to eat at least a small meal before your appointment. It will prevent you from feeling dizzy, and, therefore, will help you to stay focused and alert.

Water and/or Gatorade
It’s important to stay hydrated during your tattoo experience. When you’re dehydrated, you won’t feel your best, and your experience will not be as pleasant as it can be. Water is a sensible choice for everyone, but if you’re feeling especially nervous, Gatorade will help to replenish electrolytes that you may have lost.

Cash
Although many tattoo shops take credit or debit cards, it’s always a smart idea to bring cash with you to your appointment. If you have a definite price set prior to your appointment, then it’s easy to plan out how much you will need. However, if it’s still undetermined, then go with your best estimate. In a case where you may come up short on cash, there will probably be an ATM around, but to avoid banking fees, simply come prepared with cash beforehand. Also, be sure that you remember to factor in a tip for your artist once your piece is complete. It’s a sign of respect and appreciation.

With these seven tattoo essentials, you’ll be sure to get a beautiful tattoo that you can be satisfied with for the rest of your life. Enjoy your new artwork!

By: Jen Morgan | Image: Source

Quirky. Weird. Awkward. Three traits once considered undesirable, until a blue-eyed brunette with bangs made America fall in love with her. During the course of falling in love, America fell in love with everything once considered abnormal. Zooey Deschanel’s peculiar and odd nature set her apart from other Hollywood starlets because she wasn’t the glam girl, the popular girl, the girl next door…she was just Zooey, the dorky girl from California. Which is why College Gloss loves Deschanel.

Almost everyone has seen the all-too-familiar wall of pictures in the dorm -- you know, the head-to-toe photo montage of family and friends. Well, dorm decorators, it’s time to switch up your design. College is a time for dreaming, planning and achieving. With all the distractions of dorm life, stay on track by decorating your room with an inspiration wall.

Although there are many ways you can create an inspiration wall, one of the most unique ways is through picture frames. Stop by your local dollar or crafting store and pick up a variety of picture frames in different shapes and colors. As far as what goes in the frame, that depends on you. Fill the frames with your hopes and dreams, use pictures of places you dream of going, people you aspire to be like, quotes that motivate you and lists of future goals.

October is almost over, which means that fall is in full bloom and Halloween is right around the corner ... tomorrow, to be exact! With a packed social calendar, it’s important to plan out decorations early. And what better way to welcome the spooky holiday than with a Halloween inspired DIY?

This year, instead of putting up only store-bought decorations, we have a quick and easy craft to transform your plain pumpkins into masterpieces. Glitter pumpkins are the perfect addition to anybody’s space, and if you’re the kind of person who loves to be festive but finds carving to be a tedious and difficult task, then this project is for you.

What you will need:

• Pumpkins (any size works!)
• Loose glitter
• Mod Podge
• Brush

After all of your supplies are laid out and ready to go:

We can’t stop, and we won’t stop obsessing over Miley Cyrus. Cyrus has transformed from young Miley Stewart on Disney’s "Hannah Montana" to edgy Bangerz artist. She may have originated as a Disney Channel star, but this 20-year-old triple threat is quickly making a new name for herself as America’s hottest pop sensation. Read on for five reasons why College Gloss loves Miley Cyrus.

1. She’s isn’t afraid to be herself
Miley Cyrus is breaking out of her shell and making quite the statement while doing it. Cyrus has played many different roles and tried out various styles, but she is finally showing fans who she truly is. She is quickly moving away from the image that the media has created for her; and, instead, she is shaping that image.

2. She’s a fashion icon
Miley Cyrus has an eye for fashion. Not only has she been experimenting with her wild side lately, but she has been starting plenty of trends while doing it. In a recent interview with Hunger TV, Miley opened up about her personal style: “There’s definitely something amazing about being so lady like yet being so punk,” the 20-year old said.

From her ever-changing hairstyles to her courageousness in making fashion statements, she sure does know how to catch everyone’s attention. Cyrus is showing the world that taking fashion risks is one way to make people talk.

3. Her vocals are remarkable
Cyrus can sing her heart out and has shown the world that she is indeed a force to be reckoned with. The release of “We Can’t Stop,” the first single from Miley’s hit new album Bangerz, was an instant sensation selling over 200,000 copies in the first week, with the music video breaking the VEVO record for most views in 24 hours. As if that wasn’t enough for the pop queen, her next single, “Wrecking Ball,” topped the Billboard Hot 100 at No. 1.

Cyrus’ vocals have quickly helped her become a pop icon with people everywhere talking. Not only the fans can’t get enough of the pop queen’s new album, but celeb’s also have taken note. Ed Sheeran recently complimented Cyrus in an interview with “The Mirror,” saying, “I think she’s got an amazing voice.”

4. She is today’s hottest “It Girl"
Cyrus’ ambition, fearlessness and extreme confidence have made her a hot topic. Her controversial VMA performance started as 20 seconds of fame and turned into months of people talking. By shocking the world with a performance that nobody was expecting, Cyrus successfully made the transformation from tween celebrity to adult sensation. The provocative routine got the world's attention, allowing Cyrus to take her career in the direction she wanted. Her drive for success and determination will continue to keep people talking, as Cyrus’ career only continues to blossom.

5. She’s comfortable in her own skin
Miley Cyrus is not afraid to be different, and the confidence she exhibits, along with her ability to just be herself, has allowed for the transition of the year. She may beat to her own drum, but believing in herself makes anything possible. “I want to be really clear and determined with everything I’m doing in my life right now, and I have been. I keep saying I’m the happiest I’ve ever been and that’s not even a dig,” Cyrus said when she opened up to Ellen DeGeneres in an interview. “I really am genuinely happy finally with myself.”

Miley Cyrus is a star to watch. With her impressive vocals, keen fashion sense and infinite courage, Cyrus has endless career opportunities awaiting her.

By: Nicole Levitt | Image: Source

If you live on your school's campus, ensuring that you have all the necessary supplies for your dorm room can be a daunting task. Since college is one of our specialties here at College Gloss, we have the seven essentials you need for your perfect dorm room.

Bed Risers
If your bed is not bunked, then use a set of bed risers to prop up your bed frame. By doing so, you’ll have extra under-bed storage space, which will be helpful due to the small size of your new abode.

Posters and Photographs
Nothing makes a dorm room feel more like home than having decorated walls. Hanging up photographs of your best friends and family will prevent homesickness and will provide topics for conversation among your roommate and guests. In addition, selecting posters of your favorite actors, movies or causes to hang up will help show the campus world your interests and passions.

White Christmas Lights
A college staple, these classy lights have made statements in dorm rooms for a reason – they’re simple, yet inviting and comfortable. These lights work well for movie nights with friends or when you want to read or study, since the harsh lighting from standard dorm room lights is often too strong.

Microwavable Macaroni and Cheese
For the nights when you have too many assignments to even think about leaving your dorm to eat at the dining hall, having a few cups of microwavable macaroni and cheese on hand will always come in handy for late nights spent studying.

Paper Towels
Although paper towels are often provided by your college in the public restrooms, there are a few occasions in which the paper towel dispenser will be empty. During these times, having a roll of paper towels will surely come in handy. Paper towels are also great to have on hand when sharing snacks with friends, cleaning your room and painting your nails.

Back Rest Pillow
A cozy back rest pillow is a trusted companion for when you want to curl up in your bed to read a magazine without sinking into your mattress. Because there are so many designs and colors on the market, you’ll surely be able to find one that matches your room and personality perfectly.

Shower Caddy
A shower caddy allows you to easily transport all of your necessary toiletries from your room to the bathroom without dropping or losing any of your belongings.

With these essentials, you will surely stay comfortable and at ease in your dorm room all year long.

By: JEN MORGAN | Image: Source

Waking up looking beautiful can be a challenge when you’re running a tight shift. For independent, educated women, priorities often lie in books and work. But it’s important to take time from that packed schedule to pamper yourself. Not to worry though, it won’t take too much time. Make mornings less stressful by following these tips for preparing the night before.

1. Cleanse and Hydrate
This may be a “no brainer,” but here’s another reminder: take your makeup off and follow with your favorite moisturizer. Even if the day left you begging for bed, the extra few minutes are actually essential. This will help prevent breakouts, saving the time for extra makeup and treatments later these would require later. And don’t forget to use the most basic moisturizer, water, by drinking it throughout the day.

2. Try a Mask
Whether your skin needs hydration or a breakout is causing chaos, apply an overnight mask to repair your skin or some benzoyl peroxide to reduce the inflammation surrounding your blemishes.


3. Use an Overnight Hair Treatment
Waking up with gorgeous hair saves styling time and stress. Apply an overnight treatment for bouncier and shinier tresses. We are obsessed with L’oreal EverStrong Sulfate-Free Overnight Repair Treatment ($5.97, amazon.com).

4. Self Tan
Exfoliate your entire body and apply your favorite self tan. Let it dry before jumping into bed, so you can wake up looking effortlessly glowy mid-fall season! No need to apply and later reapply bronzer.


5. Let Hair Oils Do Their Magic
We love applying Josie Maran Pure Argan Oil To Go ($14, josiemarancosmetics.com) to our hair, cuticles, nails and just about anywhere that’s a little parched. If you are a running on a tight budget, opt for olive oil, as it also is effective.

(For more on hair oils, read The Best Oil Treatments for Healthier Hair.)

6. Treat Hands and Feet
There is nothing better than applying a thick cream to your hands and feet. You mustn't forget this part of your body because they show signs of aging the fastest.


7. Exfoliate and Moisturize Lips
You can make your own lip scrub from sugar or exfoliate with your toothbrush’s bristles. After exfoliating, apply your favorite lip balm. You will wake up with noticeably kissable lips. Treat yourself with Dior Crème de Rose Smoothing Plumping Lip Balm ($27, dior.com).

8. Sleep on Silk
This is one of the oldest beauty tips for a reason. Silk keeps wrinkles at bay and maintains proper moisture in your hair and skin. Since silk is resistant to dust mites, it keeps allergies away, which will prevent puffiness in the morning.

9. Sleep on Your Back
We know this one takes some getting used to, but sleeping on your back will prevent premature wrinkles. Our skin renews its cells during the nighttime, which is why we also recommended that you sleep on silk; don’t let those cotton lines on your face happen the next morning, they can become permanent wrinkles! Sleeping on your back also prevents morning puffiness. Lisa Okesson, national training manager for makeup company Shu Uemura USA, suggests this old Hollywood secret: “Sleep on your back and use a slightly elevated firm pillow to help prevent fluids from pooling in your facial tissues at night,” as stated on Real Beauty.


10. Protect the Blowout
Never, ever sleep on your loose mane! Tie your locks up in a high ponytail to protect your blowout and your skin from any impending breakouts! We hate elastic bands, so we suggest you invest in ribbon hair ties ($8.50, Sephora), which are far less damaging to your hair.

By: Ivanna Coello | Image: Source

The cool breezes of the fall are here, making mornings a little crisper and nights better suited for snuggling. It’s time to adjust activities to find the right balance between hanging onto the heat and accepting autumn.

Hot Yoga
Although it’s no longer summer, it always feels like summer in a hot yoga studio, so be sure to attend this class with the bare minimum, as far as clothing goes (sports bra and shorts). If you’re new to the class, try a beginners course to ensure that you don’t over exhaust your body.

(For more on hot yoga see An Insider's Guide to Hot Yoga.)

Pole Fitness
This is a fun class to try with a group of friends. Whether it’s for fun or to be more flirty with your guy, this activity will create tons of laughter and memories. Grab a pair of cute pumps out of the closet and get going.

Horseback Riding
With the leaves changing colors, and the frost that settles on them, hopping on a horse may be all it takes to feel like you’re living in a fairytale. Instead of going to a local Go-Cart track, slow things down riding horseback.

Paint Balling
If you’re looking for some action-packed fun, get the girls together and take a cue from guys day out, and go paint balling. Dressing in layers for this activity fits perfectly with the cooler air, and you’ll get a good workout.

Whatever you decide to do, don’t let the return of fall keep you in a state of hibernation until next summer. Stay active by trying out some new activities. Also, remember to check out Groupon for local deals on all of these activities.

By: Kiarra Sylvester | Image: Source

There are some who refuse to entertain the idea of astrology and others who find infatuation in the eerie coincidences that astrology can be have. While modern day astrology is used on a day-to-day basis for more trivial predictions, it was once a science used by kings and emperors in order to best predict the timeline of major events, including war and natural disasters. The Babylonians are said to be the first to dabble in the science of astrology, which for over 2,000 years was considered to be the same as astronomy. The concept behind astrology is that elements, such as the moon, sun, planets and constellations, have influence and correlate to natural events that may occur throughout the world.

Many believe modern day astrology provides too broad of predictions when making predictions on popular subjects, including finances, love (compatibility) and wellness. Early astronomers determined zodiacs based on which constellation was in on the day of birth. However, according to LiveScience current horoscopes are outdated because zodiacs are correlated to the position of those constellations have shifted since astronomers' first reading 2,200 years ago. Due to this shift, there has actually been speculation of a 13th sign, “Ophichus,” for birthdays from November 29 through December 17; this obviously changes zodiac as we’ve always known it to be. Interested in knowing what your new sign would be if the entire world were to go by this updated zodiac? Check it out:

• Capricorn: Jan. 20 - Feb. 16
• Aquarius: Feb. 16 - March 11
• Pisces: March 11- April 18
• Aries: April 18 - May 13
• Taurus: May 13 - June 21
• Gemini: June 21 - July 20
• Cancer: July 20 - Aug. 10
• Leo: Aug. 10 - Sept. 16
• Virgo: Sept. 16 - Oct. 30
• Libra: Oct. 30 - Nov. 23
• Scorpio: Nov. 23 - Nov. 29
• Ophiuchus: Nov. 29 - Dec. 17
• Sagittarius: Dec. 17 - Jan. 20

Lots of research points to us, as human beings simply seeking validation through horoscopes -- despite how accurate the daily horoscope actually is. “When empirically false statements sound positive, they will agree that the traits describe them accurately.” This is known as the Forer Effect. Psychologist Bertram Forer conducted a series of experiments, having participants take a personality test that came with a written analysis of their results. Although the subjects found their results to be accurate, each person had received the same analysis that was taken from the newspaper; thus, the conclusion of this experiment resulted in the Forer Effect.

During college, it can be very difficult to make ends meet or earn a little extra spending money on the side. Although academics are always the most important aspect of college, working provides hands-on experience and money. But what work is possible from your college dorm room that does not require a work scholarship or transportation? Freelance work.

Unlike working as a barista at the local cafe, doing freelance work only requires a computer, a strong Internet connection and time management skills. If you are a talented writer, editor, artist or translator, there is a steady supply of work available.

Decide if earning money through freelance work is worth your time after reading the following benefits and disadvantages of freelancing.

Benefits of Freelance Work

Working from home. All you need is a reliable Internet connection, which can be found at most dorms or a library. Most work can even be done at a communal desktop in the computer lab.

You have flexible hours. Unlike a job like working at the gym with set hours, doing freelance work does not require a fixed schedule. For college students, a flexible schedule is ideal to fit around homework, extracurriculars and a social life.

Relatively easy work is available. I regularly write 500-word articles on a variety of subjects. Each article only requires a little bit of research, one rewrite and about two hours of work. Depending on the work, most jobs do not require all that much effort.

A variety of work is offered. I tend to do freelance writing, but I have expanded my horizons a few times to include editing academic papers. Even the topics vary widely. I’ve written about the best printer paper, transexuals in the fashion industry and the most romantic beach getaways for couples. You learn about subjects you would typically not bother to research on your own time.

Disadvantages of Freelance Work

The pay can be terrible. Since most freelance work is conducted online, minimum wage laws do not always apply. As a first-time freelancer, your pay can be as little as a dollar per 600-word article. If you are good, you will eventually be able to raise your hourly rate above minimum wage.

You need to have solid time management skills. Since the work is off-site, you can finish the work at your own pace. But failing to submit a project in on time may result in terrible feedback or a reduced payment. Sometimes when homework begins to pile up, it becomes difficult to even go to the gym for an hour, let alone write 10 articles.

The possibility of being scammed is higher when doing freelance work than a traditional job. You may do everything right, turn your work in on time and then your client disappears without paying. Your valuable time has all gone to waste. Some freelance websites have their own security mechanisms to lower that probability, but it still exists.

Freelance work is not for everyone, but it does offer quick and easy money while you are busy at college. Although I cannot pay off my college tuition by freelancing, I can pay for dinner out once a month or a new pair of shoes. Hello, new slippers!

By: Lisa Swanson | Image: Source

Makeup and skincare may be College Gloss’ expertise, but the obsession doesn’t stop there; we love beautifying our living spaces, too. Now that you’ve ditched that freshman-year nightmare -- communal bathrooms and roommates -- celebrate having an apartment by spicing up your space with functional, fun decorations.

Bathroom

With those late-night Sonic runs, house parties, all-nighter finals study groups, weddings and graduation, it’s pretty great to be a “20-something” from simple moments to the landmarks. However, this is also when a quarter life crisis may strike. A QLC can be described as a sense of panic that life isn’t progressing at a satisfactory rate (according to self-standard), whether it be in a relationship, career or with other goals. There’s nothing to fear, though. CG is going to help you conquer that quarter life crisis before it becomes a roadblock on the way to the next big moments in your life.

In college, it’s not uncommon to find girls lamenting their single status on Facebook, and guys loving the solo life, especially on Friday nights out with the boys. The Huffington Post reported that men typically don’t want to settle down until their thirties. So frankly, this means there’s a lot of college-aged guys more concerned with hooking up than settling down. (Harsh realities, ladies!) Because it’s so difficult to establish a committed and monogamous relationship in college, young women have turned to a more proactive method of forming liaisons: dating apps. There are definite pros and cons to entering the cyber-dating world, and it’s important to consider them all carefully before taking the leap.

Pros

• Convenience: If we’re being perfectly honest with ourselves, it’s hard to meet someone. And getting all primped and perfumed up for a party, only to end the night without connecting can be a disappointment. Searching for a guy from the comfort of your phone/tablet/computer is just easier. 
• You’re in control: Perhaps the most appealing facet of cyber-dating is the fact that you get to specify exactly what you like. You don’t have to settle or compromise for a guy who has six out of ten things on your list. You enter your desires in a database and, automatically, are provided with dudes who meet the criteria. That’s pretty darn nice. 
• Anonymity: What’s the hardest thing about pursuing someone in person? The possibility of rejection, obviously. Whenever you express interest in someone, you’re taking the risk of being turned down. Dating apps and other forms of anonymity allow you to remain someone discreet and avoid that unpleasant experience. After all, if it doesn’t work out, you’ll never see them again, right? 

Cons

• People lie: You can’t ensure anyone’s honesty on the Internet. The guy that claimed to resemble Justin Timberlake might bear a more accurate resemblance to Jonah Hill in real life (not that Jonah Hill isn’t totally adorable). Whenever you connect with someone who you haven’t yet met in real life, you’re taking the risk of being played. 
• Desperation: Turning to dating apps and other methods of organized dating can look a little desperate. No judgment. But you are actively searching for a relationship. Some might even say that you’re forcing it a little. If you’re in college, you’re most likely in your late teens/early twenties. If you’ll allow me to be cliché, you should be using that time period of your life to find yourself and truly discover who you are. That can be hard to do when you’re in a relationship. It’s important to be a whole person before you’re 50 percent of a couple. Translation? You don’t need to be in a relationship right now, you just want one. 
• Possible Let Down: It might not be what you think it is. Before signing up for E-Harmony or downloading Tinder, remember this: you still might not find what you’re looking for. Don’t think that pressing the Enter button will magically produce your perfect man. You can meet a guy online and he can turn out to be just as much of a jerk as your typical frat boy because some of those guys searching for a one night stand on campus might just be using Date my School to make it easier to find a booty call. You won’t always find what you’re looking for. 

Ultimately, dating apps and other forms of electronic mingling can be a dangerous game. You never know exactly what you’re going to get, and you might find yourself a little more disappointed than if you had waited for a serendipitous meeting. If you do plan to partake in this type of dating, then keep up your guard for red flags. Be safe, Glossers!

By: ADJOA BRUCE | Image