Contact Us  |   Sponsors    Subscribe to College LifestylesNews FeedSubscribe to College LifestylesComments

CL! Exclusive! Interview with Jessica Quirk Creator of “What I Wore” Blog

You wake up in the morning throw on a cute outfit and as you’re walking down the street you start getting compliments and then you want to make sure everyone on campus notices your cute outfit.

If you haven’t heard of Jessica Quirk she is the amazing creator of the “What I Wore” blog that showcases her amazing daily outfits (photos courtesy of her husband Adam). She posts her outfit creations on a daily basis and not only are they trendy and cute but they also mix a lot of couture items with vintage items to give them a fun twist!

 

What girl doesn’t want the whole world to see the amazing outfit she created?!

“I’m thrilled with where the blog has taken me, but no, I didn’t start it with these opportunities in mind. I sincerely just love getting dressed every day,” said Quirk.

Her blog has taken social media by storm and has now become a popular selling novel dubbed the “Cookbook for your Closet.”

Quirk’s Cinderella moment came when the PR girls from Kate Spade sent her the perfect, crème, satin heels accented with a ruffle for her wedding day in September of 2010.

“At this point, I don’t accept many of the gift offers I receive, simply because I don’t have the closet space,” said Quirk, “I’m so grateful to be able to work with so many talented designers be it through collaboration or attending their fashion shows.

While many of us look at celebrities like Lauren Conrad or Kim Kardashian for style inspiration, Jessica takes her own spin by looking at fictional characters and decades to create her ultra trendy outfits.

“I look more to fictional characters from decades past for inspiration.  I love the late seventies and the styling in Annie Hall and Love Story.  I also have a thing for the 50′s housewife, especially Betty Draper.”

 

Her style is not only unique and trendy but also classy to model a CL’s closet after. Jessica Quirk leaves us Classy Coeds with some words to live by:

“Really use the resources you have available to you.  Many other students donate or sell their gently used clothing and that’s a great place to shop when you’re on a budget.  I don’t think I found my real style until a few years after I graduated and had disposable income to use for that purpose.”

Every CL girl should check out Jessica Quirk’s book What I Wore: Four Seasons, One Closet, Endless Recipes for Personal Style.

Bookmark and Share

Staying Classy on Vacation: A CL Guide!

Summer’s not over yet and there’s plenty of time for some vacations. If you’re heading off to the beach or traveling across seas, every CL girl should know her vacation etiquette! Here are some tips for when you’re traveling with a friend’s family instead of your own.

1. Be helpful!

Whether it’s packing up the car or carrying bags into the hotel, make sure you offer to help! Extra hands can go a long way during a vacation, especially when trying to save some time for more relaxing and fun activities!

2. Be Polite!

Minding your manners and saying please and thank-you are always good gestures. Your friend’s parents will also be impressed with the added gesture. Being polite can be the deciding factor between being invited to go on vacation again next year or not. Being polite also keeps the mood light and happy. Rudeness tends to add tension to the environment. Plus, being polite is just the classy thing to do!

3. Be Yourself!

If you’re not familiar with your friend’s family, you might feel a little bit uncomfortable or awkward when you first arrive. Being yourself is a great way to ease your own discomforts as well as allow the family to get to know you (I’m sure they’re just as nervous meeting you too!). Talking with your friend’s parents and siblings will also diminish some of the beginning awkwardness. Getting to know them and showing interest in them will allow you to fall into a routine with them. Once you feel comfortable around them, they’ll feel comfortable around you and you’ll be able to enjoy the vacation better!

Me and my friend's sister at the beach!

4. Be Gracious!

At the end of the vacation thank your friend’s parents for taking you with them. Also it’s always nice to send them a thank-you card in the mail after the vacation. If you feel comfortable enough or know the family well, giving a thank you gift at the end of the vacation is also a nice gesture!

Following these few tips will surely help you have a fun care-free vacation with your friend and his/her family! Plus you’ll be classy and every CL girl wants to stay classy!

Do you have any vacation etiquette tips or advice? Have a story about vacationing with a friend’s family? Comment below!



Nicole Savitsky is a junior at DeSales University majoring in English and Communications. She loves going to the beach during the summer, especially with friends! She can usually be caught reading a book, trying to get a tan, or swimming in the ocean when she visits her favorite vacation spot!

Bookmark and Share

Every CL Girl Should Know: Proper Grad Party Etiquette

School’s out and grad party season is in. It’s the perfect time for every CL girl to polish up her party etiquette skills and be the guest every host wants. The proper way to behave at grad parties may seem obvious—be classy, be polite, be friendly—you know the drill. But I’m here to tell you, it’s not as straightforward as it sounds. This past weekend my family and I went to three grad parties and experienced a few, shall I say, awkward moments.  I came up with a list of questions and asked college girls (including other CL interns) what they would do in each situation. Here’s how they answered.

When should I Arrive?

As the saying goes, “fashionably late” is the way to be. But with three parties on the same day, my family was on a strict time schedule. The first party started at 3pm. We arrived at 3:30pm which was way too early considering we weren’t too close to the graduate or his family. We walked up the driveway to find the graduate, his girlfriend, and a handful of relatives all staring our way. Future tip: Unless it’s family or a close friend, arrive at least an hour after the party starts, that way you can float in and out without looking like the random people nobody knows.

“I usually arrive about five or ten minutes after it’s supposed to start. That gives the host just a few minutes for final touch-ups and calming down.”- Carli Christain, Kansas State University, 2013

“This depends on your relationship with the grad. If he or she is a close friend or family member, the earlier the better. If you aren’t particularly close with the person, I’d wait until at least 45 minutes into the party.”- Bethany Cook, Ohio University, 2012

“On time, if you have another party that day/night as well you should let the host know when you think you’ll be stopping over.”- Nicole Savitsky, DeSales University, 2013

“Around 30 minutes after official start time!” -Emily C, Providence College, 2013

“If it’s a family member, early (to help out with things and help greet other guests you may know/ let the grad greet new people while you help entertain). If it’s a random person’s DO NOT BE THE FIRST TO ARRIVE. You will feel awkward. Arrive a half hour or so after they say food will start.” –Megan A, University of Michigan, 2010

What should I wear?

“It depends on the party–dress to the theme (swim party, casual, dress-up casual).”- Nicole Savitsky, DeSales University, 2013

“A casual sundress or a nice pair of shorts with a dressy top.”- Bethany Cook, Ohio University, 2012

“A nice sundress with wedges or fun sandals.” - Kelly Adams, University of Kentucky, 2012

“Something summery, a step up from casual.” - Kelsey Tremberth, University of Michigan, 2013

“Something fitting for the weather. Dressy but nothing over the top to out due the graduate.”- Lauren Kathleen Beaudin, Macomb Community College, 2013

What kind of gift should I give the graduate?

“It completely depends on how well you know the person! A homemade, personal gift will be more appropriate for a best friend, but a simple gift card is perfectly acceptable for just an acquaintance.”- Carli Christain, Kansas State University, 2013

“Anything he/she could use for their dorm is a great idea. Also, Target gift cards are perfect, that way the grad can use them on anything they might need.”- Kelly Adams, University of Kentucky, 2012

“MONEY, or if you don’t have money to give maybe a picture frame with a memorable photo of you and the person. Another great idea would be like a bucket/basket with “college survival” items. i.e. tide to go, easy mac, pens, highlighters, those baby tissue packs, reading light, ear plugs, bottle opener…. you get the hint.”-Megan A, University of Michigan, 2010

“Gift cards! Everyone says they are impersonal, but they’re perfect for a new grad that’s going to buy a lot of different things, and you can still pencil it into your budget.” - Jessica Salerno, Ohio University, 2013

“For a friend, I just give them a card that’s usually funny and says congrats. For a close friend, maybe something more personal, like a picture board of the two of you for her dorm room.” -Kelsey Tremberth, University of Michigan, 2013

Who do I say hi to? What if they are busy?

“Say hi to the graduate or the family of the graduate first. If they’re busy wait until they seem to have a moment. You and a million other people will want to talk to them that day.”- Jessica Salerno, Ohio University, 2013

“You must say hi to whoever’s party it is! And I think it is classy to introduce yourself to the parents of the person. Parents love to be able to see their children’s friends.”- Carli Christain, Kansas State University, 2013

“Everyone you know! And if you don’t know someone and they’re sitting alone then say hey!”- Emily C, Providence College, 2013

“Any family. Or any close friends. Maybe a cute boy over in the corner. If they are busy move on and come back if they are important.” - Lauren Kathleen Beaudin, Macomb Community College, 2013

“Say hello to the graduate of course, but if they are occupied, be sure to say hello to their mother or whoever is hosting the party. Be sure to thank them for hosting such a great event and congratulate them on their graduate!”- Kelly Adams, University of Kentucky, 2012

Is it weird if my family stays together the whole time?

“Not really. People that know each other generally stick together at these things. As long as they at least make conversation with people other than each other.” -Kelsey Tremberth, University of Michigan, 2013

“No it’s not weird, but it might be a kind idea for your family to mingle with other guests.” - Jessica Salerno, Ohio University, 2013

“No, mine did! At least when I had mine they sat at their own table, and I know a lot of families like to view pictures and things together.” – Lindsay, Drake University, 2013

“Yes. Try and branch out and meet people.”-Megan A, University of Michigan, 2010

“If you don’t know anyone else at the party it wouldn’t be that weird, but try and mingle if you can (you’ll probably have more fun).” -Nicole Savitsky, DeSales University, 2013

How much should I eat? Can I go back for seconds?

“Eat a meal’s worth and if there is a particularly tasty dish, don’t feel bad getting another helping unless there appears to be a food shortage. Typically grad parties have too many leftovers.”- Bethany Cook, Ohio University, 2012

“A lot, and YES! One of the ultimate purposes of grad parties is to stuff your face with free food. Besides, no one wants to have three pans of leftover mostacholi. They want you to eat! – Kelsey Tremberth, University of Michigan, 2013

“At most grad parties I’ve been to, there’s been too much food! Eat as much as you want, the hosts encourage it.” – Jessica Salerno, Ohio University, 2013

“I always eat slightly less than my “normal” amount, just to make sure they’ll be enough food! Generally, there’s more than enough, so I don’t feel too guilty going up for a second appetizer or dessert.” - Carli Christain, Kansas State University, 2013

“Eat as much as you know you can (start small and go back up for more). My experience with graduation parties and food is that there usually is a TON of food and the hosts are always encouraging you to eat more or take some home.”- Nicole Savitsky, DeSales University, 2013

Can I bring a date?

“I would say no. If the host wanted your date to come, he or she would have invited him! But if you must, I think the appropriate thing to do is ask your host if you can bring a date. Most hosts will probably be okay with it.” – Carli Christain, Kansas State University, 2013

“I would ask first because some parties only make food/have room for a certain amount of people, but in most cases I personally don’t think the host would mind.” - Nicole Savitsky, DeSales University, 2013

“Unless you are given a plus one on the invitation, you shouldn’t bring a date, especially if it is a sit down dinner.” - Kelly Adams, University of Kentucky, 2012

“This can get awkward – if it’s your boyfriend/girlfriend totally fine! When it’s a random friend you just wanted to bring along and they don’t know the grad, I think it’s rude. They are just in it for the food to be honest. People did that at mine and didn’t even introduce themselves – very rude.”- Lindsay, Drake University, 2013

“Of course! Call ahead though.”- Emily C, Providence College, 2013

I see a new cute guy I want to meet. How should I approach this?

“Depending on how well you know the host, ask for them to casually (read: not awkwardly) introduce you two. If you’re more bold, you could even ask, “Hey, how do you know [insert name of party host here]? I went to school with her, but I haven’t seen you around.” (hahaha, I definitely would NOT do the second one! But maybe other girls are more courageous/smooth than I am?)” – Carli Christain, Kansas State University, 2013

“Go talk to him! Start out the conversation by asking him how he knows the grad!” Kelly Adams, University of Kentucky, 2012

“Introduce yourself, and pretend you’re looking for the graduate. Then slide into some casual conversation, saying something like, “I’ve never met you before, how do you know [whoever is graduating]?” Then go from there ;]” - Kelsey Tremberth, University of Michigan, 2013

“I would try having someone who knows the guy introduce you. If not, try and wait until he’s alone and then ask him a question like ‘do you know where the drinks are’ or introduce yourself.” – Nicole Savitsky, DeSales University, 2013

“Ask him how he knows the grad, and then go from there. Oftentimes there will be games at the party like cornhole, ask if he wants to play.” -Jessica Salerno, Ohio University, 2013

Who should I say goodbye to? Do I have to sign the guest book?

“Say goodbye to the graduate and the host of the party. Thank them for throwing such a great party and thinking of you for the invite. It is polite to sign the guestbook, plus it is a great memory for the graduate to have.” – Kelly Adams, University of Kentucky, 2012

“You don’t have to sign the book, but it would be a nice gesture. Definitely say goodbye to the grad and their immediate family, if you know them.” - Bethany Cook, Ohio University, 2012

“You MUST sign the guest book! And put a personal note if you can. This is a wonderful memory for the graduation party host.”-Carli Christain, Kansas State University, 2013

“Yes, sign the guest book. Make sure you say goodbye to the grad and thank her for inviting you. If you don’t have to leave at a specific time offer to help her clean up afterward.” - Jessica Salerno, Ohio University, 2013

“Sign the guest book – memories. If the grad is free, say bye, if not don’t feel obligated unless you are family or best friends – or say bye to the parents and let them know you are leaving.” – Lindsay, Drake University, 2013

Share your tips for staying classy at grad parties in the comments section!

Erica Avesian is an intern at College Lifestyles™. She is a junior communications major at the University of Michigan. Erica loves strawberry lemonade and neon pink nails.

Bookmark and Share

CL’s Guide to Orientation Etiquette!

It might be the beginning of summer, but college orientation is just around the corner! The first day on campus can be nerve racking. You’re suddenly thrust in a crowd of unfamiliar faces and are expected to “bond” and make friends. However, if you’re prepared with these few etiquette tips, you’re sure to shine and have a smoother, less-stressful orientation experience!.

1. Dress Appropriately.

There’s nothing I love more than fashion and using it to express myself. It’s a great way to communicate who you are in first impressions. However, orientation day might require sturdier clothing than what you’d rather wear. Keep in mind that you’ll be moving in and maybe be moving around a lot. Try wearing clothing that is fashionable to your particular tastes, but also functional. If you’ll be walking outside a lot, don’t wear your 4-inch wedges (unless, that is, if your feet won’t yell at you for it!). Don’t over-dress or under-dress. Remember that first impressions are lasting and you might be meeting future professors or administration workers that you might have to deal with later on in your college experience. Lastly, just be who you are in your clothing choice. You’ll feel more comfortable and more confident.

2. Smile!

Orientation might seem tedious when all you want to do is start having fun now that you’re out from under your parents’ watchful eyes. Don’t let this seep into your attitude. Yes, sometimes orientation is a bit much and you’d rather not be there, but everyone has been in your shoes. Plus, orientation is one of the first times you’re meeting your class. You’ll probably meet some of your greatest friends on orientation and over the first couple of days. Keeping a light-hearted air and a smile on your face can go a long way when meeting new people. Don’t let the minor down points of orientation keep you from staying happy, positive, and excited during the first few days of college. Just smile and have fun!

My friends Heather and Ally (they're roommates!) on Orientation Day! Beautiful Smiles :)

3. Be a Lady.

Excitement is definitely brewing in the air during orientation. But don’t get overexcited and display unladylike behavior. Have fun and be outgoing, but orientation isn’t the time to show everyone your the risk-taker or class clown. College is a time to be more mature and to let your high school self slowly stay behind. You should let loose around your friends and on the weekend, but during orientation you’re making your first impression. Staying classy and a lady will definitely keep you from the rumor mills on the first day. Don’t forget that professors, upperclassmen, and administrators might be there as well and staying a lady will definitely be just as remembered as if you were displaying other unladylike qualities.

4. Don’t be shy!

Orientation is the time to start making connections. Open up a little and mingle. Say “hi” to other classmates and anyone else who is there. Talk to the cafeteria staff (don’t forget please and thank-you!), the residence staff, and other administrators. One greeting can go along way in the future and might be a stepping stone for  great relationship that can open doors with work-study or a few extra fries at lunch time! Plus, you never know when you might meet your new best-friend or even future dating potentials! Stay friendly and you never know what could happen!

DeSales University Class of 2013: Orientation Day 1! Photo by: Brittany Trojann

College orientation is the gateway to your four years of college! Its an event filled, busy day full of new experiences, new people, and new information. Stay classy and follow these few etiquette tips and you’re sure to be shining the whole way through! Check out Emily C.’s wonderful article, Finding Happiness: Fabulous Freshman Tips for more advice on Freshman year!

Do you have any orientation advice you want to share? How about some great orientation stories? Want your orientation picture featured in this article? Leave a comment bellow!



Nicole Savitsky is a rising junior at DeSales University majoring in English and Communications. She loves getting lost in a book, listening to music, staying healthy, keeping classy, and reading up on the latest fashion! She’s excited to meet the new incoming freshman and hopes new students join her campus organizations and clubs!

Bookmark and Share

Ed2010: A Co-ed’s Guide to Magazine Internships

Internships–paid or unpaid– are becoming  must-haves for college co-eds. Employers want the best of the best in any given field and nowadays it’s all about the experience. Don’t have a perfect 4.0? Don’t worry, internships are your answer to success. Ed2010 is here to help you reach your magazine dream career.

As the president and chapter founder of Ed2010 at the University of Michigan, I know all about this wonderful organization. Here are 7 ways Ed2010 can help you:

1. Easy internship/job finder- Whether you want to work in the fashion closet of Marie Claire or be a blogger for a site like College Lifestyles(TM), the opportunities are there. All you have to do is apply! *Personal testimony- I’ve landed 3 interviews and 2 internships through Ed2010. Only downfall? Many of the positions are located in New York and that doesn’t do very good for those of us who live far away from the city.

2. Events- Ed2010 hosts events ranging from happy hours to Editorial Assistant panels all to help you excel in this field. The events are hosted by people who work in the industry so you’ll get inside advice on life as a magazine assistant, editor, writer, etc.

3.Valuable tips- Visit the Ed Advice section and read questions asked by other college students just like you or send in your own questions. After reading this, I know it’s time to fix my resume.

4. Mentorship program- If you’re a recent graduate, apply for Ed’s 60-Minute Mentor program. Lucky applicants are paired with mentors who will chat with them about their career plans.

5. A glossary of terms- No idea what MEGO or Frankenstein Cover mean? Then check out Ed’s list of terms used in the magazine industry. Even if you think you’ll never need to use some of these words, it’s better to know than to be clueless. If you want to work in the magazine world, you have to learn the lingo.

6. Exposed secrets- Ed lists contact info for big time media companies like Hearst and Condé Nast so you can (hopefully) speak directly to the source of your dream job.

7. The Intern Diaries- Read blog posts written by interns and learn the do’s and dont’s of the industry.

Erica Avesian is an intern at College Lifestyles(TM). She is a junior communications major at the University of Michigan. Erica works part-time at American Eagle and loves making small talk with customers.

Bookmark and Share

Through Classy Co-eds’ Eyes: Today’s Modern Classy Women

Every generation of classy co-eds has their inspiration for staying classy. Certain women throughout each decade have been a leading example for staying classy. Women such as Audrey Hepburn, Jackie O, Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Oprah have inspired women for years by their ability to stay true to themselves and their outward classy actions. Some have been an inspiration through their fashion, some through their words, and others through their philanthropy. It is clear they have inspired many classy co-eds.

Today’s generation, like others before it, has its own collection of classy women that inspire today’s fabulous co-eds. I decided to ask a few co-eds about who their classy modern-day women inspirations were and I received a fabulous list of classy women! Here are 10 of today’s modern classy women through the eyes of classy co-eds!


10. Ingrid Michaelson



Lauren Kline (DeSales University): “For me, artists like Ingrid Michaelson and Norah Jones inspire me because of their rich and unique sound. They dare to be different, and combine pop, rock, and jazz together to create something wonderful to listen to. Because of this, they automatically appear classy and down to earth.”

Nicole Cesarini (DeSales University): “I’d have to agree with Ingrid Michaelson. She’s definitely one of the classiest girls I know.”

Ingrid Michealson is a singer-songwriter from New York City who currently has four albums. Her latest song “Parachute” is now available on iTunes. (http://www.ingridmichaelson.com/)

9. Emily Deschanel


Meghan Kelly (DeSales University): “I think Emily Deschanel, from Bones, just exudes classiness, and I think anyone that is famous for their talents and not being in the tabloids are good examples.”

Emily Deschanel is currently the lead actress on FOX’s TV show: Bones. She is a supporter of PETA and the Adrienne Shelly Foundation. (http://emily-deschanel.org/)

8. Taylor Swift

Julia Hennessey (Gwynedd Mercy College): “I’m inspired by Taylor Swift. She’s one of the only female singers who hasn’t let the fame get to her head. She’s one of very few to write her own music. She’s dedicated to her fans. I read about one time where she was driving around Tennessee and saw a little girl wearing a Taylor Swift T-shirt. She followed the girl to the mall and tapped on her shoulder and when the girl turned around she said “I just wanted to meet you”. She always gives back to her fans. At award shows she’s just about the only one to thank her fans right away. And she’s a very good role model. A reporter once asked her why she doesn’t drink and do drugs to rebel and she said she takes her rebelling out through her music. She’s a great musician and great role model for fans of all ages.”

Taylor Swift is a country/pop singer-songwriter who currently has 3 albums. She just recently won video of the year award for the CMT awards. (http://www.taylorswift.com/)

7. Ali Fedotowsky


Chloe Palma (DeSales University): “I’m inspired by Carrie Underwood and Ali Fedotowsky (former bachelorette) they both are outspoken about supporting admirable causes like cancer research. And they are both committed to being healthy. I’ve read magazine interviews with Carrie and I relate to how she approaches her lifestyle. She doesn’t try to compare herself to others. She just wants to be the best her. She also talked about dieting, not being necessary,  just watching what you eat and doing something every day to be active. Not to sound creepy, but I follow Ali’s page on Facebook and she is always posting about different ways to get healthy and shows what she’s doing to stay healthy too. She now works as a news correspondent in San Diego and does a lot of great pieces on inspirational figures. I think she is inspirational herself.”

Ali  Fedotowsky was the former Bachelorette on ABC.

6.  Maura Tierney


Jenna Minetola (DeSales University): “One woman that I find incredibly inspiring is actress Maura Tierney. I am a huge ER fan! Maura played the humorous, strong willed, honest, and empathetic Dr. Abby Lockhart. But the reason I am so drawn to Maura is because she is all of these things in *reality*. In addition to her charismatic personality, Maura has dealt with serious medical issues of her own; Maura was diagnosed with breast cancer and had surgery in 2009 to remove a tumor. Since then, Maura has been has been battling her fight successfully. What makes her so amazing is that she has shared her story through many outlets bringing awareness to the deadly disease with grace.”

Maura Tierney is best known for her role in ER. She has been an actress for many years and has shown strength, courage, and class through her current battle with breast cancer. (http://mauratierney.com/)

5. Kate Middleton


Veronica Gabrielle Ropplet (DeSales University): “I’m a big fan of classy girls and Kate Middleton is a perfect example!”

Kate Middleton recently married Prince William of England. She  is known for her fashion sense and classiness in public! (http://www.katemiddleton.com/)

4. Anne Hathaway


Anne Hathaway has always been my celebrity inspiration. Her class emanates through her fashion, acting, and manner. She is one of my favorite actresses and I’ve been following her career since Princess Diaries. She is truly inspiring to me.

Anne Hathaway got her first break in a TV-show “Get Real” and has been developing her career since then. She supports the Clinton Foundation, Human Rights Campaign, The Lollipop Theatre Network, and The  Hollywood Cookbook. (http://www.annehathawayweb.com/)

3. Reese Witherspoon


Veronica Gabrielle Ropplet (DeSales University): “A good example is Reese Witherspoon’s speech from the MTV movie awards last night. She basically talked about how it was good to be classy.”

Reese Witherspoon has been successful actress for many years. She just recently won MTV’s Generation award. She is quoted as saying “for all the girls out there, it’s totally possible to be a good girl, I’m going to try to make it cool” in her speech accepting the award. (http://www.r-witherspoon.com/)

2. Sandra Bullock


Meghan Kelly (DeSales University): “Also Sandra Bullock, after everything she went through, she was able to stay classy.”

Sandra Bullock has also been a successful actress for many years. Her class shines through her action, both on and off screen. Her fashion is one of elegance and sophistication. She handles every situation with class, specifically the difficult situation with her recent ex-husband last year. She has also won MTV’s Generation award (2010).  (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000113/)

1. Our Everyday Classy Women

My Mother, Grandmother, and I. These women are my best inspiration for staying classy!

Kressa Dowling (DeSales University): “I know a lot of people have answered saying that famous women have be inspirational to them, but I would have to say that my grandmother is the most inspirational woman I know. She was raised in a large family during the Great Depression, which left her with very little money and life experiences. Her family couldn’t afford to send her to nursing school so she had to get a job right out of high school. She then worked from the age of 18 to 69, raised four children, and made sure they all had a strong educational background that allowed them to attend a quality college and have all the things my grandmother never had. She also helped raise me by being both my babysitter and best friend while growing up. My grandmother is a strong woman who worked very hard throughout her whole life to give her children opportunities that she never had herself. She also made sure both her children and grandchildren know that in order to receive great things in life you must work hard to get them.”

Gina Ascola (DeSales University): “While it’s odd because I only met her just recently, my clinical instructor is a huge inspiration to me. She is always running all over the place without ever giving herself a break and she always has her heart in everything she does which anyone who knows her can see. She is her own kind of classy and I only hope that one day I can be half of the classy lady she is both as a nurse and a person.”

Every classy co-ed has a special woman close at home that inspires them. My mother and grandmother are my two classy inspirations. There are many amazing women among us who exhibit classiness.  One of the everyday women who shine with classiness is CL’s very own Shelly Redmond. See Abby’s article on Shelly! Hopefully these fabulous women will inspire you to stay classy through any situation!



Nicole Savitsky is a rising junior at DeSales University majoring in English and Communications. She loves reading, her family, and staying classy with the help of inspiring women!

Bookmark and Share

Get to Know a Classy Gal from DSU, CL Intern Nicole Savitsky!

Name: Nicole Savitsky

School: DeSales University

Our CAC event: Shave to Save!

Studies: Duel majoring in English and Communications

Year: rising junior

Organization Involvement: Colleges Against Cancer (CAC; Relay for Life); Sigma Tau Delta (English Honors Society); Delta Epsilon Sigma (Academic Honors Society); rising President of DeSales University’s Literary Magazine (Wheel)

Position at CL: A Nutrition/Etiquette writer intern

What I plan to bring to CL this summer…a fresh and fun spin on staying healthy and classy while in college with tips and advice for any classy co-ed trying to stay fit and eating right!

Why am I excited to be a CL intern: I’m excited because I get to spend the summer writing, which I love to do. Plus, everyone at CL is fabulous! I’m excited to work with such a classy and talented group! CL is definitely a great site for helping co-eds through college and I’m excited to be a part of it all!

Career goals: My dream job would be to write for a magazine like Seventeen; Cosmo; Vogue, etc. I would also love to work for a publishing house like Harper or Penguin. As long as I get to be around writing! I would also love to travel as much as I can (it would be fun to be a travel writer!).

My two good friends and I supporting our Bulldogs!

A classy co-ed is…….someone who can be elegant and poised, but can also let her hair down in a fun and positive way. She is smart, friendly, and has her own unique quirks that she embraces. She is someone that others look up to and she it someone who  will influence the world in a positive way.

A FUN fact about me: I can’t get enough of Philly sports. I watch all my Philly teams whenever I can! I have also played soccer for 13 years; I love playing my guitar late at night; and I own more books than movies.






Nicole Savitsky is a rising junior at DeSales University where she is majoring in English and Communications. She loves to write and to travel. She hopes to spend the summer expanding her horizons and hanging out with her friends.

Bookmark and Share

CL’s Top 5 Summer Must See Movies!

With 2011 breaking the record for most number of sequels EVER at 27, it comes as no surprise that my top five must see movies this summer are all sequels! These five will make a fabulous date night, or just a night to escape the summer heat!

1.      July 15 – Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2

The end of Part 1 finds Voldemort stealing the Elder Wand from Dumbledore’s tomb, which begs the question: will anyone truly ever be able to stop He Who Must Not Be Named?  No one is safe, and all out war is inevitable. The motion picture event of a generation finally comes to a close – you don’t want to miss this.

2.      May 26 – The Hangover Part 2

In the sequel to 2009’s record-breaking comedy “The Hangover,” part 2 finds Stu, Phil, Doug, and Allen in Thailand for Stu’s wedding.  After what happened in Vegas, Stu takes every precaution to ensure everything goes off without a hitch.  Of course, hilarity ensues and brings another bachelor party the guys will once again (never?) forget.

3.      July 1 – Transformers 3: Dark of the Moon

Once again it’s a battle between the Autobots and the Decepticons, but this time they’re racing to the moon to find what the first men on the moon discovered all those years ago – a Cybertronian spacecraft, whose secrets could determine which race will win, once and for all.

4.      May 20 – Pirates of the Carribean 4: On Stranger Tides

No Keira Knightley in this one.  However, Penelope Cruz plays Angelica, an old flame of Captain Jack Sparrow.  She lures him onto the ship of Blackbeard, where he’s forced to join in the quest for the Fountain of Youth.  With talks of a Pirates 5 already in the works, it’s hard to say whether this is the last time we’ll see Captain Jack.  But the fourth installment is sure to have an abundance of rum drinking, sword fights, flirtation, and of course the quick quips we all love from our favorite pirate.

5.      June 24 – Cars 2

Lightning McQueen is back with his old pal Mater as they take on the first-ever World Grand Prix.  However, there are plenty of speed bumps on the way, and Mater gets  wrapped up in a top secret spy mission!  Have a night out with your little cousins and see this movie, you know they want to (and you do to!).

Nicole Celli is an intern at College Lifestyles. She is a senior English major and member of Phi Sigma Sigma. She can’t wait to see these summer hits!

Bookmark and Share

Every CL Girl Should Know: How to Perfect Your Resume

They say that there are certain faux pas people make on their resume that send it straight to the bottom of the pile, or even straight to the garbage. Here are a few tweaks you can make on your resume to really make it shine!

  • Don’t write your life story. When whoever is going through 100 resumes, they don’t really care that you biked cross country or fundraised for an event. Keep it concise, keep it clear, and keep it pertinent.
  • Qualify your experience. Employers have no idea what “College Lifestyles” is unless you qualify it by saying it’s a nutrition/lifestyle/fashion/etiquette site for co-eds.
  • Don’t bother with objectives. They don’t reveal anything real; they’re usually just a ridiculously general statement that most employers don’t care about. A good objective won’t be what lands you a job, but a bad one can cost you that job.
  • Experience always trumps education. Putting your education at the top is a red flag that you’ve just graduated and you think your 3.8 GPA is going to land you that job. Your experience is going to get you the job, so move it up to the top.
  • Have references listed. Saying “references upon requests” means you probably don’t actually have any. Having three professionals relevant to your field who can talk about how awesome you are will make you stand out.
  • Employers don’t care what you did in high school…at all.
  • Keep it as close to one page as possible.
  • Don’t list relevant coursework.
  • Don’t say you’re skilled or knowledgeable in something if you’re not.

Make some of these changes to your resume, and how fabulous you are will definitely shine through!

Nicole Celli is an intern at College Lifestyles. She is a senior English major and a member of Phi Sigma Sigma. She is confident that with these change she’ll land a great job!

Bookmark and Share

Every CL Girl Should Know: The Dos and Don’ts of Freshman Year

As a second semester senior looming ever closer to the dreaded “g” word, it occurs to me that it’s time to pass down my wisdom to those just starting their journey into collegiate life. Here are some things for you savvy high school seniors to remember so you can become a fabulous freshman co-ed.

  • You probably won’t have a choice of where you live as a first-year, so don’t get too upset about it.
  • You will have at least one roommate, and with the rising of enrollment you could have up to seven roommates.
  • If you live in a double, triple, or quad, you will most likely have to experience the communal bathroom. This will be a huge adjustment, especially if you’re an only child.
  • Make sure you have a pair of flip flops for the shower, and a shower caddy or basket to carry your toiletries.
  • If you’re one of the lucky ones who get a suite, you probably will have a bathroom in your room, which will make competing for a shower a lot easier between eight people than between 50.
  • The good thing about living in a dorm is that there’s always something going on and someone to hang out with.
  • If you’re a quieter person, be prepared for a lot of noise.  Utilize study rooms or the library to get things done.
  • Keep your door locked. Keep your laptop secured to your desk, and hide your valuables.  Your roommates are supposed to be your friends, but you can never be too careful.  A safe is too obvious – use something less obvious, like a trunk.
  • Never ignore a fire alarm, no matter how many false alarms there have been before.
  • Beware the Freshman 15! Keep healthy snacks in your room, and be careful what you eat at the cafeteria.
  • Definitely go to your school’s involvement fair – it’s a great way to see all the clubs and organizations on campus, and a way for you to get yourself involved!
  • Who you get as a roommate is always a tossup.  You will probably be asked to take a survey about your living habits, but even so it isn’t a guarantee that you’ll be paired with people you’ll get along with.
  • Be considerate of your roommates(s), and hope that they will do you the same courtesy.
  • Get together with your roommate(s) to talk about your schedules, activities, likes/dislikes, and lay down some ground rules.  This will make things run as smoothly as possible.
  • Have each other’s schedule written down so you not only know where everyone is, but also when you’ll be able to have some privacy.
  • Utilize your Resident Assistant. If you find you’re having issues, go to them for help.  Often they will have mediation, and will arrange for you to move out if the situation is really bad.  You don’t have to live in misery – ask for help.  It’s your college experience, you should enjoy every second of it.
  • Learn to do laundry BEFORE you get to college. Trust me.

Nicole Celli is an intern at College Lifestyles. She is an English major at Quinnipiac University and member of Phi Sigma Sigma. She hope these tips will help you become a fabulous freshman co-ed!

Related Posts with Thumbnails

Bookmark and Share

« Previous PageNext Page »

Switch to our mobile site