About KaitlinF

Kaitlin Fitzpatrick is a Providence College junior and a second semester intern with College Lifestyles! She is excited to continue her journey with CL and with PC. Kaitlin also loves her family, her friends, her puppy, and writing!

CL’s Guide to: Parking on Campus

Posted on September 20, 2012 by KaitlinF

Every underclassmen’s biggest dream is to have a car on campus. The ability to just hop in your car and drive to the mall, any shopping around the area, or possible job off campus is amazing. However, the process of getting your car on campus is, not a dream. It is more like a nightmare. If you are an under classmen and wish to have your car on campus, the road is definitely not paved. Usually college security offices require doctor’s notes or extremely valid reasons as to why a car is needed on campus. And even for upper classmen, parking on campus is no smooth sailing.

photo credit: www.weheartit.com

First, realize the cost of having a car on campus and what you can afford. If you are lucky enough to have a car from home, many are not, so be sincerely grateful!), you are hopefully aware of the cost of gas in your surrounding area. Gas prices in different areas can either go up or down. Classy co-ed girls will plan ahead and recognize that money does not grow on trees and that gas is extremely expensive.

Second, your access to off campus venues may be great but it does come with a cost (literally and figuratively). This year is my first year having a car on campus and I have already seen a dent in my wallet and a dent on my scale. With a car on campus, we are able to drive to so many places and you are able to eat food that isn’t gross cafeteria food. It’s great to be able to drive to your favorite pizza place you could only visit a few times the year before, just be sure of how you manage eating out. Consider eating out twice a month rather than every week.

Third, parking lots on college campuses are usually not the easiest to maneuver. Often, they are awkwardly placed and don’t have the best exits. When bringing a car to school, be sure you are aware of where and when you park. Park in a remote location, far away from other cars. Doing so will decrease the chance of your car being hit. If you can avoid so, try not to park at night. College campuses often are poorly lit and the possibility of you getting into an accident while driving around at night is high.

photo credit: www.weheartit.com

Here’s a few extra tips!:

Security can be picky. Be sure to always have your parking pass or sticker on your car. You don’t want to be stopped when you’re just trying to get back to the dorm.

Park close to an exit for easy entrance and exit. It will be more convenient to walk a few extra feet rather than driving around in circles closer to your dorm building.

Be careful with locking your doors and closing your windows, especially if your campus is an open campus or security seems lax.

Come to school early if you are a commuter. Often parking is limited and it will be hard to find time to park before class!

Please also do not text and drive or drink and drive. Check out http://itcanwait.com/ for more information on taking the pledge to not text and drive.

Tech Talk: Should I Buy A Smartphone For College?

Posted on September 10, 2012 by KaitlinF

Now living in the age of relevant technology, I have found it fatal to be without my Smartphone since high school. College is a different bird; emails are constantly being sent out from professors, school administration, and various on-campus organizations. It often becomes annoying when you are bombarded with around twenty emails a day that could just be a welcome back email from the president of the school or that could just be an update on some construction happening in a building that no one even goes to. But, overall, the attachment college students have to Smartphones is not ridiculous.

Photo Credit: www.weheartit.com

Email is a prevalent part of being in college. And although some of the multiple messages students receive may seem pointless, every email is relevant to someone on your college campus. I hear much of my fellow classmates say, “I’d never check my email if it wasn’t on my phone”. Those who do not have phones struggle when at the end of the day they receive what seems to be hundreds of emails that could have been vital to their daily campus life hours earlier. Lets face it: an iPhone or a Blackberry is much easier to carry around than a laptop or a tablet. Classy co-eds are always up to date and know what’s happening on campus.

Photo Credit: www.weheartit.com

Keeping up with your classy co-ed friends from home throughout the day is also a possibility with a Smartphone. Instead of just hearing someone’s voice, now you can see his or her face with FaceTime. All the apps that Smartphones offer are really just ways to keep in touch with friends and family. With a Smartphone, you can see what your friends from home are doing (or even eating) through Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Of course, all of these are possible without a Smartphone; but we live in an instantaneous generation and we need information now.

Scheduling and marking your calendar with important dates is crucial in college between all the classes, all of the meetings, and all of the different organizations available on college campuses. As classy co-eds and strong young women, CL girls are always involved on campus whether its simple volunteer work or running a student organization. Smartphones make it possible to keep track of all the different dates, locations and times for this hectic lifestyle. iCalendar and Reminders apps are constantly used by professionals around the country. Some classy co-eds are no different and others can take a cue from these professionals in how to organize their time and manage their work.

Photo Credit: www.weheartit.com

Time at college can be made a lot simpler with a Smartphone that is attached to your hip and to your thumbs. But remember to be real, to be social and to be classy and not the girl on your phone in class or in meetings. Keep the tweeting for after class and use your Smartphone well!

College Prep: What to Expect When Applying

Posted on September 4, 2012 by KaitlinF

Applying to college can be one of the most stressful and confusing times of your life if you do not stay organized. A few unexpected events may occur when you are narrowing down your search for the perfect campus to spend your next four years on.

Photo credit: Google Images

Essay Writing. Not all high school English courses offer suggestions for college essays. If you attend a college prep high school, your English teacher will most likely be able to help you through this process. If not, pick up a college essay guidebook with sample essays (good and bad) to help you along. When applying to college, your essay could either make or break you! A college essay is one of the only chances a school has to get to know the real you, beyond your grades and extracurriculars. Be sure to keep it personal, yet not as personal as a page out of your diary or a post off your blog. Keep your essay clear and classy. Have a few people review your essay (teachers, parents, and even friends) and make sure your grammar and spelling is impeccable! Show admissions you’ve got what their school wants!

Tip: A college essay should be around a page or so long, single-spaced. Add as much detail as you can and fully express yourself. Make an impression and keep it classy!

Dates for Different Schools. Every college has different deadlines and this can often get confusing. The key is to get organized in advance. Narrow down what schools you definitely want to apply to and make checklists for each school. Also, be sure to speak to your guidance counselor throughout your high school career regarding your grades, your activities, and your preparation to move onto college. Your guidance counselor should become your best friend from the end of your junior year through your senior year! Don’t be embarrassed to ask for help with your applications and with organization. Keep folders for each school as well as bookmarks on your Safari page for College Board and the Common Application.

Tip: Keep a checklist for every school and include important dates, prices of applications, what the school was like, and if the school is a reach, target, or a school you expect an academic scholarship from.

Photo credit: Google Images

Price of Applications. One of the most shocking aspects of applying to schools for myself was the price of the applications. This is definitely something NO ONE is prepared for. Applications can be free; applications can be 50 dollars; applications can also be over 100 dollars. Remember, college is a business. To be sure you don’t end up spending hundreds or thousands of dollars, be sure to limit the amount of schools you apply to. Set up a number, like 10, and estimate how much that number of applications will cost. No one, especially our parents, need the shock of application bills!

Tip: Keep record of what each application costs. Add that to your college checklist. Also, be sure to talk to speak to your parents BEFORE you apply. Know what your family can afford and what they can’t.

Visiting & Interviews. One of the biggest parts of applying to college is visiting each campus and interviewing with an admissions staff member. Roaming around a college campus gives you the feel for the school, especially what type of student goes to the school. This is a necessary aspect when applying to college in order to find the perfect fit. For interviews, most high schools or regions of the USA have specific admissions counselors. Be sure to dress to impress! Classy co-eds know how to work a room and an interviewer will notice a put together student. Always shake their hand and write a thank you note a week or so after the visit. Admissions have folders with your name on it and will take note of your gesture!

Tip: Visit a college campus during the week, if possible. You’ll be able to see the students in action. On the weekends, especially in the morning, campuses tend to be dead. Get the full affect of a school and tour when classes are in session!

Photo credit: Google Images

Financial Aid. Financial aid is one side of college that will follow you from your first application to the last semester of your senior year. It is crucial to be honest and on time with financial aid. This part requires its own applications (FASFA, personal school aid, etc.), so be sure to be on top of all your dates and forms. Add these dates to your checklists and get a head start on the form the day they come out. College is expensive! But to make it manageable and ensure you’re able to go to your dream school, take full advantage of financial aid.

Tip: Contact each school’s financial aid office before applying. Figure out the costs of tuition, room and board, and any extra fees. Know the cost and plan ahead!

For some college application checklists, check out these links! 1 2 3

Meet Intern Kaitlin Fitzpatrick…again!

Posted on August 19, 2012 by KaitlinF

Name: Kaitlin Fitzpatrick

Position: Lifestyles/Dating and Relationships Writer

College/University: Providence College

My friend & future roommate Kaitlyn and I ♥

Year in studies: Junior, Friars 2014!

Major/minor: Major in Political Science and minor in Writing

I show my school spirit by: reppin’ PC with a sticker on the back of my car

My favorite thing about Fall is: fall fashion, hands down. Oh and my birthday (;

For Halloween I will be: no idea yet! I’ve been looking for ideas though.

Neon pants – yay or nay? YAY! I have a pair of neon coral jeans.

Twitter or Facebook? Twitter, for sure. Follow me at @kittyyykait

I love Pinterest because: it is helping me plan my future wedding

My favorite color is: purple.

My go-to accessory is: all of my Alex & Ani bracelets.

My favorite store is: Nordstrom.

My favorite food is: chips and guacamole. Yum!

My favorite movies/TV shows are: Favorite movie hands down is Despicable Me. And I love any reality television, and yes that includes the Kardashians.

Father’s day! I love my dad

My favorite book is: the entire “Hunger Games” series

My favorite magazine is: Cosmopolitan

My pet is: Buddy, my cute Maltese puppy

My favorite quote is, because: “Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” I have loved this quote since high school. With this quote, I remind myself to always be myself and speak my mind!

My role model is, because: I know this seems crazy but Miley Cyrus. She, in my eyes, embodies uniqueness and confidence. And I love her style!

I spend my weekends…: Hanging out with my friends and relaxing

St. Patty’s Day in NYC.

I take a break from studying by…: catching up on my shows

I de-stress by…: Working out and running! I always go to the gym whenever I am feeling overwhelmed. “Endorphins make you happy”, Elle Woods once said.

My friends describe me as: funny, loyal, and dependable

My favorite College Lifestyles article is: “CL Check-Up: Mental Health on College Campuses” by Hannah Borland. I loved seeing this topic on our site. For me, this is close to my heart and I think every CL girl should read this.

Why I am excited to be an intern for College Lifestyles: I am excited to practice my writing on relevant topics for girls my age. CL’s areas of interest really excite me and I love to see my work published on this great site!

My definition of a classy co-ed: is a girl who embodies confidence, poise, and obviously, class. A classy co-ed is a young woman who is herself in every situation she is thrown into. She is also a hard worker and makes a name for herself.

Kaitlin Fitzpatrick is a Relationship and Lifestyles writer for CL! She is excited to start her second semester with College Lifestyles and her junior year at Providence College. Kaitlin is a Political Science major and a Writing minor. She also loves her friends (of course!), tweeting, and instagraming! Twitter: @kittyyykait

How to Keep Up With Your Classy Co-Ed Friends from Home

Posted on August 17, 2012 by KaitlinF

One of my personal biggest fears about college was making new friends. Surprisingly, that was no problem! The hard part was keeping up with old friends from home, from high school, from camp, and from work. Texting, tweeting or however you remain in contact with your friends from home is usually not enough when you could just quite possibly be on the other side of the country. In order to keep your friendships alive, step it up and make both groups of friends (old and new) priorities in your life.

Here’s what some CL ladies do to keep up with their classy girl friends:

Photo credit: www.weheartit.com

“My friends from home and I have our own private Facebook group, so it’s really easy to have group conversations and just post funny videos and pictures to everyone! Also, even just random texts about something funny from your day help keep you connected and part of each other’s lives.” – Jenna Ballard

“To me, nothing means more then a Skype and or phone call! It seems so much more personal to hear their voice and fill them in on every little detail of your life.” – Shaundra Boyd

“I’ve never been much of a caller so I will always text my best friends if something happens or I just want to see what’s up with them. Although, phone calls do come in handy for long stories that should come with description. As for everything else… that’s what meeting up and catching up is for!” – Caity St John

“Handwritten notes take a little longer, but I think they can be fun to make and really show that you care.” – Natalie Raymond

Photo credit: www.weheartit.com

If you’re not much of a texter… Pick up the phone and call your friends! Weekends obviously work the best for most of us. However, talk a week or so into the semester with your friends and figure out when to call during the week if something exciting comes up! A week or so gives you and your friends enough time to adjust to the active lifestyle you’ll experience with classes, volunteering, jobs, and hopefully, College Lifestyles!

If you’re into social media and texting… Create a Facebook group for your close group of friends at school or even a message thread. Facebook is easy to check and can be personal! Send your friends cute messages, quotes, and pictures to show them that you’re missing them. Also, this is a great way to coordinate holidays or school visits if everyone is together (even if it’s virtually!).

If you are an old fashioned co-ed… Print isn’t dead yet! Receiving mail, as when you were when you were a kid, is beyond exciting when you’re a college student. A birthday card in the mail or a simple letter to say you care is touching and will not be forgotten! And if you’re feeling creative, hit the mall and pull a few things from Francesca’s Collections and put together a care package for a girl friend’s birthday or if you have a friend who is just down in the dumps. It is a sure fire way to get anyone out of a funk. Be sure to make those packages unexpected and a surprise for an even bigger smile (exchange mailing addresses before you head off or within the first week)!

Remember: any way you can make an effort is showing you care! From a simple “I miss you” text message to a four hour long Skype session, keep your friends in mind.

Kaitlin Fitzpatrick is a Relationship and Lifestyle writer for College Lifestyles as well as a rising junior at Providence College. She loves watching Glee, going to Cheesecake Factory with her friends at school, and taking road trips. Kaitlin is very excited to work with everyone at College Lifestyles this summer!

Dating Files: Athletics and Relationships

Posted on August 8, 2012 by KaitlinF

If you read my article “5 Guys to Second Guess if You Want It to Last”, I warned all of you classy co-eds to stray from the athletes are your school. However, if you are a confident, daring woman and want to date a Michael Phelps or a Ryan Lochte, go for it. Just know that catching an Olympic athlete (or an Olympic wanna-be) takes time and endurance. Successful dating is a marathon, ladies; it most definitely should not be a sprint!

Timing is Everything. My major worry about entering into a relationship with athletes is the amount of time they can offer. The athletes in my school, whether it is our most popular or the sport no one watches, have little time to spare during the season and during off season. In college, finding time to even see your friends is difficult for us non-athletes. However, if you’re willing to compromise and to date an athlete, do just that, compromise. Time together is important; or else how would you possibly remain in a relationship? Know his schedule (when he has practice, when he has study hall, even when he likes to nap) in order to be available when he is.

Michael Phelps and current girlfriend, Megan Rossee. She’s a model and she holds her own! Photo credit: Google Images

Ego Booster. Whenever I hear the word “ego”, automatically Beyonce’s Ego goes off in my head. Like your athletic boy, you have to have a strong ego, in a classy way. Athletes, naturally, feel strong and powerful. That expected dominance should be matched if you want to show you’re serious. Do not be the athlete’s groupie. Show your potential man and his athletic buds that you’re more than a follower; you’re your own person. A real man will respond to that confidence and swoop you up before you can even ask him to hang. And if you do end up dating, that nice arm candy will just boost your classy ego even more!

“I love supporting my athlete guy. But when he’s busy, I keep myself busy! I am proud of myself and him,” Samantha, 19.

Support your man but keep yourself strong! Photo credit: www.weheartit.com

Keep yourself in mind. As young ladies, when we become infatuated with a guy, sometimes we lose sight of ourselves. While you’re trying to snag that Michael Phelps look alike on your school’s swim team, work on yourself at the same exact time! While he’s busy at practice and living with his teammates, be with your friends and with yourself. Work on school and keep yourself well before anything else. Your dream guy will notice your upkeep and how you’ve got your life together. Surprisingly, most guys admire that! Also, keep yourself fit. Your guy is in the gym; you should be too!

If dating an athlete isn’t enough motivation, check out Raquel’s “Need Motivation to Stay Fit? There’s an App for that!” article for more tips!

Beating Double Standards in Order to be a Classy Co-Ed

Posted on July 27, 2012 by KaitlinF

Here’s the deal, as young women, we are often faced with the fact that today’s world is a man’s world. Men seem to rule major businesses and corporations as well as holding lead positions in most work places. Coming from a single sex Catholic high school, I was personally taught to beat the system and thrive in business (and basically everything else) as a woman on the rise. In relationships, girls seem to also face double standards in contrast to their male partners. Male dominance is a thing of the past, ladies (in every aspect of our lives)! Here are some tips to beat double standards we all face on a daily basis, in our work place, in our relationships and even sometimes in our family life.

Be yourself and know you’re awesome: tips to survive the single life! Photo Credit: http://hookertastic.tumblr.com/

The Single Life. Many of CL’s articles help young women deal with the single lifestyle. Between the ages of 18 and 23, women are expected to date a single man for a long period of time. When I reply “no” to being asked if I have a boyfriend, many of those inquisitive few offer me a dirty look in response. Kind of like, what’s wrong with you? Men, on the other hand, are allowed to fool around and be single as long as they are focused on a career. The 50s are over, yet we are still expected to only be caretakers and child bearers. A little bit of both, a good mother and a successful career woman, is possible and is extremely healthy. Channeling our energy into others is a natural aspect of being a woman, yet that love and care is accompanied by drive and ambition. Prove to the world that both are possible! Take care of your siblings, learn to cook and maintain great grades as well as looking for an internship this fall.

Photo Credit: http://chicken–nugget.tumblr.com/

Dating Younger and Older. Being young for my grade and often being labeled “a baby”, my mother always told me that once I got to college my age would no longer matter. And for once (just kidding, Mom!), she was right. My friends at school vary in age – from incoming freshmen to those who just graduated. The dating scene once you enter college is, in my opinion, the opposite of what it was like in high school. Girls I attend school with are dating boys two years younger. Those girls, “the cougars”, tend to have rumors floating around about them. Guys, on the other hand, are patted on the back by their bros if they hook up with an older girl, or even hook up with a freshman. Age is just a number; maturity level is what is really important. A great example of a “cougar” is Selena Gomez (20 years old), who is dating Justin Bieber (18 years old). If you find yourself disgusted by freshman dorm rooms and messy boys, date up. Older boys tend to be more focuses and more mature. If you’re a girl who wants to just have fun and is into all types of guys, don’t worry about age. And a word of advice, ask for your friends’ opinions; confide in your best girl friend or even guy friend about if you should hook up with that freshman cutie. If consensus is yes, go for it and don’t look back!

It is possible! But sometimes, the lines can be crossed between “just friends”. Photo Credit: www.weheartit.com

The “Just Friends” Title. Recently I saw a segment on Good Afternoon America where one major topic of discussion was the argument if guys and girls can be just friends. Young women with a lot of guy friends are given nasty looks and are called obscene names by other female onlookers. Double standards, trust me, do not exist just between men and women. Females (the gossipier of the two sexes) are more judgmental and seem to give into the “just friends” double standard than males. Girls are not sluts because they go to the dining hall with their guy friends and ONLY their guy friends. I think we can all agree that we have those friends who we could never, ever kiss and who we only see as friends. But this phenomenon is impossible by today’s standards. Keep your guy friends close; they are the drama-free, reliable friends you’ll have for a long time. However, maintain and make new friendships with a few, nice girls.

5 Guys to Second Guess if You Want It to Last

Posted on July 21, 2012 by KaitlinF

Dating in college seems like it should be easy; he’s a guy and you’re a girl. However, the guy that may be your “type” may be the one to run away from. There are five types of guys that you lovely ladies should watch out for, even second guess, when entering into a relationship.

5. The Athlete

Whether you go to a Division 1 or even a Division 3 college, athletes will be in attendance. Athletes usually do not have the best track records. But that is not the biggest issue with this group of boys; time together is. Athletes, in season or not, seem to always be working out, having to stay in, and just simply away. Time with your athlete is limited and fleeting. You may be totally into him and he may be totally into his teammates. Watch out when falling for a busy sporty guy.

4. The Partier

Project X boys…definitely a no-no. Photo Credit: http://itll-all-be-fine.tumblr.com

Every school has this type of guy and you may even be friends with a few. However, when looking for a serious relationship to settle into, the party guy who picks the bar over you is definitely not boyfriend material. This guy is the one you can spot on the quad on a nice day at 2pm, already sipping a beer and possibly puffing a cigarette. Trust me, there is a difference between the guys you go out with and the ones you date.

3. The “Bro”

This guy often gets confused with the party type. However, there is an obvious difference between the two boys. While the partier likes booze, the bro likes his boys. The bro will forever be a guys-guy. To pick out this guy is not hard; he’s spotted, usually in New England, Long Island, or New Jersey, wearing the lacrosse pinnie, the backwards hat, and the Sperry’s Topsiders. We all know this guy and he is too into boy time. And while he tends to pick up a lot of girls, no relationship really ends up working for him. He’s too into his bros and into being a bro.

Photo Credit: http://matward.tumblr.com/

2. The Shy Guy

The shy guy is not the typical guy to stray away from; however, shy often means secretive. If you’re getting to know a guy and he becomes shy when it comes to personal topics such as family or past relationships, a big red flag should be waving. Shy guys tend to keep to themselves and keep their business unknown. While privacy is important and us girls can understand secrets, there is a certain time and place for shyness and secrecy. Let your guy open up by confessing some of your dirty laundry and see how he reacts. If he doesn’t reciprocate, walk away…fast.

1. The Best Friend

Jim & Pam from “The Office” are the definition of best friend relationships done right! Photo Credit: http://pinterest.com/reinblue/

Going out with your best guy friend could be the worst or the best decision of your college years. Dating a friend is necessary, but to date the guy that you’re not sure where your feelings lie is complicated. Sometimes you may simply see him as your friend, and other times you may want to kiss him. Often the worry is that you may lose a friendship if you confess your secret love; there is even an entire MTV show dedicated to it, “Friendzone”! Think clearly when it comes to swooning over this boy, and more importantly, follow your heart. And if you need to second guess, keep the friendship over the feeling of love.

How to Work Through the 7 Stages of a Break Up…Classy Co-Ed Style!

Posted on July 6, 2012 by KaitlinF

So ladies, this is a topic no girl wants to talk about but in order to work through it, everyone goes through it. No, no we are not talking about your time of the month. It’s a little, little thing everyone calls a break up. And if you’ve heard the saying “breaking up is hard to do”…its true. According to SheKnows, there are seven stages in a break up. We all know there are many different ways to handle separation from a boyfriend, some classier than others. All classy co-eds may not go through all of these stages; we are all unique! But to work through your tough time, understand the stages, know which one you are in, and of course, work toward the seventh stage, which is acceptance…and better yet, FREEDOM!

Photo Credit: www.weheartit.com

Stage One: Shock

Shock, along with disbelief, is the first stage of a break up. When it first happens, whether you are the one to end the relationship or not, it is still a hurtful surprise. During this time, take time to reflect. Shock, as SheKnows defines it, is “the body’s natural protection against pain”. A classy co-ed will realize the relationship is over and begin to move on, even if the next stage isn’t so pleasant. Use the period of shock to be reflective and take time to yourself.

Stage Two: Denial

In the denial stage, feelings begin to bottle up. Because you are hurt, you want to ignore what is happening around you and pretend everything is just peachy. But, remember, facing an issue head on is what a classy co-ed always does. When it comes to a break up, be confrontational. Not with your ex, but with your feelings.

Stage Three: Isolation

After the stage of denial where your feelings are trapped inside of you and you can’t seem to escape from them, the third stage occurs – isolation. Every girl says she will always turn to her friends in hard times. But break ups, like many other difficult situations, are personal. Turn the stage of isolation into a stage of reflection. Realize your faults in the relationship, his faults, and why the two of you did not work out.

Stage Four: Anger

The anger stage is a product of seeing his faults only! Come on girls, we all think we know everything and are always right when it comes to issues in our relationships…even just our friendships with girl friends! Channel your anger into something productive, like working out. Burning up a sweat while being enraged will release endorphins and reverse your crummy mood.

Photo Credit: www.weheartit.com

Stage Five: Bargaining

Sometimes even after hating your ex-boyfriend, you still want him back. The heart is a funny thing and feelings do not easily go away. If you sense you want the boy back, stay far, far away! Focus on yourself, your friends, and your family. Take the time you used to spend with him and spend it with your younger siblings or go on a fun trip with your college girls.

Stage Six: Depression

The sixth stage, and the hardest stage in my eyes, is the depression stage. Depression is nothing to joke about. If you still find yourself wanting him and disliking yourself for the relationship ending, seek guidance in a friend. Depression often leads to emotion eating or other dangerous habits. Work with a friend who has gone through a similar situation and make her your go-to buddy. Spend time in the sun and keep active.

Stage Seven: Acceptance

Finally, happiness! If you have worked through all the sadness and not so warm feelings due to your break up, you are in the seventh stage: acceptance. Celebrate this feeling by buying yourself something special. Treat yourself and thank the people who have helped you through the tough period. A classy co-ed knows she could not have gotten through it alone!

Photo Credit: www.weheartit.com

If you are dealing with a break up while at school and can’t get out of your funk, seek help from your school professionals at your campus mental health center. Also, check out Hannah Borland’s CL Check-Up: Mental Health On College Campuses.

Social Media Do’s and Don’ts with Dating

Posted on June 28, 2012 by KaitlinF

Do’s:

Do post links and pictures that remind you of him on his wall/twitter. Sending him cute little reminders of why the two of you are together is a positive thing to post. It is letting him, as well as the rest of his friends, know that you two are together and are happy! Positivity is always a good thing when it comes to the Internet. It is the negative energy that gets tricky.

Photo Credit: www.weheartit.com

Do keep your pictures tagged! Pictures are a great way to remind yourself and him of fun, good times the two of you shared in the past. So in order to make them last and to share them with others, tag them on Facebook! A picture is worth a thousand words, right? Make them count!

Don’ts:

Don’t spread what you and your partner are doing all over the Internet 24/7. While pictures and cute posts are definite do’s, no one needs to know what you and your boyfriend are doing all the time. It is good to keep your relationship private and between the two of you. The best relationships are the ones when no one knows your business.

Don’t quote movies or lyrics that express how you are doing in your relationship. It is obvious when you tweet or post sad lyrics on Facebook that there is something wrong with you, personally or within your relationship. Keep your problems PRIVATE! And even if you “just like the lyrics” or the quote, realize you are projecting negativity out onto the Internet for people to talk about (either to you or behind your back).

Photo Credit: www.weheartit.com

Controversial Do/Don’t: To put your relationship status up on Facebook?

DO: Lindsey, 20: “I put my relationship status up because it’s a part of my life. Not everything has to be on Facebook and my boyfriend and I did wait to put it up. I’m also proud to be in a relationship with him. He’s a great guy and I am proud to say he is mine. I also do not want people perusing me either. It is also up there for my friends because I want them to b able to become friends with him.”

DON’T: Samantha, 19: “I feel that the important people in your life will know who you are dating. You do not need to fill in the rest of the world. Also, if a break up is to occur, it is a huge mess with Facebook. It is unnecessary.”

IN BETWEEN: Olivia, 20: “Honestly, this question has me torn because I feel like I would want to post that I am in a relationship on Facebook. However, I do not know if I would put the person’s name because if a break up happens, it could get messy.”

So, the verdict? Honestly, it is up to you! Each of these lovely ladies has their own personal reasons. If you prefer a ton of privacy on the Internet, don’t. If you like to share parts of your life on Facebook, do! And there is always the in between option, don’t forget. Think of what is best for you and your partner!

Intern Closet: Summer Wedding Classy Co-Ed Style!

Posted on June 23, 2012 by KaitlinF

Now that the first official day of summer has come, we all can be expecting lots and lots of wedding invitations to be arriving in the mail. Whether you are headed to a sophisticated beach wedding or a simple indoor affair, the perfect outfit is seriously easy and cute! And even more important – your attire is already in your closet! To prove this, check out a personal outfit of mine that I will be wearing for a family friend’s indoor wedding.

I have two options for shoes: wedges and a pair of sandals. I personally am going to wear the wedges because the wedding I am attending is indoors. However, if the wedding you have to attend is a beach or garden wedding, a pair of dressy sandals is the perfect swap out.

The dress I have chosen is a dress from Nordstrom B.P. It falls a little above the knee, is super flattering on many body types, and comes in so many different patterns and colors! Tip for this type of dress: if you have a large chest, go up a size!

Full outfit!

To finish off the look, add a cute clutch and a pair of sunglassesif you are planning on being outside! When attending a wedding, all you really need is your phone, lip-gloss, and your car keys (unless you’re going with your parents!); there is no need for a big, clunky bag. A clutch that follows the same color palette is the ideal addition to a summer wedding outfit.

Photo Credit: www.birchbox.com

To make your pretty hands even prettier while holding that clutch, get a fresh mani and put on Deborah Lippmann’s Naked Nail Lacquer. A nude color will look polished and sophisticated at any important event, especially at a wedding! Stay away from any flashy colors when going to a wedding; of course, the attention should always be on the bride, no matter how classy and cute you look !

Also, check out Kirsten Henning’s 3 Hats for the Summer Sun for a cute sunhat to finish off an outdoor wedding look!

To Text or Not to Text…? That is the Question!

Posted on June 15, 2012 by KaitlinF

Summertime text messages, especially between those college “more than friends”, can sometimes get complicated. So, answer the question “to text or not to text?”, here are three reasons to hit your college cutie up with a message during summer break!

Photo credit: www.weheartit.com

1. If he has an internship or a new job…it will be so easy to make casual conversation with your boy from school. Asking questions about his internship or job (such as where it is located, if he likes the people there, etcetera) can lead into longer, deeper conversation. Casual information like location of a job can bring up food places or other activities surrounding his work place! If he works in an area that you are familiar with, suggest a hot lunch spot or a secret getaway he can visit on his way home. If he lives far from you, compare work places and the people you each work with! Share crazy work stories…say doing this twice a week or something. Make it a weekly conversation that will soon turn into a joke between the two of you and keep you connected even if you do not have a chance to see each other during the long, long four months!

2. If something reminds you of an inside joke between the two of you…send him a text ASAP! Keep any jokes you two had alive throughout the summer so they do not just act as memories to look back on! The joke, as well as your relationship with each other, will grow. An inside joke or something that reminds you of him is a great way to kick off discussion about future plans for summer vacation. It is also a good way to show you are thinking about him! This type of text will make him willing to do the same. If you show you care and are thinking of him, he will do the same and won’t feel intimated to respond! Once the two of you get back to school in the fall, you will have a whole new line up of jokes and stories to reminisce on and continue. It’s a win-win!

Photo credit: www.weheartit.com

3. If you two are going to the same event with a large group of people…it is crucial to send him a text message even if he doesn’t do so first! When planning the event, send him a message and ask his opinion on venue, invite list, and ways of transportation. Make him feel as if he is personally included since there will be a lot of other people (a.k.a. BOYS!) there as well. And a week or a few days before, message him saying how excited you are about the event and how it should be a lot of fun to see him. Keep it personal as much as possible! Let it be known that even if there are twenty-some other people there, he is a major reason for you going! On the day of the event (if you are not traveling together), ask him what time he is arriving and where and hope you two get some alone time at the hectic event! Or better yet – make it happen!

No longer is summer texting awkward. Have fun with it and never be afraid to be the first one to send a message! Sometimes guys need a little push…or a big push!

Why Independence is Beautiful

Posted on June 3, 2012 by KaitlinF

Wherever an independent woman goes, she turns heads. Am I right? Or am I right? And a classy co-ed can spot an independent woman from a mile away. The importance of independence in today’s society, especially when it comes to girls in their teens and twenties, is way underrated and the huge concern over having a boyfriend is quite overrated. Of course, EVERY girl secretly wishes Justin Bieber would sing “Boyfriend” to her and would sweep her off her feet (at any age). But, there is the difference between a wish and a reality. An independent young woman (a classy co-ed!) can change any dream into a reality!

“I take offense to that generalization. Not all women sit around and obsess about men.” - Samantha Jones (Sex and the City)

Independence means knowing what you want and taking charge. A classy co-ed, like any independent woman, has a bright future ahead of her. Independence allows a young woman to be confident and sure in herself enough to enter into an interview with a smile on her face, good posture, and a killer resume. Independence allows a young woman to work hard so all of her dreams can come true. She can focus on herself!

Marilyn: Confident & Happy. That's what makes her beautiful! Photo Credit: whagetdun.tumblr.com

Independence means not compromising yourself. When it comes to relationships, independence is beyond important. For a girl that knows what she wants and gets it, just any guy isn’t going to fit her needs. And more importantly, independence allows a young woman to know what she deserves.

Independence means “I’m ready”. So what to do when a guy comes along that fits the checklist? Independent women are ready for the future and all that it holds, including the perfect guy. She has herself together, meaning when she enters into a relationship, she has nothing to hide!

Independence means freedom. All aspects of an independent lifestyle radiate confidence. The independent young woman is free because she relies on no one. She does everything herself and only does what she loves. Free bird doesn’t even begin to describe an independent, classy co-ed!

Independence is a beautiful, beautiful embodiment of confidence and hope. An independent lady is true to herself. And remember, a classy co-ed can turn independence into a fantastic future!

To become an independent, confidence classy co-ed, check out CL’s Beauty By Confidence Campaign!

A Little about CL Intern Kaitlin Fitzpatrick!

Posted on May 25, 2012 by KaitlinF

Forever a Friar ♥

Name: Kaitlin Fitzpatrick

Position: Relationship and Lifestyle Writer

University: Providence College

Major: Political Science, with a minor in Writing (just declared!)

Pets: Buddy, the cutest Maltese ever

Nickname: a variety…Kait and for two lovelies, Rosie. However, I prefer Kaitlin

Dream Job: Editor of a magazine, like Meryl Streep in Devil Wears Prada but less mean

Favorite Color: Purple

Favorite candy: Sour Patch Watermelon

St. Patrick's Day 2012!

Favorite movie: Despicable Me, I love the minions!

Favorite cuisine: Mexican, by far

Favorite season: Fall for its pretty leaves, my birthday, and the gorgeous weather

Coffee vs Tea: Coffee

PC vs Mac: Mac

Coke vs Pepsi: Coke…though I am a known Diet Coke addict

Stripes vs Polka Dots: Stripes

3 words to describe me: funny, motivated, and laid-back

3 words to describe my style: classic, free, flirty

You will find on my desk: post-it notes, a picture of my dad and I when I was four, a piggy bank that looks like a stuffed animal and lots Providence gear (even though we have by far the oddest mascot ever!)

You will find on my DVR/Tivo: Real Housewives…mostly Jersey, NCIS

You will find on my Ipod: A mix of dubstep, John Mayer, and rap

You will find in my refrigerator: cheddar cheese, pickles from Fairway Market, and organic chocolate milk

Half of Bedford 305!

I have a slight obsession with: coconut flavored anything

I dislike: orange creamscicles. Yuck!

My friends would say I am: honest, for sure.

I am most happy when: I am driving around with my friends, windows down and music up.

Most people are surprised to know I: used to play golf in high school.

A classy co-ed is: a young woman that is confident, secure, and cool. She knows what she wants and she works hard to get it!