Lily F, Author at Graduatez Graduatez Thu, 29 Aug 2024 10:44:22 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 Going to Dye Your Hair at Home? Read These Tips First https://graduatez.com/going-to-dye-your-hair-at-home-read-these-tips-first/ Mon, 26 Aug 2024 08:03:00 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=3669 It’s no secret that most student budgets don’t stretch to hours spent in the hair salon, but what if you really fancy changing up your hair color? The time you spend at college is a great chance to experiment and play with your sense of style, especially as most people have to look a little […]

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It’s no secret that most student budgets don’t stretch to hours spent in the hair salon, but what if you really fancy changing up your hair color? The time you spend at college is a great chance to experiment and play with your sense of style, especially as most people have to look a little more serious once they’ve graduated and entered the world of work. Check out these tips on dyeing your hair at home, so you can experience having bright pink hair without the salon costs.

Check the Condition of Your Hair

Before you go anywhere near hair dye or bleach, you need to check the condition of your hair. If your hair has previously been colored, or if you use lots of heated tools then you’ll need to approach dyeing your hair with lots of caution. It may be worth getting a trim done by a professional, so the worst split ends and breakages are removed before you pick up any bleach.

Consider Which Colors Will Suit You

Just because you’ve seen several fellow students sporting lime green hair or cerulean blue strands doesn’t mean that these colors will suit you. Consider the kind of colors you opt for in your clothes, or whether warmer or cooler toned makeup suits you best. This will help you decide whether to opt for a warm, rich-toned dye or something a little icier.

Be Prepared for the Aftercare

Once you’ve applied the bleach and hair dye to your strands and safely removed it, you’d think you’d be done. However, if you’ve gone for a pastel hue or a pale blond you now need to be prepared to maintain it. It’s easy to buy violet shade-toners to banish any brassiness from blond strands. For other colors, dilute a little of the dye with some conditioner and let that sit on your hair for 5-10 minutes every fortnight or so. This should stop the worst of color fading from ruining your look.

The post Going to Dye Your Hair at Home? Read These Tips First appeared first on Graduatez.

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3 Ways to Earn Money Over Your Summer Break https://graduatez.com/3-ways-to-earn-money-over-your-summer-break/ Wed, 19 Jun 2024 12:03:00 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=3368 Although you might be dreaming of an endless summer, filled with blue skies, good times, and full-on fun, in reality, you may need to top up your finances over the summer months ahead. If you’re in this position, there are plenty of ways to earn some extra money and still have a good time with […]

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Although you might be dreaming of an endless summer, filled with blue skies, good times, and full-on fun, in reality, you may need to top up your finances over the summer months ahead. If you’re in this position, there are plenty of ways to earn some extra money and still have a good time with friends and familyβ€”check out these three accessible options for earning some extra cash over the summer.

Pick Up a Waiting Job

Waiting jobs are often easy to come by, especially in the summer months. The good thing about working in the hospitality industry is that you can generally pick and choose your hours. For example, if you’d like to get your work done in the morning, leaving your afternoons and evenings free, finding a few shifts in a local cafe could work well. Similarly, if you’d like to have your days free to do as you please, working a few shifts in a bar will mean you’re only tied to work for a few evenings each week.

Try Some Tutoring

If you’re currently studying at college, your skills and knowledge will be in high demand by parents and students at all stages of their educational journey, from elementary through to high school. Tutoring can often pay a good hourly rate, so you won’t need to do much to earn some decent money over the summer.

Sell Some Clothes

Do you have a stash of clothes, shoes, and even jewelry that you no longer wear or use? Why not upload images to a site such as Vinted, where you can easily sell items that you no longer need? Even if the items you’re selling are only going for a few dollars each, if you sell a big stash of things you will be surprised at how quickly the total adds up.

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Here’s How to Tackle the Most Common Skincare Complaints https://graduatez.com/heres-how-to-tackle-the-most-common-skincare-complaints/ Wed, 22 May 2024 08:11:00 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=3170 Almost all of us suffer from skin issues from time to time. The question is not whether we’ll every have any problems with our skin, but how to deal with these problems when they do arise. While some conditions need specialist attention, for common issues such as dryness, oiliness or mild acne, there are plenty […]

The post Here’s How to Tackle the Most Common Skincare Complaints appeared first on Graduatez.

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Almost all of us suffer from skin issues from time to time. The question is not whether we’ll every have any problems with our skin, but how to deal with these problems when they do arise. While some conditions need specialist attention, for common issues such as dryness, oiliness or mild acne, there are plenty of products available to purchase which can make a real difference. Check out these tips on how to address some of the most common skin complaints at home.

Dryness

If you’re struggling with dry skin, avoid the conditions which can exacerbate this condition as much as possible. This means protecting your skin if you’re going outside in cold weather (especially if there is wind chill), but also reducing your time in artificially heated rooms. Find a reliable, non-fragranced moisturizer to use at night, and in the day time avoid layering up too many products over your skin as this can reduce the efficacy of your moisturizer and draw attention to dry patches on your skin.

Oiliness

Oily skin can cause a whole host of other issues, from blocked pores to finding your foundation sliding off your face come midday. Use a toner designed for oily skin, and a niacinamide serum can work wonders when used consistently. Don’t skip moisturizer, but do look for one designed for oily skin, as those designed for dry complexions may block pores and worsen oil production.

Dull Skin

Healthy skin has a bounce and a glow that is hard to fake using make up products. Seek out serums infused with vitamin C to boost your glow, and don’t forget to exfoliate regularly using salicylic or lactic acid to boost collagen production which will support your glow.

The post Here’s How to Tackle the Most Common Skincare Complaints appeared first on Graduatez.

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Should You Live With Your Parents After College? https://graduatez.com/should-you-live-with-your-parents-after-college/ Thu, 09 May 2024 12:01:00 +0000 https://graduatezcodev.wpenginepowered.com/?p=2973 Increasingly, more and more young people are having to return to their family home after college. While for many people this is the only option when it comes to getting started in a career and avoiding the cost of rent to try to save money, for some of us there is a choice involved. This […]

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Increasingly, more and more young people are having to return to their family home after college. While for many people this is the only option when it comes to getting started in a career and avoiding the cost of rent to try to save money, for some of us there is a choice involved. This article will look at the pros and cons of living with your parents as an adult, to help you make this decision.

Long Term Plan

It’s not always a good idea to move back into the family home without a long term plan. Do you have a goal you are working towards, whether it’s relating to your finances, career, travel plans or life aspirations? If so, moving in with family can help to make this goal a reality faster than if you were trying to pay for rent and bills by yourself.

What’s Your Relationship Like?

It may sound obvious, but before you move back into the family home you do need to consider what your relationship with your parents is like. It may have changed since you moved out and went to college, so you need to reflect on whether you can handle sharing a space with them again. This isn’t just something for you to consider – you will need to tell them you’re weighing living with them again as an option, so they can reflect and let you know if this is going to work for them.

Consider The Space

It’s not impossible that in the time you’ve been away, your parents have changed the family home. Would it still logistically work for you to move home? Would you have your own room, and is there enough space for everyone to work from home if that situation arises? If the family home has changed radically since you left, it may be worth reflecting on whether living there is going to work.

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How to Support Friends Who Are Struggling With Their Mental Health https://graduatez.com/how-to-support-friends-who-are-struggling-with-their-mental-health/ Mon, 06 May 2024 08:26:00 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=2912 College, and all that it bringsβ€”intense socializing, moving away from home for the first time, the pressure of high level studyβ€”can present a huge challenge to some people. Lots of students find it hard to regulate their mental health, and mild to moderate depression and anxiety are very common amongst college students. If one (or […]

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College, and all that it bringsβ€”intense socializing, moving away from home for the first time, the pressure of high level studyβ€”can present a huge challenge to some people. Lots of students find it hard to regulate their mental health, and mild to moderate depression and anxiety are very common amongst college students. If one (or more) of your friends is struggling with low mood or anxiety, here are some simple ways you can support them, without taking on a load of added pressure and stress which might threaten your own mental health.

Listen (with boundaries)

One of the most important, useful things you can do is listen to your friend in need. This means putting your phone down, turning to face them and actively listening while they talk. You shouldn’t feel pressure to come up with the perfect response or answer – most people are not really looking for us to fix their problems, knowing that someone cares enough to listen is often enough. Also, if you’re feeling like you’re starting to spend all of your time listening to one or two close friends, set some boundaries and take back some time for yourselfβ€”after all, you’re their friend, not their therapist.

Seek Professional Support

If someone you know is struggling, it really is important to recognize when a professional may need to step in. You don’t want to overstep your role or take on more than you mean to, but if you’re seriously worried about your friend it’s probably worth seeking out support from somebody at your college, or maybe even consider making contact with your friend’s family to make them aware of what’s going on.

Plan Some Activities

If someone is suffering from mild depression or anxiety, sometimes all they need is for someone else to suggest some fun, stress-busting activities. Whether you plan a picnic in the local park for your study group, a day out shopping, or a coffee morning for your closest pals, inviting your friend to a few fun events can be enough to get them out of a rut.

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3 Outfits That Will Help You Smash That Job Interview https://graduatez.com/3-outfits-that-will-help-you-smash-that-job-interview/ Sat, 04 May 2024 16:17:14 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=2901 When it comes to job interviews, preparation is key. You’ll want to plan some answers to some likely questions, think about any questions you want to ask the interview panel and plan your day to ensure you’re on time. An essential part of this is planning your job interview outfitβ€”not only will this save you […]

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When it comes to job interviews, preparation is key. You’ll want to plan some answers to some likely questions, think about any questions you want to ask the interview panel and plan your day to ensure you’re on time. An essential part of this is planning your job interview outfitβ€”not only will this save you time and stress in the morning, but it can also help you nail your look so you feel confident, professional, and in control.

Waistcoat

Sleeveless knits and waistcoats are big news when it comes to fashion trends this season. A simple waistcoat is a great way to add interest to a traditional pants and white shirt look, and it helps to signal that you’re someone who is aware of current styles and trends. This can help you come across as modern, well informed, and in touch with the zeitgeist, qualities which most potential employers will value.

Midi Skirt

A mini skirt is a no-no for a job interview, and a maxi skirt can feel slightly informal or a little old-fashioned, depending on the style. A midi skirt hits exactly the right note between the two, appearing professional without seeming staid.Β 

Bold Print

You’ll need to choose your print carefully as you don’t want to send the wrong message. Sticking to classics such as a bright, beautiful floral print or some other natural design can make you appear energetic and confident, as well as stylish. 

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Why Meal Prepping Can Help You Focus During Your Week https://graduatez.com/why-meal-prepping-can-help-you-focus-during-your-week-2/ Mon, 29 Apr 2024 12:10:00 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=1942 If you’re nearing exams season or have a hefty load of coursework to complete, meal prepping is a great way to save yourself time and energy to allow you to focus on your studies. Dedicating an hour or two at the start of the week to preparing some or all of the elements of your […]

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If you’re nearing exams season or have a hefty load of coursework to complete, meal prepping is a great way to save yourself time and energy to allow you to focus on your studies. Dedicating an hour or two at the start of the week to preparing some or all of the elements of your meals means there will be far less stress and hassle, and you won’t have to run to the store on a Wednesday evening in the rain because you need a can of beans for a dish. Check out these recipes, each of which works great for meal prepping and can be frozen so it’s ready when you are.

Chicken Casserole

Ingredients (to make 4 portions):

  • 4 chicken breasts, thighs or legs
  • 1 white onion
  • 1 leek
  • 2 tablespoons of oil
  • 6 – 8 potatoes, peeled
  • 2 carrots
  • 1 1/2 cups of vegetable stock
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. Sear the chicken pieces on both sides for 3 – 4 minutes, draining and discarding any oil that is released.
  2. Heat the oil in a wide based saucepan. Roughly chop the onions, leeks, carrots and potatoes and add them to the pan. Keep stirring, cook for 10 – 12 minutes, until the onions are softening.
  3. Take a large casserole dish. Pour the vegetables into it, and then layer the chicken pieces over. Pour over the vegetable stock, season with salt and pepper and bake in an oven heated to 400 degrees F for 35 – 40 minutes.

Vegetarian Chili

Ingredients (to make 4 portions):

  • 2 cans of black beans
  • 2 onions
  • 1 carrot
  • 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder
  • 1 tablespoon of chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 1 tin of tomatoes
  • 1 cup of vegetable stock
  • 2 tablespoons of oil

Instructions:

  1. Finely dice the onions, heat the oil in a pan and then add the onions. Cook for 8 – 10 minutes.
  2. Slice the carrot and garlic cloves, add these to the onions and cook for 4 – 5 minutes.
  3. Add the cocoa powder, chili powder and smoked paprika, stirring well. Add the beans with four tablespoons of their liquid, plus the tomatoes and vegetable stock.
  4. Bring to the boil, then reduce to a simmer over a medium heat. Cook for 40 – 50 minutes. Serve alongside rice or bread.

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3 Easy Meals to Impress Your Housemates With https://graduatez.com/3-easy-meals-to-impress-your-housemates-with-2/ Sun, 28 Apr 2024 10:13:00 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=1874 Cooking for your housemates is a great way to get to know people and to do something nice for the house. Here are three easy meals that will impress your housemates. Dhal A dhal at its simplest is very easy to make. The basic process involves cooking onions and lentils in a big pot and […]

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Cooking for your housemates is a great way to get to know people and to do something nice for the house. Here are three easy meals that will impress your housemates.

Dhal

A dhal at its simplest is very easy to make. The basic process involves cooking onions and lentils in a big pot and then adding spices. You can improve upon the basic dhal by adding ingredients such as spinach or carrots to add a healthy and tasty component. You can also fry the onions and garlic separately and add them at the end to provide a different texture. Or you can simply add crispy fried onions or coriander on top to give the dhal a big boost.

Homemade Pesto Pasta

Pesto pasta is a student staple, but homemade pesto is on another level. With a hand blender or food processor, it’s super easy to make and you can adjust the ratios of all the ingredients to your preference. If you want to really stand out, you could make your own pasta. It is a little bit of effort, but it does really elevate any pasta dish.

Ratatouille

Ratatouille comes in many different forms and everyone has a different approach. One of the simplest ways to make a tasty and hearty ratatouille is to use a one-pot approach. Start by frying eggplants in olive oil and add zucchini once they are cooked. Then add onions, tomatoes, and garlic. If you need more water, you can add vegetable stock. To make it stand out even more, you can add red wine or a touch of balsamic vinegar to give it a deeper flavor.

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3 Low Sugar Snacks to Power You Through Your Day https://graduatez.com/3-low-sugar-snacks-to-power-you-through-your-day/ Fri, 26 Apr 2024 12:39:00 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=2823 We all know that when hunger hits, reaching for a bar of candy is the easiest thing to do. However, most of us also know that high-sugar snacks don’t keep us full for very long, leading to us reaching for yet more snacks later on. You can break this cycle and choose snacks that will […]

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We all know that when hunger hits, reaching for a bar of candy is the easiest thing to do. However, most of us also know that high-sugar snacks don’t keep us full for very long, leading to us reaching for yet more snacks later on. You can break this cycle and choose snacks that will power you through your studying by seeking out foods which are high in protein, fiber and healthy fats. Check out these recommendations for low-sugar snacks below.

Yogurt Bowl

Natural or Greek style yogurt is high in protein and naturally low in sugar. Top it with some berries, a few nuts and maybe even some cacao nibs to create a healthy and sustaining snack which should keep you full until your next meal.

Marinated Tofu

Think tofu is boring and plain? Maybe you just need to marinate it! Whip up a quick marinade by mixing a teaspoon each of soya sauce, oyster sauce, red wine vinegar and honey. Mix these ingredients together well, then drizzle over some cubed firm tofu. Leave the marinade to work its magic for an hour or so, and then gently fry the tofu in a small amount of oil. You can enjoy this straight from the pan, or allow it to cool and pack it in a container for an on-the-go snack.

Dark Nut Chocolate

If you must reach for a sweet treat, make it some dark, nut-enriched chocolate. A bar of 60% cocoa chocolate with some whole hazelnuts, almonds or pistachios will deliver a dose of healthy fats, some proteins and some powerful anti-oxidants. While the chocolate does contain sugar, the other ingredients will help to ensure that this is absorbed a little more slowly than some other chocolate would be.

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3 Easy Mocktails You Can Make for Your Next Get-Together https://graduatez.com/3-easy-mocktails-you-can-make-for-your-next-get-together/ Mon, 22 Apr 2024 08:11:00 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=2698 All too often, mocktails are sickly sweet, tasting more like kid’s fruit squash than a refined, adult beverage. Check out these simple yet sophisticated recipes which use non-alcoholic spirits to infuse the drinks with a range of intriguing, complex flavors. As these drinks aren’t technical, the only equipment you will need is something to stir […]

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All too often, mocktails are sickly sweet, tasting more like kid’s fruit squash than a refined, adult beverage. Check out these simple yet sophisticated recipes which use non-alcoholic spirits to infuse the drinks with a range of intriguing, complex flavors. As these drinks aren’t technical, the only equipment you will need is something to stir the mocktails with and some ice.

Cranberry Mocktail

Ingredients (to serve 6):

  • 2 cups of cranberry juice
  • 1 cup of lemonade
  • 1/2 cup of non-alcoholic gin
  • Ice, lemon and mint leaves, to serve

Instructions:

  1. Mix together the cranberry juice and the non-alcoholic gin – if you don’t have a cocktail mixer, pour five parts cranberry to one part non-alcoholic gin into a glass and mix.
  2. Top up the glasses with a splash of lemonade.
  3. Add ice, torn mint leaves and some lemon slices.
  4. Serve immediately.

Pina Colada Mocktail

Ingredients (to serve 6):

  • 2 cups of pineapple juice
  • 1/2 cup of coconut water
  • 2 teaspoons of honey or maple syrup
  • 1 cup of soda water
  • Mint, ice and lime slices to serve

Instructions:

  1. Stir the honey or maple syrup into the pineapple juice.
  2. Combine the pineapple juice, coconut water and soda water by mixing in a cocktail shaker or pouring into glasses.
  3. Add ice, lime slices and torn mint leaves to the glasses and serve immediately.

Raspberry Spritz

Ingredients (to serve 6):

  • 2 cups of raspberry lemonade
  • 1 cup of non-alcoholic Prosecco or similar
  • Ice, lime, mint and raspberries, to serve

Instructions:

  1. Pour two parts lemonade to one part non-alcoholic sparkling wine into each glass.
  2. Add ice, mint leaves, lime slices and one or two raspberries to each glass.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy.

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ersion="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> Lily F, Author at Graduatez Graduatez Thu, 29 Aug 2024 10:44:22 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 Going to Dye Your Hair at Home? Read These Tips First https://graduatez.com/going-to-dye-your-hair-at-home-read-these-tips-first/ Mon, 26 Aug 2024 08:03:00 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=3669 It’s no secret that most student budgets don’t stretch to hours spent in the hair salon, but what if you really fancy changing up your hair color? The time you spend at college is a great chance to experiment and play with your sense of style, especially as most people have to look a little […]

The post Going to Dye Your Hair at Home? Read These Tips First appeared first on Graduatez.

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It’s no secret that most student budgets don’t stretch to hours spent in the hair salon, but what if you really fancy changing up your hair color? The time you spend at college is a great chance to experiment and play with your sense of style, especially as most people have to look a little more serious once they’ve graduated and entered the world of work. Check out these tips on dyeing your hair at home, so you can experience having bright pink hair without the salon costs.

Check the Condition of Your Hair

Before you go anywhere near hair dye or bleach, you need to check the condition of your hair. If your hair has previously been colored, or if you use lots of heated tools then you’ll need to approach dyeing your hair with lots of caution. It may be worth getting a trim done by a professional, so the worst split ends and breakages are removed before you pick up any bleach.

Consider Which Colors Will Suit You

Just because you’ve seen several fellow students sporting lime green hair or cerulean blue strands doesn’t mean that these colors will suit you. Consider the kind of colors you opt for in your clothes, or whether warmer or cooler toned makeup suits you best. This will help you decide whether to opt for a warm, rich-toned dye or something a little icier.

Be Prepared for the Aftercare

Once you’ve applied the bleach and hair dye to your strands and safely removed it, you’d think you’d be done. However, if you’ve gone for a pastel hue or a pale blond you now need to be prepared to maintain it. It’s easy to buy violet shade-toners to banish any brassiness from blond strands. For other colors, dilute a little of the dye with some conditioner and let that sit on your hair for 5-10 minutes every fortnight or so. This should stop the worst of color fading from ruining your look.

The post Going to Dye Your Hair at Home? Read These Tips First appeared first on Graduatez.

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3 Ways to Earn Money Over Your Summer Break https://graduatez.com/3-ways-to-earn-money-over-your-summer-break/ Wed, 19 Jun 2024 12:03:00 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=3368 Although you might be dreaming of an endless summer, filled with blue skies, good times, and full-on fun, in reality, you may need to top up your finances over the summer months ahead. If you’re in this position, there are plenty of ways to earn some extra money and still have a good time with […]

The post 3 Ways to Earn Money Over Your Summer Break appeared first on Graduatez.

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Although you might be dreaming of an endless summer, filled with blue skies, good times, and full-on fun, in reality, you may need to top up your finances over the summer months ahead. If you’re in this position, there are plenty of ways to earn some extra money and still have a good time with friends and familyβ€”check out these three accessible options for earning some extra cash over the summer.

Pick Up a Waiting Job

Waiting jobs are often easy to come by, especially in the summer months. The good thing about working in the hospitality industry is that you can generally pick and choose your hours. For example, if you’d like to get your work done in the morning, leaving your afternoons and evenings free, finding a few shifts in a local cafe could work well. Similarly, if you’d like to have your days free to do as you please, working a few shifts in a bar will mean you’re only tied to work for a few evenings each week.

Try Some Tutoring

If you’re currently studying at college, your skills and knowledge will be in high demand by parents and students at all stages of their educational journey, from elementary through to high school. Tutoring can often pay a good hourly rate, so you won’t need to do much to earn some decent money over the summer.

Sell Some Clothes

Do you have a stash of clothes, shoes, and even jewelry that you no longer wear or use? Why not upload images to a site such as Vinted, where you can easily sell items that you no longer need? Even if the items you’re selling are only going for a few dollars each, if you sell a big stash of things you will be surprised at how quickly the total adds up.

The post 3 Ways to Earn Money Over Your Summer Break appeared first on Graduatez.

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Here’s How to Tackle the Most Common Skincare Complaints https://graduatez.com/heres-how-to-tackle-the-most-common-skincare-complaints/ Wed, 22 May 2024 08:11:00 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=3170 Almost all of us suffer from skin issues from time to time. The question is not whether we’ll every have any problems with our skin, but how to deal with these problems when they do arise. While some conditions need specialist attention, for common issues such as dryness, oiliness or mild acne, there are plenty […]

The post Here’s How to Tackle the Most Common Skincare Complaints appeared first on Graduatez.

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Almost all of us suffer from skin issues from time to time. The question is not whether we’ll every have any problems with our skin, but how to deal with these problems when they do arise. While some conditions need specialist attention, for common issues such as dryness, oiliness or mild acne, there are plenty of products available to purchase which can make a real difference. Check out these tips on how to address some of the most common skin complaints at home.

Dryness

If you’re struggling with dry skin, avoid the conditions which can exacerbate this condition as much as possible. This means protecting your skin if you’re going outside in cold weather (especially if there is wind chill), but also reducing your time in artificially heated rooms. Find a reliable, non-fragranced moisturizer to use at night, and in the day time avoid layering up too many products over your skin as this can reduce the efficacy of your moisturizer and draw attention to dry patches on your skin.

Oiliness

Oily skin can cause a whole host of other issues, from blocked pores to finding your foundation sliding off your face come midday. Use a toner designed for oily skin, and a niacinamide serum can work wonders when used consistently. Don’t skip moisturizer, but do look for one designed for oily skin, as those designed for dry complexions may block pores and worsen oil production.

Dull Skin

Healthy skin has a bounce and a glow that is hard to fake using make up products. Seek out serums infused with vitamin C to boost your glow, and don’t forget to exfoliate regularly using salicylic or lactic acid to boost collagen production which will support your glow.

The post Here’s How to Tackle the Most Common Skincare Complaints appeared first on Graduatez.

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Should You Live With Your Parents After College? https://graduatez.com/should-you-live-with-your-parents-after-college/ Thu, 09 May 2024 12:01:00 +0000 https://graduatezcodev.wpenginepowered.com/?p=2973 Increasingly, more and more young people are having to return to their family home after college. While for many people this is the only option when it comes to getting started in a career and avoiding the cost of rent to try to save money, for some of us there is a choice involved. This […]

The post Should You Live With Your Parents After College? appeared first on Graduatez.

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Increasingly, more and more young people are having to return to their family home after college. While for many people this is the only option when it comes to getting started in a career and avoiding the cost of rent to try to save money, for some of us there is a choice involved. This article will look at the pros and cons of living with your parents as an adult, to help you make this decision.

Long Term Plan

It’s not always a good idea to move back into the family home without a long term plan. Do you have a goal you are working towards, whether it’s relating to your finances, career, travel plans or life aspirations? If so, moving in with family can help to make this goal a reality faster than if you were trying to pay for rent and bills by yourself.

What’s Your Relationship Like?

It may sound obvious, but before you move back into the family home you do need to consider what your relationship with your parents is like. It may have changed since you moved out and went to college, so you need to reflect on whether you can handle sharing a space with them again. This isn’t just something for you to consider – you will need to tell them you’re weighing living with them again as an option, so they can reflect and let you know if this is going to work for them.

Consider The Space

It’s not impossible that in the time you’ve been away, your parents have changed the family home. Would it still logistically work for you to move home? Would you have your own room, and is there enough space for everyone to work from home if that situation arises? If the family home has changed radically since you left, it may be worth reflecting on whether living there is going to work.

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How to Support Friends Who Are Struggling With Their Mental Health https://graduatez.com/how-to-support-friends-who-are-struggling-with-their-mental-health/ Mon, 06 May 2024 08:26:00 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=2912 College, and all that it bringsβ€”intense socializing, moving away from home for the first time, the pressure of high level studyβ€”can present a huge challenge to some people. Lots of students find it hard to regulate their mental health, and mild to moderate depression and anxiety are very common amongst college students. If one (or […]

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College, and all that it bringsβ€”intense socializing, moving away from home for the first time, the pressure of high level studyβ€”can present a huge challenge to some people. Lots of students find it hard to regulate their mental health, and mild to moderate depression and anxiety are very common amongst college students. If one (or more) of your friends is struggling with low mood or anxiety, here are some simple ways you can support them, without taking on a load of added pressure and stress which might threaten your own mental health.

Listen (with boundaries)

One of the most important, useful things you can do is listen to your friend in need. This means putting your phone down, turning to face them and actively listening while they talk. You shouldn’t feel pressure to come up with the perfect response or answer – most people are not really looking for us to fix their problems, knowing that someone cares enough to listen is often enough. Also, if you’re feeling like you’re starting to spend all of your time listening to one or two close friends, set some boundaries and take back some time for yourselfβ€”after all, you’re their friend, not their therapist.

Seek Professional Support

If someone you know is struggling, it really is important to recognize when a professional may need to step in. You don’t want to overstep your role or take on more than you mean to, but if you’re seriously worried about your friend it’s probably worth seeking out support from somebody at your college, or maybe even consider making contact with your friend’s family to make them aware of what’s going on.

Plan Some Activities

If someone is suffering from mild depression or anxiety, sometimes all they need is for someone else to suggest some fun, stress-busting activities. Whether you plan a picnic in the local park for your study group, a day out shopping, or a coffee morning for your closest pals, inviting your friend to a few fun events can be enough to get them out of a rut.

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3 Outfits That Will Help You Smash That Job Interview https://graduatez.com/3-outfits-that-will-help-you-smash-that-job-interview/ Sat, 04 May 2024 16:17:14 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=2901 When it comes to job interviews, preparation is key. You’ll want to plan some answers to some likely questions, think about any questions you want to ask the interview panel and plan your day to ensure you’re on time. An essential part of this is planning your job interview outfitβ€”not only will this save you […]

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When it comes to job interviews, preparation is key. You’ll want to plan some answers to some likely questions, think about any questions you want to ask the interview panel and plan your day to ensure you’re on time. An essential part of this is planning your job interview outfitβ€”not only will this save you time and stress in the morning, but it can also help you nail your look so you feel confident, professional, and in control.

Waistcoat

Sleeveless knits and waistcoats are big news when it comes to fashion trends this season. A simple waistcoat is a great way to add interest to a traditional pants and white shirt look, and it helps to signal that you’re someone who is aware of current styles and trends. This can help you come across as modern, well informed, and in touch with the zeitgeist, qualities which most potential employers will value.

Midi Skirt

A mini skirt is a no-no for a job interview, and a maxi skirt can feel slightly informal or a little old-fashioned, depending on the style. A midi skirt hits exactly the right note between the two, appearing professional without seeming staid.Β 

Bold Print

You’ll need to choose your print carefully as you don’t want to send the wrong message. Sticking to classics such as a bright, beautiful floral print or some other natural design can make you appear energetic and confident, as well as stylish. 

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Why Meal Prepping Can Help You Focus During Your Week https://graduatez.com/why-meal-prepping-can-help-you-focus-during-your-week-2/ Mon, 29 Apr 2024 12:10:00 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=1942 If you’re nearing exams season or have a hefty load of coursework to complete, meal prepping is a great way to save yourself time and energy to allow you to focus on your studies. Dedicating an hour or two at the start of the week to preparing some or all of the elements of your […]

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If you’re nearing exams season or have a hefty load of coursework to complete, meal prepping is a great way to save yourself time and energy to allow you to focus on your studies. Dedicating an hour or two at the start of the week to preparing some or all of the elements of your meals means there will be far less stress and hassle, and you won’t have to run to the store on a Wednesday evening in the rain because you need a can of beans for a dish. Check out these recipes, each of which works great for meal prepping and can be frozen so it’s ready when you are.

Chicken Casserole

Ingredients (to make 4 portions):

  • 4 chicken breasts, thighs or legs
  • 1 white onion
  • 1 leek
  • 2 tablespoons of oil
  • 6 – 8 potatoes, peeled
  • 2 carrots
  • 1 1/2 cups of vegetable stock
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. Sear the chicken pieces on both sides for 3 – 4 minutes, draining and discarding any oil that is released.
  2. Heat the oil in a wide based saucepan. Roughly chop the onions, leeks, carrots and potatoes and add them to the pan. Keep stirring, cook for 10 – 12 minutes, until the onions are softening.
  3. Take a large casserole dish. Pour the vegetables into it, and then layer the chicken pieces over. Pour over the vegetable stock, season with salt and pepper and bake in an oven heated to 400 degrees F for 35 – 40 minutes.

Vegetarian Chili

Ingredients (to make 4 portions):

  • 2 cans of black beans
  • 2 onions
  • 1 carrot
  • 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder
  • 1 tablespoon of chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 1 tin of tomatoes
  • 1 cup of vegetable stock
  • 2 tablespoons of oil

Instructions:

  1. Finely dice the onions, heat the oil in a pan and then add the onions. Cook for 8 – 10 minutes.
  2. Slice the carrot and garlic cloves, add these to the onions and cook for 4 – 5 minutes.
  3. Add the cocoa powder, chili powder and smoked paprika, stirring well. Add the beans with four tablespoons of their liquid, plus the tomatoes and vegetable stock.
  4. Bring to the boil, then reduce to a simmer over a medium heat. Cook for 40 – 50 minutes. Serve alongside rice or bread.

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3 Easy Meals to Impress Your Housemates With https://graduatez.com/3-easy-meals-to-impress-your-housemates-with-2/ Sun, 28 Apr 2024 10:13:00 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=1874 Cooking for your housemates is a great way to get to know people and to do something nice for the house. Here are three easy meals that will impress your housemates. Dhal A dhal at its simplest is very easy to make. The basic process involves cooking onions and lentils in a big pot and […]

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Cooking for your housemates is a great way to get to know people and to do something nice for the house. Here are three easy meals that will impress your housemates.

Dhal

A dhal at its simplest is very easy to make. The basic process involves cooking onions and lentils in a big pot and then adding spices. You can improve upon the basic dhal by adding ingredients such as spinach or carrots to add a healthy and tasty component. You can also fry the onions and garlic separately and add them at the end to provide a different texture. Or you can simply add crispy fried onions or coriander on top to give the dhal a big boost.

Homemade Pesto Pasta

Pesto pasta is a student staple, but homemade pesto is on another level. With a hand blender or food processor, it’s super easy to make and you can adjust the ratios of all the ingredients to your preference. If you want to really stand out, you could make your own pasta. It is a little bit of effort, but it does really elevate any pasta dish.

Ratatouille

Ratatouille comes in many different forms and everyone has a different approach. One of the simplest ways to make a tasty and hearty ratatouille is to use a one-pot approach. Start by frying eggplants in olive oil and add zucchini once they are cooked. Then add onions, tomatoes, and garlic. If you need more water, you can add vegetable stock. To make it stand out even more, you can add red wine or a touch of balsamic vinegar to give it a deeper flavor.

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3 Low Sugar Snacks to Power You Through Your Day https://graduatez.com/3-low-sugar-snacks-to-power-you-through-your-day/ Fri, 26 Apr 2024 12:39:00 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=2823 We all know that when hunger hits, reaching for a bar of candy is the easiest thing to do. However, most of us also know that high-sugar snacks don’t keep us full for very long, leading to us reaching for yet more snacks later on. You can break this cycle and choose snacks that will […]

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We all know that when hunger hits, reaching for a bar of candy is the easiest thing to do. However, most of us also know that high-sugar snacks don’t keep us full for very long, leading to us reaching for yet more snacks later on. You can break this cycle and choose snacks that will power you through your studying by seeking out foods which are high in protein, fiber and healthy fats. Check out these recommendations for low-sugar snacks below.

Yogurt Bowl

Natural or Greek style yogurt is high in protein and naturally low in sugar. Top it with some berries, a few nuts and maybe even some cacao nibs to create a healthy and sustaining snack which should keep you full until your next meal.

Marinated Tofu

Think tofu is boring and plain? Maybe you just need to marinate it! Whip up a quick marinade by mixing a teaspoon each of soya sauce, oyster sauce, red wine vinegar and honey. Mix these ingredients together well, then drizzle over some cubed firm tofu. Leave the marinade to work its magic for an hour or so, and then gently fry the tofu in a small amount of oil. You can enjoy this straight from the pan, or allow it to cool and pack it in a container for an on-the-go snack.

Dark Nut Chocolate

If you must reach for a sweet treat, make it some dark, nut-enriched chocolate. A bar of 60% cocoa chocolate with some whole hazelnuts, almonds or pistachios will deliver a dose of healthy fats, some proteins and some powerful anti-oxidants. While the chocolate does contain sugar, the other ingredients will help to ensure that this is absorbed a little more slowly than some other chocolate would be.

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3 Easy Mocktails You Can Make for Your Next Get-Together https://graduatez.com/3-easy-mocktails-you-can-make-for-your-next-get-together/ Mon, 22 Apr 2024 08:11:00 +0000 https://graduatez.com/?p=2698 All too often, mocktails are sickly sweet, tasting more like kid’s fruit squash than a refined, adult beverage. Check out these simple yet sophisticated recipes which use non-alcoholic spirits to infuse the drinks with a range of intriguing, complex flavors. As these drinks aren’t technical, the only equipment you will need is something to stir […]

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All too often, mocktails are sickly sweet, tasting more like kid’s fruit squash than a refined, adult beverage. Check out these simple yet sophisticated recipes which use non-alcoholic spirits to infuse the drinks with a range of intriguing, complex flavors. As these drinks aren’t technical, the only equipment you will need is something to stir the mocktails with and some ice.

Cranberry Mocktail

Ingredients (to serve 6):

  • 2 cups of cranberry juice
  • 1 cup of lemonade
  • 1/2 cup of non-alcoholic gin
  • Ice, lemon and mint leaves, to serve

Instructions:

  1. Mix together the cranberry juice and the non-alcoholic gin – if you don’t have a cocktail mixer, pour five parts cranberry to one part non-alcoholic gin into a glass and mix.
  2. Top up the glasses with a splash of lemonade.
  3. Add ice, torn mint leaves and some lemon slices.
  4. Serve immediately.

Pina Colada Mocktail

Ingredients (to serve 6):

  • 2 cups of pineapple juice
  • 1/2 cup of coconut water
  • 2 teaspoons of honey or maple syrup
  • 1 cup of soda water
  • Mint, ice and lime slices to serve

Instructions:

  1. Stir the honey or maple syrup into the pineapple juice.
  2. Combine the pineapple juice, coconut water and soda water by mixing in a cocktail shaker or pouring into glasses.
  3. Add ice, lime slices and torn mint leaves to the glasses and serve immediately.

Raspberry Spritz

Ingredients (to serve 6):

  • 2 cups of raspberry lemonade
  • 1 cup of non-alcoholic Prosecco or similar
  • Ice, lime, mint and raspberries, to serve

Instructions:

  1. Pour two parts lemonade to one part non-alcoholic sparkling wine into each glass.
  2. Add ice, mint leaves, lime slices and one or two raspberries to each glass.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy.

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