University Girl Fall 2023: "Dreamscapes" by University Girl Magazine

EX MARKS THE SPOT

FALL 2023

Sometimes, you have to kiss a lot of frogs to find your prince.

STYLE GUIDE: QUIET LUXURY

Your outfit doesn’t need to scream. scream.

A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN

A look into the invisible string theory.

INTERVIEW WITH LAURA GALEBE How to have the perfect day, every day.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A 20-SOMETHING TEENAGER

1 How can a person know everything at 18 but nothing at 22?

FALL 2023

DREAMSCAPE EDITION EDITORS IN CHIEF CREATIVE DIRECTORS DIGITAL DIRECTOR ASST. DIGITAL EDITORS MANAGING EDITORS ASST. MANAGING EDITOR SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTORS COPY EDITORS

Rhea Srivastava, Charlie Wenig Ellie Batten, Layla Harrison Kylie Gorsky Lindsay Lu, Leila Yang Becca Carr, Taylor Chaiken Hannah Karlin Tal Ben Ari, Chloe Weinstein Jenny DeStefano, Rachel Musman, Jolie Zenna

LEAD DESIGNER Cindy Zhang GRAPHIC DESIGN ASSTS. Tess Cosgrave, Samantha Friedman, Lilly Kleinhandler, Ryan Levkoff, Revati Mahurkar, Sierra Zaccagnino EXTERNAL DIRECTORS Julia Paperny, Bella Tabak PR MANAGERS Aviya Garg, Mia Gelb MERCHANDISE DIRECTORS Emily Bruck, Sofie Nguyen PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTORS PHOTOGRAPHY ASST. VIDEO DIRECTOR LEAD STYLISTS HAIR & MAKEUP

Luena Leitao, Hazel Wagner Fiona Hurless Grace Pearce Ava Bandura, Jamie Bloom Kelsey Aberbach, Ella Ray Star Terry, Piper Tremblay

DIGITAL SECTION EDITORS Hannah Abbott, Waverly Brannigan, Olivia Boyer, Eliza Carrillo, Gianna Davis, Elena Fliszary, Lexi Flood, Cassi Kennedy, Gianna LaFrank, Payton McGlory, Hailey Roy, Lauren Smetana MODELS SHOOT 1 Ceci Brown, Piper Holland, Meagan Wittenberg, Eden Yaloz SHOOT 2 Sydney Froelich, Mize Hirose, Laci Johnson, Sunny Suaya SHOOT 3 Liv Burton, Sydney Kafele, Julia Strauss

IMAGINATION

INTERVIEW WITH LAURA GALEBE |24

A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN | 36

IDEATION

UGIRL PICKS | 08

INSPIRATION

WHAT’S

INSIDE 3

EDITORS IN CHIEF design: Cindy Zhang

Dear Readers,

I have loved the editorial aspects of magazines for as long as I can remember. When I was growing up, instead of picking out my favorite outfits in Vogue or Elle Elle,, I would immediately flip to the masthead and do a deep dive into the entire magazine staff. When I applied to Syracuse University, I referenced alums who had impacted the editorial world in my college essay; after four years at SU, I am lucky enough to graduate from an institution with the skills to continue this impact. Now, as the Co-Editor-in-Chief of University Girl Magazine, I feel incredibly honored to have worked with some of the most intelligent and creative students on our campus. When brainstorming ideas for this issue, we knew from the beginning that it should revolve around creating your dreamscape, a fantasy world in which you hold all the cards. Going through the past issues of UGirl, the common theme that stood out through every era was the ability to remain true to yourself. For this issue, we chose an alumnus who undeniably owns her persona and continues to persuade others to grow into the best versions of themselves: Laura Galebe. I have been an avid watcher of Galebe’s TikToks since I first saw her “Lucky Girl Syndrome” video. I knew her words and advice would give readers a peek into the world of manifestation and selfconfidence.

My Co-Editor-in-Chief, Rhea Srivastava, who is always in the know, helped me create a direction for Galebe’s profile and the overall course of the magazine. Together, alongside our Creative Directors, Ellie Batten and Layla Harrison, we captured talent on the brink of something incredible. Rhea, Ellie, and Layla represent some of the most inspiring minds I have known over the past 21 years. They help me think outside the box and create my dreamscape, even within the Syracuse bubble. For the three sections of our magazine, we wanted to focus on answering the question, “What goes into creating your dream world?” The answer? Imagination, inspiration, and ideation. These concepts have different definitions that, when combined, speak to a personal dreamscape. To bring these definitions to life, our Photo and Video Directors, Hazel Wagner, Luena Leitao, Fiona Hurless, and Grace Pearce, captured our ideas through three photoshoots: Barbie Girls In A Barbie World (pages 10-13), Pearls & Prosecco (pages 20-23), and These Boots Were Made For Walking (pages 32-35). We photographed a cast of student models that exemplify today’s fashion trends, as laid out by our Lead Stylists, Jamie Bloom and Ava Bandura. Our photoshoots and stories became editorially feasible through the talent of Cindy Zhang, our Lead Designer, and our dreams became a reality thanks to our External Directors, Julia Paperny and Bella Tabak. To the remainder of our incredibly hardworking executive board who made this semester’s magazine possible, your contributions, words, designs, and ideas are never shy of life-changing. Many thanks to the entire staff at University Girl for spending their fall semester making sure our ideas came to life. We hope you enjoy reading the magazine as much as we did creating it.

Love,

Dear Readers, This editor’s letter was the last thing I expected to be writing when I began my journey with University Girl Magazine during my freshman year at Syracuse University. In fact, it was the last thing I expected to be writing four months ago when I began my senior year. Assuming the role of Editor-in-Chief has been a blessing, and I could not be more grateful. Spending the Fall 2023 semester as the EIC, I have pushed myself further than I thought possible. It has been an absolute rollercoaster, but I can safely say that I have never felt more like myself. It’s as though I’ve been living in the “dreamscape” our print issue is all about. A dreamscape—a world of magic and surreal possibilities—is a realm in which we all wish to exist. This print edition is all about creating your own dreamscape—about dreaming big, living bigger, and creating the life that you can’t wait to wake up to. When your life feels like a dream, there is no reason to live in your head. So go ahead… create the life you’ve always pictured for yourself. This issue consists of three main sections: Imagination, Inspiration, and Ideation. The first section, Imagination, is about letting your ideas flow wild and embracing your highest aspirations. It serves as a powerful force that transcends the boundaries and limitations we often place on ourselves, allowing you to dream, wonder, and envision the impossible. Each article in this section is a gateway to a world of boundless potential, inspiring you to explore the uncharted territories of your mind. As you explore your imagination, you’ll learn more about who you are and what you’re truly capable of. It’s an opportunity to tap into the depths of your potential and find your unique voice in this world. The second section, Inspiration, calls for you to find influence in yourself, in the world around you, or in the most unexpected corners and use it to mold your best self. Take the time to introspect and reflect deeply on your past so that you can create your best future. Rather than measuring yourself against those you admire, let their stories kindle your inspiration and serve as valuable lessons. This section doesn’t stop

at just finding inspiration—it’s also about cultivating it, both for yourself and those around you. True inspiration comes from an environment of mutual support, where we uplift and push each other to reach our highest potential. The final section, Ideation, is the epitome of making your dreams a reality. It’s about not just having dreams but rather taking concrete steps to realize them. It’s about knowing what you want and going for it, no matter how scary it may feel. What is life without a little risk? To me, it’s not a life worth living if it doesn’t scare you just a little. The Ideation section will encourage you to be bold, embrace the uncertainty, and step out of your comfort zone. You might just step into the life you’ve always wanted. This magazine would not have been possible without my partner and Co-Editor-in-Chief, Charlie Wenig, who has been an inspiration to me every step of the way. We also could not have brought our vision to life without the support of our amazing Creative Directors, Layla Harrison and Ellie Batten. We are so proud of each of our three photoshoots, thanks to our amazing Photographers, Hazel Wagner, Luena Leitao, and Fiona Hurless, and our Stylists, Jamie Bloom and Ava Bandura. To our Lead Designer, Cindy Zhang, your talent never ceases to amaze me. To our PR Directors, Mia Gelb and Aviya Garg, and External Directors, Bella Tabak and Julia Paperny, I could not be more thankful for everything you have done to make this magazine a success. Finally, I want to thank our Copy Editors, Jenny DeStefano, Rachel Musman, and Jolie Zenna for always bringing the UGirl voice to life. I am beyond proud of the entire executive team and am so honored to have worked with each one of these talented women. Graduating this fall, I could not be more thankful for everything University Girl has given me over the past four years. Our dreamscape edition, in particular, has reminded me that we each have the

power to create our own destiny, so why not make it everything we’ve ever dreamed of ? Being part of this organization has helped me embrace my fears, gain confidence as a leader, and explore interests I never knew I had when I began my journey in college. My experience at SU would not have been the same without this magazine, and I could not have wished for a more perfect way to spend my final semester here than as its Editorin-Chief. Thank you to everyone who has come before me for entrusting me with this role. I hope to always be an inspiration and a helping hand to every UGirl in the future. I hope this issue inspires you to make your dreams come true as much as it has inspired me. Happy reading!

Love,

Rhea Srivastava

design: Cindy Zhang

UGIRL STAFF FALL 2023

Charlie W enig Editor in Chief

Bella Tabak External Director

Rhea Srivastava Editor in Chief

y apern Julia P irector al D Extern

Grac Videog e Pearce raphy Directo r

Kylie Gorsky Digital Director

6 Mia Gelb PR Direc tor

Taylor Chaiken Managing Editor

Rachel Musman Copy Editor

uck Emily Br tor ing Direc is d n a h c Mer

Becca Carr Assistant Ma naging Edit

Jolie Zenna Copy Editor

Hazel Wagner Photography Director

Jenny DeSte fano Copy Edito r

Ellie Batten Creative Dir ecto

Chloe Weinstein Social Media Director

Jamie Bloom Lead Stylist

Cindy Zh ang L ead Des igner

Luena Leitao Photography Director

Hannah Ka rlin Assistant Ma naging Edit

Aviya Garg PR Director

Sofie Ngu yen Merchand ising Dire

ctor

Layla Harrison Creative Director

Ava Bandu ra L ead Stylist

FLASHES FROM OUR

DREAMSCAPE 7

1 Anthropologie ‘Melie Bianco Brigitte Mini Satchel’ ($108) | 2 MERIT Bronze Balm Sheer Sculpting Bronzer ($30) | 3 Veja Campo Leather Sneakers ($175) | 4 Glow Recipe Avocado Fine Line Eye Cream with Retinol ($42) | 5 The Good Patch B12 Awake Wellness Patch ($12) | 6 Dae Cactus Fruit 3-in-1 Styling Cream ($28) | 7 Boy Smells Vanilla Era Perfume ($98) | 8 Kate Spade Morgan Matchbox Embossed Small Slim Bi-fold Wallet ($118) | 9 Free People High Standard Bow Choker ($38) | 10 “Everything I Know About Love” by Dolly Alderton ($12) | 11 Patrick Ta Major Glow Lip Shine ($26)

4 8 11 2

5 6

design: Cindy Zhang

Dream Big,

Live Bigger You’re a dream girl—it’s time to live in your dream world. words: Julia Paperny | design: Tess Cosgrave

s a just-turned 20-year-old, my mind is constantly consumed with the daunting thought of life after college. Even though I still have two years before I graduate, I feel the need to internally manage a few things before I cross the threshold into the ‘real world.’ I wait with bated breath to know if I’ll still be at my peak after the age of 22. How am I able to achieve the persona of the perfect life when I know I’ll constantly think back to my life in college? Your time in college feels like it passes in the blink of an eye. But, when you strut across the stage and get your diploma, it’s not the end of your journey— your fun-filled life is just getting started. Maintaining those special bonds with your besties post-graduation is an absolute must. Stay connected through endless FaceTime sessions, wine nights, brunches or dinners, and maybe a night out a few times a month. Plan girls’ weekends with shopping trips—because who doesn’t need some retail therapy? Continue to use the group chats you’ve had since freshman year. Share those same ten pictures that make you laugh as much as the night they happened, the inside jokes that no one else can understand, and the heart-to-heart moments that keep your friendships alive. School may be out of

session, but your memories of these ~happy times~ definitely aren’t. It’s okay—I don’t want to work either. I want to sit on my couch watching Friends for the fourth time and look out the window at a heavenly city skyline. However, if you got your degree, now’s the time to use it. Use your social skills to the max and network the sh*t out of LinkedIn. Be as much of a go-getter as you can be and use those connections to get your dream job. If you’re not scrappy, how can you get what you want? When we hit the landmark of securing a “real job,” we’re led to wonder whether we should seize the opportunity and use it to the best of our abilities or just accept the mundane, nine-to-five fate. Regardless of the job’s nature, take it by the neck; micromanage every duty you have, become textingunder-the-desk buddies with your co-workers, and strive to be the best employee. It sounds like a lot, but ultimately, it’ll boost your confidence, whether you know it or not. In fact, you’ll leave the office feeling like you’ve truly accomplished something. In the end, it’s all about what you do to make life a dream. It may feel like things are turning upside down, but your dream life is closer than you think.

THE ART OF WINGING IT Why unplanned moments lead to unforgettable memories. words: Ellie Batten | design: Rhea Srivastava

pontaneity is not my forte. I have to practice living on the edge, which, I know, is a pretty unspontaneous thing to do. But honestly, I think every carefree, easygoing person practices it too. Yet, the practice is worth it. In my opinion, good things will find their way to you if you’re willing to let up the reins a little bit. There’s joy in the unknown, but mastering the art of just winging it isn’t easy. As a reformed stick in the mud, I feel like it’s my job to tell you, first, how to just chill the F out, and second, why chilling the F out is so important. #1: Make fewer lists.

#3: You literally cannot control everything, so stop trying.

We’re in the age of watching aesthetic planner inspiration on TikTok. Yes, I know buying cute pens and notebooks is fun, but hear me out: I’ve been around people who literally preplan their entire day, bullet point by bullet point, and freak out when life throws their (very aesthetically) curated plan off, even a little bit. Excessive planning doesn’t leave room for mistakes—and that’s not realistic. I’m also not talking about homework. Obviously, planning when you’re going to study for that big test is wildly different from writing down the nitty-gritty details of what you’re going to eat for lunch. If you’re someone who feels anxious if you don’t pre-plan your entire day, start small. Eat something different for dinner— you might discover a new recipe that you love. Go to the gym at a different time—you might find a gym crush!

I’ll keep this one short and simple. The sooner you come to terms with the fact that you can’t control everything, the easier it will be to open yourself up to the unknown. Life is inherently uncertain. Embrace it and start living.

#2: Stop surrounding yourself with stress. stress . This is easier said than done, but putting distance between you and a friend if they’re negatively affecting how you feel is a necessary evil. For me, this became easier in college for two reasons: the newfound independence made it easier for me to figure out who I am, and I found friends I looked up to and wanted to be like. In my case, the people I gravitated toward the most were self-assured, easygoing, and down-toearth. Basically, they were the kind of people who would be down for a last-minute road trip. As I spent time with these friends, I saw my constant state of stress and anxiety fade. To sum it up, know who you are, know who you want to be, and take active steps to get there.

Ok, I’m down to wing it, but why should I want to? …Is the question you’re probably asking yourself right now. Answer: the best days aren’t the ones you plan. The best days, in my experience, are the ones you begin without an agenda. I have real-life proof, too. When I studied abroad, any weekend trips I took were, more or less, unplanned. Of course, I booked hotels and transportation tickets, but I decided everything else would be spur of the moment—and it was amazing. One of the best (and improvised) days of my life was in Edinburgh. I went with my boyfriend, who, like me, is always down just to see where the day takes us. We started the day at a hole-in-the-wall breakfast place that we found just by walking around the city—I had Turkish eggs, and I still fantasize about them today. Afterward, we googled “best things to do in Edinburgh” and went from there. We saw Edinburgh Castle, climbed Arthur’s Seat, saw a comedy show, and ended the day by cooking dinner in the Airbnb. None of it was planned, but that’s what made it so great. If we were focused on micromanaging every part of the day, the excitement of discovering a new city on a whim wouldn’t be as fun. So, take a deep breath and try letting loose. The release is worth it, I promise.

clouds Head in the

“When I found out the patriarchy wasn’t about horses, I lost interest anyway.” - Ken, Barbie (2023) words: Jolie Zenna | design: Lily Kleinhandler

e all know that person who just seems to have lucky girl syndrome—everything goes their way, and they don’t even really have to work for it. The problem with this is that one day, reality catches up whether they like it or not. And sometimes, that reality pulls their head straight out of the clouds and into the real world of struggles and hardships—an essential part of life. So, I know, life may be all fun and games right now, but sometimes you need to give yourself a good kick in the butt that shakes your world in order to truly grow. Consider this: is ignorance truly bliss if it’s going to deter you from your journey of self-exploration and growth? Face your problems head-on. You can only glide through life for so long before you inevitably fall on your face. Whether it be rejection from a school, career, or crush, it’s better to be self-aware and prepared for the rejection so you don’t fall completely flat when it happens. I know it’s hard, but be aware of your surroundings and question those around you. I’m not saying you need to be a pessimist, but it’s fair to say that those who are ignorant aren’t critical thinkers. Don’t ignore the red flags in front of you and wait for a problem to erupt. Instead, be proactive, don’t always take the easy way out, and be prepared to get back on your feet. Don’t be scared of a reroute. Everyone hates the saying “everything happens for a reason” because it oversimplifies the crazy journey that life is. It’s a hard truth to hear at the moment, but sometimes things do happen for a reason—the most painful rejections or reroutes of life have to happen in order for you to become the best

version of yourself. Your so-called “perfect” boyfriend breaks up with you out of the blue? Maybe it’s time for you to have some new-found independence. You make it to the final round of your dream internship and get shocked with a rejection email? Maybe you’ll be a greater asset somewhere else. It’s not necessarily about the speedbumps in life, but instead how you recover from them. In these types of situations, all you can do is handle yourself with grace, hold your head high, and be excited for what’s in store. Be open to new people and experiences. Who you surround yourself with plays a big whole in how much ignorance you may hold. Surround yourself with people who come from different backgrounds and push yourself out of your comfort zone. Say you come from a small suburb and graduated with a class of 150 students. When you’re in college, don’t only pursue the friendships that seem like the safer, more familiar option. The world is a big place with so much to offer and to be aware of. If you don’t try your best to learn as much as you can now, you’re certainly not doing yourself any favors. We learn from those around us—if you are only surrounded by people who mirror you, how do you expect to grow as a person? Friends who give you the hard truth and force you to face your problems instead of feeding into your delusions are the friends to keep around. We all love a little *delulu* sesh, but when it comes down it, you want to have friends who will give you the wake-up call you ultimately need. Find friends that break your barriers and immerse yourself in activities that you wouldn’t think of doing before. Remember, when it comes down to it, only way to truly learn why ignorance isn’t bliss is for you to find out on your own.

Luxury QUIET Your outfit doesn’t need to scream. words: Leila Yang | design: Rhea Srivastava

Less is more. You’ve probably heard the saying before, but what does it actually mean? Well, it refers to the use of clothing and accessories that are considered simple and subtle instead of flashy and extravagant. It’s all about sophistication and elegance without the addition of a big designer logo or overusing too many colors. In fact, ‘less is more’ is the exact definition of quiet luxury. So, you want to jump on the quiet luxury train but don’t know where to begin? It’s all about the basic pieces. Neutral colors are your best friend: black, white, beige, cream, and gray. Arguably, the most versatile piece of clothing is a plain white t-shirt. You can create so many different outfits with it, style up or down, and make it look chic when, in reality, it’s just a plain white t-shirt. One style option is to pair the white tee with white or cream jeans for a monochromatic look and add a pair of colored sneakers. While quiet luxury is heavily neutral-color-based, it doesn’t mean that a pop of color will ruin your look. In fact, we love color! Quiet luxury doesn’t denote that you’re strictly prohibited to wearing only neutral tones. Colors are actually vital in the quiet luxury category. What’s more girl boss than a hot pink pantsuit? Don’t forget about accessories, but be aware of creating chaos with your jewelry. Remember, quiet luxury is all about the idea of simplicity, so don’t go overboard. A simple pair of hoop earrings or a small purse can be all you need to really

complete an outfit. I admit, a layered necklaces can look really cute, but if you really want to pull this one off, trust me, less is more. more . Generally, some other must-have pieces within the quiet luxury sphere are a plain white or light blue button-up, a knit sweater, and a chic blazer. And as far as accessories, a pair of sunglasses, a purse, and a watch are timeless and simple additions to any outfit. Now, you have your outfit inspo, but where do you purchase your new wardrobe? Here’s the scoop: the best place to buy basic staples is Zara. Not only is Zara affordable, but their items are chic, stylish, and scream quiet luxury. Anything ranging from their solid color pants, to their shirts, jackets, and blouses offers a high-end look that is subtle and fashionable. If you want to go the more professional route, Banana Republic will do just the trick. If you’re looking for a mix of both casual and trendy, look no further than Aritzia. Even though they’re a bit on the pricier side, Aritzia provides unmatched pieces with amazing quality that will never do you wrong. In the world of fashion, the allure of statement pieces and trend-driven ensembles often overshadow the timeless elegance of basic and simple clothing. But, basic is key— simple items like a plain white tee or black blazer are more than enough and can easily be made to look high-end without the flashy logos. These foundational pieces form the backbone of every wardrobe, offering versatility, comfort, and style that is sophisticatedly simple.

PINK IS THE NEW

BLACK Using the media to reclaim our girlhood. words: Bella Tabak | design: Sierra Zaccagnino

et’s travel back in time: it’s the early to mid-2000s, and you are a little girl. You are rocking two pigtails or maybe even some braids adorned with sparkly beads and feathers. Plastic princess heels and fake pastel makeup palettes lay scattered around the house. But you’re focused on something else, eyes glued to the TV screen. Barbie is busy at work, doing more than just dancing around the screen. She is telling you something. You can be anything you want, even while wearing pink. Unfortunately, we’re not little girls anymore. We grew up, and many of us felt pressured to ditch our positive relationship with girlhood and femininity. I was in fourth grade when I vowed to stop wearing pink, believing the color I once loved was too “girly.” This is the reality for many women living under the patriarchy—women’s stereotypical aesthetics and interests are identified as inferior. Don’t believe me? Just look at the way society views Taylor Swift fans versus sports fans. When women are excited about a pop concert, they’re considered obsessive and annoying. But when men are excited about sports, they are “spirited” and “team players.”

However, all hope is not lost for those little girls who stopped wearing pink. Many women are reconnecting with their girlhood through female-focused trends. We were yelling, “Hi Barbie!” to women in passing and wearing pink as we strutted into the movie theater. We were crying over America Ferrera’s iconic and relatable monologue on the impossibility of being the “perfect woman.” We came together and bonded over a movie, bonded over girlhood. With the film’s major success, making over $1 billion at the box office, feminine media proved just as profitable as masculine media. Maybe even more profitable, considering Barbie outperformed Oppenheimer by $100 million. Other girl-focused trends are also helping reintroduce girlhood. This summer, my TikTok feed was flooded with videos of women sharing their odd, snack-like dinners. They could be anything from a charcuterie board to a jar of pickles and chips. It seemed like every girl was showcasing their ‘girl dinners.’ And, of course, we must remember the Hot Girl Walk, popularized in 2020. This trend encouraged women to take a stroll while thinking about how hot they are, what they are grateful for, and how they want to achieve their goals. How iconic.

I originally thought the girl dinner trend’s success was because of relatability. As well as the chaotic messiness of being a girl. While that seems to be accurate, there is another glaring reason for the popularity of girl dinners and hot girl walks. They completely ditch the male gaze. The women participating in the girl dinner trend are making themselves an easy meal instead of being expected to serve a role in the kitchen. A girl on a hot girl walk is not thinking of what man she is interested in. She is thinking of herself. We are moving away from what the patriarchy expects of us as women, and we are reinventing girlhood in our way. Girl media and trends also have a special place in our hearts because of the childhood nostalgia they bring. Not necessarily the memories where you were breaking into your mom’s curlers and putting on her lipstick, but the ones where you truly believed you could do anything. They bring the feeling that Barbie instilled into us and just recently reminded us of. So, the next time you see a weird girl dinner or a girl in a matching athletic set on her daily hot girl walk, know that these women are actively redefining and normalizing participation in girlhood.

LIFE IN THE

Dreamhouse With a platform-combined following of more than 400,000, Laura Galebe is stopping at nothing to have the perfect day, every day. words: Charlie Wenig, assisted by Hailey Roy | design: Cindy Zhang

What inspired you to start posting on TikTok? Throughout my college experience, many people would say, ‘You need to start a YouTube; you’re perfect for this.’ Senior year was when I was getting a lot of that. At the time, if I were to start something, I would probably start a TikTok. But I didn’t know how I was going to build a community. At that point, I said, ‘Let me do this for fun.’ I would do a little haul here and there. I would do little makeup tricks and stuff like that. It was very light-hearted and more for the entertainment of my friends who were watching because I started with zero followers. I think I reached 10k by the end of the semester. And although 10k is just 10k, I felt even more of a desire to keep going for these people who loved me. And then, when August came around, I think I was at 15k. I had a dream of living in New York City. I didn’t know what I was going to do. I thought I wanted to do PR, but at the end of the day, I wanted to be an influencer. I hated telling people that because I guess, to a degree, there’s not much knowledge of what it takes to be an influencer. People think that it’s just propping up your camera, but it’s very time-consuming and strategic. So, in August, that’s when I was like, ‘Let me start this. Let me see how it goes.’ How did you decide to go into the whole self-care/glow-up route? This whole lifestyle niche that I leaned towards has always interested me. I’ve been huge into manifestation, self-care, and the power of the mind, even before I started TikTok. That’s what my friends would come to me for. I would help them manifest something or if they needed a recommendation for certain products. That was 24 the type of friend I was. It felt very natural to

lean towards that side. The lifestyle vibe and the self-care route I decided to go into are truly what I feel the most aligned with and had been the most aligned with, even before I started TikTok. Granted, even if it’s a video I don’t want to film, when it becomes a full-time job, it is draining because you don’t want to film every day. You don’t want to put your makeup on every day. And that’s something you have to do in this industry, but I guess this is what felt most natural, what I felt the most inspired talking about, and what I felt most drawn to talk about. Have people commented, or come up to you in person, and told you that your advice has worked for them? I posted this video about Lucky Girl Syndrome in January, and it blew up. It’s how I got verified on Instagram. That’s my biggest thing yet. At that point, I was getting at least 20 to 30 DMs a day from random people being like, ‘Oh my god, your video on Lucky Girl Syndrome is changing my life.’ I also posted a video about manifestation right before the Lucky Girl Syndrome video, so that video also blew up. And it was just crazy. How did you come up with the idea of posts like the Lucky Girl Syndrome video and similar content? So, I remember it was a trend on TikTok. And I was like, what is that? What is Lucky Girl Syndrome? And then I looked it up: it is the idea that great things are happening to you, and you’re just inherently lucky. I was like, wait, that’s my entire life. I was like, there’s a name for this? And I believe wholeheartedly that this is why I have what I have. I am the way I am because I’ve always believed that things work out for me, and I’m super lucky. And then I decided to post about

it, and so many people had good experiences with it. I get signs from the universe all the time. So, I truly do believe I am the luckiest person in the world. Crazy shit just happens to me. How do you show your audience that you can glow up from the inside and have it reflect on your positive self-image? It’s a known thing that I’ve had a huge glow-up, even in high school. And that was when I was 19; I hadn’t gotten one thing done to my face. A lot of the glow-up that reflected on my exterior and physical body was an energetic shift and a mindset shift. The energy you carry is the energy you become. I’ve always advocated that being hot is completely and utterly about your energy and personality. I saw that firsthand when I was in quarantine. I was very unhappy with the person that I was. I didn’t like anything about myself, to be honest. And I just decided to glow up and change and get myself to a point where I was proud of who I was. So it was a lot of time just to journal and write shit down. I did a lot of inner work and believed I was already the version of myself I wanted to be. I felt so much better when I returned to school after quarantine.

“When you’re at a point where you’re very comfortable and confident with who you are, you reflect as the best version of yourself on the outside, too.”

If someone came up to you and said, ‘I want to start feeling more confident and overall bettering myself,’ what would you say the first step in that journey is? I will always say you must be delusional, like I need to tattoo that on myself soon.

“I always say you have to be the most selfish version of yourself. How would you feel if you were your most confident version now?” I don’t set ‘realistic’ expectations for myself. How can I get closer to my goals and better myself daily? It’s not a sudden, immediate thing. Otherwise, I would think about an elephant, and

an elephant would appear in my living room. It’s a time delay. Your 3-D needs time to catch up to your 4-D, which is whatever happens in your mind. So, if you believe you already are that person, you will, by default, eventually become that person. If I show up every day as if I am, am, one day, I will. The huge issue with many people and why they can’t manifest what they want is that they rely greatly on their current circumstances and 3-D. But that differentiates people who get what they want from those who don’t. You have to continue the mindset of ‘I already have it.’ And that’s how you’re going to get it. What do you hope to achieve through your platform and life in the coming years? You should keep your goals to yourself because of other people’s energy. Everybody has their own limiting beliefs. I don’t give specifics about my goals. But what I will say is that I do believe that I will be very successful and very wellestablished—for my standards, at least.

You mentioned how people doubted or criticized you for wanting to be an influencer when you were in college. How did you tune them out? Nobody directly came up to me and was like, ‘Oh my God, what the f**k are you doing?’ I remember just hearing people talk. At that point, I lacked credibility, so it was hard for me to say, “I don’t care what they think.” I was not big enough to be able to have that attitude. But then, when you see the first sign of success, it eventually becomes easier. There’s no other way of saying it. You have to just tune it out. Everybody has their own little life and story that they are worried about. They’re probably worried about their own problems. I mean, let’s be honest, we all talk shit. But it’s for a ten-second period of the day. So think about how much these other situations affect your life—they don’t. You just have to tune it out. The college culture is very gossipy, but acknowledging that life won’t feel like that forever puts you at peace. Could you give us insight into how your perspective on chasing your dreams has changed since graduating college and becoming a full-time influencer? The biggest thing I realized about the perspective of chasing your dream in and out of college is the pressure of having a corporate job. In college, it’s very label-oriented about what you want to be. People feel like they have to graduate knowing what they’re going to do with their lives—and I had no clue when I was put in that situation. That was the worst part: getting asked what you want to do. Especially in my case because what I wanted to do wasn’t a corporate “sit-down desk job, nine to five.” I wasn’t taken as seriously. To them, when I said I wanted to do social media, it was not enough of a job. It was hard for me to share what I wanted to do because I felt like I was judged all the time. Nowadays, those who judged me have the utmost respect for what I do because I am doing well—it’s a completely different story. My goal was never that I didn’t want to be something something.. It was that I wanted to feel free. I want to have money to go wherever I want, buy whatever I want, have food on my table, be happy, and feel comfortable building my own schedule. I wanted to be able to wake up, do pilates, and stay in bed the whole day. There are so many ways that you can achieve that lifestyle; it doesn’t necessarily need to be a nine-to-five. But in college, people don’t realize that because you have professors and parents talking in your ear. When you leave college, achieving your goal feels much more possible because you see many other people who don’t know what they want to do. It’s hard in college when you see “everyone” getting jobs, and you feel behind. When you go to the real world, you’ll see entrepreneurs, CEOs, and people who don’t necessarily have a ‘desk job.’ Your goals should not be limited to that. If you want to achieve what you want, there are25 a million ways to do it.

The Butterfly Effect

Why every choice matters.

words: Ali Rosenberg | design: Samantha Friedman

y sophomore year of high school, I applied and interviewed to be in an extremely exclusive program that would serve as one of the classes in my schedule. After being painfully rejected from the program, which created a vacant space in my schedule, my guidance counselor hit me with what felt like the worst news in the world: the only class that could fit into my schedule would be entrepreneurship. It didn’t feel like I had much of a choice at the time, but ultimately, it became the best decision I’ve ever made. I vividly remember walking into the classroom, being one of three females in a class of 30 students. Throughout high school, I had a one-week rule. I was not allowed to drop a class until I gave it at least a full week to disappoint me. After the first week of what I thought was going to be the most miserable 90 minutes of my day, entrepreneurship easily became the most enjoyable. Throughout the rest of my high school experience, I would build my class schedule around the business courses that I wanted prior to selecting my core classes. Fast forward three years, and I have found my passion in business, currently majoring in Marketing Management. What I was able to take away from this experience is that rejection is not necessarily my

enemy, but rather redirection, showing me the power of the butterfly effect. The butterfly effect is defined as “the idea that small, seemingly trivial events may ultimately result in something with much larger consequences.” It might sound crazy, but one seemingly simple decision can alter the trajectory of the rest of your life. I strongly believe that everything happens for a reason. Being a student in college can sometimes entail feeling like life is passing you by and you’re not even present to experience it. Inevitably, some days feel like you have a laundry list of things to complete. However, take comfort in the fact that one day, some tiny behavior or change may be the start of a spiral of little things that take you on the path to the life you are destined to live. Rather than wasting precious time stressing over the minuscule details, find reassurance in the fact that your days do matter, even when they might feel meaningless. Don’t allow yourself to get caught up in the sometimes mundane motions of life. An opportunity can arise from almost anything, so don’t let it pass you by—seize it. And let it motivate you to become an even better version of yourself.

Your actions hold the power to make a real, tangible difference, whether that be in your life or someone else’s. Choosing to do one small act of kindness, whether that be giving someone a compliment or simply smiling at a stranger, can make all the difference and have a larger impact than you may initially realize. You never know what someone else is going through, so lifting them up in a world filled with chaos can not only have a profound impact on their life but also have the potential to impact yours in the future. So, whenever you feel helpless or stuck at a point in your life, just remember, that you matter, your decisions matter, and you shouldn’t put yourself down when something might not go your way. After all, I would have never discovered my passion for business—or gotten over my fear of rejection—if it hadn’t been for that one, tiny decision.

WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU

LEMONS Make orange juice and leave the world wondering how you did it. words: Emily Bruck and Rachel Musman | design: Tess Cosgrave

e always hear it: “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” But what if there’s more we can do, more we can achieve? What if instead of just finding the silver lining of a situation, we create a whole new reality out of it? Instead of trying to adapt to the cards we are dealt, why don’t we use them to play a whole new game? The beauty of being human is that our future is uncertain, and despite the fact that we all have a path, sometimes, our recipes call for ingredients we may not have. Last year I went through a breakup that, at the moment, felt like it was going to destroy me. Every aspect of my life felt torn apart and going on with everyday being took so much out of me. For a while, I went on crying and rotting in bed, but after some time passed, I realized how much I could benefit from the breakup. The absence of this relationship was not a missing hole in my life, but an opportunity to do whatever I wanted to. This time could look however I wanted it to, whether it be filled with doing extra school work, hanging out with friends, or practicing self care—the decision was mine. Learning to take a crappy situation and spin it into a positive one, instead of just continuing to wipe my tears, gave me back my strength and turned adversity into excellence. Your life is not measured by the number of times you get a slap in the face—it’s about how you behave once you do. This past summer, I was stampeded with the impending doom of entering my junior year and being halfway through college.

Like many, I struggled to decide how I wanted the year to go. Should I go abroad? Should I do an internship? Which opportunity is best for me? Supposedly, there’s a path I’m meant to take that’s going to determine my future. But no matter how much control you think you have over that path, sometimes it throws us curveballs we didn’t see coming. After years of planning to do a program in New York City, I took a 180-degree turn and applied to go abroad in London. The idea of destiny is intriguing, but I don’t think we all give ourselves enough credit for how much of our realities we create ourselves. I went my whole life thinking that I was going to go to New York City because the idea of moving to Europe intimidated me. And yet, I decided to use my anxiety as fuel—I took the leap and I could not be more excited to live in London. Although my fears, at times, still overwhelm me, I use them as motivation to make travel plans, itineraries, and ensure that everything goes smoothly during my time abroad. Learning to make the most out of scary situations like this one is a valuable skill to have and has tremendously helped me better adjust to my upcoming move. Life may be unpredictable, but unpredictability is an opportunity to create something extraordinary rather than simply making the best of a tough situation. In my opinion, the cliché—“when life gives you lemons, make lemonade”—is not nearly enough to capture your full potential. So, the next time you hear it, remember that lemons can make so much more than lemonade.

The Art of Self-Expression When more is more. words: Abigail Luca and Mia Rose | design: Cindy Zhang

hen it comes to fashion, it’s the intricate, small details that curate the energy of your outfit. Statement pieces are a prime example of how a carefully chosen accessory can transform an outfit from ordinary to extraordinary extraordinary.. We’re going to teach you how to utilize some of these iconic pieces to turn heads, make a statement, and stand out. Drop Ear rings Drop earrings have become the height of style and individuality, making a profound statement with their unique ability to enhance your facial contours. If you’re in need of a style boost, we’ve got you covered. When it comes to styling, consider the following golden rule: offthe-shoulder silhouettes are your best bet for showcasing these mesmerizing pieces. Whether it’s a blouse, dress, or casual tee, anything that spotlights your shoulders and collarbones becomes a canvas for dangle earrings. Their elongated design contrasts perfectly with the negative space of your décolletage, elongating your neck, accentuating your collarbones, and effortlessly creating a put-together look. Your Color, Your Character There is nothing more special than having a signature something. So why not have a signature color? Chanel your inner Cheryl Blossom with her love for red and make your own bold statement. Having a signature color that is featured in your everyday jewelry is a statement in itself. Personally, I don’t go a day without green. You will never catch me without it: I wear green rings, green hoops in my second piercings, green studs in my thirds, and my long drop earrings always have green beads.

It’s my thing, my everyday statement. Making a connection between yourself and the color is not only absolutely chic but creates an associative quirk for your admirers—because, obviously, you have some. Pearl Perfection Pearls have been defining jewelry since 420 B.C. And today, pearls are seen on every it girl. From Marie Antoinette to Audrey Hepburn to Blake Lively, pearls have been proven to be truly timeless. They are the most precious gem that has the power to live through generations and be worn by powerful women. Pearls can be transformed from traditional old styles into a more modern wardrobe. Pearls are a perfect way to elevate any outfit. Whether you’re styling an elegant dress or casual denim, pearls are the perfect way to make any outfit instantly classier. Bangle Bracelets I have two words for you: bangle bracelets. Bangle bracelets are back and here to stay. Look at Bella Hadid and Olivia Wilde—they prove that flashy jewelry should not be an afterthought. Bangles come in all different metals and silhouettes, so there truly is a bangle for everyone. Don’t be afraid to mix and match to customize your outfit.

Pendant Necklaces Pendant necklaces are the perfect way to make your basics pop. This style features a unique pendant composed of metal, glass, or stone hung on a rope or leather cord. Pendants range from chunky hearts, metal shapes, or natural stones. They offer a fun play on proportions depending on length and shape. Pendants have the power to draw attention anywhere. I recommend pairing them with low-cut and strapless tops. Get Unconventional One of the most elated fashion moments I experience is when someone asks me what a piece I’m wearing is made of. For me, it’s usually some sort of crystal, either emerald, carnelian, or quartz. Crystal pieces are a wonderful and eccentric way to add color and depth to your look. Pieces made of wood, iron, or copper are also extremely unique, giving your look a futuristic or antique feel depending on how you style it. There’s a sort of thrill that comes with wearing unconventional materials. The world needs to remember that gold and silver are just two of the thousands of materials jewelry is crafted from. So remember: creativity is key. Branch out of the basics and add a little obscurity to your look. You won’t regret it. 29

EX MARKS THE SPOT Sometimes, you have to kiss a lot of frogs to find your prince. words: Jenny DeStefano | design: Rhea Srivastava

hether you’ve been officially dumped, ghosted, or somehow just lost your appeal to the other person, it’s time to put down the tissues and, in the immortal words of Abby Lee Miller, “save those tears for the pillow.” If you read between the lines of distress and loneliness, you’ll find a hidden bombshell: breakups are the best teachers. Though it’s a lot easier to put Lana Del Rey on loop and bury your brain in TikTok than admit it, the hard truth is that your past relationships (or, if you’re anything like me, your past flings that never seemed to make it to the ever-elusive ‘exclusive’ stage) are preparing you for a healthier way to love when the right person comes along. Here are some of the hard truths that my past has forced me to face. #1: Look in the Mir ror Experience is the key to understanding more about yourself. If you reflect on your past, you’ll notice your own patterns of behavior and, from that, start to recognize what you require in a partner. Using our past experiences to shape our future can aid tremendously in relationships going forward. Maybe it really bothered you that your ex had a tendency to give you unsolicited advice when you just wanted to vent. Instead of bogging yourself down in how crappy a therapist this person would be in real life, use it as a signal to figure out what you don’t want in a relationship. But this can also mean recognizing what you did enjoy as well—maybe instead of missing your ex as a person, you miss specific behaviors. Acknowledging the good in your past relationships can not only help you move forward but learn more about yourself and be ready for a better, healthier one in the future.

#2: Recognize When Red Flags Are Flying In the same vein, looking back on your past experiences once you’ve escaped the perfumey cloud of romance and feelings can show you the times when things got taken too far. No matter how badly I wish we could, we can’t change the past. But, what we can do is make note of times when the other person (and ourselves, too) felt toxic or otherwise problematic. Going forward, keep those red flags in mind and look out for them in future relationships. So, the next time someone’s opening line is, “What’s your Snap?”— you’ll know to turn the other way. #3: Communicate With Clarity Everybody knows that the foundation of a healthy relationship is clear and consistent communication, but being honest and straightforward is easier said than done. Things get even more complicated when you’re getting radio silence or are too caught up in the ‘how much of myself can I show to this person without seeming super weird’ aspect of it all. Lucky for us, a perk of moving on is knowing when it’s time to speak up and having the confidence to not repeat mistakes. This can take form in your future as being unafraid to make note of your boundaries or tell your partner when you need them to be cleare (or a more diligent) texter. When you’ve played all the games and lost every time (my personal favorite is, how long do I have to wait to answer this text so I seem chill and aloof ?), ? ), you know you’ll need to update your strategies. Whatever way it’s thrown at you, breakups and fake-ups alike have something to provide you with, other than some super hardcore feelings. So, dig deep, because now is the time to grow.

LOAFE AROUND & SEE WHAT HAPPENS Being alone with your thoughts is cool. words: Kylie Gorsky and Dayna Roberts | design: Rhea Srivastava

hen was the last time you let yourself sit in complete silence? Probably not in the last few weeks. With all life throws at you, it’s hard to find time for just you. Not in the sense where you sit down to read a book or listen to music—but complete and utter silence. What’s relaxing about sitting with your thoughts? Not a lot if you constantly have ideas and to-do lists swirling inside. But, sitting with your thoughts—no matter how scary—is vital to letting creativity flow. If you don’t give yourself time to reflect and have inner conversation, you are taking away the important time that allows opinions and ideas to form. Now, I am sure you have heard the name Walt Whitman before, a highly regarded poet known for his love of loafing. To loafe is to idle one’s time away through aimless wandering or loitering. The key idea of this is aimlessness aimlessness.. Some categorize this as laziness, but to be quite honest, it is the opposite. There is something so important about allowing yourself time to think with no restriction. Stillness allows you to relax, reduce anxiety, and handle stress. However, a forgotten side of stillness is that it also gives you the time to focus on just you. No outside pressure, nowhere to be, just one-on-one time with yourself. It’s time to throw out the mentality of the grind and being focused on others. Give yourself the independence you deserve. Not only does loafing help you develop your own ideas, but it also helps you develop your own opinions. With media being used to influence us every day, it is easy to forget to give room to your own thoughts. By embracing stillness, you embrace a flow of thought that will give voice to your subconscious. Learning about yourself is the key to self-growth, and in order to do this, you have to take the time to do so. Even just a few minutes a day of sitting with your thoughts can make a major difference in your life. Don’t forget to prioritize yourself. Who knows what wonderful things you’re storing in your brain?

A MATCH MADE IN

HEAVEN “All along, there was some invisible string tying you to me.” - Taylor Swift words: Rhea Srivastava and Jenna Lewis | design: Rhea Srivastava

aylor Swift may have turned the idea of the “invisible string” into a viral sensation on TikTok, but it’s a concept that has been around much longer than Folklore Folklore.. The invisible string theory suggests we’re all connected to countless invisible threads, cosmic strings that bind us to the people we’re destined to meet. Picture it like this: there’s an intricate web of strings crisscrossing the universe, and each of their ends is tied to someone special. When the two ends meet, a connection forms that feels like fate, destiny, or serendipity—whatever you want to call it. In East Asian cultures, it is known as The Red Thread of Faith. According to a Chinese proverb, “An invisible red thread connects those who are destined to meet, regardless of time, place, or circumstance. The thread may stretch or tangle but will never break.” It sounds like the stuff of fairy tales and romantic comedies, but in Western cultures, it introduces us to the idea of soulmates. In the realm of romantic relationships, the invisible string theory orients our soulmate as the person whose string is most closely intertwined with ours, creating a profound connection that transcends time and space. You may have crossed paths with this person your whole life, but when you finally meet them, you’ll feel the connection immediately.

Meeting your soulmate—the other end of your strongest string—is like finding the missing piece of your heart’s puzzle. And once you find them, you realize all the prior heartbreak you went through was well worth it. But it’s not just about romantic love; friendships also have their invisible strings. Have you ever wondered why you click with some people instantly while others remain mere acquaintances? According to the invisible string theory, it’s because your paths were destined to cross. Kindred spirits are those friends who seem to understand you on a soul-deep level. They share your quirks, dreams, and values, and their presence in your life feels like a divine blessing. When you find friendships like this, never let them go—they are just as meaningful as finding your soulmate. Ultimately, this theory is built on time and destiny. Anything is possible, no matter how odd you think the situation is. The boy you fantasize about from your flight home may become your husband in a few years. The girl you always bump into on the elevator might end up being your roommate after college. And the classmate you always seem to have a group project with may become your best friend one day. All the little coincidences add up—each one is just another stitch in the fabric of life. You never know how intertwined your string might be with someone until the right time and place finally come around.

So, the invisible string theor y seems simple enough, right? But how do you navigate the cosmic web of invisible strings in your own life? Trust Your Gut:

Accept That It’s Not Easy:

Sometimes, you’ll feel an instant connection with someone, like you’ve known them forever. After one conversation, you’ll realize you were meant to be in each other’s lives, whether it’s romantically or just as friends. If you ever are lucky enough to come across this feeling, don’t look back. The experts aren’t lying when they tell you your gut never lies.

The invisible string theory is undoubtedly a beautiful concept, but it may not always be easy to accept or navigate. It’s all about having patience in waiting for the threads of destiny to weave their way into our lives. Not everything happens immediately, and sometimes it takes time for the invisible strings to reveal their purpose. You may experience heartbreak, disappointment, or confusion when your perceived strings don’t lead to the connections you hoped for. All those emotions are part of life. You can’t experience the highs unless you also feel the lows.

Be Open: Keep your heart and mind open when meeting new people. You never know when your string will pull you to someone who will be your lifelong friend or love. The invisible string theory is all about letting fate take charge, so just step back, stay open, and it will all work itself out. But, sometimes, people are meant to be in your life for reasons you don’t expect. The connection you hoped would be your lover might have been meant to be your best friend. So don’t force a relationship that wasn’t meant to be. Be open to whatever connection the universe has planned for you. Nurture Your Relationships: Once you’ve found one of these special connections, don’t take it for granted. Care for it, cultivate it, and appreciate it. Relationships, whether with a significant other or a friend, take work. So, don’t crumble at the first sight of trouble. Things that last never come easy—and they’re not meant to. Don’t Tug Too Hard: Just because you find yourself distanced from someone you thought would or should be a close connection doesn’t mean they aren’t still with you. The invisible string theory is all about someone being there your whole life—whether the two ends are perfectly in sync or not. Ends might pull further apart for a while, and that’s okay, it’s part of life’s natural ebb and flow. Don’t pull on the string too hard—maybe it’s not the right time or place right now, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be one day.

“Maybe it’s not the right time or place right now, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be one day.” While the invisible string theory adds a touch of enchantment to each of our relationships, it’s important to remember that you have the power to create your own magic. Fate may bring people into your life, but it’s your intentions and actions that determine the depth and quality of those relationships. So, don’t be afraid to reach out, be open, and be vulnerable. In the end, whether the invisible string helps you find your soulmate or best friend, every connection you make is a little piece of heaven on Earth. So keep believing in the invisible string, but don’t stop weaving your own cosmic web. And when you do find your missing pieces, love and cherish them because the entire universe conspired to help you find them.

ONEORDAY

DAY ONE The right time is right now.

words: Becca Carr and Gianna Davis | design: Rhea Srivastava

Pursuing your passions is not a linear approach. It’s not a cause-and-effect relationship. It’s not an overnight appearance. And it’s not a singular thing. Life would be boring if it were linear. Your passions make your heartbeat. Your dreams evoke the utmost happiness. We all want them; we all have them; but we don’t all chase them. So, how do you create a life you can’t wait to wake up to? If you treat today as your day one, you are actively working towards transforming your dreams into reality. Each day is another opportunity for day one—for you to go after the things you have been putting off. The best day to start is today. Day one is right now—this exact moment. If you think your dreams need to wait for the right moment, you are wrong; the right moment does not exist and never will. One day is wishful thinking, but day one is proactive thinking.

Be fearless in what sets your soul on fire. We are powerful, beautiful, and passionate young adults. We are destined to change the world. The ball is in our courts. Each step we take leads us to where we want to go. The little things in our routines matter. Each day is an opportunity to learn something new, improve, and start thinking about something differently. Acknowledging that we’re human and that our mindsets and dreams change as we grow, is healing for ourselves. When we let go of societal

expectations and live our lives on our paths; we can create a clear definition as to what dreams we want to achieve. Whatever makes your heart race, follow that feeling and never let go. Hold on tightly and believe in the present. Don’t be afraid to embarrass yourself. How do we free-fall and live spontaneously if we’re scared of falling in the first place? We know, that trying new things can be hard, but being uncomfortable creates the stepping stone for us to live a passionate life where we aren’t worried about what other people think of us. Living in the present and creating inner peace is the best way to achieve a fulfilling life. As corny as it sounds, rejection is redirection, and often, the things that don’t work out for us are in our best interest. It helps not to be too hard on ourselves when everything doesn’t play out how we want it to. Our 20s are meant for being messy, making mistakes, and having fun while doing it. Now more than ever, it’s time to do the things that set our souls on fire no matter how big or small. If we wait for one day, that day will never come. One day is today; today is day one. A changed mind is a changed life. Look in the mirror and be proud of who you are, where you came from, and where you will go. Be uncomfortable, be vulnerable, be passionate, be true, be determined. Pursue what sets your soul on fire. Happy day one.

F*CK IT,

WE BALL It’s just not that deep. words: Rachel Musman | design: Rhea Srivastava Don’t get me wrong, complaining can be fun. How many times have you felt like everything in the world is collapsing down on you and you barely have time to breathe? I have so been there. And sometimes whining about it is exactly what you need to cope and let it all out. But big picture: your life is not over and you will be fine. Last year, I applied for a position on the executive board of an organization I am involved with on campus. I put so much work into this application and wanted the position badly. It ended up going to someone else and in the moment, I was devastated. I thought that my following year would be ruined because I couldn’t be as involved in the organization as I wanted to. But boy, was I wrong. Losing that position was exactly what was supposed to happen. Soon after, I ended up getting another position in that organization and became involved in ways I wouldn’t have been able to if I had gotten the position I originally thought I wanted. Everything worked out the way it was meant to and led me to where I am today. Now, realizing that my life wasn’t over and the Earth continued on spinning no matter what my title was, I feel a massive sense of comfort. Anytime something goes wrong in my life, whether that be a bad grade on an exam, a stupid fight with a friend, or facing some form of rejection, I try to take a step back and just think about the fact that our world is a floating rock in space—it is literally just a game! This might sound

crazy to some people, but I think it can be interpreted as reassurance. If you miss a train or your room is a mess; it’s just not that deep. Think about how many slipups you have had in your life… how many times you thought your life was over and there was no coming back from whatever went wrong. Well, you did, and you will continue to figure it out just like you have a million times before. Freshman year of college, I got my heart broken. I was hurting for months. I was so head over heels for someone, and we just didn’t work back then. However, what is meant to be in your life will be in it. Two full years after what I thought was the end of the world as I knew it, I am in an extremely happy relationship with that same boy. This applies to both the good things and the not so good. Maybe you are meant to fail an exam because you need to learn to work harder. Failure can be redirection, leading us to where we’re meant to end up. And it will sting. Accepting that certain moments of life are uncomfortable is part of the human experience and a necessary lesson to learn. I am sure you have experienced some shitty situations and you will experience many more, so try not to let them ruin the rest of your day or week. Take a deep breath and realize it just doesn’t matter in the long run. If something goes wrong in the first hour of your morning, why let it ruin the other 23 hours? Remember, you are on a floating rock of nothingness. So f*ck it, we ball and move on.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A 20-SOMETHING TEENAGER How can a person know everything at 18 but nothing at 22? - Taylor Swift words: Hannah Karlin | design: Rhea Srivastava

eing in our 20s is beautiful. We are young and experiencing life independently for the very first time. Our eyes open wide to see the new aspects of life— ones that include romantic relationships, friendships, and the ability to decide what we want. We explore our identities through trial and error, which is deemed acceptable during this time. So I might wear a bold outfit or make the first move, fully deciding if it feels right at the moment. And interestingly enough, our mistakes are celebrated. The saying, “You live and you learn,” has been worshiped by my fellow girls in their 20s. We love the embrace of error, the ability to try something—anything—out. This splendid age brings a newfound sense of independence. This summer, I was able to travel across the world with only the company of my naive and beautiful friends. So, five 20-yearold girls spent weeks with the opportunity to live in a foreign country and balance responsibility with absolute pleasure. It’s special opportunities like this that make me appreciative for my 20s. It’s also the anticipation for the future. I think about the upcoming year and am already full of excitement for the potential experiences and opportunities that may come my way. It’s the thought of where I will be in two years. I could be working in New York City or pursuing further education. I could be in an exceptional relationship or having fun being single. I could create genuine friendships while maintaining the wonderful ones I already possess. I could be traveling the world. The possibilities are endless in our 20s because we are so young, yet old enough to gain access to endless opportunity. But while we can feel on top of the world during this time of our lives, we also feel lost in this wave of growth.

It’s overwhelming—the freedom combined with the inexperience. We want to make the right choices but find difficulty in making decisions in foreign territory. So I find myself calling my mother every once in a while, tears in my eyes, completely confused in this daze of being in my 20s where I control my life, yet have so many responsibilities that I feel unable to maintain. And while I am excited to take care of myself, I lose energy to do so every once in a while. It’s exhausting—attempting to create a perfectly balanced life with intentions of proper health, social balance, and academic priority. So, I’ll lay in my unmade bed, with clothes scattered on the floor and an inability to open my math homework. Within a proper discussion of one’s early 20s must come the financial strain. So, we may want the deluxe traveling, aesthetic meals, clothing trends, and the premier apartments. But we experience a limitation in our post-graduate life, drowning in job applications and minimum wage employment. Still, we must keep in mind that we are doing our best and that it’s alright to end up on the kitchen floor at 1 A.M. with a Crunch Wrap Supreme in hand. It’s alright to feel shame after a poor exam performance. It’s alright to spend a weekend by yourself prioritizing self-care. It’s alright to face romantic rejection and explore what truly interests you. And it’s critical to seek advisement from those you trust. Living in my 20s is a beautiful time. I keep dying my hair blonder and wearing skirts that are shorter but also studying harder and preparing for my future more than ever before. I love that I know everything, yet absolutely nothing, all at the same time.

The Dreamscape Spritz If you’re in the market for your new favorite cocktail, look no further. I’ve got something for you that contains everything a girl could ask for: booze, bubbles, and boatloads of sugar. This is the perfect drink for every occasion, no matter your mood. Whether it’s for a date night, self-care hideaway, or girls get-together, it simply never misses. Here’s how to make this delectable concoction at home: Ingredients: -

Martini Glass Sugar Cotton Candy 1.5 oz Champagne 1 oz Vanilla Vodka

Steps: 1. Start by lining the rim of your martini glass with sugar. (Pro Tip: Dip your glass in simple syrup so your sugar will stick!) 2. Next, put as much cotton candy in the bottom of the glass as your heart desires! We love the classic pink, but play around with colors here. 3. When it comes to champagne, more is more. Pour your choice of champagne over the cotton candy and aim to fill the glass about halfway (you can save the rest for later). 4. Add one shot of vanilla vodka to top off the drink with a little extra booze. The warm notes of vanilla pair perfectly with the punchy sweetness of the cotton candy. 5. Enjoy! We hope you love this drink as much as we do.

The University Girl Fall 2023 Custom Cocktail words: Payton Mcglory | design: Revati Mahurkar

words: Ceci Brown and Margaret Matthews design: Revati Mahurkar

THROAT FETISH?? Last year, I hooked up with this guy who, while we were mid-hookup, asked if he could tilt my head back so he could look into the back of my throat. I was so confused and asked him why he wanted to look back there. He literally said that looking at tonsils and uvulas turned him on. Needless to say, I left and never spoke to him again.

CSI SYRACUSE: FRAT HOUSE FLUIDS During a frat party, I went upstairs with this guy. We start hooking up in his room and end up 69ing. Out of nowhere and I turn around and its a complete blood bath on his face. I had no idea I was on my period, fully gushing blood. It looked like a legitimate murder scene. Then, he pulls out lube…great. He gives me the bottle and I drop the entire thing everywhere everywhere.. All over myself, him, the bed, the floor... the whole bottle was gone. He then decides to take a shower because he was literally covered in blood and lube. Going basically naked through the entire party of people upstairs, he takes a shower and comes back in just a towel. Meanwhile, I’m splayed out on the bed where it looks like there had been a crime scene and it hits me that I need to throw up. In his towel, he runs with me to the bathroom where there are a million people, obviously. I didn’t even get a chance to close the bathroom door before I blew chunks, violently violently.. Once I throw up, I go back to his room. After cracking open a beer and gulping it down in maybe five seconds, he asks if I want to go downstairs. We get downstairs where he opens yet ANOTHER beer and says, “See you soon.” THE HORROR. I ran out the door covered in every bodily fluid imaginable. It goes without saying, we never spoke again.

THE DOG DAYS ARE OVER Fresh out of a breakup and feeling pretty bold, I decided to text my best friend’s boyfriend’s twin brother, who is sooo cute. I did all the basic pre-hookup rituals: I shaved, took my vitamins, drank juice, and moisturized. The night came, and he texted me, “You can come over now if you want.” Dry and bland. Great! So I go over, we go downstairs, and he puts on a movie. We start making out, when all of a sudden, I feel a huge muscle tear in my leg. I had pulled my groin while on top of him. IT HURT SO BAD. I had tears rolling down my face while kissing him. Then, I finally got off of him and decided that we should just stop because of the pain. We sat there for 30 minutes, completely topless, not touching each other. And just when I thought things couldn’t get any more awkward, his dogs came in, jumped on me, and started licking my nipples. I wish I was joking. I decided at that point I should probably go home. Worst. Hookup. Ever.

HOOKUPS FROM HELL PLUMBING PROBLEMS A football player I had been hooking up with finally invited me over to his place on South Campus. Things escalated, as they usually do, and for some reason, we decided to have sex in the bathroom. After making out for a while, he aggressively picked me up and put me on the sink... it came fully crashing down after about 30 seconds. Of course, I hit the floor along with it. That bruise didn’t leave my butt for weeks. WEEKS. After his marble sink was literally in pieces and dust on the bathroom floor, he squealed and sprinted out of the bathroom butt naked while yelling, “Run!” Back in his room, we just pretended like nothing happened and continued on…as one does. His roommate definitely had a rude awakening when he tried to brush his teeth the next morning. They ended up having to get the entire sink replaced. Luckily I didn’t get stuck with that plumbing bill. To make matters worse, this boy also thought hickeys meant biting into my neck. I woke up with not only a bruised ass but legitimate vampire bites. If you needed a sign not to hookup with athletes, this is it.

CRY BABY Freshman year, I was talking to this boy. When he finally invited me over to his dorm, I decided to go, and we immediately started making out. When he asked to have sex, I said yes. He put on a condom and had sex with my thigh for maybe ten seconds. Then, he awkwardly sat up and apologized. That’s when I realized he came. I was confused because he literally hadn't even entered me. And then he started crying…awesome. My roommates hadn't even made it home from their night out, and I was spamming them to come pick me up. While waiting for my ride, I had to sit there and comfort him while he sat in a chair, so disappointed in himself. I got back to my room less than 20 minutes after I had left. Needless to say, I never talked to him again. 43

@universitygirlsu The ideas expressed are not those of Syracuse University, the Office of Student Activities, the Student Association, or the Student Body.