Ten Summer Essentials

1. Sandals
My favorite are the ones from American Eagle because of the cushion they have rather than just a thin, plastic bottom. They cute, comfortable and inexpensive; so you can add new ones every summer! Old navy also has a similar pair.

2. Shorts
I'm obsessed with the shorts that are very flowy and almost look like a skirt. They're extremely comfortable, especially after a summer barbecue or ice cream run. I got mine from Target. They come in all different colors and patterns and instantly dress up your outfit.

3. Water
Water is essential in the summer. I like to put my water in cute tumblers to motivate me to drink more frequently. I find I drink much more when I have a straw because I don't even have to think about it; before I know it, it's time to refill!

4. Cross body Purses
Wether you're going to a summer concert, running errands or going shopping with the girls, a cross body is the way to go. It's time to take a break from our large, heavy handbags and put on a lightweight cross body. It's limited space allows us to just pack the essentials and is handsfree so we can be worry free! Rebecca Minkoff is the ultimate cross body because they come in a wide variety of colors and aren't terribly expensive.

5. Swimwear
It's finally summer which means we can shed some layers and soak in the sun! Whether you've been working on your beach bod all winter or binging holiday cookies, buy a new swimsuit that makes you feel amazing! My favorite style is a bandeau because it gives the least embarrassing tan lines. My favorite store is Victoria Secret because they have a wide range for every body type and preference.
*Tip: If you see a style from Victoria Secret you like, wait and buy it next year. It will be half over, but you'll still love it.

6. Sunglasses
Sunglasses are essential for the summer. They also are a fun way to accessorize your outfit and add creativity to your look. The polarized aviator style are my favorite right now! I got these ray ban lookalikes for just $5 at Charlotte Russe!

7. Candles
Living in a college dorm restricts me from using candles so I love to burn they all summer while I can! Bath and Body Works is my go to because they have so many different scents and always have deals running.

8. Powder Foundation
Take a break from the heavy liquid foundation and dust on some powder. It's much lighter and the powder will absorb the excessive oil and sweat during the hot, summer days. My favorite is the MAC Studio Fix Powder because it gives great coverage, comes in a variety of shades, is affordable and comes in sleek packaging (comes with a mirror and sponge to save space in your clutch!)

9. Lip Balm
It's fun to try a bright lip in the summer, but it's also important to keep your lips moisturized and protected because your lips can get sunburned too! My favorite high end lip balm are the YSL Sheer Candy and my favorites low end lip balms are the Maybelline Baby Lips!

10. Brozer
Protecting your skin with sunscreen is important, but can leave your skin a little pasty and dull. Fake the summer tan with a good bronzer. My favorite is the Nars Laguna Bronzer, but a cheaper alternative is the Elf Blush Bronzer Duo in St. Lucia. Either will make you glow like a bronzed goddess!

Michelle

Michelle Halek is fabulous!

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Study Tips

One of the biggest differences from high school to college is the learning and teaching experience. In college, the roles are reversed from what you're used to in high school with your professor supplying the information to all the responsibility put on you.

Here are a few of my study tips and advice to help you succeed in college; hope it helps and let me know your tips for success!

Before Class:
1. Read the Textbook: Take the time to read the chapter and take notes outlining important terms and ideas. This is essential because in most classes questions in the exam will come from exclusive textbook information.

*Make sure you ask the professor what textbook you need. You may be able to get an online version or older edition which will save money. Also ask how long you'll be using the textbook. For example, in my English class we only used a book for two weeks so I rented instead of buying.

2. While Reading the Textbook Make Note of Questions or Any Confusion: I put these questions on a post-it note and bring it to class. If the professor doesn't cover it in class, ask. If things still don't make sense arrange an appointment during your professor's office hours or sign up for a free tutor on campus.

3. Highlight: Not only is this fun but it's an amazing and effective technique that will help you when you go back a couple of days later to study for the quiz or exam. This will work if you stick to a system:
- Pick three colors that are attractive to you (this will attract your attention and make studying a little less boring)
     ex. Green: Definitions, Yellow: Equations, Purple: Important information, ideas or facts

Class Tips:
1. See if your teacher Uses PowerPoint

2. Check if the PowerPoints Are Online: Professors will usually put these up on blackboard. If they don't and they're good power points, ask them to send it to you or make it available to the class.

3. Find Out if Quizzes Are Open Note: In my chemistry class we're allowed to use any handwritten notes and power points during quizzes. If we were allowed notes but not printed power points I would unfortunately copy the slides during class so I wouldn't have to rush before the quiz. But if you're allowed to use the printed power points or have closed quizzes: Print the PowerPoints!

Here's how to print the PowerPoints:

                            Fix the setting to 3 slides with lines to allow you to take notes on the side.

The lines allow you to add any additional notes/diagrams the professor may give in class or you can use it to simplify or emphasis ideas. 

This all may seem a bit intimidating (having to do work? teach myself?) but the good news is college is a clean slate. Your GPA, study habits and reputation in high school doesn't matter anymore. You now have to chance to become the student you want to be. College may have higher stakes than high school, but you also have more freedom to control your future. Good Luck! 

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