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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UK chapter.

What does it mean to be “cool”? Dr. Julie Gurner defines “cool” as, “someone whose attitude and behaviors are composed but seem as uniquely their own.” To be cool is to be original. I think a big factor to looking “cool” is to genuinely not care what others think. It’s easier said than done, but when you stop thinking about others opinions, looking cool doesn’t matter. Someone is cool when they don’t, or seem like they don’t, care about being cool. Being yourself is “cool,” and so is being a kind person. 

While being cool is all about being unique, being cool also doesn’t matter. It’s a cliche that should not still exist. I think learning how to be “cool” can be unhealthy for people. It doesn’t create a good mentality for people who are already considered “cool” or for those trying to seem cool. Who decides what is original and what’s not? The only universal definition for being cool is a lower temperature. No one can tell you what to wear or how to act, and they shouldn’t be able to determine how you think. If everyone followed the same “rules” for how to be cool, there would be no diversity or originality.

What makes us “cool” is being true to ourselves. We shouldn’t judge whether or not people follow or don’t follow trends, we should be complimenting them since they look great either way! There needs to be more positivity and less judgement in the world. Be who you want to be!

Hi, my name is Kalista Smiley. I'm currently a sophomore at the University of Kentucky majoring in digital media and design. My hobbies include hanging out with friends and family and doing any type of art project. I also really enjoy being active through hiking or working out. I currently live on campus, and I want to make my college years memorable!
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