Rocky Balboa had it right when he said – “the world ain’t all sunshine and rainbows.”

(No offense to the sunshine or rainbows).

Yes, just like final exams – life can be difficult! And if we're being completely honest, college isn't all fun and [drinking] games either.

Likewise, we live in a complex world where the current climate often leaves us questioning what the future will look like.

We were fed up with our voices being disregarded or even sometimes silenced.

And partisan media coverage only added more fuel to the fire.

We recognized these problems, and so we went in search of a solution. We wanted to use our bitterness, but instead to drive change -- and we found a way to get bitter AND better.

The idea we came up with was much larger than a website chalk full of fluff articles, entertaining quizzes, cat memes, and other irrelevant bullsh*t.

(Although, we do like a good cat meme every now and then.)

Instead, we created a reputable and inclusive space for curious, intelligent college students to do some (keyword: some) of the following:

1. Relish the power of our collective voices

2. Use said voices to make an impact and change the world

3. Facilitate debate on critical issues

4. Share thought-provoking and unique stories “by students, for students”

5. Feature nonpartisan media coverage, while still allowing other students to submit opinion columns

6. Foster an inspired and empowered community while having a damn good time doing it

(not pictured: Jackson Collier, managing editor)

Get to know each member of our leadership team here.

Born in March of 2016, The BS (acronym for The Bitter Student) is an online publication featuring multimedia content "by students, for students." Our content champions the authentic voices of our generation: intelligent, curious, fun, and determined.

Based in Birmingham, Alabama – The BS has gained tremendous steam. It's been recognized in its community for its growth by outlets such as The Birmingham Business Journal.

We strive to fill our expanding community with the thought-leaders of our generation because we found the most powerful way to overcome obstacles is by fostering a dialogue. Additionally, we fill our space with unique stories by students because it is through stories that we understand others and ourselves better.

Our contributors have fought for rights as an undocumented citizen, shared advice with other freshmen, included reasons why the presidential race is important to our generation, discussed the importance of the GAP year, reflected on involvement in a Harvard pre-MBA program, used videography to illustrate the difference a service-learning project can make, recommended reads for student leaders, and guided others through being Greek and gay. (To name just a few.)

Our mission-driven work is hardly over – but we need YOUR help!

By launching this Kickstarter, our goal is not simply to cover our startup expenses. We plan to use these monies to fuel our growth as we continue to expand our reach and build brand awareness at other college campuses. By expanding our audience, we will be able to attract advertisers. Those sponsors will help us grow our revenue stream, which will allow us to continue expanding.

design for limited edition crew necks || design for standard t-shirts (see rewards column for more)

design for limited edition crew necks || design for standard t-shirts (see rewards column for more)

logo design for BS customized notebook (see rewards column for more)

Note: College Students, a friendly reminder to please list your campus PO Box as your mailing address if you would like to recieve your reward at school.

Our Community Donors || Thank you in advance for your support!

Video Production || Massey Creative

Video Guests || William Hargrove (Samford University) | Caroline Irby (Birmingham-Southern College) | Fernanda Herrera (Samford University)

Crew Neck Sweatshirts || Michael McCombs (Promo ID)

Feedback || Dr. Mary Harrison

Stickers || Laura Sellers