While I was interning in Manhattan over winter break, I stayed with my grandmother on Long Island. It felt weird at first since I hadn't seen her since my sister's high school graduation months before. But throughout the month I stayed with her, I got to know her a lot better than I did before. I discovered what she accomplished, her triumphs, her failures, her love of dogs, and how she fell into the world of fashion.

One of the best presents she gave me during my stay (other than the billions of new, professional clothing) were pieces of advice. Now I've heard pieces of advice from others before like, "Be yourself," or "Don't let others judge you." But based on what my grandmother and I disclosed during our time together, what she told me was much more honest, sincere, and helpful than what anyone else has given me.

So I share with you what my grandmother has given me that you can take into your lives as well.

1. Make your bed every morning. You never know who might come into your room.
2. Sort your laundry in three bags: lights, darks, and delicates.

3. Fold your clothes as soon as they come out of the dryer to keep wrinkles to a minimum.

4. Do your own laundry!

5. Sit with your feet on the floor at the dinner table. Say "Excuse me" if you're going to leave before everyone else.

6. Ask for what you need! Don't be afraid. The worst they can say is "no," and then you've got to figure out another way to get it.

7. Assert yourself. Don't be bullied. Assume a superhero pose!

8. Let others know they need to treat you with respect.

9. Try one new food a day. If you don't like it, skip the Academy Award performance.

10. Be kind to all four-legged creatures.

11. If you blow or brush your hair over the sink, clean it out with a wipe.

12. Use perfume sparingly. When you use too much, it gives the appearance of hiding BO—you can make people gag.

13. Any former "friends" or acquaintances who have caused you unhappiness are to be gone, dismissed from your life. Good comeback: "I'm over that. I've moved on."

14. Dust your room with a wipe or wet paper towel, or you'll find yourself congested.

15. Change your sheets, and wash your bathrobe every week.

16. Take time to "smell the flowers." Don't rush through life like you have to catch a train.

17. Smile, and say "Thank you" and "Please" when someone is nice to you. Shake hands when appropriate. Make eye contact, and keep your eyes open.

18. Take every day as it comes. Work, and study hard, but don't get obsessed with one thing or person.

19. Consider every day a rehearsal for the next. You are the master of your future.

20. A scarf or statement piece of jewelry can add a pop of color to a boring outfit.

21. Patterns and textures can be mixed as long as they have a common color theme.

22. Have your clothes tailored to fit your body perfectly.

23. First impressions are important! Always make a good one.

24. Mix and match solid colors and prints.

25. All over black is not a "go-to" look for an interview or meeting. Wear it to funerals only.

26. Moisturize, and wear sunscreen daily.

27. Get up on Sunday! Get dressed! Do something! Volunteer. Invite a friend for lunch. Hibernation is for bears and some species of bats, not 19 year old girls.

28. Invite people into your life. Don't fear rejection, it happens to everyone. Put your phone down and interact. To have friends, you need to be a friend.

29. Don't refer to anyone as your "ex" unless he put a ring on it. The others are just "jerks."

30. Don't say "I'm sorry" unless you really mean it, and you're going to correct the situation.

31. Be both inspired and inspiring. Absorb knowledge while showing enthusiasm and a positive outlook.