Meet CL’s New Intern Cassandra Marro!

Name: Cassandra Marro

Position: Lifestyle Writer, and so excited! I am honored to be a part of such an amazing team.

University:Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, NJ

Major: I graduated with a BA in Communication Studies and a double minor in Creative Writing and Literature, and I’m hoping to get a job writing as a food critic for magazines and blogs.

Organizational Involvement: In college, I was inducted into Sigma Tau Delta, the international English Honor Society, and continue to be a proud member!

 

Pets: I have two cats named Scooby-Doo and Angel. Scooby-Doo is ridiculously chubby while Angel is stick thin (I wonder which one eats more!) I also have a little Havanese puppy named Gizmo, who is the most adorable thing.

Nickname: Cass or Cassie, but I prefer Cass.

Dream Job: An international food critic (and musician), able to travel the world, sample different cultures and their cuisine, and then write about what I liked and disliked, and what I would like to try again! I kind of do all of this now, just not for a paycheck

Favorite color: Purple

Favorite candy: I don’t eat candy that often, but I would have to go with Sour Patch Kids or Milky Way.

Favorite movie: American Beauty or Fight Club. I love Kevin Spacey and Edward Norton!

Favorite cuisine: Indian. Well I have three favorites, but Indian wins out.

Favorite season: Spring and early summer. Everything is just so fresh and alive, and there’s an energy in the air that is just contagious.

3 words to describe my style: Versatile, fun, and eye-catching (in one way or another!)

 

You will find on my desk: A heat-sensitive Dexter coffee mug (it changes colors!), a calendar that has a different cooking tip for each day, my laptop, and my newest literary obsession (I just finished The Hunger Games Series!)

You will find on my DVR/Tivo: Nothing! I don’t have one, and I’m OK with that.

You will find on my iPod: Over 10,000 songs. I absolutely love, eat, sleep and breathe music. I also have an app on my iPod Touch called Winestein PRO, which allows me to pick any kind of dish (beef, chicken, pork, pasta, etc.), and then it indicates the perfect wine pairing for that dish. I find it incredibly useful when coming up with new food and wine creations!

 

You will find in my refrigerator: A pineapple, cranberry-raspberry juice, Frank’s Red Hot sauce, eggs and fresh mozzarella cheese, if I can get it.

I have a slight obsession with: Music, and glitter. But mostly music. It’s kind of getting unhealthy at this point

I dislike: People who immediately dismiss, judge or chastise things and/or other people that they simply don’t understand. I try to be as open-minded as I can every day, and to experience new things with wonder and open arms, and while I know that I’m not perfect, when I see other people who are so closed off and judgmental, I can’t help but feel sorry for them for not being able to experience life to the utmost degree. That and closed-minded people just make me angry.

My friends would say I am: shy at first, but very passionate, funny and loving once I open up to another person.

I am most happy when: I’m sitting outside with my friends on a perfect spring day, playing my ukulele or guitar and singing whatever song pops into my head.

Most people are surprised to know I: have been to 7 European countries, and I can cook almost every type of cuisine that each country serves. I also really love to throw on an apron and bake for hours. It helps me de-stress.

 

A classy co-ed is: Someone who’s fun, stylish, respectful of others, and eager to experience whatever life throws at them.

 

Cassandra Marro is a college graduate and a Lifestyle Writer for College Lifestyles. She is excited and honored to be on the CL team, and cannot wait to share her experiences with her readers!

Meet CL Intern Rachel Crocetti!

Name: Rachel Crocetti

Position: Health and Fashion Writer

University: Hofstra University  

Major: Journalism/Photography

Organizational Involvement: Her Campus Hofstra, Ed2010, She’s The First

Pets: A chinchilla named Steve!

Nickname: Rachie, Rach

Dream Job: Editor at a women’s fashion or lifestyle magazine.

 

Favorite color: Turquoise

Favorite candy: Reese’s peanut butter cups!

Favorite movie: Finding Nemo

Favorite cuisine: Italian

Favorite season: Summer…there’s nothing better then a day at the beach or by the pool!

Coffee vs Tea: both!

PC vs Mac: Mac

Coke vs Pepsi: Pepsi

Stripes vs Polka Dots: Polka dots

 

3 words to describe me: Ambitious, silly, and stylish.

3 words to describe my style: Bohemian, chic, and unique.

 

You will find on my desk: Colorful markers, lots of notebooks and post-its reminding me to do things.

You will find on my DVR/Tivo: The Vampire Diaries, Gossip Girl and Glee.

You will find on my Ipod: Lots of country music!

You will find in my refrigerator: Chocolate milk (and ice cream in the freezer-always!)

 

I have a slight obsession with: Pinterest  and cowgirl boots.

 

I dislike: clowns! (They are absolutely terrifying!)

 

My friends would say I am: reliable, selfless and intelligent.

 

I am most happy when: wandering around NYC with friends or hanging out on my back patio with family.

 

Most people are surprised to know I: have a small photography business where I do portraits, engagement shoots and even some weddings.

 

A classy co-ed is: someone who is poised in every situation and stays true to themselves!

 

Rachel Crocetti, a sophomore at Hofstra University, is a Health and Fashion Writer for College Lifestyles. She studies Journalism and Photography and is looking forward to a summer filled with sunshine, good friends and new adventures!

Meet CL Intern Carolyn McMahon!

Name: Carolyn McMahon (Carrie)

Position: Health and Fitness Writer

University: University of Southern California

Major: Kinesiology

Organizational Involvement: Will be a freshman in the fall, but plan on working as a personal trainer at the Lyon Center, joining greek life and clubs on campus

Pets: A Shetland Sheepdog named Sutter

Nickname: Carebear

Dream Job: To become a fitness icon and shape the fitness industry

 

Favorite color: Pink

Favorite candy: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups!

Favorite movie: A very close tie between Step Up and Dear John… sense the theme here? #Channing Tatum

Favorite cuisine: I’m a pretty basic gal… I love fresh salads, grilled chicken, Omlettes and oatmeal.

Favorite season: Spring and Summer!

 

 

 

 

 

Coffee vs Tea

PC vs Mac

Coke vs Pepsi- Neither!

Stripes vs Polka Dots

 

3 words to describe me: Ambitious, outgoing and honest

3 words to describe my style: Comfy, casual and plain. I am almost always in workout clothes, but on the rare occasion that I am not, I’m in a USC sweatshirt and yoga pants

 

You will find on my desk: Textbooks, fitness books and many different scented lotions

You will find on my DVR/Tivo: Documentaries and reality shows

You will find on my Ipod: Avicii, Sak Noel, Chris Brown, David Guetta, Far East Movement, Rihanna… anything I can dance too!

You will find in my refrigerator: Tubberwares with all my meals for the week

 

 

 

 

I am have a slight obsession with: Coffee

 

I dislike: Ketchup!

 

My friends would say I am: Unpredictably fun

 

I am most happy when: I’m having a laugh with my friends or I’m lifting weights at the gym

 

Most people are surprised to know I: Have been to over 30 countries!

A classy co-ed is: Someone who knows their priorities and goals, takes the steps to achieve them and lives out their dreams.

 

Carolyn McMahon is Health and Fitness Writer for College Lifestyles and a Kinesiology student at the University of Southern California. She is an ISSA Certified Fitness Trainer and writer for her blog, This Fit Chick.

Fearless Collegiate: CL Interviews Nicolette Winn, Founder of the No Longer Silenced Movement

It’s rare to find a person like Nicolette Winn. As only a Junior at Southern Illinois Carbondale she has been able to take her experience of growing up in a household rattled with abuse and addiction and turn her efforts into helping others and raising awareness. Nicknamed The Fashionable Philanthropist, Nicolette has her own blog which features regular posts about her fashion and volunteerism inspirations. Earlier this year she launched her website the No Longer Silenced Movement to help teens realize they are not alone and to give them inspiration. Her efforts have already garnered media attention in a segment with Channel 12 Heartland News. When Nicolette’s not helping build houses for Habitat for Humanity or working with The Women’s Center she likes to catch up on episodes of “The Real Housewives” and indulge in chocolate. This ambitious and determined collegiate is never without a smile and we can all learn something from her.

Q: Many victims of childhood and teenage abuse don’t share their stories. What makes you inspire others to seek help and make a difference?

 A: “As a child, I never had a positive role model to whom I could relate. I was the tiny, cute girl who excelled in academia, dominated sports fields, worked two jobs, wore high heels to school, and almost always had a smile on my face. I think it would’ve helped me so much to see another female who is similar to me who survived child abuse and continued to succeed in life. My goal is to serve as a role model to teenagers to show them how to seek help. During my teenage years, I never knew that I could report what was occurring in my household, and I definitely understand which resources to utilize to do so. Most importantly, I want to become the first nationally recognized face of child abuse survival in order to inspire teenagers to pursue their dreams. Abuse often hinders self-esteem, and I want them to understand the important of increasing their self-confidence and following their passions.”

Q: How did you start the No Longer Silenced Movement?

 A: “Throughout high school, I would journal my abuse and how it made me feel. Because I feared the wrath of my father, I always shredded and promptly disposed of my writings. In June of 2011, I decided that I wanted to publish a book of stories of people who had survived child abuse and found success. After posting in numerous Craigslist advertisements in various cities and receiving no response, I halted this effort. In a plea of distress, I e-mailed Jo Coleman, the CEO of Psychology Today and begged for his assistance. I figured, “Hey! This man is successful. He should have some beneficial tips or connections.” Mr. Coleman’s response was basically that this is my mission and that I needed to make it happen, and everything suddenly made sense. This February, I launched my blog, No Longer Silenced, which ran a week long feature pertaining to and in honor of National Children of Alcoholics Week. My father has a drinking problem, so I decided to share a few of my stories. The response I received from readers was astonishing, and I decided to continue my blog but give it a new twist. Soon after, I launched The Fashionable Philanthropist, which combines my love of community service with my passion for fashion. After blogging for National Children of Alcoholics Week, I felt like I needed to do something more…something bigger. I thought about what I would’ve needed as a teenager in order to help myself during my abuse, and I wished that I would’ve had an example to follow. At this realization, I decided that I would become that example for other teens and decided to organize and launch my first event, the No Longer Silenced National Child Abuse Prevention Month Awareness Walk. Approximately a week after the walk, I launched my official No Longer Silenced Movement website.”

Q: As a Fashionable Philanthropist you share great finds on your blog. Where do you go to find the best deals?

A: “Oooo! I have specific stores that I like for specific items. For example, I always get my jeans at Hollister. Because I have such a small frame, they fit me perfectly and are decent priced. A few weeks ago, I got two brand new pairs of jeans for about $40 each. As far as socks, I’m addicted to Old Navy and haven’t worn much else since my freshmen year of high school. I think it’s about time that they give me a VIP card! Each Christmas, I would receive between 20-30 pairs because that was about the only thing I ever wanted. I have two places that I go for underwear – Victoria’s Secret and Wet Seal. For full coverage, I opt for the spandex boy shorts at V.S. and for lacey, less coverage, I hit Wet Seal. When shopping for basic wardrobe staples, I always search stores such as Old Navy and Wet Seal. Around Christmas, I purchased approximately 13 camis at Old Navy for $5 each, and I believe 8 long sleeved tees for $6 each. Normally, these items cost more, but I found them on Old Navy’s “Act Fast” sale. For solid color v-necks and camis, I also hit up Wet Seal. Wet Seal has a mix-and-match 5 for $20 deal, so last time I got a fabulous color palette of v-neck t-shirts and a few camis. When considering my more stylish pieces, I generally stick with Marshall’s or TJ Maxx. My philosophy with these stores is, “Shop Hard, Shop Often.” Both stores are constantly changing their inventory, so they tend to be hit-or-miss; however, I guarantee that one hit trip will make up for all of your other misses. Also, I shop end-of-season clearances, but I usually steer clear of Marshall’s and TJ Maxx clearances during these times. As far as and nail polish is concerned, I’m a drug store junky. I usually purchase makeup at Wal-Mart; however, if you’re looking to play with new colors, you may want to consider purchasing a less costly version at Dollar General or Dollar Tree. I love to buy $1 lipsticks at Dollar Tree to test out the colors.  Dollar General is also a gold mine for $1 nail polishes, and if you like the acrylic/gel French Tip, you can purchase DIY nails and save approximately $700 a year. Oh, Queen Helene cocoa butter lotion, which is fantastic and smells great, is cost efficient and can be purchased at Wal-Mart or Dollar General. One more thing…athletic clothes. Always go to TJ Maxx, Marshall’s, or Gordmans.”

 Q: How would you describe your personal style?

A: “My personal style depends on my mood. Some days, I love to wear white lacey dresses with pearls and chic red lips, while other days I find myself in bright, fun patterns with tall, yellow wedges. For class, I usually dress more casual and wear a lot of jeans and layered basics. I try to dress up this look by adding accessories such as headbands and scarves. I absolutely do not own a pair of sweat pants because I made myself donate them all. As a student, it is easy to become lazy because most people wear sweats to class. If I don’t own them, I can’t wear them; however, if I’m feeling athletic, you may find me in a matching track suit or neon Nike running shorts. Overall, I would say that my personal style is forever involving. Because I was forced to grow up at such an early age, I did enjoy fashion, but I didn’t have much of a chance to develop my personal identity. So now, at the age of 21, I am always shopping and trying out new looks to discover what best suits me.”

Q: As a student you have an organization and participate in events to raise awareness about child abuse. How do you manage your busy schedule?

A: “Time management! My planner is my life, and I would be completely lost without it. I have also become a talented at multitasking, and I try to focus on what’s important. For example, if I catch myself surfing social media, I remind myself that I am only gifted so much time, and I could be using that time more appropriate to focus on school, work, and the No Longer Silenced Movement.”  

 Q: Who is your support system now?

 A: “Professionally, I see a psychiatrist and a counselor. On an everyday basis, my support system consists of my boyfriend and his mother, my friends, and some of my co-workers. An addition and important support system is the high volume of those who read the Fashionable Philanthropist and contact me with words of support.”

Q: What are your career goals?

 A: “My highest ambitions are to obtain a Ph.D in Industrial-Organizational Psychology and work in an applied field. Currently, I believe that I would prefer to have a career in which I interact with people as opposed to working at a computer all day, so I’m currently exploring job opportunities within this field. I believe that it would be so incredible to improve the work lives of numerous people because it can drastically impact their health and mental state.”

Q: As a kid you were made fun of for being too skinny. What motivates your confidence today?

A: “Growing up, I was often called names such as, “Twigalette,” but today, I love my body. I am so proud to have a healthy and strong frame that is capable of such high achievement. Each day, I started looking at myself in a full length mirror, and I realized my body looked much different than how I pictured. I had always pictured myself as looking starved and gangly, but in all actuality, I look physically fit! What motivates my confidence today is looking in the mirror and admiring my beautiful body and all that it has achieved and appreciating its strength.”

Q: At College Lifestyles we have the Beauty by Confidence Campaign. What is your definition of beautiful?

A: “My definition of beautiful is looking and feeling my best in a way that pleases my expectations. I am not defined by what others say or believe.”

To connect further with Nicolette follow her on Twitter and like the No Longer Silenced Movement on Facebook. She’s truly amazing.

 

Amber Ferguson is a senior Fashion/Health Intern at College Lifestyles (TM). She is a sophomore at Prince George’s Community College. She’s obsessed with reality TV & loves traveling. Follow her on Twitter @Ms_AmberDawn!

SarahFit Talks College Diets & Establishing a Brand to CL

Perhaps you’ve come across Sarah Dussault while browsing her over 200 videos on her popular YouTube channel looking for the latest fitness idea or read her blog for some cool recipe ideas. This University of Delaware alum has over 80 million views on YouTube and is your trusty source for everything diet, exercise, and lifestyle related. When she’s not watching her favorite T.V. show “Revenge” she eats her favorite treat, cupcakes, while sipping some SmartWater. With a dedicated “College” section on her blog, Sarah spoke to College Lifestyles about the challenges of being a healthy collegiate and how she navigated a hectic schedule and eating right.

Q: How is your website different from other health/fitness sites?

 A: “I think I symbolize what most women struggle with. I love fitness and not all the girls do but granted I love the cupcakes and I love college. Telling someone in college to completely not dink and cut out sweets because that’s not realistic. That’s what every diet and weight loss group says. So when I started to do my channel I found that I have a lot of college followers. My site’s different in that I say it’s okay to have a drink or two and I show that I do screw up sometimes but its not one of those things where you should throw in the towel if you have a mess up. Get back up on the horse and try again. I’m one of the few bloggers that also has a strong YouTube channel.”

Q: Do you have any tips for busy college who say they don’t have the time to exercise?

 A: “I don’t like accepting excuses. I was a college student I know what it is like to make the time. All you have to do is 20 minutes. Whether that’s 20 minutes in the morning or before your classes, that’s the easy answer. Those who are really strapped for time I tell them to move their body more and focus on their diet. You cannot exercise enough to overrule a bad diet. If you’re going to drink 10 beers and have late-night pizza, you’re not going to be able to exercise enough to not have a weight gain. In order to counterbalance you need to make good decisions when it comes to your diet. When it comes to moving your body, walk to class and take the stairs. If your on the phone and want to call your mom or call your friend at another school instead of sitting on the couch and talking, walk you burn more calories.”

Q: How did you compose the College Diet Plan?

A: “It’s a combination of literally what I’ve used to lose weight when I was in college. Sophomore year I lost all the weight I gained freshman year and kept it off. The College Diet is a mix between I did and what I do now. It’s clean eating (for the most part) and you have to use what you have available. It’s quick suggestions of what you could put together in your dorm room, dining hall, or student center. The foods don’t necessarily need to be cooked or stored in the fridge.”

Q: What are quick healthy meals for college students on the go?

A: “One of my favorite things is having an apple, a handful of almonds, and a Laughing Cow mini Babybell cheese. Its portable, you can put it in your bag, and it will stay fresh for a few hours. When you don’t have time to eat lunch that’s a quick little 250-calorie lunch. If you can run home to your apartment in between classes try making a smoothie. Other things are stir-fry. If you have a kitchenette stir-fry is awesome. At the dining hall go for brown rice and a salad.”

Q: For YouTube how did you gain so many subscribers? Do you have any tips?

A: “I started making YouTube videos in 2006 and basically it’s about being honest, be yourself, and have consistency within your brand. This is something I don’t have because I started so early and Twitter didn’t exist when I started my YouTube channel. Have your YouTube name, Twitter name, and Facebook name all under the same. Interact with your fans. When they leave you a comment, respond. If they give you a suggestion on a video to make, make it.”

 This season Sarah’s sporting the neon trend. To watch her bikini ready or prom workouts be sure to check out her YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook page!

 

 

Amber Ferguson is a senior Fashion/Health Intern at College Lifestyles (TM). She is a sophomore at Prince George’s Community College. She’s obsessed with reality TV & loves traveling. Follow her on Twitter @Ms_AmberDawn!

CL Interviews Miss America 2012 Laura Kaeppeler, Part II

Wrapping up her email interview with College Lifestyles, Miss America 2012 Laura Kaeppeler participated in a Q&A with questions of importance to classy co-eds like you, questions about the College Lifestyles Beauty by Confidence Campaign, and about where she sees herself next.

 College Lifestyles: Time management is so important  – how do you do it? Any tips?

 Laura Kaeppeler: “The best way to conquer time management is to prioritize. Every day I make a list of the top 5 things I must get done in one day and as I complete a task, I cross it off my list.”

 CL: College Lifestyles believes in classiness – how would you describe a classy lady?

 LK: “When I think of classy women, I think of confidence, charm and elegance. I believe classy women are always aware of their surroundings and will portray themselves in the most positive way possible.”

 CL: CL wants to help prepare girls for intern and job interviews. What are your do’s and dont’s?

LK: “I don’t believe there are any right “do’s” or “don’t” for a job interview. First and foremost it is important to academically prepare to the best of your ability but once the preparations have been completed, I believe the second most important aspect is to be yourself. Allow your true personality to shine through. Most people remember presentation, eye contact, presence and poise more than the actual words that come from your mouth. Don’t be afraid to crack a joke, either. After all, even an interviewer is human and likes to laugh every once in a while. J”

 CL: College Lifestyles LOVES beauty and fashion. What are your must-haves for this season?

 LK: “My fashion models the expression “less is more.” I like to emulate women like Grace Kelly or Kate Middleton who represent timeless and effortless beauty. This season you will see me wearing beautiful colors and patterns paired with classic staples that remain in style no matter the season.”

College Lifestyles started a movement called the Beauty By Confidence Campaign, which, “not only promotes good health, nutrition and lifestyle practices but also the power of confidence and positive thinking in today’s college lady.”

Finish this quote – I love my …. “Family, and dog, Smokey J”

 CL: What do you love the most about yourself?

 LK: “I have learned to love being vulnerable. Being open to both criticism and praise allows me to continuously grow as a young woman and rather than loving only one thing about myself, I am learning to love all that I have to offer and give in this life.”

 CL: What makes you feel most confident?

 LK: “Being prepared, and making a killer entrance. The best feeling is giving an incredible speech or presentation and receiving compliments afterwards. Positive feedback is what motivates me to continuously work harder to make the next speech, presentation or performance better than the last which in turn constantly provokes confidence.”

 CL: Describe yourself in three words.

 LK: “Empowered, compassionate and genuine.”

 CL: What advice do you have for girls struggling with confidence and body image issues?

LK: “Having competed in the pageant world, I completely understand the pressure and stress to have the ‘perfect body.’  However, I will be the first to say, I in no way, shape or form have the perfect body. I am not a size 0, nor do I want to be. I have learned to be comfortable and confident in own skin, and comfortable and confident can come in all different shapes and sizes. The media portrays a negative view of what the ideal woman should look, walk and talk like, and I hope young women realize every person is made beautifully different and rather than all fit the mold of what the media portrays, we should embrace our unique body types. I believe true beauty shines from within.”

 CL: How do you stay healthy?

 LK: “Traveling 20,000 miles per month and living out of hotel rooms it is extremely difficult to maintain a workout regime or routine so I have to focus on nutrition. I look at food as fuel for my body. With an incredibly rigorous work schedule I know that I must fuel my body with the proper nutrients to maintain the stamina it needs to perform day in and day out. “

CL: Looking, ahead, where do you see yourself in five years? Ten years? Twenty years?

LK: “In five, ten and twenty years I hope to be happy, in whatever I find myself doing. My career ambition is to become an attorney so in the next five years I hope to be finishing law school. One day I hope to have children and a family of my own but I am one to not put a time limit on expectations for life because ‘life’ happens and plans will most likely change along the way. I believe God will steer my life in the direction He wants it to go and I will be most happy doing what I believe He has called me to do.”

Did we forget to ask Kaeppeler something you’re dying to know? Let us know in the comment box below!

Missed Part I? Check it out here!

Debra Schreiber is a senior journalism and Spanish double major at Duquesne University. She is a Senior Writer for College Lifestyles, and hopes that this article will inspire all classy co-eds as it has inspired her.

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College Lifestyles Interviews La Carmina: Fashion Blogger, TV Host, World Traveler

Want to travel the world? Be on TV? Write a book? La Carmina has done all that and more.  After being accepted to Yale Law School at just 20 years old, La Carmina needed a creative outlet and began a style blog in September 2007. Since then, La Carmina has acquired an impressive resume a mere 7 years after her graduation from Columbia University. College Lifestyles had the chance to pick this multimedia guru’s brain, and find out how you can do all the cool things she does – for a living.

 

College Lifestyles (CL): Could you explain for our readers what exactly it is you do?
La Carmina (LC): I’m a travel and fashion TV host, journalist, and blogger at http://www.lacarmina/com/blog. My focus is on alternative and Gothic youth subcultures, in Japan and all over the world. I was born in Vancouver, Canada and studied at Columbia University and Yale Law, but I started a blog and it led me down a life-changing road. I’m now the author of 3 books — including Cute Yummy Time (Penguin) and Crazy, Wacky Theme Restaurants: Tokyo (Random House) — and a journalist for CNN, Huffington Post, AOL. My ”First Mate” and I started a TV fixing, hosting and coolhunting (CL Note: ie trendspotting) firm, called “La Carmina & The Pirates.” I also host my own web series for AOL / Huffington Post, and constantly travel for appearances and press trips (this year, I participated in a panel and sat front row at New York Fashion Week). Right now, my focus is on television presenting; my credits include The Today Show, Travel Channel, NHK Japan, Fuel/Discovery/National Geographic, Food Network, Pepsi, Sony, Norway TV, CNN. All my TV clips are here.

CL: How did you start each of these ventures?
LC: From the start, my blog focused on my passion: Japanese, alternative and subculture style. As fashion blogging blew up, I was fortunate to have opportunities to host TV shows, travel (New York, Italy, Hong Kong, Mexico, Japan), and write for major publishers and media organizations. My site organically led to these opportunities; Andrew Zimmern’s production company found me because I wrote a book about theme restaurants and blogged about bizarre Japanese cafes. They invited to be the guide on Bizarre Foods in Tokyo. After, I kept receiving television hosting and arranging offers, so I started a company with my First Mate Naomi, called La Carmina & The Pirates. We also do coolhunting, consulting, Tokyo tour guiding and other missions.

CL: What is a typical day like for you?
LC: Each day is different, depending on whether I’m on a TV shoot, traveling, or working on my site and Pirate jobs. If I’m on a travel TV shoot, it’s go-go-go from morning to night. There’s tons of advance planning, from getting filming permits to sorting out each step of the itinerary. On low-key days, I spend time with my Scottish Fold cat, Basil Farrow, and catch up on the deluge of emails that never seems to end.

CL: By the looks of it, you’re an extremely busy person – how do you manage your time?
LC: I believe in “working smart.” A lot of people work themselves to the ground for no reason or gain. I think it’s important to manage your time well, say no to the unessential tasks, and delegate. Fortunately, since my work is strongly personality-based, work and play are usually linked.

CL: How did you become interested in Japanese culture?
LC: Since my family is from Asia, we often traveled to Japan when I was young. In my early teens, I visited Harajuku and adored the vibrant street fashion and culture – Jrock, Gothic Lolita, Punk, Kawaii. This was the initial spark that led to where I am today. I continue to be fascinated by Japanese pop culture, such as the weird theme restaurants and cute bento boxes.

CL: How did last year’s 3/11 earthquake affect your work?
LC: Many of my friends were affected by the disaster, and I wanted to do something to help. I fundraised in LA, and released two design collaborations to benefit Japan: a HOPE benefit t-shirt with Like Atmosphere, and a panda bear necklace with Soho Hearts. Both are for sale here, with proceeds going to the earthquake and tsunami victims. These charity collections are meaningful to me because they’re an artistic response to the disaster; a way to raise awareness and rebuild. On the anniversary of the earthquake and tsunami (March 11), I also teamed up with two amazing Industrial dancers, tank9 and Mary Nine. We filmed a dance video in Seattle, for Ridley Scott’s “Japan in a Day” project — you can watch it here. Our footage captures the immense positivity and energy of youths teaming up for an important cause.

CL: Why do you think you’ve become so successful as an online presence, and how can CL readers do the same?
LC: Part of it is luck and good timing; I started La Carmina blog in 2007, when blogging was a relatively new phenomenon. I posted frequently, participated in social networks and built everything up gradually. I also feel that when an opportunity presents itself, you should try to take it as far as it can go — the sky’s the limit. I never dreamed I could have these amazing gigs in travel and TV, but now it’s my life.

CL: How did your undergraduate experience shape your career?
LC: I studied at Columbia University in New York City. I like to say I majored in “nightcrawling,” since I probably learned more from the city’s alt nightlife than the classroom! However, I loved my school’s Core Curriculum, and humanities courses in Japanese culture and philosophy. Going to Columbia and Yale Law let me explore my interests and figure out what I wanted to do.

CL: What advice do you have for aspiring writers/fashion designers/TV hosts?
LC: Prove that you’ve got the track-record (schooling, portfolio of successful projects). Show numbers and the results that you can
deliver. And only work with people who “get it.” You have something special to offer, a window into the world you inhabit — so make sure your clients appreciate and respect that. I think a college education always helps to broaden your mind, and get you where you want to be.

CL: What’s your favorite place you’ve been and why?
LC: I love Tokyo’s spooky scene. You’ll always find me and my friends at Goth Industrial and Fetish parties. I also spend too much time in the Japanese Lolita Jrock Punk second hand store, Closet Child.

CL: What’s your favorite part of the job? What’s the most difficult?
LC: Nothing makes me happier than hearing from readers, who say my blog brightened up their day, or inspired/ helped them in some way. Sometimes it’s challenging to work for yourself — you have to always juggle and chase new projects — but I love the freedom and flexibility it gives me.

CL: How do you manage your personal relationships when you travel so much?
LC: Skype and email makes it easy to keep in touch. And my Scottish Fold cat, Basil Farrow is endlessly forgiving.

CL: Goth-Loli style is beautiful but very dramatic. What is a good ’starter outfit’ for someone who wants to incorporate a little bit of this style in their wardrobe?
LC: There’s no rulebook that states you must own certain items or wear expensive Japanese brands to enter this lovely world. Instead, you can make Lolita a part of your life in many small ways. And the further you explore this wonderland, the more your confidence will grow. Start with tiny “tips of the hat” to Lolita fashion in your daily wear. For example, you might wear a big bow in your hair, or doll eyelashes, or a cute tutu skirt. My friends and I like to mix Loli influences into our clothes; we don’t believe you have to look like an Angelic Pretty model in order to genuinely enjoy the fashion.

CL: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
LC: “Don’t be a tuna head!” From the Maniac Mansion computer game.

CL: Is there anything important that you’d like to share with CL that I haven’t asked?
LC:  It’s impossible to predict the path you’ll end up on, but a college education will always help you to get there. I’ve found that my writing and reporting has benefited from my studies, and that companies have been more keen to work with me because of my degrees. I didn’t end up in law, but found a path that I love, and that’s 100% me. And you can do the same! I hope you’ll stay tuned to my La Carmina blog, to see where my adventures take me next.

Want to know more about La Carmina? Check out her blog, find her on Facebook, or follow her on Twitter!

Sasha Graffagna is a New York University junior studying Journalism and Comparative Literature. She is currently on exchange at La Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

CL Exclusive: Meet aSociete Co-Founder Vanessa Gabriel

Everybody loves a good fashion deal. University of the Pacific student Vanessa Gabriel’s business revolves around them. The 19-year-old entrepreneur started a website call aSociete where college students can shop and not feel guilty.

“With everything rising, such as tuition, gas, living, textbooks, etc., at the end of the day students have less money to spend on themselves,” Gabriel said. “aSociete is by college students for college students and we just want to help our peers around the nation save money and look good.”

Gabriel’s ambition to find brand name clothing at a low price is what encouraged her to create the site. Take a peek into her life as she explains the in and outs of being an entrepreneur before even graduating college.

CL: How does aSociete work?

VG: Liz Zepeda and Jarrett Mattson who are my buyers for the men’s and women’s fashion merchandise departments  establish personal relationships with brands working together to create exclusive sales for aSociete. They travel several times throughout the year to meet with brand representatives personally and create unique relationships with each. They also attend several fashion trade shows to meet with brands and coordinate future aSociete sales such as famous Magic in Las Vegas, Agenda in Huntington Beach, and LA Fashion Market. A lot of these brands love that we cater exclusively to college students and want to expose their brand to our market. Every sale that’s curated is put together specially for aSociete.

CL: How would you describe your own personal style? How do you use aSociete to style your wardrobe?

VG: I’ve grown so much in my style since I started college! My style secret is my 15-year-old sister who is such a fashionista and I always look to her for advice. She is definitely ahead of her time and stays up to date on all the trends. I love aSociete because I’ve always been a conscious shopper ever since I was little; learning to bargain shop and make my money last so being able to have access to these amazing brands at great prices is like heaven for me.

CL: How successful have you been with the site?

VG: The success has been awesome! Since our launch in late October of last, we’ve seen how aSociete has grown organically viral. It’s been truly amazing to see through social media and the internet how students arespreading the word about aSociete. We’ve even been lucky to have so much support on some of our social media platforms such as over 11,000+ likes on our Facebook Fan page and over 4,000+ Twitter followers. It’s really fun to see how students truly love the site and what we’re doing. With over 4,000+ orders sent out around the nation from places such as the East Coast or even Midwest it’s awesome to see that students love what we’re doing.

CL: You may be a MTV reality show star soon?

VG: We’re one of the finalists in the running for a new MTV reality series about young entrepreneurs in America with special mentorshipfrom PR guru Kelly Cutrone. It’s been super exciting and we’ve been in communication with the producers so far while the show is still in development. This opportunity has been really exciting for us because we know the potential it has to reach college students around the nation and let them know about aSociete!

CL: How do you utilize social media to gain attention?

VG: With social media being the most populated websites by college students it is marketing that we really use to our advantage. With so many different platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Vimeo etc. we try and connect with students every which way possible. Through each we try to offer something different so each audience feels like they can relate and connect with us as people and not just as a company.

Our favorite social media currently is connecting with other students through our videos. Not only are they fun to make and our video editor is amazing (he went on tour with Justin Bieber and Sean Kingston!) but we feel like students can relate to us on a deeper level and see for themselves that we’re college students just like them.

CL: How do you balance school and work?

VG: After hours spent adding, dropping, and researching potential classes to take I was able to work out a two day a week school schedule which leaves me three days to work on aSociete and not to mention a four day weekend. School and aSociete are very important to me and I try and prioritize my time to each. With school I try and stay ahead on homework and reading so on my off days I can solely focus all my attention on aSociete. The days I do attend school I’ll stay late in the library to get ahead on future homework/assignments for the following week so I never fall behind.

CL: Advice for college students looking to start something similar or branching out into the fashion industry?

VG: My #1 tip of advice is that always remember that there is no age requirement for success. I believe there is still a stigma around being young and inexperienced that people automatically rule you out thinking you can’t be successful. With having no business experience but an idea I immersed myself in the fashion industry and the people embraced my passion, ambition and eagerness to learn as much as I could from them.  I was relentless and didn’t let anything stop me from making aSociete a reality.

 ”Never did I expect to be running a full-fledged business with some of my best friends and really making an impact among my generation,” Gabriel said. “Everyday is really a blessing and I hope our story can be of inspiration to other college students or young people to know that anything is possible.” 

aSociete is offering an exclusive offer to College Lifestyles readers! For 20% off your first order, use the discount code: CL20 during checkout! 

 

Jessica Fecteau is a senior fashion, etiquette and apartment/dorm life writer and is a sophomore at Central Michigan University. Jessica loves fashion magazines, listening to indie/folk music and traveling to big cities.

CL chats with the Girl Scouts: Celebrating 100 years!

Being a classy coed isn’t always the easiest job.  As young women in pursuit of a college degree and fulfilling career, we have a lot of pressure placed on us to exceed expectations.  Fortunately, we also have a lot of resources available to us to help us on our fast paced (and sometimes ever changing) career paths.  One organization dedicated to our cause is the Girl Scouts.  On March 12, the Girl Scouts will be celebrating their 100^th anniversary.  For the past 100 years, the organization has been instrumental in creating future women leaders.  I had the opportunity to talk with Aminah Abdullah, Manager of Entrepreneurship/Financial Literacy and Julie Gilmartin, Director of Volunteer Services of the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana to get tips about leadership, employment, and volunteer opportunities available for collegiate women through the Girl Scouts.

CL: What leadership qualities do the Girl Scouts work to build in young women?

Aminah: Wow.  There are so many.  The first things that come to mind are good character, self-awareness, integrity and willingness to serve others.  The Girl Scouts leadership model emphasizes that that all activities be girl led.  This includes the steps to earning badges and the way that volunteers conduct their troop meetings.  Girl Scouting provides girls with the platform for self-discovery at an early age and gives them valuable skills that will help them later on in life.

CL: What volunteer and employment opportunities do the Girl Scouts have to offer?  Are there leadership positions available for collegiate women?

 

Julie: The employment opportunities break down into 2 categories.  First, the Girl Scouts offer part time positions to work directly with the girls during the school year.  We have outreach programs that work with under-served communities as well.  Second, we hire college students to work at both day and overnight summer camps.  We also have a ton of volunteer opportunities.  Young women make such good mentors and examples for younger girls.  With that said there’s lots of different ways college students can get involved.  The biggest volunteers are the troop leaders.  In Chicago we also have a program center with after school, evening, and weekend programs that are always open for volunteers.  We also have some office positions available.  And these leadership positions are open to everyone whether you were a Girl Scout or not!

CL: What qualities do the Girl Scouts stress for young women just beginning to enter the workforce?

Julie: One of the most important things for our volunteers is that they get to build their reference base.  Our volunteers go through training and are able to build their resume.  Working with the Girl Scouts makes them part of a larger organization which helps build contacts and mentors.  It’s a great way to network!

CL: Over the past 100 years, what leadership qualities have stood out as the most important for young women to have?

Aminah: Confidence and character. Confidence is closely related to self-esteem and self worth and simply has a major impact on a person’s happiness. I also believe that confidence breeds success.  Ultimately a good leader has to be able to walk the walk and talk the talk.

Be on the lookout for the Girl Scouts on your campus!  They aim to connect directly with campus personnel who work with service clubs, fraternities/sororities, service learning and interns.  The Girl Scouts also post volunteer opportunities to Volunteer Match, United Way organizations and other, local volunteer center websites if you’re looking to get involved!

 

 

Cassidy McAloon is pursuing a Bachelor in Arts Degree in Broadcast Journalism at Marquette University.  She is a fashion, sorority life, and apartment life writer at College Lifestyles.

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“Be kind, no exceptions” CL interviews a unique Good Samaritan

In a world where, at times there seems to be such depressing and sad news, a little kindness can go a long way. While I was attending undergrad at Point Park University in Pittsburgh, there was a lady who made it her mission to spread joy, happiness, and kindness. To the public, she was known as “Secret Agent L” and in July 2009 she began the Secret Agent L (SAL) project. Agent L and her ‘affiliated agents’ would do anonymous random acts of kindness or ‘day-brighteners’ for unsuspecting Pittsburgh residents. A year after the project began, Agent L held a charitable fundraiser to reveal her identity to the world. Behind the nude trench coat, dark sunglasses and black hat was 32 year old Laura Miller. Followers and supporters were thrilled they could finally put a face to this mysterious woman. College Lifestyles was able to chat with Laura about SAL, life after the reveal and all things good.

 

How did the Secret Agent L (SAL) project begin?

I used to have a personal blog and there was a woman in Texas named Tobi who was reading my blog and I was reading hers. She always left comments and we would sometimes talk through email.  After a while, it felt like I knew her. In July of 2009, Tobi was going to have a birthday and I really wanted to send her something. Tobi said not to send her anything, instead she wanted me to go out and do a random act of kindness.  She told me I can call myself ‘Secret Agent L’.  So Tobi is responsible.

After Tobi’s suggestion, you ran with the idea. What was the first ‘mission’ you performed?

I was a theater major in undergrad and I act professionally as well so I thought this was the perfect opportunity to take on another persona. So I decided that’s what I was going to do for Tobi. I was sitting at work with my assistant Vivian and I explained the whole situation to her and I said I think it would be so cool to make a little business card and attach it to a flower and leave that flower somewhere like on a random windshield or wherever and take pictures and put them on the blog. We created a secret agent blog and sent it off to Tobi. Tobi thought it was above and beyond but she loved it. She submitted the post to a website called Kirtsy, where you can find the most interesting things on the web. Within a day I was getting hundreds of hits on my blog and I thought this was so fun that I had to do another mission.

What kind of reactions have you received about the SAL project?

People who first learn about the project are really interested in participating, which is the best. Occasionally, I will get emails from people who have been recipients from a mission and across the board their responses are that they were having a really hard day or they were going through serious depression or have been feeling really alone and they happen to look down and see this card that says ‘For you, yes you!’  and it changed everything for them that day. There couldn’t be better reactions than that.

Why did you decide to reveal yourself after being anonymous for the first year of the project?

I started to feel kind of lonely because all these followers were telling me how much how they enjoyed what I was doing and they wanted to meet me. So I decided to reveal myself at a charity fundraiser for National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Did your life change at all after the big reveal?

A couple days after the reveal fundraiser and party CNN contacted me about doing a live interview on TV. The morning after the interview, I had over a thousand emails in my inbox. Then the Huffington Post picked up the story along with Fox news, the Alan Colmes show, Glamour.com and Readers Digest. Yahoo! did a story on the top ten inspirational acts of 2010 and named the Secret Agent L project as one of those acts. Once CNN contacted me, my life completely changed.

What kind of missions do you and your affiliated agents perform?

I have taken a little step back from doing the missions only because the project in the last couple years has really grown but when I do get a chance to do a mission I really love giving just a five dollar bill in a greeting card or a coffee shop gift card. I always tell the affiliated agents that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to make a difference. It’s the little things like that really have a good meaning. I take whatever is personal to me and give it back to someone else.

Did you ever expect this blog to turn into a project with Affiliated Agents from all around the world?

Not at all! When I was anonymous for the first year, it was just something fun Vivienne and I could do. We would occasionally do these missions because we thought it was really exciting that no one knew who we were but we had such a huge following.

A lot of times we are juggling so many things. How do you find the time to do this?

I’m going to make the time, not find it. When it comes down to it you make the time for it. You make a conscious decision to do this and give back. I don’t do it every day but my heart tells me that this is something important to me and it really matters. Nothing tops what I get from this project, nothing.

How can CL readers become an Affiliated Agent?

It’s really simple to become an agent. Visit secretagentl.com and send me an email and I will email back giving everything they need to do their first mission. I’ll include tips on how to complete your first mission. I don’t assign a mission to people because I want them to make this a completely personal thing. I also attach the SAL business card so you can leave them on your mission gifts.  After the mission is complete, email a picture and a write up about what you did and watch for it on the blog.

 

Since its beginning in 2009, the Secret Agent L Project has gained international attention with over 2,000 affiliated agents in 8 different countries including Japan, Germany, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Australia.

 

Interested in spreading happiness?  Visit the SAL website to become an affiliated agent.

 

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Minyvonne Burke is a fashion and lifestyle writer for College Lifestyles ™. She graduated from Point Park University and is currently pursuing her master’s degree at Hofstra University. She loves online shopping, cute bags and NYC.

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