Author: Erin Bryan

Makeup is such a fun subject to me, and it’s something I’ve been exploring more throughout the years. Through makeup, you can accentuate your natural beauty or even kick it up a notch and create art. Over years of trial and error, I’ve been able to find makeup products that I love dearly and always end up repurchasing, so I’ve decided to share them! Here are a few essentials that I always come back to.

MAC Fix +

This spray absolutely changed the game for me. After applying your makeup, a few spritzes of this completely transforms your look by smoothing out the product for a glowy finish that lasts all day. I replaced my use of setting spray with Fix + and I can confidently say I’m never going back.

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Foundation

Out of all the foundations I’ve tried, this is my current favorite. I prefer a medium coverage, buildable foundation and this gives me that look. It’s super smooth and light, and doesn’t look cakey, even when I add a bit more for fuller coverage. It also keeps my skin from looking from oily all day and doesn’t get patchy, which is key. 

Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

If you’re in search of a high coverage concealer, look no further. Finding the perfect concealer has been a journey but Tarte definitely provided the perfect option. This concealer is thick enough for that perfect high coverage look, yet doesn’t get cakey. I love using this for my dark under-eyes, and the best part is that it doesn’t crease.

Tarte smooth operator™ Amazonian Clay Finishing Powder

If you couldn’t tell, I’m a huge fan of Tarte. This translucent powder is a great addition to any makeup lover’s collection, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for a simple finishing powder. I’ve struggled with finding a loose setting powder that doesn’t create embarrassing flashback in pictures, and this one does the job. It keeps my makeup matte and smooth through rain or shine.

Beautyblender

Seeing as it’s wildly popular, I’m sure you’ve heard of the beauty blender before. If you haven’t, it’s a unique makeup sponge that focuses on picking up only as much product as you need and applying it seamlessly. I love this sponge because it prevents me from applying too much foundation and applies it in a way that makes my makeup look like skin. I also love that it doesn’t soak up all the product, which is an issue that many makeup sponges have.

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer

I can safely say that there isn’t a better primer on the market. Personally, I deal with really deep smile lines around my mouth. Without primer, my foundation settles into these creases which ends up making me look aged. This primer is the only one I’ve tried that completely sinks into my fine lines and smooths them out to make them virtually invisible. On top of that, it keeps my makeup secure all day. Having said so, I would highly recommend this primer to everyonethat wears makeup, especially those with fine lines.

Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Mascara 

Not only does this mascara make your lashes thick and full, but it’s super inexpensive, too. Even though you can find this at your local drugstore, it has the same qualities of any high end mascara you use. This mascara keeps my lashes voluminous and dark, which is perfect for my short, thin lashes.

Laura Geller Baked Gelato Swirl Illuminator (shade Gilded Honey)

This highlighter adds the perfect pop of shimmer to any makeup look. I adore this highlighter because it’s light and creamy, and can be applied to your desired intensity. I love adding a few light sweeps just to give myself a bronzed, glowy effect.

Clear skin doesn’t come easily for everyone – it definitely doesn’t for me. Over the years, trial and error has helped me find skincare products that have become my holy grails and help me look and feel my best. Keeping your skin in top shape during young-adulthood can be difficult, especially between all-nighters studying and those weekend Taco Bell trips. Hopefully these products will be as transformative for your skin as they were for mine!

Kiss My Face – Face Factor SPF 30 Sunscreen 

I listed this specific product first for a reason – SPF is so vital in anyone’s skincare regimen. This actually wasn’t something I was aware of until recently; I used to only wear sunscreen on my face when I was going to the beach, and never really thought of it as something that was super important. The sun is actually one of the largest factors that age us, so making sure you wear an SPF is vital! I love this facial sunscreen because it’s lightweight, and perfect for applying makeup on top.

First Aid Beauty – Intense Hydration Ultra Repair Cream

If you have dry skin like myself, this moisturizer will become your new best friend. I’ve always struggled with finding a moisturizer that was extremely hydrating without being super heavy or greasy-looking. This moisturizer is perfect for people with dry skin, and at the same time has a matte finish. Though I prefer wearing it on days that I’m not wearing makeup, it holds up great under makeup as well.

Mario Badescu Facial Spray

You’ve probably heard of this popular spray before, and it’s for good reason. You can purchase it in three different hydrating formulas – rosewater, green tea, or lavender. This spray is super refreshing and great for an extra boost of hydration whenever needed. I love applying a few spritzes when my skin is looking or feeling lackluster, or my makeup is looking dry and needs a pick-me-up. This is another product great for dry skin, but is lovely on all skin types.

Clearasil – Rapid Rescue Deep Treatment Pads

Ever since discovering these pads, I haven’t been able to go back. The best thing about them is that they’re super cheap and can be found at your local drugstore! These pads are soaked in the perfect amount of salicylic acid which helps fight acne and quickly rid of breakouts. These are my go-to when my skin isn’t at its best or I have a few pimples I want to get rid of ASAP.

Vichy – LifActive Supreme Eyes & Lashes Serum

This product was introduced to me by my mom, and I’m so glad she did. It’s marketed as an anti-aging cream and though I’m only 21, it is never too early to start using preventative methods and products. Though it’s great for keeping your delicate eye skin looking young, the main reason I use it is for its eyelash growth. After getting eyelash extensions for an extensive period of time, my lashes were left fragile and short after getting them taken off. This serum brought my lashes back even longer and thicker than they were originally, and applying it every night keeps them growing.

Miracle II Soap

I’ve been using this soap for my face since I was a young teenager, and I can safely say that I haven’t tried anything better. It’s made from pure, all-natural and simple ingredients, which makes the soap perfect for sensitive skin. Though it is multi-purpose and can be used all over your body, even your hair, I love it for my face because it fights acne and doesn’t dry me out.

Aztec Secret – Indian Healing Clay

The word ‘healing’ in the product’s name is no exaggeration. This mask comes in powder form and when mixed with either water or apple cider vinegar (which I believe is more effective), it will take your skin to the next level. With almost immediate results, it will leave your skin feeling softer, smoother, and tighter. I love using this a few times a month or when I need a little extra tlc.

Deciding to join Greek life can be a pivotal moment in any collegiate woman’s life. From a new environment to new friends, making the decision to embark in the journey of sorority life can be a tough one, yet so rewarding. I went into college knowing nothing about Greek life, and honestly, not even having a desire to be a part of it. 3 years into college, I can confidently say that joining a sorority was by far one of the best moves I have made. Should you make the jump and decide to add this experience to some of the best 4 years of your life, I’m here to give you a few tips on going into sorority recruitment – the start of it all. 

Do: Be open-minded throughout the experience. 

It’s pretty typical to hear different gossip about the various sorority chapters at your school, whether they be positive or negative. Our first instinct is to take all the talk in, but I advise everyone to ignore it all and keep an open mind. Being biased about a certain chapter could potentially stop you find finding your perfect fit and making your best friends! A chapter that you didn’t see yourself in might end up being your home away from home for the next 4 years, so it’s important to give every house a chance.

Don’t: Forget to be yourself.

Honestly, walking into a room of full of smiling, picture-perfect girls can feel like walking straight into a lion’s den; you really can’t help but feel nervous. Though it’s important to put your best foot forward and be the best you during recruitment, it’s even more important to stay true to yourself. You shouldn’t feel the need to mold yourself into what you thinka sorority might want – let the true you shine!

Do: Take care of yourself during the process! 

While new and exciting, recruitment is also extremely exhausting, both physically and mentally. It might not sound so on paper, but keeping a constant smile on your face while having the same conversation over and over can really wind you up. You’ll also be there from sunrise to sunset, so it’s important to remember to get proper sleep and nutrition! Start off your morning with a full breakfast and caffeine, and get a full night’s sleep the night before; bringing snacks will also go a long way. Trust me when I say that taking care of yourself will make all the difference.

Don’t: Mention the three B’s  

No matter what university you attend, this rule is pretty universal. When it comes to recruitment talk, you’re encouraged to open up about yourself yet avoid the 3 B’s – booze, boys and beliefs. These might be topics that you chat about with your friends regularly but during recruitment, sororities want to know about the things that help you excel in life, and avoid controversial topics to keep things clean. When in doubt, bring up things such as your friends, hobbies, school life of career goals. These topics help whoever you’re talking to get to know you on a deeper level!

Do: Get comfortable.

Needless to say, most of us will not be comfortable talking to tons of strangers back-to-back about our personal lives. Being an introvert myself, it was definitely something to get used to. Through it might feel kind of like an interview, I encourage you to open up during conversation. You probably won’t remember every conversation you have, but the deep conversations that you have will stay with you and even help you make your final decision of which chapter you want to call home. By opening up about more personal topics such as your family and what makes you you, you’ll create unforgettable bonds and find that you may have lots in common with the girls you chat with.

Don’t: Think too deeply.

Throughout the days or even weeks of recruitment, you’ll create a special bond with each sorority that you visit. Each conversation will mold your opinions differently, and when it comes to your final decision, you might find yourself struggling to choose where you want to find home. Though it might sound cliché, I think every sorority girl will agree that the best advice is to follow your heart. Instead of thinking about who you think is the ‘coolest’ or who has the ‘prettiest’ girls, think about where you can see yourself thriving.

Your first year of college can be a transformative one, and living on campus always adds to the experience. Some students are hesitant about making the move but personally, deciding to spend my first 2 years on campus was one of the best decisions of my college career. The jump from living at home to living in a crowded building of young adults can be a scary one, so I’m here to make the transition a little easier! Here are a few tips and tricks to make your college campus your new home.

Get to know your new roomie!

This might seem like a no-brainer, but building a positive relationship with your roommate(s) will go a long way. Considering the fact that you will be spending a whole school year sharing your space with someone new, it’s extremely important to set some ground rules and boundaries to make sure everyone is comfortable. This could include visitation rules, sound levels, sharing clothes/food, and anything affecting your personal bubble.

Invest in a meal plan

Trust me when I say that your university’s dining hall(s) will become your new best friend. Realistically, there won’t be very much cooking going on in your dorm. You might have a community kitchen available but even then, finding refrigerator space or even time to cook can be difficult. A meal plan will allow you to eat a variety of options whenever you want (depending on your plan) and even gives you time to socialize and meet new people.

Prepare for the bathroom situation

If you’re anything like me, you’re probably not a fan of sharing a bathroom. In most cases, you will most likely be sharing a bathroom with either your roommate(s) or the students on your floor. Some essentials you will not want to live without are shower sandals, a bathroom caddy, multiple towels, and a makeup organizer. If you’re sharing your bathroom with an entire floor, I’d recommend leaving everything in your room. Otherwise, these essentials will keep things organize and keep you comfortable!

Get to know your surroundings!

Depending on the size of your university, it can be pretty daunting to live in a large area you’re unfamiliar with. This is a great time to get comfortable to explore your campus and find out where different buildings are, such as classes or even the gym. 

Do your best to get involved

An issue it seems that so many new students have when starting college is finding stuff to do. I feel as though getting involved can either make or break your experience; I’ve heard multiple people say they spent their first semester sitting in their dorm because they didn’t know anyone or didn’t have anything to do. That being said, there are countless things to involve yourself in on campus! Your RA is a great resource for finding ways to get involved on campus, from recreational and academic clubs to Greek life. Your university will also likely hold events to help students meet new people and get comfortable.

Put your safety first

This is another tip that might seem like a no-brainer, but is still super important. For many people, college is their first time on their own. We no longer have our parents by our side, so it’s up to ourselves and each other to stay safe. Something I always stuck to while living on campus was never walking alone at night. Though campuses are relatively safe, this is still an important rule of thumb. Sticking by a friend’s side is important, especially when going to parties or enjoying night life. On the topic of parties – you’ve heard this a million times but I’m going to say it again – never leave your drink, or friends, unattended! Keeping a watchful eye on your surroundings will go a long way.

I hope these pointers help ease you into your first years of college! Living on campus is an experience like no other, so don’t forget to have a blast and cherish the memories.