I know watching Netflix may not be the most productive pastime, but in college it's a lifesaver. We all have our favorite shows, but as a feminist, some of my favorite shows, like Gilmore Girls or Parks and Rec, have empowering female characters that have become successful despite major setbacks. As silly as it may sound, the five characters discussed here inspire me (a professional procrastinator) to stay on top of my game as fall semester begins. Don't get me wrong, I have some real-life role models too--Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson, Michelle Obama, and Tulsi Gabor to name a few--but these characters are well known worldwide and have qualities I try to emulate. (Spoiler alerts ahead!!)

1. Rachel Green

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. is one of the most loved shows of all time. Rachel Green, the spoiled rich girl, completes the wonderful set of main characters by adding a sense of girl power. She is not ashamed of her past or her stereotypical love for shopping, fashion, and boys. Instead, she takes her avid interests and turns it into a career. She left her family's money behind, worked at the one and only Central Perk, and eventually worked her way to being a buyer at two ridiculously famous companies. On top of all that, she raised her daughter, Emma, on her own for a while. Any woman who can go off on her own and get her dream ob is someone worth admiring.

2. Amy Farrah Fowler

Amy is not the most social character on TV. At least, she wasn't when we first met her. Dr. Amy Farrah Fowler is a neurobiologist and happens to be in a relationship with one of the most difficult human beings the world has ever seen. Despite her boyfriend Sheldon Cooper's insolent and incessant desire to be right at all times, Amy never fails to show him up with her own intelligence. She manages a perfect balance between an intellectual and incredibly successful researcher and a great friend.

3. Lorelei Gilmore

Lorelei Gilmore isn't your typical role model. Sure, she got pregnant at age sixteen, but her life didn't crumble to pieces because of her daughter, Rory. When she knew her parents wouldn't approve of the way she wanted to raise her child, she left on her own and worked as a maid in a local inn. A teenager raised a child on her own while working just to prove her independence and stick to her beliefs. As Rory grew up, so did Lorelei. She advanced to a manager's position at the inn, graduated from business school, and then ventured out on her own to build her very own Dragonfly Inn. Lorelei may be unconventional and even a little scatterbrained at times, but she is a perfect example of independence and successful entrepreneurship.

4. Cristina Yang

Plenty of Pre-Med student know they're in for years of sleepless nights and impossible exams. Cristina Yang, although just a fictional character, is the poster child woman for medical success. Despite the continuous hardship women continue to face in STEM, Cristina acquired a medical degree from Stanford. She refuses to step aside for any man who may stand her her way. She got herself through an unplanned pregnancy, an abortion, being left at the altar, and leaving the love her life to pursue her career. She became one of the finest cardio-thoracic surgeons in the world. I think it's important to remember that while relationships and family life are important facets of our society, it's okay for women to put their careers first. Cristina Yang did just that, and she is an inspiration because of it.

5. April Ludgate-Dwyer

April Ludgate-Dwyer, one half of TV's favorite couple, is an inspiration to all college girls who may not know exactly what they want to do with their lives. She started off as a simple intern in the Parks department, a position that many college kids can relate to. She came into work with an apathetic mindset, but eventually found her passion. This internship allowed her to climb the ladders of this under-rated government office and eventually establish a career. While this in itself is an admirable feat and something I myself hope to achieve, April soon realized that her passion had shifted. (Spoiler Alert) Her experience allowed her to detach from the Parks Department and earn an incredible position that helped the nation's youth. Not only is she a fine example of a careless student turned mature professional, but she also makes an effort to use her experience to benefit her community.

This was a fairly corny article, I know. All corniness aside, however, I have a point. College is intimidating. On top of managing classes, we have to make an effort to be an active member of extracurriculars, try to get internships, and truly prepare ourselves for the professional world. When you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed, just remember the characters you love so much. Emulate the women you spend your free time watching and give your education 110%. Good luck during fall semester everyone!