SHOULD I GET ON THIS DRUG?

Now I am pretty sure by the title you’re wondering what the heck is she talking about? Well..well..after a long debate I have decided to get on this strong controversial drug called Accutane. Since the age of thirteen I have suffered with my biggest insecurity- acne! For years, I struggled with this insecurity and spent numerous of times in the dermatologist office. For some time my acne would go away and then come back and then go away. Sadly for me, during my sophomore year of college my acne came back at full force. I went back to the dermatologist office and was prescribed with different topical products and was only able to treat it for a short amount of time.

Unfortunately, nothing worked! I began to spend so much money on different face washes, masks and even tried homemade remedies. I even started researching why this may be happening. I thought to myself maybe its because I’m at school and I’m stressing or maybe its the water that I am using to wash my face or maybe its makeup or maybe its the food I am eating. I even started using gallon water to wash my face and invested in a Clarisonic Face Brush. After going back to a different dermatologist, I was prescribed with different topical creams which only worked for a couple of months but to my luck things had to get worse in order to get better. In the summer of 2017 my face was the best it could ever be. I thought to myself, yes I finally got rid of it.

Fast forward to the beginning of my senior year, I started breaking out again! Yes— you can only imagine how horrible I started feeling. I kept asking myself why me? Why is that I am the only one who has bad skin? I eat right, I drink water and I wash my face 2x a day and I don’t even wear makeup everyday! I simply just don’t get it. Recently I went back to my old dermatologist and he told me the heartbreaking truth.

He checked my file and said,” You’re 21 now and you’ve been here for years and nothing has helped. I am sorry but your best bet is Accutane. Please take this consideration. If not your face will only get worse”.  After years of declining Accutane, I am finally saying YES. ( FYI- I cried and told the assistant that I am just so over it and tired of it taking over me emotionally)

P.S To my friends who constantly try to give me acne advice without having any acne please stop- you’re only make me feel worse. I’d really appreciate it.

Accutane also known for its medical term Isotretinoin is a VERY SERIOUS AND ONLY DRUG that treats acne! It has a lot of side affects such as dry skin, dry lips, back pain, depression and the worst of it all you SHOULD NOT get pregnant while on this drug. If so your child can have serious birth defects. You may be saying, Barbara NOOO don’t take it! Trust me, this is my last resort. I realize that nothing I do will help. I suffer from hormonal acne that works from within and in order to tackle the issue I have to tackle it from within. This Month, I will start taking the drug for approximately six months. If I must be honest, I am scared but I have been patient for so long so it wouldn’t hurt to try.

What do you guys think? Do any of you suffer from acne? If so, how has your experience been?

Holiday Outfits HAUL

So as promised, I decided to share with you guys a couple of outfit looks ill be wearing this holiday season. Now I don’t know about you guys but I always love to plan ahead for my outfits especially on Christmas and New Years. I plan out my outfits for each day or event ill be attending.

Yes, I KNOW IM EXTRA. (Sorry) Lol, actually no I am not.

P.S- Is it just me or do any of you plan out outfits in your head and go like YESSSS this would look so good on me! Yup, thats me! BUT, I change my mind all the time.

Any-who, when purchasing new items I like to mix old with new because who wants to spend more when they are on a budget. All new items I purchased were less than $50 each. Whenever I’m looking for new items I specifically like to order from one place all together because I absolutely hate shipping costs. Most of the items below are from Zara with additional pieces I’ve been waiting to get my hands on.

Elegant Side Stripe

I decided to pair these chino side stripped pants with this beautiful white blouse. Originally, I found another side stripped pajama style trousers for $89.90 and went for a cheaper alternative. If you follow me on Instagram you know I went window shopping during my Thanksgiving break and found this look. Before purchasing I tried the fit on in store and instantly fell in love. I am also thinking of adding a faux fur jacket with some old sleek black pumps of mine and fringe earrings. What do you guys think…Christmas Day look?

Downright Classy Chick

Now I call this fit down right street and classy. I always wanted to purchase some Stan Smiths but didn’t know how I would pair it. I know I know Im late but I scored big on these for just $40 on Adidas Cyber Monday sale so why not (btw, I am not a big sneaker fan). I decided to pair these white sneakers with this long shift dress and an emerald green faux fur jacket from F21. Maybe even possibly add a nice brooch to the dress. I am also looking for a cute red top handle bag to go with it. Sometimes its good to toss the heels back in your closet. Thank you to my good friend Lauren and guy friends for this white sneakers look. New Years Eve look?

Black Brocade

Save the best for last.I must admit this look is my second favorite out of the three. I copied this look from one of my favorite beauty influencers. Once I saw this brocade mini dress I assumed it would be so expensive. To my surprise this dress only cost $22.90 at Zara. I am so glad I decided to purchase such a sweet deal. It can be paired with a white button down shirt or a black turtleneck. I recommend going a size up. I purchased in a size L but to my luck it still kinda fits tight in my waist area. Any girls out there who are a small on the waist up and medium on the waist down? I am thinking of wearing it with and old pair of long black boots. I will definitely be wearing this outfit again.

In total, I only spent $200 on all 7 items. Who said you can’t look expensive at an affordable price? Well thats it folks! I hope you enjoyed these looks. Let me know how you guys paired your holiday looks.

ZARA Top With Bow Detail
ZARA Chino Trousers With Side Stripe
Forever 21 Faux Fur Jacket
ZARA Shift Dress
Adidas Stan Smith Sneaker
ZARA Turtleneck Sweater
ZARA Mini Dress

FEELING UNAPPRECIATED..

“I don’t get what I did to deserve this,” are the words that come from my mouth as I discuss with a friend about constantly feeling unappreciated by those who surround me- specifically those who I have put my love, energy and time on. I always ask myself am I not doing enough or am I simply not good enough. I don’t feel like people care about me the way I care about them or I just don’t feel like I’m being recognized for the love and effort I give. Why don’t they appreciate me? I constantly wonder whether I should wait for them to recognize my worth or walk out the door. What am I doing wrong? 

I’ve come to a point in my life where I am battling between not only letting go of those who make me feel this way but also battling with myself. I’ve always found myself worried about the attitudes of others and how it impacts me. Like watching someone doing something without regarding how it will make me feel. Like how selfish of them? I’d sit here in complete agony and pain. But I’m here to say screw that! No one can appreciate yourself more than YOURSELF. I’ve realized that those who have good hearts like me often feel this way. We are constantly expecting to receive the same love we give. I mean hey after all we are human, right?  Actually it’s quite funny. Yesterday, I received a notification from Facebook on a post I wrote last year in October saying it sucks being a good person you always lose out in the end..BUT no you don’t lose out. Ive learned that when you’re doing something from the kindest of your heart to never expect anything back. God will reward you not mankind!

Let me be the first to tell you that expectation kills! When you get into any connection with any individual whether it be a friendship or relationship be reminded not to expect anything from anyone but yourself! I know this is better said than done. Guard your heart and most importantly guard your emotions. It’s sad to say that our society has caused us to neglect what it truly means to feel. I once heard this phrase..

“it’s truly a blessing and a curse to feel so deeply”

I couldn’t agree more with this statement. Now I am not saying that you shouldn’t trust anyone or you shouldn’t put your hopes up but remember to not get too upset if things don’t go as planned. Unfortunately, people will continue to use you for what they need you for and suck you out dry. Don’t give them the power! (yes, I know I should be taking my own advice. I should know better)

Yes— I am speaking from experience. I have been lied to, disrespected, betrayed and embarrassed but these are the life lessons that’s come with living. No matter what the case is you cannot change the attitudes and behaviors of those around you. Continue to do things for your personal well being and personal success as time goes on those who truly appreciate you will stick by your side or fall through the cracks.

Wearing:
Jacket |Forever21
White Tee | Zara
High-Rise Jeans | J.Crew
Boots | Zara

COLORBLOCK + LOAFERS

Did someone say color-block? I have been lacking in the sweater department and decided to slowly fall back into the fall-winter season. The latest global warming crisis has caused me to run away from any coats or jackets. I mean let’s be honest— I am not a big fan of coats. I personally feel like they hide the true details of my outfits BUT truth be told the newest trends have made them such great statement pieces!

Lately I’ve been obsessed with heels but decided to switch it up and grab a pair of burgundy loafers. You know when you’re searching for a pair of shoes and finally found your holy grail? This was it! I could not resist these. I mean the contrasting details on the front makes it a plus.

Can we catch up for a bit?

I’m in the middle of my last Fall semester of undergrad and things are getting pretty hectic. From running to class to work to meetings and lets not forget catching up with family and friends. Most importantly trying not to lose my sanity. Sometimes I don’t give myself enough credit for all the hard work and responsibilities I take on. Being a perfectionist like me can be extremely hard. You’re constantly always trying to make sure you’re getting things done the right way. Yes, I know i’m human and no one is perfect.

 In the mean time it looks like bell sleeves + loafers takes the win!

    Wearing:
 PrettyLittleThing | COLORBLOCK SWEATER
        Missguided | High Waisted Jeans
      Missguided | Burgundy Penny Loafers

STREET STYLE

Whether it’s dressing up or dressing down, I have fallen in love with mixing up both. Who knew draw string joggers would make it out to the streets? — well we have to thank Kim Kardashian for this ongoing new trend. Now, I don’t know about you guys but I love dressing up but wouldn’t it be great to dress up in a comfortable way?

Joggers can be paired with full on looks or even for a day out shopping with friends or a simple movie or lunch date. Ever thought about pairing your sweatpants with booties? I surely didn’t but here it is folks.

I paired these stripped joggers with a pair of pointed toe booties I’ve been dying to own. Topped with a distressed jean jacket and crop top. All of these items can either be recycled or paired with a different shoe! What do you guys think of this look?

Wearing:
Distressed Jean Jacket | Naked Wardrobe
Nude Turtle Neck Crop Top | Naked Wardrobe
Stripped Joggers | Boohoo
Pointed Booties | Boohoo

Event Recap: College NYFW

This Saturday, Her Campus hosted their annual College Fashion Week in NYC at Metropolitan West. The Her Campus Media hosts College Fashion shows all the way from Boston down to New York City. Her Campus aims to provide college fashionistas all around with a VIP Fashion Week Experience by showcasing fall trends. Tons of stylish ladies from different backgrounds attended the event!

The minute I walked in, faces filled with smiles embraced me with TWO free goodie bags from ULTA Beauty and POPSUGAR. I mean what’s not to love? Along with these goodies, a PRIMARK pop up shop and an ULTA Beauty Bar where you can get your brows done and a BED HEAD photo booth.

In addition to being treated by these latest fall and beauty trends, those who attended enjoyed a custard bar provided by Shake Shack and snacks and drinks from Spindriftfresh.

Before the fashion show started, we received a live performance from an upcoming artist Trinidad Cardona! The fashion show itself was amazing with all kinds of trends.

As for my outfit, I went with a boss chick look with a leather skirt from one of my favorite designers Taylor Tyler and a bright red biker jacket. Last but not least with a statement shirt titled “ FEMALE AF”.

TIPS 101: Writing Better Content For The Internet

Are you looking to create better content by increasing your writing and digital skills? Having trouble on how to start? Do you have ideas and content you would like to share with a wider audience but don’t know how? Have no fear you are in the right place. Here are some bomb tips for writing better content for your various social media platforms to keep your audience in the loop!

Before you begin to follow these tips, you must PLAN and jot down your goals and ideas for your content and what skills you hope to achieve in the process!

1. Listen/Know Your Audience

In order to achieve an increase amount of followers on your Blog, Instagram or Twitter, you must understand that social media is about the PEOPLE and essentially what they want to hear or pay attention to. First, research your followers based on demographics such as age, race, gender and potentially level of education if possible. Pay attention to who is already watching and constantly viewing your content. Browse through their pages to see what they normally talk about or like. For Example: On Twitter, you can check out your viewers retweets and likes by hitting their likes and tweets tab. In order to know and listen to your audience you must make sure you’re giving them what they like to see and hear. This will help you write for your audience rather than for yourself.

2. Stay Consistent and Engaging

Whether you’re a blogger, instagram influencer or tweeter, you want to make sure you’re always staying consistent with your content. You should aim to frequently post content a minimum of 2-3 times a week in order to keep up with your audience. Staying consistent with your post allows your viewers to feel connected with them. It also shows that you care about giving them something rather than taking from them. Secondly, aim to engage with your users as much as possible by asking follow up questions on what your posting or if they would like to know more about what you can offer.

3. Keep it Short and Simple

The Internet is filled with so much information that sometimes one cannot handle. To get your audience attention in the fastest way possible always keep it short and simple. Avoid long statements and messages. Use easy and catchy phrases to make your content fun and easy to understand. Try to bold your words, use subheadings and bullets to make your content appealing to read. Remember: Your audience doesn’t have time to be on your page all day! Try to use conversational tone to make your audience feel like they personally know you. Stay away from sounding boring and too plain. Make them feel as if you’re having a conversation with them face-to-face.

4. Make your Graphics/ Photos Unique

Use eye-catching and appealing pictures to grab the attention of your audience as they are scrolling down you social media page or feed. Pictures often speak louder than words. For Example: If you’re trying to get your viewers to purchase the same clothing you wear, do photo-shoots with these clothing pieces in a creative way. After all, even if they don’t read the words, they will remember the photo!

5. Pay Attention To Grammar/ Language

Last but not least pay careful attention to your grammar and language over the Internet. Knowing how to write and speak across all Internet platforms will make you not only credible and authentic but also professional in the way you communicate with your audience.

Well that’s it folks, thank you so much for reading! You’re now well on your way to creating great effective Internet content. With these simple tips you can now create the type of content that will bring your viewers coming back!

References:

• The 11 Golden Rules of Writing Content for Your Website
• Five Basic Writings Tips For Digital Media
• 16 Top Tips From Blogging Experts For Beginners
• How To Write For The Web: 23 useful rules
• The BEST Way To Get More Engagement On Social Media
• 9 Simple Tips For Writing Persuasive Content
• Tips For A Successful Blog: Things Successful Bloggers Do!
• Social-Listening: 5 Ways To Engage With Your Social Media Audience
• 3 Ways To Write Better Social Media Posts
• 8 Things You Must Know About Your Audience To Inspire & Connect In Social Media
• 100 Killer Ideas For Your Social Media Content
• How To Write Social Media Content
• Writing For The Web
• Writing For Social Media- Facebook
• How To Write Great- Content- Content Marketing For Your Blog, Website, Or Ads

TWENTY-ONE

Did I hear someone say 21? Yes, I can’t believe it’s been twenty-one years since I have crossed this earth. Sounds crazy right? Happy Birthday To Me!

Any-who, I can’t believe it’s been a year since I started my blog and I am beyond amazed at the progress and growth of my passion and creativity. As a blogger, your goal is to share as much content as possible but with a busy life-like mine sometimes it can get you caught up with a million and one things. I promise, I have so much more I want to share and it doesn’t stop here.

Although I am not exactly where I want to be, I know Gods time is the best time. This year God has pushed me way beyond my comfort zone. 20 was a memorable year for me. I experienced new memories, blessings, obstacles, made tons of mistakes and yet again big opportunities in my career. (Isn’t that what growing up is all about)

Looking forward to what 21 has to offer. Graduating with my bachelors degree + starting my adult life.

Once again, thank you 20-year-old me. It was great knowing you but 21 is here to stay.. (haha well just for a year at least).

OUTFIT DETAILS:
Zara Blouse
Zara High-Rise  Jeans
Public Desire Heels

(Yes, I know I love Zara waaay too much.. you must admit you can’t blame me they have a wide selection of beautiful clothing)

A Subscription Box for Women Sexual Health? No Way

Yes, you heard me right! A subscription box catered to women’s sexual health for women by women.

What’s in Your Box? Aims to encourage, discuss and educate women to feel comfortable about their sexuality, pleasures and desires openly without feeling any shame. Doesn’t that sound great? To do so, the company has created a monthly subscription box where you can receive a range of different assorted products regarding sexual health, hygiene and pleasure.

I recently stumbled upon this company on my Instagram through a page I follow called Her Campus. The creator of WIYB, Christine Long was featured on their page discussing all the glitz and glam the box has to offer. I instantly became impressed and decided to embark on this journey of shameless sexual health empowerment. (Eh, if that sounds right). As I scrolled down their feed I told myself, this is exactly what I’ve been waiting for. For those of you who don’t know, I am currently a senior in college minoring in Women and Gender Studies. Over the course of my semesters, I’ve learned a great number of things ranging from sexuality, women’s oppression and the lack of respect for women and their bodies overall.

I received my first box and I must say it makes me feel empowered to take matters into my own hands. Not to fear, the box comes in discreet packaging so no one will know. To be quite honest, I felt like I had a secret health clinic for women right in my finger tips.

Personally I think it’s time for us to really speak up on women’s sexual health. It’s a discussion that needs more attention. It’s part of life, so why is it hidden under the rug? We talk about menstrual cycles, pregnancy, body image and so much more. Yet, we seem to forget that our sexuality as women are correlated with all these things. So yes, I am kicking this taboo good-bye.

Interested in checking out what WIYB is all about? Check out their Twitter, Instagram and Facebook: @whatsinyourbox_. To subscribe, check out their website at http://www.whatsinyour-box.com/subscribe/

Why I Decided To Follow the Fertility Awareness Method

For as long as I could remember, when I began my menstrual cycle I always tracked my cycle on an app called the Period Tracker. Now if you’re like me and come from a home where things like menstruation, sex or even puberty are swept under the rug then you know that dealing with these issues alone sucks!

Growing up I never really understood how my body worked and why as a female it did the things that it did. To be quite honest with you, sometimes I still don’t. It wasn’t up until college where I started to become more aware of my body. I began to realize that I was becoming a woman.

Whenever I would go to my regular checks ups and gynecologist appointments I would always get asked, “Are you on birth control?” or ” Would you like to know the different kinds that we offer?” I would sit there absolutely confused and politely decline the offer. Now I get it, we live in a society where you’re free to decide what to do with your body and how to prevent yourself from certain circumstances but in all due respect some of us don’t like being talked down to or convinced to use products for our body that we don’t want. I know plenty of women who have used birth control and have either stopped or complained about the negative side affects. Also, after being on birth control some women have found it hard to conceive due to all their hormones being imbalanced. If we as women were taught to have a deeper understanding about our bodies we can learn about the healthier and natural ways of tracking our menstrual cycle and fertility.

This leads me to my point. I recently learned about the FAMS method while browsing through the web and I said to myself wait I’m already following this method. Essentially the Fertility Awareness Method is a way to predict your fertile an infertile days by tracking your temperature, emotions, ovulation and period days along with any side affects you may have. I think this is definitely a safe form of birth control. It gives you the opportunity to track your cycle in order to prevent unwanted pregnancies. However, the FAMS method can be used for other things than avoiding pregnancy. It allows you to take matters into your own hands by naturally paying close attention to what your body does. It’s also the best way to identify any female health problems that may occur.

Whether you’re in high school, college, in a relationship or single you must be aware of your fertility. Begin to understand and appreciate your body and for the way that it works. If you begin to be concerned of any problems regarding your fertility or about your period, you should start taking down notes of how your body reacts.

So if you’re thinking of taking any form of birth control, please think twice! There are a bunch of different period tracker apps to download and they all serve the same purpose. TRUST ME, you’ll thank me later.