Monday, December 4, 2017

Gift Guide for College Girls (Christmas 2017)



Hello, beautiful - and, as always, happy Blogmas! Today I'm back to help you finish up your last-minute Christmas shopping with a special gift guide just for college girls.

I don't know about you, but I always struggle to find the perfect gift for everyone on my list - and because I'm a huge perfectionist, I NEED to find that perfect gift or else. Luckily, I'm rolling in with an ultimate gift guide to help you find that special present for all the college girls on your list this season - you're welcome ;)

Whether you're a student shopping for a fellow college gal on a budget or a family member trying to get some ideas for your loved one, these are all the gifts I've been crushing on this Christmas season. I guarantee that with my ultimate gift guide, your friend, sister or daughter will fall in love with her presents this year! So, say goodbye to gift returns and hello to holiday bliss with these gift suggestions from Haley Marie Blog...


for the fit girl


If you need an idea for your friend who's a total gym bunny, who loves cardio and carbs, who treats her body like the temple it is, here are some of my favorite fitness-inspired Christmas gifts for this season... 

(From top left to bottom right.)


Journal

A pretty journal is a great way for your favorite girl to keep track of her goals, dreams and workouts throughout the New Year. While this white What If journal is no longer available, this This Is My Year journal from Etsy is equally cute and only $10! 


On-the-Go Facial Set

Chances are, your fave fit gal is pretty busy between hitting up the gym and conquering the rest of her life. This on-the-go facial kit from NuFACE is a great way for her to freshen up after a sweat sesh - not to mention, she'll totally nerd out for the hyaluronic acid and unique facial toning device.


String Bag

If you ever heard your girl complaining about how she needs a new gym bag, this string bag from Minga London is the gift she'll absolutely fall for this Christmas season. This bag is just $10, comes in both white and black and has a motivating mantra to inspire your too-fit-to-quit bestie to push herself harder than ever before.


Crystal Necklace

Natural and even mystical health and wellness remedies have recently become just as popular as weightlifting and clean-eating. Help your gal get in on the trend in style with this rose quartz necklace from Amazon.


Graphic Muscle Tank

Gift your girl something cute to work out in this winter with a cute graphic tee. This Etsy tank will give your gal pal a goal to work toward while she's sweating it out at the gym - aka an epic cheat day of Rock-level proportions. 


Bath Set

Chances are pretty high that the busy fit girl in your life takes a lot of her showers at the gym. But just because she's cleansing on the go doesn't mean she can't treat her bod to something sweet! This four-piece Snow Angel set from Philosophy comes with some magnificent minis to help her clean up after she shows up. Not to mention, they smell like total heaven on earth! 


Sleep Mask

Sleep is the fitness game-changer that most of us are missing out on these days - so, why not give your girl the precious gift of shut-eye this X-mas season? This pink silk eye mask from Baublebar will help her relax anytime, anywhere in luxurious style and comfort.


Boxing Gloves

Help your fave fit girl take her game to the next level with a set of pro-quality Everlast boxing gloves. And if she's never boxed before? Sneak a class pass to your local ring inside the gloves for a sweet wintry surprise!


Fitbit Alta

Alta is Fitbit's newest invention for helping you track your health at the touch of a button. With a sleek new style, your girlfriend can open up the Fitbit app to get a detailed overview of her sleep, activity and more. 


Wireless Headphones

Those pesky wires can be so annoying when you're trying to work out. I love my Bluetooth headphones for the gym and highly recommend getting a pair for your favorite fit gal this Christmas season. These Happy Plugs from Bloomingdale's come in stylish white-and-gold and are perfect for wearing on-the-go.


Dry Shampoo

Ever seen that meme "My hair is 90% dry shampoo by now?" Literally me - and, most likely, the fit college girl in your life. Thankfully, Living Proof makes a triple-action dry shampoo that's sure to sap up all the sweat from her workout as she dashes off to her next daily commitment.


Water Bottle

Fashionistas have already fallen in love with ban.do's cheeky designs - and now it's time for the gym bunnies to get on board! Get your girl an adorable water bottle that expresses her love for pizza for just $20 at Bloomingdale's.


Personal Blender

Honestly, getting a personal blender when I got my own apartment changed my entire life when it comes to eating a healthy breakfast. If you know a fit girl who's prone to skipping the most important meal of the day, a personal blender will motivate her to whip up some tasty green smoothies and juices to take along with her wherever she goes.


Yoga Ball

Whether you know it as a yoga ball, exercise ball or stability ball, your girl will work her core like never before with this rad fitness gift. Amazon offers great options for as little as $8 from brands like Fit Spirit.


Speed Rope

Jump rope was all the rage when we were kids, but it's actually still a great form of exercise today! This speed rope from Amazon totally takes the jump roping trend to the next level.


Adidas Hat

Every fit girl needs a good hat for hiding her messy ponytail on her way out of spin class. Get her a stylish baby pink one with the Adidas brand logo and you might just find her wearing it outside the gym, too!


Asics Running Shoes

The one thing that every fit girl needs, but might not shell out the money to buy herself is a good pair of well-fitting running shoes. A lot of celeb trainers, such as K&K from Tone it Up, swear by Asics as the best running shoe brand around - and these cute Asics sneaks are perfect for crossing the finish line looking like a total babe.


Yoga Mat

A good yoga mat is the foundation of any college girl's dorm room fitness routine. This one from Nike is both super supportive and #aesthetics.


Headbands

Because unruly hair shouldn't get in the way of a good workout. Not to mention, these ones from Nike are on sale!


Essential Oil Set

Last but not least, give your girl the gift of natural beauty and health this Christmas with a luxury essential oil set, like this one from Bodhi Herbal Spa. Essential oils are a great way to boost your immune system, de-stress your body and make your skin glow - all without nasty chemicals or additives.


for the girlboss


What do you get for the girl who might not have everything, but is determined to get whatever she lays her eye on? Hmm...for the greatest girlboss in your life, I've compiled a collection of sassy yet functional gifts she'll love for helping her hustle hard - and hustle hard in style. 


French Press

As a fellow coffee addict, adding a French press to my coffee routine totally changed my life. This pink ceramic French press is both stylish and functional, so your favorite girlboss will never hit that afternoon slump again.


Beautiful Notecards

The girlboss life is full of people to thank and networking to do, so naturally, ya girl's gonna need a LOT of notecards to keep up with her busy social life. Help her keep in touch in style with these cute succulent notecards from Chronicle Books!


Monday Sweater

When you're a girlboss, Mondays don't suck - they're the day you commit to slaying throughout the rest of the week! Get your girl hyped for that Monday vibe with this pink sweater she can wear all week long.


Chic Globe

A chic white globe makes the perfect desk decor for the leading lady who never stops working. Help your girl feel more creative, productive and inspired by making her workspace the prettiest place she'll never want to leave.


Cute Mug

You've got your girl covered for all her coffee needs - but what's she going to drink it out of? This adorable plant-themed mug, perhaps? 


Book Lover's Candle

If old books are the smell that haunts your girlfriend's dreams, rather than red roses or Chanel No. 5, Frostbeard Studio makes the perfect candle for her. With these reading-inspired scents, your fave girlboss will never want to leave her office sanctuary.


Pen Set

I don't know about you, but when I have pretty pens and stationery, I feel all the more inspired to write with it. Inspire her with these kickass pens, whose "Take Note, Bitches" mantra will leave her laughing and "yassss"ing all at the same time. 


Stila Stay-All-Day Liquid Lipstick

A busy gal ain't got time to be touching up her lipstick every 20 minutes in the office bathroom. As a longtime fan of the Stila Stay-All-Day Liquid Lipstick, I can totally attest that this lip color truly pulls through. Get it for $24 at Revolve.


Kitty Case

Your fave girlboss might joke that she's a crazy cat lady, seeing as she works too hard to have time to waste with f*ckbois. But, you've gotta admit it: your best gal's phone would look pretty darn cute in this not-so-crazy cat lady case. Telephone conferences never looked so good on her!


Perpetual Calendar

Because why not go green in style? Decorate your fave gal's desk with this rose gold calendar that never runs out. (Just don't forget what year it is, or you'll be outta luck.)


Desk Pad

If the girlboss you've got in mind is the kind who litters lists wherever she goes (um, hi - welcome to the club!), then she needs this desk pad from Rifle Paper Co. this Christmas. Period.


Sheet Mask

Chances are, your girl is constantly on the move - and all that jetsetting can really dehydrate your skin. Next time she hits the skies, encourage her to bring these 24k gold sheet masks on the plane and do them mid-air. After all, what could possibly be a better gift than perfect skin?


Watch

Keep her from being late during those busy days of appointments with a designer watch from Kate Spade. Not only will you show her how much you care, but you'll also show her that you have great taste! 


Lilly Pulitzer Agenda

Favored by girlbosses the world over, Lilly Pulitzer planners are the perfect way to keep all those to-dos and meetings organized. Plus, she'll totally be inspired to work hard (& play hard) by this stylish, shimmery cover!


Initial Necklace

Understated jewelry can be the most meaningful gift in the world - especially to a busy gal who's constantly dressing to impress. This initial necklace is so dainty she can wear it with any business ensemble, yet so beautiful she'll never want to take it off anyways!


Bed of Roses Nail Polish Set

Deborah Lipmann nail polish is, TBH, the sh*t when it comes to beautiful color that lasts and lasts. Give your girl the gift of perfectly pampered nails with these subdued rosy hues that her girlboss heart will totally fall in love with. 


Charlotte Tillbury Gift Set

For the perfect classy makeup look to get her through a long day of work and play, gift your gal this Charlotte Tillbury gift set. It comes with everything she'll need for the softest smoky eye and the plumpest pink lips a girlboss could ever dream of!


S'well Water Bottle

Hydration is *key*, both for staying healthy and for achieving the big tasks in life. Give your girlfriend the gift of self-care this Christmas with a stylish S'well bottle that makes it easy to drink water.


Boss Lady Tote

Every girl needs a big tote bag for lugging around laptops, textbooks, library books & her latest farmer's market discovery. With this handy Groupon, you can get her a totally stylish, totally functional tote for as little as $13. Can I get a heck, yeah?!


Fenty Beauty Match Stix

I'm predicting that Fenty Beauty products will be the hottest X-mas gift this season for any gal on your list. These multitasking match stix will simplify your busy gal's beauty routine by allowing her to cover up, contour and highlight all in one fell swoop.


Enamel Pin

Your girlboss is a strong lady, make no mistake about that - so what better way to treat her this holiday season than with an enamel pin that makes a bold statement? (Hold all applause until the end of this post, please.)


Elizabeth and James Nirvana Gift Set

The Olsen twins' signature line of Nirvana perfumes will get your girl in the right mood for any occasion. Whether she's feeling flirty and flowery or musky and bold, this inexpensive gift set will give her the scent she needs to rock out all day (and all night) long.


Pearl Earrings

Because there's nothing better than a gorgeous pair of statement studs for getting the #girlboss job done. Get them from Net-a-Porter for ~$363 (275 British pounds).




for the bookworm


If your favorite girl is more the quiet, introverted type who'd rather curl up with a good book than go out to the bar, then never fear: I've found the perfect comfy-cozy gifts to totally nail her Christmas style.


Hogwarts Tote

There's no way your fave bookworm has given up hope on her Hogwarts letter. Ask her why, after all this time, and she'll probably just tell you "Always." In other words, if "it must have gotten lost in the mail" is her favorite line, then she needs this cheeky tote for Christmas this season.


Banned Books Pouch

Uncle Tom's Cabin. Of Mice & Men. Their Eyes Were Watching God. These literary masterpieces and more all suffered from censorship at some point in their artistic lives. Help your girl do them justice this holiday with a literary pouch from Bookriot.com. 


Fresh Sugar Lip Balm

If the gal you've got in mind is more interested in the next chapter than in putting on a full face of makeup, then this simple lip balm is the perfect way to treat her to some holiday bliss. The Fresh Sugar Advanced Therapy Lip Balm will soothe those wintry chapped lips, so she can stop fussing about in the mirror and get back to her book sooner than ever before.


Time Turner

Like hell if you thought Harry Potter ended years and years ago. Even if it did, your girl would probably rather turn back time than say goodbye to Harry, Ron & Hermione. Give her the gift of time travel in style with this chic time turner necklace from Amazon.


Cat Sweatshirt

You might argue that your gal isn't a crazy cat lady, but she's not denying the truth. Help her embrace her true self in a comfy sweatshirt she can bury herself and her fur baby in this holiday season.


Blanket Scarf

It's a scarf that doubles as a blanket. Need I say more? 


Madewell Watch

If your favorite bookworm has classic, timeless style (as I'm sure she does), then she'll surely appreciate this Madewell watch. The Horse Original Watch will never give up on her when she's tracking her words per minute or catching the next train to her newest destination.


Fuzzy Socks

Keep those toes cozy while she's cuddled up in her reading nook with these classic fuzzy socks. They make the perfect stocking stuffer or inexpensive gift for any bookworm who's known for living a life of hygge.


To the Moon & Back Pillow

This pillow likely describes how your girl feels about her favorite literary heroes - and you, of course. Strengthen her fierce loyalty and love by gifting her an adorable pillow that sums up all her feels without her having to say a word. We promise she'll appreciate the careful thought! 


Travel Mug

Any avid bookworm knows that a warm cup of coffee or tea is non-negotiable for cozying up with your favorite book. Help her enjoy those sips in style with a Jarvis travel mug that's perfect for all her favorite brews.


Chai Tea

To go with her travel mug, why not gift her a tin of chai tea? Because everyone knows the chai tea latte is the preferred drink of bookworms the world over.


Diffuser

Essential oils are the perfect way to bring a little natural relaxation into your favorite bookworm's life. Next time she's curled up in bed with her newest read, invite her to diffuse a little lavender or eucalyptus oil in this beautiful diffuser from Chando. It's so gorgeous, she'll mistake it for home decor - yet so handy for all of her reading needs.


Personalized Bookplates

Allow your girl to stake her claim on her favorite needs with these personalized bookplates from Sarah and Abraham. All she'll need to do is peel, stick and shelf! 


Winter Mittens

Winter is coming - and you'll want your best gal to be ready for it. I promise your fave college girl will totally fall in love with these silky soft mittens from Avon this Christmas season. 


Throw Blanket

Every bookworm needs a giant throw to snuggle up in their reading space with. Give your gal pal the gift of comfort and warmth this Christmas with a chunky knit blanket from Layla Grace.


Book Lover's Candle

Our book lover's candles return for, of course, your favorite bookworm! This soy candle smells like "reading at the cafe" (aka coffee and chocolate pastries). Your girl won't be able to get enough of it this Christmas season as she's decking the halls.


Little Miss Austen Book

Who says your girl has to grow up? This cute adaptation of Jane Austen for toddlers will remind her of her childhood and make the perfect decorative addition to any bookworm's coffee table. 


Oh K! Face Mask

Simple as your fave bookworm's beauty routine may be, chances are that pampering is an important step in her week to keep her sane. So, why not give your gal the gift of relaxation and fresh, clean skin with this three-step charcoal mask from Oh K!? 


Coloring Book

Literature isn't the only type of book your gal will love this holiday season. Buy her this Twilight Garden coloring book for some romantic relaxation that will spark her creativity this Christmas.


Rose Quartz Bookends

To turn your leading lady's favorite novels into a stunning statement, turn to these rose quartz bookends for a beautiful decor option she'll love.


Teacup & Saucer

Help your girl enjoy her favorite sips with all the grace and poise of an English queen. This Kate Spade teacup set is the most stunning way to enjoy a delicious cuppa in bed with your favorite book.


Floral Chocolate Gift Set

For the sweetest girl with the sweetest tooth in the world, chocolate is always the way to her heart. These floral chocolates set themselves apart from the crowd with unique flavors like lavender and orange geranium, yet will still satisfy her craving for the sweet stuff. 


Pastel Nail Polish Set

I know, I know: Deborah Lippmann's lovely nail polishes keep coming back for more! But it's true: for the girl whose nails may not be perfectly polished, but loves bright colors and feeling joy, these pastel colors are a much better option than Deborah's rosy nudes.



for the sorority girl


Everyone knows that girl: the preppy girl who's like a ray of sunshine in everyone's life, who loves her sorority and somehow gets straight As at the same time. But what do you get the girl who literally has everything? I'm here to show you! 


Instax Mini

The modern version of a Polaroid, the Instax Mini camera is the perfect way for this girl to capture all the most memorable moments spent with her friends. Nowadays, you can get them for as little as $60 from stores like Jo Ann Fabrics to brighten your favorite girl's Christmas Day.


St. Tropez Gradual Tan Plus

As a fellow fake tanner, I swear by St. Tropez for all my bronzing needs. If your girl is looking for a gradual tan that will make her glow under the party lights, this everyday bronzing lotion is exactly what she needs to get ready for her big night out. 


Deborah Lippmann Happy Days & Splish Splash Set

Chances are, this girl is all about the bright colors and cheery nail polishes. If that's the case, then this nail set from Gilt is the perfect present for her this holiday season.


Travel Mug

This "This is Probably Wine" travel mug has the same charming candor as your favorite gal pal. I'm willing to bet she'll fall in love with it just as quickly as you've fallen in love with her.


Rose

Yes way Rose. Need I say more?


Happy Hour Tray

Help your girl keep all her bits and baubles at bay with this jewelry tray that screams "cheers" to happiest hour of her day. 


Monogram Necklace

If she doesn't own a monogram necklace, is she really in a sorority at all? Give her the gift of family pride this season with a necklace that shares the initials she loves most with the entire world.


Sorority Jacket

As many sorority items as she already owns, chances are none are as nice as this Charles River rain coat from Etsy. Not only is it embroidered with her letters, but it's also incredibly soft inside and super high quality. Trust me when I say this jacket will truly give you your bang for your buck.


Kate Spade Card Holder

Whenever your girl leaves the house to go out, she probably doesn't want to bring her entire purse with her - yet she wants something a bit classier than the classic stick-on pocket on the back of her phone. So, what's the answer? This Lily Avenue card holder, of course! 


Pastel Phone Case

This girl's entire social life revolves around her phone, so it only makes sense that she'd want to protect the thing she loves most. This case is the most beautiful way to keep her phone safe in style, so she can take it to the club or her next philanthropy event without a care in her mind.


Sorority Pillow

Let the entire world know where her true home is this Christmas season. Whether she's a Theta or a Kappa, Simply Sisters sells a pillow that will speak to her inner Greek.


Sea Salt Caramel Popcorn

Even the happiest girl in the world gets a sweet tooth every once in awhile. This Funky Chunky sea salt caramel popcorn will satisfy that sweet tooth faster than you can say "sugar rush" - trust me!


Cards Against Humanity

This girl is always the life of the party - and when there's a dull party, she knows how to liven it up. A raunchy card game is a surefire way to get the audience going before they can slip away. My pick? The classic Cards Against Humanity. Chances are, she already has the O.G., so try one of these expansion packs from Amazon.


Ray Ban Sunglasses

If she's wearing sunglasses, they're going to be Ray Bans. Fuel her designer addiction with these classic aviators from Net-a-Porter.


Cheers, Bitches Flask

There's another way to liven up a dull party - any guesses? ;) Hint: this flask might help her out!


Hair Smoothing Kit

Can I let you in on a secret? Every girl wants soft, silky strands - okay, so it might not be a secret. But at least help her reach her goal this Christmas with this pro flatiron kit from Gilt.


Sorority Throw Pillow

If there's anything I know to be true about all sorority girls, it's that their sisters are the most important thing in the world to them. Getting her a sorority pillow shows that you recognize the importance of that force in her life and are willing to honor the connection she's made. That's something special she won't get from just anyone this Christmas.


Mermaid Makeup Brushes

Your girl is a true mermaid in every sense of the word: gorgeous, unique and full of life. Now, let her pamper herself like one with these fun makeup brushes that'll make her smile at her stocking.


Zoella Gift Set

Zoella embodies everything this girl strives to be. Classy, stylish and successful, it only makes sense that she'd be a huge fan of this Brit. Now, she can channel her favorite style icon with a gift set designed by the social media maven herself. Total score!


bliss fatgirlslim Cream

Okay, okay: though the name of this cream is deceiving (and a bit body-shaming), I have to admit the wonders it can work on cellulite. And let's face it - when you get as many invites as this party girl does, ain't nobody got time for lumpy thighs beneath her dress. Get it and give it for $35 from Nordstrom.


Hello Wall Decor

Cheery and coral, this wall decor is just as friendly and inviting as the girl herself. Brighten up the walls (and the whole room) by gifting her this sign to decorate her pad with. After all, a little touch of home never hurt anybody, last time I checked :)


Travel Manicure Kit

This mani kit is record-setting in that it's the cheapest item on this list! Clocking in at only $4, this is the smallest, yet most priceless way to put a smile on your girl's face. In my opinion, there's no better gift than the gift of self-care - and there's no better way to take care of yourself than to take care of your nails. Am I right or amirite?


Beats Pill

Last but not least, music makes the party, and the party makes the girl! This portable speaker comes with Bluetooth and stellar sound quality. For a splurge gift that just keeps on giving, I highly recommend the Beats Pill for Christmas giving this winter.



Want to make your voice heard on Haley Marie Blog's first year? Click here to take my reader's survey and enter to win a $25 Starbucks gift card! 

Sunday, December 3, 2017

The College Girl's Ultimate Guide to Adulting + Free Cleaning Checklist!



Hello, beautiful - and welcome back to Blogmas for a post I'm calling "The College Girl's Ultimate Guide to Adulting!"

An alternate title for this guide might be "How to Get (And Keep!) Your Sh*t Together in College," aka "How to Organize Your Life and Avoid Falling Apart Halfway Through the Semester." Because let's face it: if you're anything like me, the sophomore slump (or senioritis or whatever ailment you may face) is getting way. Too. Real. RN.

This post is all about the small daily and weekly actions I perform regularly to keep myself organized and on-track for a successful week. That includes everything from cleaning my room, to staying on top of emails, to filling in my planner and budget on a weekly basis. Plus, stick around to the end and you'll get to print my FREE "adulting checklist!" (Spoiler alert: it has pink pineapples on it!)

So, what are we waiting for? Adult life waits for no one, people!


Daily 


I hate to be the one to break it to you, but adulting is one of those pesky things you kind of have to practice every day, or else the whole system falls apart. 

Every day, I strive to create as little work for myself at the end of the week by maintaining a fairly clutter-free apartment-slash-inbox. Of course, that doesn't mean I'm a neat freak by nature - au contraire. 

In a perfect world, I would never fall off the cleaning bandwagon, but college life is far from perfect and alas, so am I. So, I like to think of this checklist more as a set of guidelines, rather than a strict set of edicts.


  • Make my bed. Even though this is the simplest daily action, it's the one I miss most frequently. However, there's just something about having a tidy bed that makes the rest of the room look more pulled together, ya know what I mean?
  • Wash and dry dishes. The easiest way to prevent piles of dishes from cluttering your sink is to wash them as soon as you're done using them - or as soon as they've cooled off, if they've just gotten out of the oven or off the stove.
  • Clear clutter. As you'll note on my checklist later, clutter includes not just the surfaces in my room (especially my desk and floor, which tend to pile up with papers and books), but also my schoolbag. I carry a huge tote bag to class, which is handy for stocking up on essentials but not-so-handy for staying clutter-free. So, every night, I try to take a few seconds to toss any littered receipts or gum wrappers that may have found their way into my bag, as well as put away any stray books or assignments for safekeeping.
  • Wipe countertops. I like to keep the Seventh Generation disinfectant wipes close at hand for any kitchen disasters that may ensue. However, just for good measure, I try to remember to wipe up any stray crumbs - yes, because my roommate could get sick, but also because I just like the look of a clean, shiny countertop. What could be wrong with that? :)
  • Touch emails only once. A few years ago, I read about the "one touch rule" for responding to emails and performing other tiny tasks: touch them only once. In other words, don't start writing a draft of an email when you could send your reply right now. Especially in the blogging world, time is of the essence when it comes to responding to business inquiries, freelance opportunities and other important messages. I've personally saved myself so much time and made so much money simply by refusing to waste my time putting too many emails into my Drafts folder! 


Weekly


How you organize your life on a daily basis is part of a larger puzzle: your weekly organization system. Not to mention that it would be pretty weird and time-consuming to do some tasks on a daily basis - for example, can you imagine doing a small load of laundry every single day? Talk about expensive!

Whenever I skip one of these weekly tasks, it throws off the entire rest of my week. So, I always try to stay on track by checking off each of these tasks before the next week begins.



  • Laundry. Do your laundry, girl! But don't just do it the lazy way: actually separate your lights and darks. If you can afford the extra couple of quarters, it will save you so much anxiety to know that your new red dress won't bleed onto your favorite white sweater. And when it comes to folding and putting away laundry, use the one touch system yet again and put it away as soon as it comes out of the dryer. Not only does this prevent wrinkles from forming, but it prevents piles of laundry from forming on your floor, too! (Take it from someone who knows.)
  • Grocery shopping. I used to do all my grocery shopping on campus until I realized how much money I could save just by taking the train a couple stops over. Now, I shop at the Trader Joe's across from the Prudential Center in Boston, and I couldn't be happier with the prices I'm paying. Two rules of thumb I swear by? Stick to a list, and never go grocery shopping when hungry. Follow these rules and I promise you'll be golden! 
  • Toss expired food. As much as I hate to waste food, you can't stop avocados from browning whenever they feel like it. (Face it, you know I'm right.) So don't just let them rot in the fridge until a mysterious smell starts to form: nip the stink in the bud before it happens by throwing out your food waste (including any leftovers you know you wont eat) on a regular weekly basis.
  • Fill Brita pitcher and ice trays. Sometimes, these items need to be handled more often than on a weekly basis, but if I haven't done them yet this week (i.e. my roommate's been taking care of it, or we've both just been lazy), I always try to step up at least once a week and take on the burden of the Brita. As for all you folks with a fancy fridge and ice maker...know that I envy you. A lot.
  • Update my planner and Google calendar. As a blogger and college student, my Google calendar and my planner make up my ENTIRE life - I kid you not. Every last detail of my life, from what posts I have scheduled this week to what videos I'm making and what assignments I have due, isn't set in stone until I have it in my calendar. So, it's absolutely imperative that I take at least 15 minutes every Sunday night to fill in my appointments for the week - otherwise, they basically just don't exist to me.
  • Set a budget for the week. Personally, I find it easier to budget on a weekly basis than a monthly one because my paychecks are so variable. I have income coming from many different sources (blogging, freelancing, work study), so my income is never quite the same as it was the week before. Therefore, I have to make sure I know what my limits are when it comes to saving, spending and paying off debt. Setting a weekly budget using an app like YNAB or Left to Spend helps me keep track of exactly how much money I can spend until the following week's paycheck arrives in my bank account.



Click to print your free checklist to help you #adult!



(Oh, and don't forget to follow me @haleymarieblog on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter! Also, keep an eye out for new YouTube videos every Wednesday at The Haley Edit.)





Friday, December 1, 2017

30 Healthy Habits to Start Before 30



Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, aka sponsored links that help keep Haley Marie Blog alive. But don't worry - all of the opinions in this article are still my own!

Hello, beautiful! Happy December 1st - which, coincidentally, is also the first day of Blogmas 2017. 

In case you haven't heard of Blogmas, it's when bloggers post every day from December 1 - December 25 as a way of counting down to Christmas. I participated in it last year when my blog was first starting out, and a year later, I'm excited to say I'll be participating in it again!

That being said, one thing I want to do differently this year is writing posts about more than just Christmas. I also want to keep going with my usual content about beauty, health and happiness in college all at the same time.

So, the post I'm bringing you today is all about the 30 healthy habits you need to start before you turn 30. As I've probably mentioned a million times already, I've been having a bit of a crisis knowing I'm about to turn 20 this summer. To cope, I'm trying to learn as much as I can about all the healthy habits I should start in my 20s - and today, I'm sharing all those secrets with you. And here they are! :)

  1. Drink half your body weight in water. First thing's first: I'm 99.99% sure that, if you're anything like the rest of us, you're definitely not drinking enough water. Experts recommend you drink half your body weight in ounces of water every day to stay healthy and hydrated - for example, if you weigh 140 pounds, you should aim for 70 ounces of water every day. (That's a little bit more than the 8-cups-a-day standard.)
  2. Make your bed in the morning. This is a habit I definitely need help on! However, I'm a big believer that making your bed signals to your body that it's time to wake up. Not to mention that a neat and tidy life = a neat and tidy mind. So, tomorrow morning, I challenge you to make your bed (or at the very least, straighten out your comforter a bit) before heading off to work or class. I guarantee you'll feel the positive effects almost instantly!
  3. Evaluate your finances every week. While this may not have to do with your physical health, your financial health is super important! After all, having healthy finances lifts a tremendous weight off your shoulders. So, even if you know you have a lot of debt on your shoulders, it's important to take the time to sit down with a cup of tea (or glass of wine) once a week and go through all your bills, bank statements and credit card accounts. Though it might be a bit painful at first, doing this will help you get your finances on track faster than you could imagine.
  4. Practice safe sex. Hopefully, if you became sexually active before age 20, you've already adopted this habit - but it's never too late to start! To me, "safe sex" doesn't just mean using birth control - it also means protecting yourself from STIs by using barrier methods (like condoms and dental dams) when you engage in sexual activity. Additionally, you should be screened every year for STIs like gonorrhea, especially if you're sexually active with multiple partners and don't use barrier methods religiously.
  5. Get screened for breast cancer. Learning to perform a breast self-exam is a skill every woman should have by eighteen - or, at the latest, in her twenties! Even though you're at low risk for breast cancer at this age, getting to know what your breasts normally feel like will help you identify potential problems more easily down the road. Additionally, if you have a history of breast cancer in your family, you might want to head to your local breast center and have a test for the BRCA gene. If you have it, your risk for developing breast cancer before age 70 is about 55-65% - so, you might want to consider your options such as mastectomy and breast reconstruction. Talk to your doctor for more info and, most importantly, be proactive about your breast health! 
  6. Know how to pour a standard drink. If your college is anything like mine, you probably had to take an e-course on alcohol before coming to university. When I took it, I learned the importance of knowing what a standard drink is. A standard drink contains approximately 14 grams of pure alcohol, and looks completely different depending on what you're drinking. For example, one shot is a standard drink of hard liquor - but a can of beer or half-a-glass of wine are also considered "standard." To drink as safely as possible, you shouldn't exceed more than one standard drink per hour...but since, as we all know, sh*t still happens, the bottom line is this: just know what you're drinking and how much! (And don't be the friend who's known for over-pouring.)
  7. Take a multivitamin. It might seem simple, but many Americans are deficient in important vitamins and minerals. For example, most of us are at least a little deficient in Vitamin D. Not to mention, if you're thinking about having kids, you definitely want to start taking a supplement containing folic acid. Most standard daily women's vitamins contain at least 100% of your daily value of these and other important nutrients, so as long as you're taking something, you're probably good.
  8. Eat intuitively. Intuitive eating, aka "normal eating," is the complete opposite of crash dieting or binge-eating. Instead of following a rigorous or uncontrollable eating pattern, you simply follow two simple rules: eat when you're hungry and stop when you're full. It's that simple! And the best parts? No foods are "bad" or "off-limits" when it comes to normal eating. So, enjoy a little bit of everything in moderation and quit those fad diets, girl. You deserve it!
  9. Start getting Pap smears at 21. Guidelines say you should visit a gynecologist as soon as you become sexually active - but you won't get a Pap smear until 21, and you don't need to go every year unless your Pap smear comes back abnormal. So, get your first Pap smear at 21 and ask your doctor's advice on when you should schedule your next appointment. For a healthy young college girl, you probably won't need to get another for the next three years or so - but better safe than sorry! 
  10. Throw away your scale. That's right - throw it away! Weighing yourself is an unrealistic evaluation of how much weight you've lost or gained. As a woman, your weight fluctuates with everything from what you ate to what day of your menstrual cycle it is. So, toss the scale and worry about how your clothes fit and how you feel instead - your mental health is worth so much more than that Victoria's Secret body, anyways.
  11. See a therapist at least once. Though this might be a bit controversial, I think everyone should visit a therapist at least once for a mental health check-in. After all, you go to your doctor, your dentist, your eye doctor and your gyno all for preventative visits - but most people don't even bother to visit a therapist unless something's wrong. The better strategy, in my opinion, is to see a professional at least once to discuss any potential concerns. That way, should you ever find that something serious arises, you'll already have a relationship with a professional who can help.
  12. Pay yourself first. By that, I mean save at least $20 from every paycheck before you even address your other expenditures. This technique is known as "paying yourself first" and will help you prepare for financial emergencies - so even if you're in debt, you won't have to fear for what might happen if you lose your job or default on your student loans.
  13. Stop seeing your pediatrician. Ladies, there's no reason to keep seeing that doctor you've been visiting since you were in diapers once you hit eighteen. Your family might still see you as a little girl, but the fact of the matter is that you're never going to feel comfortable discussing uncomfortable (but important!) health topics like birth control and breast exams with a doc who's known you since you still wore your hair in pigtails.
  14. Invest in a good resume and business cards. These two investments are simple and cheap, yet make a world of difference when it comes to impressing interviewers! Even if you're not in the market for a new job right now, you should still keep these things up-to-date - after all, you never know what's going to happen or when inspiration might strike.
  15. Master at least three healthy dinner recipes. You don't need to be a gourmet chef to keep yourself trim and well-fed - but as an adult, you should at least have a few go-to recipes for at-home dinner dates, work potlucks and visits from the 'rents. (And knowing how to make boxed macaroni and cheese doesn't count!)
  16. Get six to eight hours of sleep every night. No exceptions! Your body might be able to handle all those late-night study sessions in college, but by the time you hit 25 and have a real job, there's really no reason to stay up past midnight on a weekday - period.
  17. See the dermatologist. Skin going haywire in your 20s? It might be time to swallow your pride and schedule a visit with a dermatologist. After all, why waste any more money on experimenting with expensive lotions and potions that could go either way when the dermatologist could tell you exactly what's going to work for that adult acne? 
  18. Learn to read a nutrition label. Even if you can't cook from scratch every night, you should at least know what you're putting into your body when you unwrap that Panera sandwich (or package of gas station Pop-Tarts). Here's a handy guide to deciphering what all those numbers and percentages really mean.
  19. Wear sunscreen. Cloudy or sunny, rain or shine, your skin is depending on you for its protection from those harmful UV rays - so what better time to start wearing sunscreen than in your 20s, before most of the damage has set in?
  20. Break up with emotional vampires. If you haven't heard of emotional vampires, now's the time to learn to recognize them - and then run like the plague. An emotional vampire is one of those friends, boyfriends or family members who sucks the life out of you and leaves you feeling empty and negative every time you see them. So, if you've got a friend who's constantly complaining or an aunt who makes you feel like crap, cut off all contact ASAP. You're an adult; you can do that now!
  21. Stop going to bed with makeup on. There's no simple trick to getting clear skin that works for everyone - but there's one clear predictor of bad skin, and that's going to bed with a full face of makeup on. Always stock up on makeup wipes so that you can still wash off that grimy foundation before falling into bed, even on the latest of drunken nights.
  22. Set long- and short-term goals. One of the most important things you can do for your mental and physical health, in my opinion, is to always be working toward something. So, whether your goal is to run a marathon or a 5K, to travel to Paris, Texas or Paris, France, don't be afraid to get honest with yourself about your deepest desires. Chasing after your dreams will make you so much happier than anything else ever will! 
  23. Start a 401(k). Um, what? If you're still in college like I am, this doesn't exactly apply - but pay attention, because after graduation, this is advice you'll want to follow! Take advantage of your work's 401(k) program as soon as you land your first job, because the earlier you start saving, the more you'll be able to save. Even though you might not get to reap the benefits of this money right away, I promise you won't regret it down the line.
  24. Use anti-aging skincare products. Using anti-aging products might make you feel old, but think of them as preventative measures! Once the wrinkles are already there, all those acids and serums won't be able to do much to prevent something that's already started - but when you're still young, you can do much more to delay and even prevent the onset of those unsightly wrinkles. My advice? Act now and thank yourself later, rather than switching up your skincare when it's already too late!
  25. Ditch sugary drinks. I love Starbucks and Coke as much as the next girl, but if you wan't to stay #foreveryoung, you should keep your intake of sugary drinks as low as humanly possible. While one tall latte or one can of soda a week, in the long term, your thrice-daily Starbucks habit probably isn't helping you much in the long term. Better to start sipping on coffee with almond milk in your 20s, before the addiction gets that much worse...
  26. Learn to say no. Nothing is a better predictor of stress, in my opinion, than being a yes man! If you don't want to go out with your friends because you'd much rather stay in with a glass of wine and a good book, make like Nancy Reagan and just say no. Good friends will understand - or better yet, they'll offer to join you. But piling on commitment after commitment in the hopes of protecting everyone else's feelings just means you're sacrificing your own.
  27. Get a pet - or borrow one. Having a furry friend is great for your mental health, especially if you live alone or suffer from chronic stress! Petting bunnies and turtles alike has been proven to soothe the nervous system - regardless of whether or not you love animals. So, even if you don't have a pet of your own, take up volunteering at a local shelter or petsitting for your friends to take advantage of the anxiety-reducing effects of puppy love.
  28. Get spiritual - whatever that means to you. Whether it's going to church, reading a book of worship or getting in touch with your witchy side, spirituality (note: not religion!) of any form enriches everyone's lives. Regardless of whether or not you believe in a higher power, simply acknowledging those mysterious forces in the Universe can help you depersonalize your problems and cope with the difficulties in life.
  29. Buy less, buy well. Adopting an attitude of minimalism over consumerism will make your mind and finances both healthier in the long run. It's a simple formula: less stuff cluttering your room = less stuff cluttering your mind. Plus, the less you buy, the better quality items you can afford to buy and the longer they'll last you for. Interested in learning more? For a great introduction to minimalism, I highly recommend the book The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo.
  30. Eat fermented foods. Last but not least, pay attention to your gut! Your gut health is closely linked to the rest of your body - and even your mind - so eating foods rich in probiotics (such as yogurt, kombucha and sauerkraut) will improve your overall health in the long-run.


Share your thoughts on Haley Marie Blog's first year! Click here to take my reader's survey and enter to win a $25 Starbucks gift card. 

Friday, November 24, 2017

How to Decorate Your College Apartment on a Budget



Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, aka paid-for link-backs that help keep Haley Marie Blog alive. But don't worry: all of the opinions in this post are still my own!

Hello, beautiful! This semester, I moved into my first-ever apartment - which, if I'm being honest, was one of the most intimidating experiences of my life.

For the first time, I've had to worry about things like washing dishes, cleaning the bathroom and mopping floors, yes. But, more importantly, I've also had the difficulty of wanting to make a sterile college apartment feel like home. I wanted to know that when me and Arielle welcomed our friends into our space, they would know the apartment was ours - and that when we came home at the end of a long night, we would feel like we were coming home.

Decor is one of the simplest (and cheapest) ways to make an apartment feel like home without renovating, repainting or otherwise spending tons of money. Here, I'll be sharing some of my top tips for decorating an apartment without breaking the bank! (Hint: I'll be mentioning the Target Dollar Spot a lot.)


Get an apartment you can afford.


First thing's first: if you want to be able to afford to decorate your apartment, you need to rent an apartment that's within your means. Thankfully, apartment housing is available on-campus at my university, so I didn't have to shell out the money for rent. 

At least in the city, where I live, the price of rent skyrockets as soon as you venture beyond college borders. So, whenever possible, I would definitely recommend on-campus housing as a more affordable alternative to renting an off-campus apartment! Otherwise, check out this handy rent calculator to find out what you can afford to pay - and stick to your budget. No excuses!


Compare prices.


My first word of advice? Don't jump the gun on apartment decor - especially when it comes to making big purchases like furniture. You'll want to compare prices between many major retailers before you spring for that lamp, couch or ottoman! 

One of my top tips? Check furniture.com, a site that compiles sales on high-quality furniture to offer you the lowest prices available. Unexpectedly, sites like Amazon are also a wonderful place to get deals on furniture that would otherwise cost you a pretty penny indeed.


Shop the Dollar Store.


The Dollar Store might not seem like the chicest place to shop for apartment decor, but it's actually an awesome option - especially for storage staples like food storage, baskets and bins. Another great purchase to make at the Dollar Store? Picture frames, which would otherwise run for upwards of $10.00 a pop.

Even if the options they have at the Dollar Store aren't always the cutest ones around, you can always upgrade a cheap Dollar Store piece into something beautiful. For example, I bought food storage bins at my local Dollar Store and upgraded them with cursive labels printed off my laptop. It cost me no more than $10 in total, and is both a pretty and functional way to keep my pantry organized.


Stick to a color scheme.


The simplest way by far to make a college apartment look classy AF is to stick to one unified color scheme throughout the entire place. One or two main colors, plus one or two accent colors, makes for a darn gorgeous apartment (not to mention a sane decorator). 

Personally, I prefer lighter color schemes since they bring energy and joy to the room. In less woo-woo terms, lighter colors = more light throughout the space = less artificial light from harsh fluorescent lamps and fewer headaches for Haley. So, everything in my apartment falls into some shade of pink, white or teal, which I love since it makes my space cohesive and gives me a guideline for purchasing new pieces in the future. 

Above all else, however, I recommend choosing colors that make YOU happy, not ones that please someone on the Internet. Period ;) 


Do it yourself.


I'm the crafty type, so it should come as little surprise to anyone who knows me well that I'm a huge advocate of DIY apartment decor. Not only does DIY decor often save you money on the more expensive Anthropologie version, but it also adds a personal touch of your own unique flair to your living space, which is always a positive.

With a hammer and nails, you'd be surprised with what you can throw together without shelling out more than $30-50. Need shelving? There's a DIY for that. Bookcase? There's a DIY for that. Bench seating? There's - you guessed it - a DIY for that, too! Are you sensing a theme here yet or....?



What's your favorite tip for decorating on a budget? LMK @haleymarieblog or in the comments below!




Sunday, November 19, 2017

How to Host the Ultimate Friendsgiving Party in College



Hello, beautiful! It's the season of gratitude, and Thanksgiving is almost upon us. If you've already found yourself counting down the moments 'til pie and Macy's (me, too!), then you understand what an exciting time this holiday is.

To me, Thanksgiving is such a special holiday because it's completely dedicated to family. In college, I'm lucky enough to get to come home for Thanksgiving every year, since I live just 45 minutes away from home. However, not everyone is as lucky! Some people may not be able to afford a flight home, or don't have homes to go home to due to hardship or alienation.

In these cases we have to make do and celebrate Thanksgiving with the families we've chosen for ourselves - aka our friends! Which is exactly where the concept of Friendsgiving comes into play. Whether you can't make it home for Thanksgiving this year or want a special event dedicated solely to thanking your wonderful friends, hosting a Friendsgiving feast is the perfect way to honor the special friends in your life who have become your family.

Since party planning is a personal passion of mine, I'll be walking you through every step of planning the ultimate Friendsgiving celebration. From food to friends to decor, here's everything you need to know about hosting the perfect party.


Food

First thing's first: the foundation of any Friendsgiving celebration, just like the real deal, is all about the food. And when it comes to celebrating any college feast, you're gonna wanna keep it sweet, simple and cheap! So, here are my recommendations for some easy recipes to wow your friends on a college budget:

  • Enjoy those tasty Thanksgiving flavors without roasting a whole bird with these cranberry turkey pinwheels from This Silly Girl's Kitchen.
  • For your veggie friends, cook up the ultimate comfort food: this creamy mac 'n' cheese recipe from That Which Nourishes.
  • Now, for the event you know they've all been waiting for...dessert! These easy pumpkin pie bites from Sugar Apron will channel all your favorite fall flavors without breaking the bank.
  • And, of course, what Thanksgiving college bash would be complete without nuptials? Toast to Friendsgiving with these festive apple cider jelly shots from Pinterest.

Decor



Source: Lovely Indeed


Decorating for Thanksgiving on a college budget is tricky, but I promise it can be done! You could always hit up the Target Dollar Spot and blow your entire paycheck - but here's a more budget-friendly way to get the job done (because let's face it: no one gets out of Target without spending $100+):



Games





That's right: party games aren't just for children anymore. I promise your friends will love these Thanksgiving activities just as much as they love digging into the turkey and stuffing! 

  • For a cute DIY way to give thanks, create this thankful jar from Or So She Says. All you need to do is spray paint some rocks and let your guests write what they're thankful for in Sharpie. Simple and oh-so sophisticated! 
  • Don't argue over who gets to break the wishbone - create these easy clay DIY ones to set your table with from Oh Happy Day.
  • Tic-tac-toe isn't just for kids! You and your friends can still get a kick out of this life-sized fall version of your favorite childhood game. Get the how-to (featuring pumpkins!) from It's Overflowing.
  • Last but not least, there's always one old standby that never fails to get the party going, aka everyone's favorite card game. Pick up a set of Cards Against Humanity for $25 for never-ending laughs this Friendsgiving! 


What's your favorite Thanksgiving tradition for celebrating with friends? LMK in the comments below or @haleymarieblog on social media!






Friday, November 10, 2017

10 Cute Outfits You Can Put Together in 10 Minutes or Less



Hello, beautiful! We all know that feeling: you wake up to the sound of silence, aka your missed alarm, and realize you have 15 minutes until your first class starts.

In those moments, the thought of getting dressed can quickly lead you into struggle city. Some days, you might accidentally spend 20 minutes putting on a cute outfit - others, you might say "f**k it" and put on your baggiest sweats.

Regardless of your personal style, I happen to think that it's important to dress decently for your college classes. Dressing well shows your professors that you're a serious student who's here not just to pass, but to exceed with flying colors.

Whether you like it or not, your clothes say a lot about you - even when your messy bun and stained sweatshirt are a product of waking up thirty minutes too late. So, it's important for every college girl to have a few 10-minute outfits prepared ahead of time, so she knows exactly what to throw on in the event of a last-minute fashion emergency.

These 10 foolproof fashion combinations will teach you exactly how to get ready in 10 minutes or less, while still looking collected AF. Stockpile these essential items in your closet and you'll never be late again, promise!


For a "no pants" kind of day...


10 minute outfit #1


Meet the sweater dress, a classier way to walk around unrestrained by the confines of jeans.


For those venti PSL days...


10 minute outfit #2

Soak up the last seconds of fall in your biggest blanket scarf and brownest leather boots.


For days when you can't deal with your profs...


10 minute outfit #3

Channel that angst into a nineties-inspired look your two-year-old self would be proud of.


For the class-to-gym-to-class days...


10 minute outfit #4

Who says you need to change? Thanks to the athleisure trend, you'll survive with naught but a stick of ladies' deodorant.


For the presentation you remembered literally 10 seconds ago...



10 minute outfit #5

This formula is your friend. 



For when your crush is in your 8am lecture...


10 minute outfit #6


You've only got one outfit with him: make it count! 



For when "10 minutes" is more like "1 minute"...


10 minute outfit #7

Now you got 99 problems but an outfit ain't one. 


For when the effort just isn't worth it...


10 minute outfit #7


At least wear jeans...


For the internship you almost forgot you had...


10 minute outfit #8


Prepare to be asked "Is this your first day on the job?" even if it's your 100th.


For the ultimate bad hair day...


10 minute outfit #9


Hide your hair under a hat and distract them with denim-on-denim.


For when you just can't even...


10 minute outfit #10


Fashion says leggings are pants. I'm taking fashion's word for it.


What's your go-to outfit whenever you're running late? LMK in the comments below or @haleymarieblog on social media!



Saturday, November 4, 2017

8 Apps You Need to Be an A+ Student



Hello, beautiful! Ever since I came to college, grades have been a huge deal to me. I mean, don't get me wrong - they're a big deal to pretty much everyone - but I personally have a lot riding on my GPA.

My scholarship depends on me keeping up a solid average of As and Bs every semester, which is precisely why, when I started to flunk homework assignments in economics, I started to wonder what I could possibly do to improve my grades.

Prior to this point, I've had a GPA of 3.5 for the past two semesters and haven't felt the need to worry about my overall GPA. I'm the kind of girl who works harder when she does badly, pours her heart into each and every writing assignment and has developed carefully-crafted study techniques that work perfectly for her.

So, needless to say, I didn't know what to do when all the strategies I exhausted thus far stopped working - besides get a tutor, of course. Yet even though getting an economics tutor has definitely helped me understand some of the key concepts better, I still haven't been able to figure out why my grades keep deflating so much over the course of the semester. I knew there must be something more I could do to improve my grades that I hadn't quite thought of just yet.

Eventually, I did what I always do in times of struggle: I went to the app store! And, since you're here right now, you might be able to guess that I found some good stuff. While I won't say these apps have cured my struggles in economics, I will say that they've improved my study strategies and renewed my motivation and dedication to my grades.

So, if you're someone who's looking to get a higher GPA this semester, wants to motivate herself to study more or is bored of the same-old strategies that worked for you all through high school, here are the eight apps you NEED to download now to help you become a straight-A student!


My Study Life


Arielle, my roommate, turned me onto the My Study Life app for web and mobile. This is my first semester using it, and I've got to say that I've already noticed a huge difference in my organization and ability to stay on top of assignments. My Study Life is basically a planning app to keep track of your class schedule, assignments and exams. You get notifications every time you have an exam or assignment due, and you can even track your progress as you work on assignments in real-time.


Why it deserves an A+


Every straight-A student I've met has one thing in common: they're all super organized and disciplined! If you want an A+ in any class, you can't just let assignments slip by you - not even the little ones. And, unlike high school, professors no longer warn you about upcoming due dates in college, so being able to keep track of them is key to handing in your assignments on time. My Study Life is the best method I've found that's perfectly geared toward college students when it comes to keeping track of due dates and assignments. Trust me: you'll never write another paper in 24 hours again (unless it's a conscious choice - which, let's face it, happens sometimes in college). 


Socratic


When I discovered Socratic in the App Store, my jaw practically hit the floor. Socratic is one of the smartest apps on the market today. All you have to do is scan your homework questions and Socratic will automatically locate relevant information on the web - such as formulas, definitions, etc. - to help you out. I like it because it doesn't give me the answers themselves, so I don't feel like I'm cheating; however, it does help me better understand how to solve the questions for myself, so by the time my exam rolls around, I'll be ready to roll.


Why it deserves an A+


When you're struggling in a specific class, you might reach out to a tutor; however, since that tutor is also a college student, they're probably not available every time you need them. That's where Socratic comes in: Socratic provides helpful homework advice comparable to a tutoring session that you can use when tutoring is impossible/inconvenient for you.


Evernote


I used to always write my notes by hand before college. Now, while I still have a paper notebook for each class (I just can't let go, can I?), I'm slowly getting used to the idea of having my laptop open in class - which is why I love Evernote. Evernote is a cool notetaking app that allows you to create virtual "notebooks" that you can either share with your friends for collaboration, or keep private for your own reference. You can create a notebook for anything you need, whether for something super specific like "History of the Middle East" or as simple as "Random Thoughts."

Why it deserves an A+


Evernote allows you as much flexibility as you want or need when it comes to taking notes. One plus I've found to digital notetaking is the ability to share notes with friends, so you can both be collaborating on the same notes during the same class and pool your collective knowledge. Another upside? You can easily delete errors without the clutter of scratching them out in red pen. Say hello to organization and kiss ugly cat-scratches goodbye! 



Todoist


I've flip-flopped between many to-do list apps over the years, but Todoist is a classic that I can't let go. Todoist lets you organize your to-dos into "projects," aka sublists that prevent, for example, your weekly shopping list from getting buried in a list of books you want to read next. Todoist also allows you to organize your to-dos by due date, collecting all of the tasks you need to finish today in one list and your to-dos in the next seven days in another.

Why it deserves an A+


I love that Todoist takes a streamlined approach to the typical to-do list. If I didn't use Todoist and instead stuck with my typical paper to-do list, my list would naturally be miles long and practically unreadable. Todoist helps me feel more organized, and keeps me on top of important due dates so I don't miss them. It's basically like carrying a personal assistant around in my pocket! What's not to love about that? (Oh, and did I mention that it's FREE?!)



Grammarly


Grammarly is a must-have browser extension for any college student - because no matter your major, we could all stand to have better writing. (I might be biased being a Communications major and all, but I'd be willing to bet that 95% of your professors would agree with me on this one.) No matter what site you're on, Grammarly underlines your errors in red, be they grammatical or spelling-related.  Especially as a blogger, I know Grammarly has helped me notice some of my own tendencies (*cough overusing commas cough*) and correct them to become a better writer! 


Why it deserves an A+


Your grammar is part of your first impression, both on your professors and on your future employers. In fact, many employers (including ones from Harvard) have a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to silly grammar mistakes. Downloading Grammarly not only helps you correct these mistakes when they happen, but also notice your personal patterns and learn to self-correct. 



Self Control


If you use a Mac, Self Control is the perfect productivity app for regaining control of your time spent on the Internet. Whenever you're working on something and don't want to be distracted by the temptations of Pinterest, Facebook or Netflix, you can open Self Control and set a timed "blacklist" of sites to block your access to. While it might seem a bit extreme to completely cut off your access to such sites, I promise it will completely transform your productivity when you're working on assignments that require the Web! 


Why it deserves an A+


Focusing is half the battle when it comes to getting good grades in college. When your attention is divided between multiple tasks, you're likely to put less effort into an assignmnt and even make careless errors in grammar, math and more. Personally, I think you're better off disciplining yourself for a short period of time than you will be if you have to force yourself to crack down due to unproductivity - in other words, you'd much rather block your access to Netflix binging for an hour than have to write an entire paper in five. 

Google Calendar


@ college students who have tried to survive without Google Calendar: I hate to be the one to break it to ya, but you're wrong. Google Calendar has honestly saved my life on so many occasions, whether because I would have been late, overbooked myself or forgotten about a due date for an assignment or blog post. My favorite feature of Google Calendar is that you are able to make multiple calendars for yourself, so you can easily separate tasks by personal/school/blog/etc. and even by course. If you're a busy gal like me, I promise Google Calendar will make it WAY easier to manage the simplest things in life! 


Why it deserves an A+


In college, time management is half the battle when it comes to getting stellar grades. Using Google Calendar allows me to plan out my entire day from start to finish, makes scheduling appointments with professors easier and even lets me block out time to study and accomplish basic life tasks, like laundry or dishes, when I'm feeling overwhelmed. Plus, I love that you can set certain tasks as recurring until a certain date, making it easy to enter your classes for an entire semester without the hassle of doing them one-by-one.



Plan


Plan is an amazing extension for Google Calendar that allows you to write a to-do list and schedule those tasks into your preexisting schedule for the day. To use Plan, you need to enable Google Calendar so you can see the basic outline of your schedule. Then, all you have to do is enter and drag tasks over to block out chunks of time to work on each one individually. This works perfectly for anything from laundry to lunchtime for ensuring you get everything done that you need to accomplish  during your day. 


Why it deserves an A+


As a blogger, balancing work and studying is always a challenge for me. Since I love to blog, I find it easy to work on those tasks, but need a little bit more of a push when it comes to studying and required readings. The click-and-drag system of Plan lets me easily divide my time between blogging and studying, so I can still get good grades while balancing the things I love to do. If you're someone who's busy with a side hustle or extra-curriculars, Plan is the time management system you NEED to get everything done without so much as a sigh!



What apps do you use to help you get good grades? LMK @haleymarieblog or in the comments below!