CL’s Interview with Campus Book Rentals!

As the warm and beautiful sunshine of August settles in and our summer’s begin to close, young college students across the country are eager to hit the shops in preparation for their upcoming semester. But one thing no college student enjoys spending money on are textbooks. But CL has you covered – if you’re looking for a great deal on textbooks this coming semester, look no further than Campusbookrentals.com! Here’s everything you need to know:

1) Tell us a little about Campusbookrentals.com! How did you get started?

CampusBookRentals.com was founded by Alan Martin while attending Weber State University.  Like all students he was tired of paying so much for textbooks, and had the brilliant idea of renting one of the books he owned to a fellow student.  It moved from that one book, to his garage, to an office, to a small warehouse, now into a 57,000 ft2 warehouse in Ogden, UT.    The company has grown immensely over the past few years and look for us to be in the INC. 500 this coming year.

2) What makes Campusbookrentals.com different from other sites like Amazon.com?

Where amazon is a marketplace, we really specialize in renting the student the books they need.  So with that brings the two main differences:  price, and customer service.  Renting is cheaper than buying, and much less stress full.   Also we are much more involved with our customers.  We want them to contact us with any and all questions.  We have a super laid back, easy to work with team, and it shows in our customer satisfaction.

3) Since you rent your textbooks to students, how long can a student have their book for before it must be returned?

Students have a ton of options here.  For starters we offer three standard rental periods: Semester (130 days ), Quarter ( 85 days ), Summer ( 55 days ). There is also an option to pick your own return date, so really you set the terms.  We also understand there are always problem, so with each rental we have a 15 day grace period to return your book at the end of your rental period.

4) What is the benefit of renting from Campusbookrentals.com?

We really do everything possible to make sure the customer gets exactly what they need.  They start off by getting the best deal on the market; then they get a book that is in new or nearly new condition, then they get to use that book like they own it, and then return it to us free of charge.  Throw into the middle of that a staff that is waiting here day and night to answer any questions they might have; and in the end really there is no downside.

5) Mailing textbooks back and forth must be expensive…Do you have a policy on shipping?

Shipping totally depends on how soon you need your book.  We have three options to get your book to you: 7-14 days is FREE, 5-8 days is $3.99, 2-3 day is $7.79.  But the best part is return shipping for the customer is always FREE.  We send you a return mailer with a pre-paid shipping label on it, so all you have to do is throw your book in it and drop it off.

6) Give CL three words to describe Campusbookrentals.com!

I only need two: UNEXPECTED AWESOMENESS!

“We were students, we are students and we really are striving to make the college experience more affordable and less stressful.” That is what Campusbooksrentals.com promises to each and every one of their customers. So check out their wonderful website today for the best textbook deals out there!

Emily Corr is a rising junior at Providence College, studying Social Science, English and Theology. She hopes you check out Campusbookrentals.com for great deals on textbook rentals. She hopes you enjoy the rest of your summer and have a healthy and fruitful academic year!

CL’s Guide to Staying Healthy in College

Whenever we hear the word “college,” our mind conjures images of exhausted students, slaving away under piles and piles of textbooks and papers with empty containers of coffee scattered about the table. And while current college students may giggle with nostalgia at the image, incoming college freshmen gulp and panic at the thought of pulling an “All-Nighter.” That, paired with elders advising them of myths such as the “Freshman Fifteen” and the inevitable “Conversion to Caffeine,” the Class of 2015 has been left paralyzed with fear. But worry no more! CL is ready to show you that you can have a healthy and successful academic year, without putting on the pounds! And not only will our guide show you how to stay in shape, but it is full of tips on what to eat to improve memory function and alertness! Enjoy!

Breakfast: Start your day off right with a meal that with wake you up and keep you full during those early morning classes! Spread some sweet and savory peanut butter on a whole wheat bagel and serve yourself a side of some tart blueberries or an apple! Pair with a warm mug of Green Tea, which has just as much caffeine as coffee but will help improve your memory and leave you with healthier skin! The peanut butter will give you enough protein to wake you up and keep you full, while the fruit contains quercetin which will help improve your memory!

Lunch: These lunch munchies are all proven to help improve one’s memory, which proves particularly helpful during those long school days. Try lentil soup with a side sandwich full of proteins such a turkey, ham, and cheese to keep your tummy from growling during class! Or opt for a salad with a few of the following items, full of folic acid to improve your memory as well: spinach leaves, green peas, broccoli, artichokes, cherry tomatoes, beets, beans, and onion! Stay away from thick and fatty dressings and instead try a balsamic vinaigrette to top it all off!

Dinner: Dinner in the dining hall can be the most “dangerous” in terms of unhealthy meals. You will want to stay away from many of the cooked vegetables, as they are often cooked in lots of butter and no longer hold any nutritional value. Fish is a great food for memory improvement, but be careful to make sure it is cooked properly. If fish isn’t your thing, then go for the classic rice and beans. Beans are a great source of protein and they will keep you full, especially when you’re in the home stretch of finishing that paper! Serve with a side of broccoli and you have a hearty and filling evening meal! (Hint: Don’t go for the already cooked broccoli, as it was probably cooked in a lot of butter. Instead, go for the raw broccoli at the salad bar, fill them into a bowl with hot water, and steam them in the microwave!)

Snack: Studies now prove that it is smart to opt for five to six smaller meals per day instead of three large meals, so let the snacking commence! Eating more frequently throughout the day keeps your metabolism at a steady, healthy pace. So keep your favorite trail mix in your dorm room and fill a small bag every day to munch on in between classes! You can even make your own: almonds, crasins, peanuts, cashews, raisins, and dark chocolate chips leave a nice balance of sweet and salty to keep you smiling all day long!

Exercise: Experts say that 30 minutes of exercise every day can improve brain function and memory, as well as leave you energized! If you have the time in your schedule, exercise in the morning – it will give you more energy in the morning when you would otherwise have the least energy. Try not to exercise too late or it might be difficult to fall asleep. As for what to do when you get to the gym, opt for cardio before you test out the weights. 30 minutes on the bike or treadmill will give you the workout your body needs, thinking time your mind needs, or extra reading time to finish those last few pages before class begins!

Sleep: While it may be difficult to find much time to sleep besides on those lazy Sunday’s, sleep is one of the best things we can do for ourselves while at school. Try to aim for six to eight hours per night, and if you like to nap, do not fall asleep for more than two hours – you will be left feeling groggy and sluggish otherwise. If you have trouble falling asleep, try eating foods high in tryptophan such a milk, honey, and bananas!

Emily Corr is a rising junior at Providence College, studying Social Science, English and Theology. After two years of living at school, she is finally figuring out how to be creative in the dining hall. She hopes that these tips help you feel energized, alert, and improve your memory to help you excel in school!

CL’s Guide To “Room-ing It Up” This Fall!

Despite the fact that it’s currently the middle of July and the 2011-2012 academic year still sits about five weeks away, it’s never to early to start designing our future college abode. And look no further than College Lifestyles’ new affiliate, Room It Up! With a vast collection of dorm essentials ranging from backpacks to flip flops, Room It Up provides a classy and convenient way to shop for your dorm items! Their website is especially convenient for incoming college freshmen as many of their products are printed with the same colors and patterns, making it super easy to coordinate and match your new room! So whether you’re dorm shopping for the first time or searching for more items to spice up your college abode, check out these items and more from Room It Up!

Lap Desks Sometimes, the only thing more difficult than writing that 10-page paper is finding a comfortable and stable surface to type that paper on. But with Room It Up’s colorful and comfortable lap desks, you can kick back on the couch and complete any assignment. You don’t even have to worry about reaching too far for your coffee, because these lap desks come complete with a crafty cup holder! Room It Up offers their lap desks in so many different colors and patterns, it is super easy to coordinate with your bedspread or color scheme! School work has never been completed more comfortably. Just try not to fall asleep!

Rain Boots While they may seem childish at first glance, rain boots are certainly making a comeback on college campuses across the country. You may initially believe that rain boots are not worth the investment (really, how much does it rain?), but when you’re spending a majority of your time walking to classes, the library and the school cafeteria, you begin to realize how much it really does rain and how unpredictable the weather can be. Especially when the rain begins to pour and you find yourself a fifteen minute walk from your dorm room, you will wish you had invested in some waterproof gear. So check out Room It Up’s colorful collection of rain boots that are both youthful and sophisticated. Your dry feet with thank you!

So check out Room It Up’s adorable website and admire all of their unique products, complete with matching patterns and colors so that shopping can be completed without worry! Whether you’re a first time college student discerning the decor for your new abode, or a returning student looking to add something new to your room, check out Room It Up for some colorful and classy dorm essentials!

Emily Corr is a rising junior at Providence College, studying Social Science, English and Theology. While she is excited to return to college in August, she is just as excited to plan her dorm decor for the new school year! She recommends CL’s newest affiliate Room It Up as the perfect shop to fulfill all of your dorm item desires!

Hip Heroine: CL’s Style Guide for Hermione Granger

It’s finally here, the moment we’ve all been waiting for: Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows, Part Two. Whether you’re planning to dress up as your favorite character for the midnight premiere or just catch one of the weekend showings with a good friend, it’s both exciting and bittersweet to think that our generation of college-aged students grew up with the fascinating characters of Hogwarts. But just because the last movie is finally debuting, that doesn’t mean Harry Potter is gone from our lives forever. The books will still sit on our bookshelves, just waiting to be passed down to our children for generations to come. The movies will still play on our TV’s and DVD players (although it is frightening to think that I own HP1 on VHS), only to continue to play at reunions and gatherings decades from now. But one unique way in which you can carry on the Harry Potter tradition right here and now is both fun and affordable – by adopting the classically characteristic wardrobe of your favorite character! And no, I’m not talking about the robe and wand. Here is CL’s guide to achieving the classy, chic and natural look of the beautiful and lovely Hermione Granger!

Outfit #1: Comfortable

Perhaps it’s because of Ron’s rustic green mug, but this photograph inspires a desire to snuggle up with a warm mug of hot chocolate on a cold winter day (or in a very air conditioned room during the summer)! But despite the long, restless days our favorite three wizard’s constantly face, Hermione has the ability to always look cleaned up and classy! And so can you: for starters, tie your hair back in a lose pony or bun (and don’t be afraid to let some strands loose!) Grab your favorite pair of yoga pants and pair them with a snug long-sleeve shirt. Top your classy and comfy clothing off with a soft and colorful scarf. You’ll be sure to brighten not only your outfit, but your entire day! Here’s how you can recreate Hermione’s comfortable look:

Top: Dark Gray Gently Flared Jersey Top with Pin Tucks & Pearlescent Buttons, 3/4 Button Tab Sleeves. H&M, $17.95

Scarf: Pink & Orange Metallic Threaded Scarf. Forever 21, $6.24

Outfit #2: Outdoor

While we are certainly months away from the cold and snowy days of winter, we can still allow ourselves to be inspired by the chic, vintage style of our favorite heroine. Instead of neglecting the cool blues and grays that classify the winter months, Hermione’s style embraces these colors without appearing too cold! Similarly to her “comfortable” look, Hermione opts for mainly neutral colors, selecting only one article with lots of color (here, it is the fingerless mittens)! The subtle yet detailed pattern on the mittens is complimented on the top of her sweater as well, tying them together nicely. Again, she tops it off with a neutral knit scarf that blends well with her patterned sweater. Here’s how you can recreate Hermione’s winter look:

Top: Red & Taupe Faire Isle Cardigan with Y-neckline and Five-Button Placket, 3/4    Sleeves. Forever 21, $18.24

Scarf: Blue Solid Fringe Trim Scarf. Forever 21, $7.04

Outfit #3: Formal

A classic that will go down in the Harry Potter fan books as one of the most beloved outfits sported by Miss Granger, Hermione’s ravishing red wedding party dress is both youthful and sophisticated. The modest neckline, thick straps, and feather frills give this dress that princess quality every little girl dreams of, yet the form fitting top and snug waistline show maturity and sophistication. If you happen to have a creamy pale skin tone, gem tones such as ruby, emerald, and sapphire are very flattering! (If you have darker skin, be confident and try lighter tones!) Our heroine completes the lovely look with a simple necklace and cute red bow shoes. Here’s how you can complete Hermione’s formal look for yourself:

Dress: Red Pins and Needles Pleated Open-Back Chiffon Dress. Urban Outfitters, $79.99

Shoes: Coral Patent Leatherette Classic Bow Cone Heels. Forever 21, $22.80

Emily Corr is a rising junior at Providence College, studying Social Science, English and Theology. She hopes you enjoy the final Harry Potter film and enjoy the thrills, chills and excitement the series has provided for our generation, as well as generations to come!

Classy Ways To Wear Your Cause

What if you were told that you had the ability to change the world with the click of a mouse? Because of the bravery and creativity of a few adventurer’s, filled with the desire to serve and a bit of wanderlust, we have the chance to help change the life of a stranger forever, all without leaving our own home. Check out these unique organizations and the different ways they are striving to make a difference in our world.

1. TOMS Shoes “One for One”: That is what TOMS shoes promises with every purchase of their rustic, earthy line of footwear. With every pair of shoes you buy, they will send one pair to a child in need. But why shoes? It may be difficult for many of us to understand, but a leading cause of disease in many third-world countries comes from wounds to the feet that become infected, as well as disease-ridden soil that can penetrate through bare feet. Not to mention that many schools require shoes as a part of their dress code: if children do not own any shoes, they cannot attend school and therefore do not have the means to an education. Because of TOMS, over one million pairs of shoes have been donated to children who dream of the day when they can proudly wear a pair of shoes on their feet, something we take for granted every day. And not only do TOMS support a great cause, they’re super cute and comfortable! Check out all of their different styles and help a child realize the dream that is our reality. http://www.toms.com/

2. (RED) “Buy (RED), save lives. It’s as simple as that.” By teaming up with over a dozen of the world’s most well-known brands such as Apple, Gap and Starbucks, (RED) is a movement dedicated to helping those affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa. By donating 50% of all purchases at these popular brand stores to the Global Fund, (RED) has already donated over $170 billion to those who have been affected by the harmful disease. By purchasing a caramel latte at Starbucks or a t-shirt at The Gap, you can save someone’s life halfway across the globe. http://www.joinred.com/red/

3. Falling Whistles What would you say if I told you that our world’s largest war was raging right now, as you read this? But it wasn’t in Iraq, Afghanistan, or anywhere in the Middle East. It had claimed more lives in the past decade than World War II, and approximately 1,500 innocent lives are ended every single day. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a war is raging and children are being sent to the front lines of war – with nothing but a whistle, because they are too small to carry a gun. These young children are used as a distraction to the opposing side, and as they fall, they are meant to form a human shield for their armed comrades behind them. But no longer will their weapon be seen as a symbol of death and bloodshed. Instead, it will become their voice. By purchasing a whistle, your proceeds will be donated to rehabilitating these children, advocating for their safety and establishing peace in the Congo. Become a “whistle-blower for peace” and sport an innocent whistle – hanging just above the heart – that carries the story that needs to be told. http://www.fallingwhistles.com/main/

With incredible organizations such as these, the power to change the world has been placed in our hands. It has never been easier to help a stranger in need, in places we may never even travel to in our lifetime. Because of the sheer bravery of some, we are all given the opportunity to give back what we have received.  Opportunity is at our doorstep… it’s at our local coffee shop, the shopping mall, and even a click away. Don’t let go of the chance to be a hero – act now.

Emily Corr is a rising junior at Providence College, studying Social Science, English and Theology. While she enjoys sporting these products everyday, she hopes you are more affected by the messages they send, the causes they support, and that you are inspired to help a stranger in need.

Tired? Get Inspired! CL’s Guide to Spicing Up the Summer!

“Summer Rut” – Certainly many would not use this term to describe their summer vacation, but it has proven to be a chronic problem that many college students experience towards late June and early July, the middle of the collegiate summer break. But never fear! CL is here to offer you the best tips on how to avoid summer boredom and how to walk the fine line between relaxation and laziness. It’s never too late to revitalize your summer – try the CL way!

1. Clean/Rearrange your room If you find yourself in a funk, start here. Let’s face it – staring at the same exact setup every single day can become very boring, very fast. And even if you enjoy the normalcy of your room, sometimes the smallest clutter or mess can prove to be a distraction. So do something about it! Reorganize your closet, donate all of those clothes you don’t wear any more, and make some room for some new storage boxes. Move your desk to a different part of your room, and be sure to dust off your bookshelf! The best part about cleaning and reorganizing your room? Finding old pictures, articles and trinkets that take you back in time to the wonderful memories of the past!

2. Read a book Talk about moving through time. Reading has the power to uproot you from the time-space continuum and transport you to a new and uncharted place. It has the ability to capture both your mind and heart, yet your body doesn’t even have to leave the couch. Books are a passage into a mind other than our own – a new life and new experiences await beyond the cover. If you want to get lost this summer, don’t bother packing up the car – grab a book and kick back!

3. Get crafty It’s amazing how crafts can help pass the time. And with so many different creations waiting just beyond your fingertips, it’s easy and affordable to get started with what you already have! Take all of your pictures and make a photo board, or even create a scrapbook. Paper cranes are a super cute and classy way to brighten a bookshelf, and all you need is scrap paper! If you’re looking for a simple project, try a creative clothesline: all you need are binder clips, pictures, index cards and dental floss! Write out your favorite quotes or words of wisdom on blank index cards and print out your favorite photographs. Then, attach two binder clips to each article and slide the long line of dental floss through all of the open holes. Then drape on the wall as you desire! The best part about creating new crafts during the summer is that you’ll have brand new decorations for next year’s dorm room!

4. Listen to an old CD Usually when we search for inspiration, the last place we want to look is our past – if we’re bored now, then we certainly haven’t done anything to help our creativity. But as the saying goes, never give up on something that once made you smile. Start with music – dig through your old CD’s and play those tunes that used to make you jump to your feet and break out those goofy, ridiculous dance moves. It’s amazing what feelings one can relive through music, and you may even be surprised by how easily the lyrics slip off your tongue.

5. Dance While all forms of exercise are great ways to awaken the body, dancing transcends these and awakens the spirit. You don’t have to worry about keeping pace, and you never seem to realize just how tired you are until you stop. And while busting out the air guitar in the comfort of your own room is fun, dancing is better shared with friends! So grab those old N’Sync and Backstreet boys CD’s and round up your friends for a backyard bash full of dancing, laughter, and the comfort and company of those you love.

Just as the saying goes, “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” Don’t let the summer blues get you down (or nasty weather, for that matter). Try these CL tips and find the joy in escaping that “Summer Rut” in favor of a summer full of growth, development, and perspective. Happy dancing!

Emily Corr is a rising junior at Providence College, studying Social Science, English and Theology. She hopes you try these summer inspiration tips and enjoy the joy and creativity they bring! Summer doesn’t last forever, so go get your feet wet and learn to dance in those summer showers, both figuratively and literally!



Finding Happiness: Fabulous Freshman Tips

It may only be June, but if there’s one recurring thought young ladies can’t seem to remove from their minds during these summer months, it’s all about college! Whether you’re a current university student or a recent high school graduate preparing for the life-changing transition, a mix of excitement and nerves may be plaguing your recent thoughts. But never fear – fresh off their freshman year, I asked eight lovely college ladies what advice they would offer to any incoming freshmen (or college students in general) regarding the emotional roller coaster that is the college transition.

“Just be yourself. The great thing about college is that you get a fresh start, so make sure you’re being who YOU want to be. You are absolutely going to find people who share your interests, so don’t worry about fitting in. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. There’s always someone to help you out if you need it. Talk to the professor, get a tutor, start a study group. College is one of the most fun and exciting experience you can have, so don’t stress about it” Erin F.

“Don’t be afraid to say “Hi” to anyone and everyone. The worst that can happen is you’ll never see them again. The best is that you’ll be friends for the rest of your life” Sarah D.

“Don’t be afraid of talking to others! 99.9% of the people around you are in the same situation as you. Friends can be found almost anywhere on campus. You’ve just got to be adventurous” Kathryn B.

“You may feel homesick in the beginning, but don’t give up – you will find your place. Just don’t forget who you are and don’t let others shape you into something you’re not. There will be people who believe in the same things as you and who are looking for the same things as you” Natalia S.

“Don’t try too hard to be everyone’s best friend. Just be yourself and you will meet amazing people who love you for who you are. Be open to exploring and learning new things, but don’t lose yourself in the process” Sabrina R.

“Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. You will make friends in due time. The important thing to not stress about it. College is much more rigorous than high school, but as long as you figure out studying habits that suit you – whether you work better in your room or in the library – you eventually find what works. Also, remember to relax! Everyone needs a little “me” time to unwind and get her mind off of things” Danielle F.

“Do something entirely new that you’ve always wanted to. I never sang or ballroom danced and neither of those activities will get me a job, but I felt like I was living life more fully. When you see something that pulls at your heartstrings but you don’t have any friends who are interested to join you, don’t let that hold you back. Time with yourself is beautiful – scary at times, but ultimately very essential” Andrea D.

“Give everything time. It takes time to make friends, time to find a routine, time to manage your workload. Be patient with yourself because you can be your own worst enemy or your own best friend. Just know that you are different from everyone else so never feel like you should be doing the same exact things as everyone else” Tricia C.

We are told by our elders that college is, “the best four years of your life, so live it right.” But as a result, we put way too much pressure on ourselves to make it perfect, producing a myriad of emotions and ultimately, disappointment. The true key to “living it right” means being open to change and not setting expectations. College is the time to grow in every aspect of your life: in mind, character, and spirit. So throw caution to the wind and get your hands dirty in a new and revitalizing experience. Keep an open mind and put yourself out there – you gain wisdom and perspective with each new person you meet. But most importantly, always remember to hold on tight to what lies within your heart.

Emily Corr is a rising junior at Providence College, studying Social Science, English and Theology. Whether you’re currently a college student or preparing for the transition into freshman year, she hopes that you are open to making new friends and trying new things! But most importantly, she hopes you remain true to yourself because true happiness lies within the heart!

The Classiest Gifts Are Always Priceless

It’s graduation season, and that means lots of well wishing and gift giving! Whether you have a friend graduating from high school, college, or even if they’re just celebrating an exciting occasion, these thoughtful and creative gift ideas are sure to warm the heart, even during these hot summer months!

1. Scrapbook One of the most thoughtful ways of expressing your affection and appreciation for a friend is to create a scrapbook of memories for them! When push comes to shove, we often put activities such as scrapbooking to the side. So put some time aside that your friend might not be able to and craft up a picturesque memoir of their journey, whether it be high school, college, or just the past year. Add special touches that show that you admire the little things about them like their favorite colors, hobbies, and memories! But keep in mind that the scrapbook is for them – let them be the focus! It’s tempting to slide extra pictures of yourself in, but pictures of you won’t be necessary in the future – you’ll be remembered for creating the masterpiece in the first place!

2. Handwritten Letter If you’re not one for crafts, then this is a great option for you! Invest in good quality stationary (paper that won’t rip easily) and write out a thoughtful note with a good pen that won’t smear. The length and content are completely in your hands, so don’t feel that all letters need to be serious or overly cheerful. In our technologically savvy age, it’s easy to get caught up in writing emails and typing up word documents – a handwritten letter exemplifies your patience and the appreciation you have for your friend.

3. Decorative Picture Frame Whether your friend is going off to college, into the “real world”, or just celebrating an exciting occasion, picture frames are a great way to help friends create a meaningful and loving environment right in their own space. Pick up a blank frame at the store (no designs or fancy fabrics) and select a special photo to insert. Then you can decorate the frame as you desire. Writing a small note, inside jokes or words of wisdom around the picture are different ways of making the frame “pop!” 3-D stickers, bows, and handpicked fabrics are also unique ways to spice up a classic gift.

4. Burned CD A super fun and affordable way of creating a thoughtful gift is by burning a personalized CD for your friend! Whether they’re songs that remind you of them, songs they love or just songs you think they would enjoy, burning a CD shows that you carefully thought about and selected songs just for them. Not to mention that everyone gets a little excited when they have new music to play on their iPod!

5. College Survival Package (For High School Grads!) Particularly easy if you currently or have attended college, this survival guide will take a load of stress off your preparing friend! Take a large recyclable shopping bag and fill it with goodies such as Febreeze, Tide-To-Go, a planner, Vitamin-C, shower flip-flops, batteries, band-aids, and anything else you think appropriate and useful for college students! This will certainly give your friend a head start with preparing their dorm essentials!

Take some time this summer to thoughtfully plan out a special gift for a friend of yours. Gifts are more than something you “need to show up with” – they’re an expression of your appreciation and thanks towards your friends, a testament of your love and affection for them. Choose the CL way and give the gift that keeps on giving: love.

Emily Corr is a rising junior at Providence College, studying Social Science, English and Theology. She loves finding creative ways to show her friends how much she truly loves them! She hopes you try these gift tips and experience the joy of giving a gift from the heart!

Simply Sophisticated: CL’s Top Ten Natural Looks for the Summer

Summer days are here again! But before you pull out last summer’s wardrobe from the closet, give CL’s natural look a try – you won’t believe how naturally easy it is!

1. Natural Makeup Means Neutral Makeup Avoid liquid concealers – they tend to leave a cakey look and don’t bode too well in the sun. Instead, opt for powder foundation with SPF (I recommend Bare Escentuals) and a dusting of bronzer on the cheeks instead of a bright blush. Rather than fretting over waterproof eye makeup, try clear mascara – it will give you the same great lash length, no clumps, and less to worry about when in the water! Top it off with a natural glow – opt for lip balm over lipstick, and apply a shimmery moisturizer to your cheekbones and temples (High Beam is fantastic)!

2. Clean and Clear Nails Treat yourself to a manicure this summer, but don’t go too deep with your color choice. Instead, stay simple and stick with clear polish. It will give your nails a protective cover to prevent breaking and a nice, shiny gloss that doesn’t attract too much attention.

3. Moisturizer > Self Tanner It’s tempting to pick up some “Summer Glow” self-tanner at the drug store, especially if you’re as pale as me (I often feel like a neon reflector at the beach)! But try to resist and opt for a simple moisturizer with SPF instead! It will give you exactly what you need and protect you from harmful burns. You won’t be left with any streak marks or orange tones, just a natural and real “Summer Glow.”

4. Air Dried Hair It’s almost second nature for young ladies to reach for the straightener or hair dryer when getting ready, but don’t give in! Abandon anything that requires an outlet and unveil your natural tresses! As for accessories, work with what you have (your hair!) and try out some unique braid patterns.

5. Simple Scents Don’t worry about emptying your wallet on expensive designer perfumes this summer. With ten dollars you can purchase a simple summer scented shampoo, conditioner, lotion and body splash, all from your local drug store! Suave’s ‘Ocean Breeze’ and ‘Sweet Pea’ are always a safe bet.

6. One-Piece Bathing Suits They’re back – and cuter than ever! Sometimes the best beach look is the modest beach look. Whether you prefer strapless, built-in skirts, or fun frills, one-pieces minimize your risk of sunburn, cover up any unwanted tummy rolls, and leave you with a sliming figure. You’ll be sure to stand out with this classy and sophisticated option!

7. Clothes that Cover Here at CL, we’re all about encouraging young women to be classy! But there’s nothing very classy about too much exposed skin, so embrace modesty and cover up! To avoid loose or exposed straps, opt for a bandeau. Short shorts are a fading fad, so try a skirt or Bermuda shorts. Sample sundresses and rompers – they’re lightweight, super cute and come in great patterns. You want to attract people to your personality first, and then they can appreciate your chic style!

8. The Brighter, the Better Do yourself a favor and avoid an entirely black wardrobe this summer. No only does it absorb too much sun, but summer time is all about bright, light and happy colors! Whites, Pastels, and Neutrals are always great colors for the summer months, keeping the sun at bay and giving you a cheerful, natural glow.

9. Flat Feet Treat your feet to a heel-free summer! Flats and sandals are a great way to spice up the common flip-flop or sneaker. Brown is always a great color for shoes and sandals – it goes with everything and embraces an earthy nature!

10. Smile! If there’s one thing you should never leave your home, dorm or apartment without, it’s your beautiful and contagious smile! There’s nothing more natural and enjoyable than a happy co-ed. So share your wonderful smile with everyone you meet, even if they are a stranger. You never know who could be in need of a little optimism!

Embrace the CL way and represent a new generation of natural, modest, and classy young women! Not only is the natural look easy, but it encourages you to feel comfortable with your natural beauty – a classy co-ed should never hide herself behind too much makeup or what everyone is wearing. You’re better than that! By adopting CL’s natural look, you’ll find that it leaves more room for your personality to shine, and you’ll attract friends who love you for you, not just for what you wear.

Emily Corr is a rising junior at Providence College, studying Social Science, English and Theology. She loves spending her summer days at the beach or on her back porch, embracing a natural look and lifestyle! She hopes you try out these lifestyle tips for a healthy, safe, and fruitful summer!

Don’t Toss It! Recycling Your Stylish College Memorabilia

If there is one thing young and classy college students love to do, it is preparing to decorate their future dorm rooms. In the weeks leading up to freshman year, stylish young women spend countless hours picking out the perfect comforter and matching storage gear to best reflect their sophisticated and chic personalities. But packing up the dorm room for the summer is a different story. Whether it’s t-shirts or textbooks, students have the tendency to toss these items rather than pack them away into their already overstuffed cars.

Have you thought about putting a cover on that trashcan? Recycle your unsalvageable or undesirable dorm items! And not only will you be going green, but you can also create fresh new items for next years dorm room! Your personality will shine like never before once you try these crafty and affordable tricks!

1. Photo Board

Would you believe that you could create a fabric photo board of all your favorite photographs from an old textbook and a shirt? Not only is it possible, it’s free!

• Take a hardcover textbook and cut the cover off, leaving a sturdy and rectangular shape.
• Then, take any shirt (patterned or fun colored shirts are always best!) and stretch the bodice so that it covers one side of the hardcover.
• Cut the rest of the fabric away and staple the ends to the back of the textbook cover.
• Next, take any ribbon of your choice and proceed to make an “X” across the front side of the board from corner to corner and then a “< >” shape from the middle of one side to the adjacent side.
• Finally, place a staple at each point where the ribbons intersect and glue a trinket of your choice over the staple.

Now you have a new, personalized photo board to place all of your favorite photo memories on!

2. Bulletin Board Collage

This project is much simpler than the t-shirt photo board but equally satisfying! If you happened to bring a cork or bulletin board with you to school, be sure to save it!

• Take any flat or paper materials you received throughout the year such as hand written letters, photographs, or tickets or programs from events and arrange them across the board as you desire.
• Then, take small cut out pieces of paper (perhaps stationary!) and write down quotes or words of wisdom that guided you through your year and place these across the board, covering open pieces of cork if need be!
• Finally, take the more three-dimensional pieces of memorabilia from your year such as tassels, necklaces or lanyards and drape them on the sides of the board.

And there you have it – a scrapbook of your year for your wall!

3. Pillow and Quilt

If you happen to be inclined towards sewing, then this is a fun and unique project for you! Often we purchase clothing because of what it sponsors, not because we intend to sport it. So instead of tossing your clothing, turn it in to something you will use – a pillow or a blanket!

For a blanket or quilt:

• Cut out the bodice or logo on a shirt (measure so they’re the same size).
• Stitch them together, even mounting them on a fleece blanket if you desire!

For a pillow:

• Cut out the bodice or logo on your clothing and stitch it to another piece of fabric (the fabrics should face inside out when you stitch).
• Leave a small corner open so you can turn the pillow inside out and then stuff with as much cotton as you please!
• Then stitch up the last corner and you have yourself a fluffy pillow!

If none of these ideas truly fancy you, there is always the charitable option of donating your dorm items to local charities! High schools and universities are always in need of textbooks for their students, so type in a quick Google search of organizations that may be in need!

These crafty projects are fun and productive ways to unpack your belongings from college and to ease back in to the comfortable and relaxing life that being home for the summer offers! They’re great ways to fill your room at home with wonderful college memories, as well as providing fresh, personalized decorations for next year’s dorm room! Classy crafting for classy co-eds – what could be better?

Emily Corr is a rising junior at Providence College, studying Social Science, English, and Theology. She loves finding new ways to turn old items into fun and practical decorations! She hopes you will try these crafts and enjoy the trip down memory lane they provide!

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