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Prioritizing Cost and Durability: Analyzing the Best Cars for College Students

Prioritizing Cost and Durability: Analyzing the Best Cars for College Students

College life can provide a great many students with the opportunity to experience true freedom, but this can be a little difficult without having the right car that’s safe, efficient, and won’t break the bank to drive. 

While there are plenty of cars out there, finding the right one to suit the needs of college students can be tricky. This is because college life can be tricky to budget, and a little chaotic to say the least. 

Although no two students have the same wants and needs when it comes to cars, factors like value for money and durability are likely to rank high when guiding students through their college years. With this in mind, let’s have a look at seven motors that can fit the bill for the tricky test of college life: 

Chevrolet Spark

The Chevrolet Spark is one of the cheapest options available on our list and offers excellent fuel economy for students, making those trips to the pump less frequent. With 30 miles-per-gallon in city environments and 38mpg on the freeway, you’ll be able to get from A to B throughout semesters without having to constantly spend big. 

While the car has a strong four-cylinder engine, the 98 horsepower on show can be a little restrictive if you’re looking to take regular long journeys home between semesters.

Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius will top a great many lists when it comes to cost-efficient driving. The hybrid motor has delivered a fuel economy of 48mpg, making it extremely cheap to drive.

Furthermore, the model has been named as a Top Safety Pick from IIHS for both 2012 and 2013, and a TSP+ for 2014-2015.

With more recent Prius models offering safety features like pre-collision systems and lane-keeping assists, it’s unlikely that you’ll find a safer and cheaper-to-run motor. However, the costs of buying a Prius can be relatively steep in comparison to some of the cheaper cars listed.

Honda CR-V

Depending on your studies, sometimes it’s worth investing in an SUV to haul larger objects like musical instruments or sports equipment into college. If you’re looking for a larger car to do the trick, the Honda CR-V could be the perfect low-cost option to fit the bill. 

The car also has useful features like all-wheel drive should conditions become slippery, and lane-departure warnings to help keep you in control of your vehicle at all times. 

Mazda3

The Mazda3 is a beautiful motor that can be bought used for a fair price. The car itself can be very versatile, and comes in both sedan or hatchback models, with the latter offering a great compact option for students. 

For the right price, the Mazda3 can be a great sporty option for college students, and the car comes with a six-speed manual transmission for stick drivers. 

The car also features a smart key fob that provides handy keyless entry to the car, which can be great when rushing with luggage between classes. Don’t worry if your key ever gets lost amidst the chaos of student life, replacing your car key can be easy with auto locksmiths on-hand to reprogram smart keys. 

Toyota Corolla

There aren’t many cars that have exerted the staying power of the Toyota Corolla. With a history that’s spanned more than 50 years, students can embrace decades of engineering quality when choosing this car. 

Taking the form of a subcompact car that offers both sedan and hatchback versions, the Corolla’s more recent editions boast safety features like pre-collision deterrence, automatic high beams, and lane departure alerts. 

While newer Toyota Corollas can extend to the higher reaches of student budgets, there are many great older versions that can perform admirably when it comes to getting students safely from A to B throughout their semesters. 

KIA Soul

No matter what your taste is in cars, there’s no doubt that the KIA Soul is striking in appearance. Box-like in appearance, the Soul will certainly help you to stand out from the crowd on campus. 

Due to its unusual shape, the Soul offers a healthy level of storage space despite its small appearance. The motor overall is a strong budget option for students, though its possible lack of aerodynamics might be a contributing factor to its weaker gas mileage, which doesn’t measure up as well as some of the other options on this list. 

Honda Fit

To conclude our list, we have another Japanese option for student drivers. Although Honda stopped selling the Fit hatchback in recent years in the US, it’s still proving to be a popular motor for student drivers. 

The car features strong safety ratings and plenty of efficiency for drivers, and its 33mpg city and 40mpg highway fuel consumption is credible in comparison to other options on this list. 

Honda’s Fit model also packs a relative punch, with a 130-horsepower engine that outstrips some of the other small hatchback options available on the market. 

Although student life can be difficult to navigate at the best of times, finding the right car that’s dependable and cost-effective can be a great way of getting the most out of your experience at college. 

When searching for the right car, always draw up your expected budgets and draw comparisons between the initial cost and fuel consumption costs that can be associated with your purchase. In finding the right vehicle to suit your budget, getting from A to B will have never felt so easy. 

SEE ALSO: Packing For College: Essential Move-In Tips & Tricks

Six Considerations To See If Studying Abroad Is Right For You

Six Considerations to See if Studying Abroad is Right for You

Getting the opportunity to study abroad is exciting, especially if you haven’t traveled much before. You’ll experience many new things, meet new people, make new friends, and see some fantastic sights.

However, for all of the positives of studying abroad, there are just as many challenges that you may face as well. This is not to say that studying abroad is a bad idea, but before you take the leap, you should take the time to understand what you are getting into.

The more research you do ahead of time, the more likely you are to have a better experience. Below, we’ll dive into some top things to consider to help you decide if studying abroad is right for you.

1. The Educational Benefits

Let’s start with something positive — the academic benefits.

Studying abroad fosters learning and intellectual development, which have been shown to improve grade point averages and completion rates. So even though you may have to learn a new curriculum structure depending on where you study abroad, the educational benefits are generally worth it.

Furthermore, many study abroad programs offer access to majors or courses that might not be available to you in the States. So not only will studying in a different country potentially help you improve your grades, but it can also provide you with more learning opportunities.

2. Travel and Moving Logistics

While moving to another country to study might be exciting, it will also come with its challenges. For example, just the logistics of getting everything together so you can move overseas can be a nightmare if you aren’t fully prepared.

You’ll need to sort out your travel documents, like your passport and visa, and make sure your parents have copies in case you lose them. You’ll also need to figure out how to move things over with you or if you’ll just buy new items once you’re there.

For example, if you have a vehicle, will you ship it or leave it at home with your parents? Shipping a car overseas is possible, but it can be expensive. However, if you will need a way to get around once you’re there and public transportation isn’t an option, then shipping your car is worth considering.

3. Healthcare Logistics

You also need to consider how you will receive and pay for medical care when you are studying abroad. The last thing you want is to end up sick in another country and not know how to get the help you need. Even if you are in good health, with no preexisting conditions, you never know what could happen.

So it’s a good idea to sit down and look at your health plan. Some health insurance carriers provide overseas coverage, while others don’t. If yours doesn’t, you should look into overseas student health insurance and research the healthcare facilities you will have access to once you are there.

4. Culture Shock and Language Barriers

While getting to experience a new culture is exciting and beneficial to you, it can also be a big adjustment. Many study-abroad students find that learning to adapt to a new culture — such as new traditions, languages, policies, and behaviors — can be difficult and can negatively impact their learning experience.

In short, studying abroad can be a culture shock, and if you don’t speak the native language of the area you’re studying, it can make things even harder. That being said, if you prepare for these big changes and know what to expect, you might have an easier time adjusting.

5. Financial Challenges

Managing your finances can be another challenge when studying abroad. Not only is there the cost of studying at an international university to consider, but there are many other out-of-pocket expenses. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for study-abroad students to run out of money in these situations.

So before you move overseas for your education, ensure you have a solid financial plan. You’ll need to budget for things like food, personal items, transportation costs, entertainment, and extracurricular activities. You may also need to get financial support from your parents or look into getting a job while you’re abroad.

6. Personal Growth and Opportunities

Ending on a positive note, studying abroad can teach you many things about yourself and open you up to many new opportunities. It can teach you new skills, such as self-awareness, communication, independence, and adaptability. And it can open your eyes to new cultural experiences and help you make new friends.

Study abroad experience also looks good on a resume, which can open you up to more career opportunities, both in your home country and where you studied.

Final Thoughts

Though studying abroad has some potential downsides, don’t let this deter you. If you really want to study in a new country and experience a new culture, there is no reason why you can’t make that happen. You’ll simply be more likely to have success and enjoy the experiences if you take the time to do some research and fully prepare yourself for the things you will face.

SEE ALSO: 10 Splendid All Time Academic Benefits of Studying Abroad

10 Splendid All Time Academic Benefits of Studying Abroad

10 Splendid All Time Academic Benefits of Studying Abroad

Studying abroad amongst a new, exciting and foreign culture can be life-altering for your academic endeavors. People often cite travel, new languages, and other practical benefits of studying abroad but we’d like to share with you 10 less explored academic benefits.

The benefits of studying abroad are many. You will learn to be independent, improve your language skills, and make new friends. But there are also academic benefits and reasons to study abroad that can help you in your future career.

1: Improve Your Language Skills

If you travel to another country to study, you will need to be able to communicate with people in that country. This is an excellent way to improve your language skills. It can help you achieve fluency in a foreign language. After that being s student, you can join any essay writing service or survey-based team to get the advantage of your language skills.

You will be surrounded by native speakers, which will make it easier for you to pick up on their accents, pronunciations, and vocabulary. You can also get help from your host family or friends if you need to improve your speaking skills.

Learning a new language is one of the best ways to broaden your perspective on the world. It may seem difficult at first, but it will be worth it in the long run. You’ll be able to communicate with more people and feel more confident doing so.

2: Broaden your perspective on the world

Studying abroad allows you to learn about other cultures while interacting with locals and learning from them daily. This is an excellent way to broaden your horizons and expand your knowledge base about the world around us.

This can help you gain valuable life skills. Those skills will help you in any situation or environment you may find yourself in later on in life.

It allows you to see things from different perspectives. Moreover, it helps build cultural awareness in your life. This knowledge can be useful in many areas. For instance, business, politics, or even personal relationships with people from other countries.

3: Meet new people

Studying abroad allows you to meet people from various backgrounds who may have different points of view than yours. They may also have experienced different lifestyles than what you have at home. This helps expand your social circle and gives you more options when choosing friends after college graduation or after moving away from home for work or other reasons.

In addition to having a chance to meet people from all over the world, you will also be able to learn about their cultures, traditions, and lifestyles. If you decide to study abroad, you might even make friendships that last a lifetime!

4: Develop a global mindset

Students have a chance to develop their global mindset through real-life experiences. Rather than just reading about them in textbooks. These students often develop an increased appreciation for other cultures. That helps them become better leaders, managers, and employees. It is because they understand how to work effectively with people from different backgrounds and cultures than their own.”

The world is becoming smaller every day with globalization being at an all-time high due to technological advancements and advances in travel options.

We have more connections with other countries than ever before. It is due to social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook which allow us to make friends. While studying abroad you can go and meet them in actuality. Moreover, you can use these platforms to make friends and get real-life updates about the place you select for studying.

5: Gain independence

Your decision of studying in another country allows you to gain independence and become more responsible for themselves. It helps you learn how to manage their time better as well as take care of themselves in different situations. These are all important skills that can help you throughout your life!

6: Improve your time management skills

Time management is a skill that can be applied in all aspects of life. It is from work and school projects to managing personal finances and relationships with family and friends!

Peering abroad gives students an opportunity to develop these valuable skills. It can be through daily use. So, students can learn how to manage their time effectively in any situation or environment!

7: Develop self-discipline and perseverance

Peering abroad requires students to adapt to a new culture and way of life, which can be difficult for some people. However, it is important to remember that everyone has their struggles and challenges in life.

When you are researching abroad, it will help you develop the ability to persevere through anything that comes your way. You will also learn how to manage your work better, and be more organized and responsible for yourself, which are all important skills needed in today’s world.

8: Explore a new culture and traditions

Learning abroad allows you to experience all the wonderful cultures around the world!

Studying at another university lets you learn more about different cultures while still being immersed in your own culture at home. The best part about is that you get to meet people from all over the world!

One of the most exciting parts is getting the chance to explore a new civilization and custom!

Students get access to international student clubs on campus where they can meet members of different nationalities.

It gives you a chance to learn more about different lifestyles and ceremonies that may be very different from what you are used to backing home. This will help you become more open-minded towards other nationals and minorities. So that when you do travel outside of your country (or state), it won’t seem so foreign anymore!

9: Start planning your career

Many students have heard that learning abroad is a great way to gain valuable international experience. Right? but did you know that it can also help you build your career?

Many studies have shown that students are more likely to work at an international organization. It is where they can use the language they learned while studying there.

Also, those who have studied abroad are more likely to be involved in international organizations. They also collaborate with people from different countries.

This means that if you want to work in international business or politics, this could be a great option for building up your network of connections.

10: Earn credit towards your degree

If you’re planning on attending graduate school, then it can also help you earn credit for your degree. Some schools offer exchange programs. It is where students can apply credits earned from studying abroad towards their coursework at the home campus (and vice versa).

Other schools will accept certain courses from outside institutions as transfer credit. For example, you take a course on European history at Oxford University and receive an A grade. Then this could count towards major requirements for an American university degree program in political science or history.

Conclusion

First, not all academic benefits can be measured with a number. Experiencing cultural differences, enjoying a new environment, and gaining new friends are some of the greatest benefits of studying abroad.

Your decision to study abroad can be a life-changing one that enhances your academic career. Moreover, it paves the way to many future opportunities and rewards. Explore the academic benefits of studying abroad to understand why this decision is worth taking.

SEE ALSO: 10 Things You Should Know Before Studying Abroad

Ways to Get Around Campus

Best Ways to Get Around Campus

The parking situation across many college campuses is a struggle, to say the least. A statistic at the University of Wisconsin showed that there is one available parking spot for every five college students. With the average cost for a student parking permit at about $280 per semester, it’s certainly worth exploring cheaper alternatives for getting to class on time. There are many transportation options and they each have advantages and disadvantages. We share our two cents on the various means of transportation, ranging from skateboards to taking the bus. So how will you cruise to class this semester?

The Madness Of Motorized Transportation

Some may prefer to drive their cars, which offers privacy and comfort by way of temperature control and cushioned seating. However, the price of a car is high when compared to the price of non-motorized means of transportation and the cost of gas is near all-time highs. Some may opt for a moped. Many of the students at the University of Florida find riding to class on a moped to be common and convenient. Regardless, mopeds require fuel, finding space for parking and confidence in your ability to navigate to class safely. Another alternative is public transportation which offers a handful of other options. Trains, buses and ridesharing will all allow students to get to class in a timely manner, but these modes of transportation require the purchase of either individual fares or a pass as a more long-term option.

Traditional Transportation

When boiling down bicycles vs skateboards you should consider the storage and the maintenance required to have your wheels at your disposal. Many class commuters opt for transportation on two wheels. For example, many students in Portland, Oregon choose to bicycle to and from campus because it is a relatively bicycle-friendly city. However, a bicycle requires finding a safe place to lock it up and preparation in the case of a maintenance emergency; meanwhile a longboard or cruiser doesn’t require as much storage for tools, locks or finding a bike rack.

Some of you may be thinking, “Why don’t I just walk?!” If the distance of your commute isn’t far, this is a very valid option. It carries no cost, offers physical exercise, and with proper planning will get you to class on time. It’s an especially attractive choice when the walk to class is a scenic one or offers the opportunity to socialize or network. You don’t even have to search for parking as you might with a car, moped, motorcycle, or bicycle. However, for many students, walking to class isn’t an option because they simply live too far away for it to be reasonable.

Commuting With Style

Skateboarding, in addition to its popularity, is a sensible and effective way to roll to any lecture or study group that may come up. And, after the initial investment, it’s free! It is even cheaper than buying a bicycle or paying for daily public transportation, and on a tight student budget, this carries major clout. It’s an individual pursuit, so skateboarders don’t need to share air with others on a bus or train and risk getting sick.

Let’s break down the difference between longboards and cruisers, shall we? Both longboards and cruisers tend to have larger and softer wheels. Softer wheels make for better movement on rough surfaces like the road or sidewalks. Softer wheels also offer more grip for turning. Larger wheels come in handy when you have a longer commute because they cover more ground which makes for less pushing and more cruising. Lastly, board (deck) size is the biggest deciding factor when comparing longboards and cruisers. A longer board doesn’t maneuver as well as a cruiser when it comes to turning. Imagine how much easier a car can turn a corner compared to a semi-truck. Longboards and cruiser decks are usually at least eight inches wide which makes for a more stable ride at higher speeds. Which will you choose?

Most importantly, skateboarding is a form of transportation that can also introduce one to a rich culture beyond the college campus. Skateboarding, while an individual pastime, offers a community that is global, inclusive, and loads of fun! Skateboarding offers a relaxing outlet that we all need, especially after an all-nighter of studying, while providing a winning method of cross-campus movement.

How do YOU prefer to commute?

SEE ALSO: The Importance of Saying Yes

U.S. Borders Finally Reopen After 20-Month Ban

U.S. Borders Finally Reopen After 20-Month Ban

There were many joyful and emotional images and videos to come out of airport across the United States as many were reunited with friends and family after the nation reopened its borders after a travel ban lasting 20 months.

The borders officially reopened its borders to visitors on Monday, ending travel restrictions which had banned non-U.S. citizens traveling from 33 nations across the world such as the UK, China and India as well as overland entry from the bordering nations of Mexico and Canada.

To enter the United States, visitors will need to be double vaccinated. However, exceptions are made to children under the age of 18 and those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons. In addition, travelers over the age of 2 will need to provide evidence of the negative COVID test taken within the past three days but will not need to quarantine.

These restrictions were imposed by former president of the United States, Donald Trump, and were upheld by current president Joe Biden but had been heavily criticized. They were imposed to slow the spread of COVID-19 with U.S. borders closed to travelers from various parts of the world. This separated families for a significant period of time as well as heavily affect tourism.

Two flights, one British Airways and one Virgin Atlantic took off simultaneously from Heathrow airport in London landed into New York City, which signified the return of the one of the busiest flight paths. Arrivals at the John F. Kennedy Airport were greeted with rapturous applause and balloons by airport staff welcoming them to the country.

“Today is a day of celebration,” Virgin Atlantic CEO Shai Weiss said at the airport.

CEO of British Airways, Sean Doyle, was also present at the airport, welcoming arrivals to the United States and stated how important this moment was to get tourism moving again.

“Apart from the human aspect, it’s very important for business and trade that we get this corridor up and running again,” he said. “The links are very strong, and travel is a key part of enabling that economic activity.”

SEE ALSO: Rapper Travis Scott Sued Following Concert Deaths

US Lifts Travel Ban For Vaccinated Travellers

US Lifts Travel Ban For Vaccinated Travellers

Travellers coming from the UK and EU, who have been fully vaccinated, will be able to enter the United States from November, culminating in the end of travel restrictions lasting for almost two years.

People who have had two jabs of a COVID-19 vaccine will be allowed to fly into the US but will have to provide proof of vaccination as well as proof of a negative COID-19 test taken three days prior to the flight. They will also need to provide their contact information to airlines however they will not be required to quarantine.

The new rules are part of a change in policy regarding international travel which had previously been put in place by previous President Donald Trump since the early months of last year.

This means that friends and families that have been separated from each other due to the restrictions will be able to reunite with one another.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson expressed his delight with the change saying: “it’s a fantastic boost for business and trade, and great that family and friends on both sides of the pond can be reunited once again.”

He also thanked President Biden for “reinstating transatlantic travel”.

Chairman and CEO of American Airlines, Doug Parker, said he agreed with the “science-based approach” to easing travel restrictions.

“With the shared goals of health and safety always at the forefront, we’re looking forward to welcoming more customers back to easy, seamless international trips for business, for leisure, and to reconnect with family and friends,” he said.

Jeff Zients, the White House COVID-19 co-ordinator declared the new rules on Monday stating: “This is based on individuals rather than a country-based approach, so it’s a stronger system.”

“Most importantly, foreign nationals flying to the US will be required to be fully vaccinated,” he continued.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will determine the vaccines that will be acceptable under the new regulations and if those unapproved by the US can still be used.

During the same week, Biden also announced the extension of restrictions through its land borders with Canada and Mexico that prevent non-essential travel. These restrictions will continue for another month in spite of Canada authorizing fully vaccinated travellers from the US to into the country since August.

SEE ALSO: UC Berkeley Tops Forbes’ 2021 US College Rankings

Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Swimsuit

ith endless categories being used to define women’s bodies, swimsuit shopping has become an impossible task—especially as clothing tags don’t tend to say: “buy this if you’re an inverted triangle.” This season is all about body positivity and feeling good in your own skin, so let’s leave the apples and pears in the fruit bowl and get back to soaking up the sun. Baring all in a string bikini is easier said than done, however. If you feel more confident drawing eyes away from a certain area or giving yourself a little more support, our swimsuit guide for different body types has— literally—got you covered.

Small chest

If you’re looking for a suit that flatters a smaller bust, go for an embellished or ruffled design up top to help give the illusion of a larger chest. Alternatively, there are many styles on the market that have sewn-in padding to give you a little extra boost.

Big chest

A triangle bikini may not be your friend, but cup sizes, underwire and thicker straps are. Choose a stretchy material that won’t dig in, don’t be afraid to get coverage by going up a cup size, and consider flattering your décolletage with a deep V-neck. Halter straps may place pressure on your neck, but halter-top suits that sit higher up on your chest can provide great support.

Swimsuits for broad shoulders

If you’ve got wider shoulders, you can balance them by going for suits with an asymmetrical neckline that will draw the eye up and away. Similarly, patterned bottoms with a plain top, or a solid-colored suit with paneling details, will give the illusion of an hourglass figure.

Broad hips

Solid bottoms and printed tops will draw the eye away from broader hips and balance out your body. Off-the- shoulder numbers will also serve to elongate your clavicle and give you a curvy silhouette.

Complimenting a short torso

If your waistline is closer to your chest than it is to your hips, you have a small torso. By lifting the bust line with a bikini and donning low-rise bottoms, you can serve up an elongated mid-section. Adding halter straps will also work by showing off your neck and shoulders, instead of your short torso.

The ideal swimsuit for a long torso

Long torso girls can really rock a one-piece. Bikinis with high-waisted bottoms will also work to give the impression of a shorter mid section.

Flatter your back

If love handles are getting you down, tuck them away with a one-piece or high-waisted bikini bottoms that cover the belly button (to prevent a muffin top). If your problem area is higher up, go for pieces with a high back and thick straps that—instead of digging in and creating depressions—flatter and smooth your profile.

Swimsuits for short legs

To elongate shorter legs, go for high-cut suits that sit further up on the hips, creating a V-shape. If you’re feeling brave, thong-style bottoms will work to generate an optimum limb-length.

Straight figure

If you have an athletic or narrower figure you don’t need to worry about balancing proportions. To create a curvier silhouette, you can add dimension with cutouts, shirring and bold prints.

Tummy

To hide a tummy or the liters of seawater you accidentally swallowed, sport a peplum style one-piece or a tankini for a cute cover-up. Ruching will also work to conceal a stomach and a plunging neckline will draw eyes away from your mid-section. Tummy control suits are revolutionary—offering easy curves and ample stability.

For the guys

Boys: will you be bold in briefs or opt for comfort in board shorts? These are longer than swim trunks and are perfect for adventurous-types that plan to surf or skate whilst catching rays (hence the word “board”). More options include square leg swimsuits, which are the equivalent of boxer underwear, and swim jammers, which hug the legs and are ideal for endurance pros.

Wear what you want

Swimsuit shopping, harsh dressing-room lights and friends with mile-high legs can be more-than-enough to ruin a beach day. Remember that nobody is looking at you. In fact, everyone feels this way—we’re just all built differently. Try to focus on emphasizing your favorite feature when choosing a suit, not covering up your least favorite. If you’re comfortable, protected and having fun, swimsuit season can’t get you down.

See Also:
Bon Voyage! Staying Safe on Vacation

How to Transition Your Summer Staples into Fall

 

 

The key is at YOUR fingertips

The Key is at YOUR Fingertips

Launched at CES and on Shark Tank, security and convenience come together in this padlock with technology that is perfect for college life.

The beginning

Robbie Cabral was in a tough spot. It was the Holidays, he’d just been laid off, and on that very day, his daughter was born. He was depressed and overweight, so he started going to the gym to improve his self-esteem and his waistline. While he was there, he got an idea that would change his life and improve the lives of many. He noticed people leaving keys in their padlocks, struggling to open them, leaving them unlocked.

Why did locking up your things at the gym have to be difficult? Wouldn’t it be great if you could open a padlock with your fingerprint or a key?

Robbie started working to develop his idea: designing, prototyping, testing and revising. After three years of hard work, he was granted a patent. Now what?

He exhibited at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas and won the coveted Innovation Award. He’d proven his concept in a big way and needed to figure out how to raise investment money and get his product into the marketplace.

Shark tank

That’s where Shark Tank came in. Robbie made it onto the show. His story won every Shark’s heart and his idea, patent and CES award made his proposition irresistible to them all. Robbie especially clicked with “Mr. Wonderful”, and that partnership really got things moving. Kevin O’Leary knew what Robbie needed: a company to partner with who had distribution, a customer base, manufacturing capability and R&D. In comes Hampton Products.

Hampton Products

Kim Kelley, President and CEO of Hampton Products, fit every criteria Kevin O’Leary and Robbie were searching for. In no time, the agreement was signed, as was a check for $100K as an advance to Robbie on future sales. Robbie and Hampton Products have since scaled the first Benjilock® By Hampton padlock and introduced it into the marketplace at ACE Hardware and Home Depot. Benjilock® By Hampton is the perfect solution for locking up your valuables, so you can enjoy college life.

Travel

Traveling abroad? The Benjilock® By Hampton TSA luggage padlock opens for you with the touch of your fingerprint, but has a special cylinder that also allows the TSA access, too. Now, you can travel freely and safely without worrying about things getting stolen from your luggage or the TSA cutting open your lock. The TSA Benjilocks can be programmed with up to five fingerprints—and programming is easy with detailed instructions included in the packaging. They even have an optional dial combination on the lock as a backup.

Around campus

Benjilock® By Hampton is great for locking up electronics, backpacks, protecting your things at the gym and—coming soon—even locking up your bike! Just think of the convenience! Program your fingerprint and then all you have to do is touch your lock to open it. No one else will have access unless you program their fingerprint into the lock. The 43mm Benjilocks can be programmed with up to 10 fingerprints.

Benjilock® By Hampton has a padlock that fits your lifestyle.

buyhampton.com

Get Ready for Your Summer Vacation

Jetting off for summer vacation is a rite of passage for college students all over the world. Consider our favorite destinations offering the best sun, fun and sand of 2019.

Sun-kissed vacation at Daytona Beach, Florida

Daytona Beach lies in Volusia County and is an easily accessible party spot that is perfect for students on a budget. If you’re looking to spend sunny days relaxing on a 23-mile stretch of sun- kissed sand before stepping out to the hottest club scenes in Florida, head to Daytona Beach for amazing surf and headlining DJs. Explore the uniquely drivable beach by renting a motorcycle or bicycle, and maybe even plan a trip to Walt Disney World, Sea World or Universal Studios in Orlando—it isn’t far. Student friendly and one your parents may even approve of—get the sun, surf and nightlife without breaking the bank.

Non-stop pool parties’ vacation at Cancún, Mexico

One of the most-visited student destinations on the planet, Cancún is the ultimate, unforgettable experience. Situated on the northeast coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, this convenient location is easy to fly to and is known for its breath-taking tropical beaches, turquoise waters and unrivalled nightlife. If you somehow get bored of white sands, non-stop pool parties and world- class DJs, you won’t have to look far to encounter water sports, island shopping, authentic Mexican cuisine and huge whale sharks to swim with. One of the most sensational attractions in Cancún is the Museo Subacuático de Arte, an underwater museum that features more than 400 life-sized sculptures. The sun, sea, food and swarms of party-lovers are all accounted for in a summer vacation at Cancún.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is high on most students’ lists of places to visit and is one of the most multicultural places in Europe. If you’re looking to swap crowded beaches for the relaxed way of life this year, you can actually do so on a tight budget. Traveling with a group will secure you cheaper rates, and Amsterdam’s free tours, afternoon concerts and countless other cheap tourist attractions will keep you busy without emptying your wallet. From the world class Van Gogh Museum to the famous Anne Frank House, with this vacation you’ll be enjoying the city’s never-ending selection of attractions, festivals, food and nightlife.

Resort Experience at Nassau, The Bahamas

The city of Nassau can be found on New Providences Island – the 11th largest of 700 islands in The Bahamas. With low cost flights from much of the East Coast, the Island offers students sun-drenched beaches, clear blue waters, foam parties, dance clubs and casinos (think Las Vegas meets tropical paradise).  The whole island is set up like a resort, so a break from the sun can offer world class snorkelling and diving, ever water sport imaginable, an assortment of shops and restaurants, boat-renting and even an authentic pirate museum. Tracing its heritage to the shipwrecking days of Blackbeard, the locals will tell you that Nassau is where rum originated. Whether you’re relaxing in paradise or enjoying the wild nightlife, you can expect to do it with a rum punch in hand.
When traveling, make sure to:

• Check any rules or restrictions in an area before booking your vacation
• Stay close to friends, making sure everyone is accounted for • Always check the credentials of your taxi driver
• Lock valuables away
• Keep your drink with you at all times
• Never go to an ATM alone or flash your cash in public
• Never swim alone or enter the water if you’ve been drinking • Watch the weather for storms that can move in fast

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The Most Haunted Universities in the World

The Most Haunted Universities in the World

Are you brave enough to study at one of the world’s most haunted universities? Settle down for some college ghost stories that are sure to get you in the Halloween spirit.

University of St Andrews, Scotland

 As well as being Scotland’s oldest University (dating back almost six centuries), the University of St Andrews is considered one of the country’s most haunted places. The weathered, gothic building is home to over a dozen ghosts, including a piper and a ghost ship.

A phantom monk also protects St Rule’s Tower in St Andrews Cathedral but it is the apparition of the White Lady who is most well-known at the university. Said to be one of the ladies-in-waiting of Mary, Queen of Scots, the grieving beauty resides inside the wall of a desecrated abbey and takes nocturnal strolls across the cathedral grounds. In 1868, stonemasons broke into a sealed chamber where they discovered an open coffin containing the preserved body of a young woman in a white dress…

Gettysburg College, USA

America’s most haunted college, Gettysburg College was the site of the brutal Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War. Unsurprisingly, ghosts are commonplace at this site, with frequent spectral activity occurring at Penn Hall—the oldest building on campus that served as a hospital and morgue during the battle.

Here, the most popular ghosts include armed sentinels, a little boy with a blue face known as the ‘blue boy’ and bloodstained Civil War doctors that haunt the basement.

University of Toronto, Canada 

The University of Toronto actually conducts haunted tours of the campus, so certain are they of the many specters that parade the halls. The Christie Mansion building was the site of a 19th century illicit love affair and death. The mansion’s owner kept his mistress hidden in a secret chamber behind the library (room 29), where she hung herself with her bed sheets.

Most famously, Russian stonemason, Ivan Reznikoff, attacked his colleague, Paul Diablos with an axe for his affairs with Reznikoff’s fiancé. Diablos stabbed the Russian with a knife and hid the body in a ventilation shaft. The university claims that an axe mark can still be seen and workers later discovered the skeleton of a man wearing a belt buckle with Reznikoff’s emblem in a ventilation shaft, after the building partly burned down.

Heidelberg University, Germany 

Many professors from Heidelberg University were sent to concentration camps during Nazi Germany, and two were also said to have been murdered. The most disturbing part of campus is the University’s clinic, where women who were forced to undergo sterilization under eugenic experiments can be heard weeping and screaming.

Chalkboards erase themselves and mysterious words appear on them over night, even though the halls are kept locked. It is also said that the smell of smoke and burning leather still lingers at the site where banned books were burned before WW2.

University of Northern Colorado, USA

The University of Northern Colorado warns prospective students about its phantom residents with a dedicated page on the university’s website. With a ghost story for every single building on campus, a less scary but memorable account of ‘Stoney Ghosty’, the spirit of a student who overdosed on drugs, claims that he is eternalized by the smell of marijuana.

On the other hand, the presence of another student haunts the attic where she was found hanging. Bullied by her peers, Edith would hide away and play with marbles. Students have reported hearing the noise of marbles rolling across the floor, and her ghost has often been sighted outside the Wiebking and Wilson dormitories.

Nagasaki University, Japan

The ghosts at Nagasaki’s medical school are said to be victims of the atomic bomb released by the US on 9 August 1945. The smell of burning flesh reeks the hallways, accompanied by ghostly figures and the screams of the 800 staff and students who were killed in the blast.

Chinese University of Hong Kong, China 

If you’re a male and you visit the Chinese University of Hong Kong, you could fall prey to the faceless ghost that haunts Single Braid Road, which runs beside campus.

The woman has long, braided hair and, legend has it, had her face ripped off after jumping from a moving train. With a train station at the end of the road, young men who tread the path alone risk being traumatized by the faceless specter. 

Smith College, USA

The largest women’s college in America is also one of the most haunted and has centuries of murders, accidents and epidemics peppered throughout its history. Smith’s website continually updates it’s list of reported ghosts, including a senior who died after forgetting to turn the gas oven off, a little boy who died after being locked in the attic, and a pining mother who cries for the baby she murdered in life.

Another infamous story describes the haunting of the Sessions House, where a British soldier and an American girl would meet on a hidden staircase during the Revolutionary War. The staircase is real, and new students are often set the task of finding it on Halloween. The ghost of General Burgoyne has been sighted wandering Sessions House looking for his love, and other students have seen the pair rendezvousing on the secret stair.

Further reading: Six of the Best Books to Read This Fall