Amanda Smith is a freelance journalist and writer. She reports on culture, society, human interest and technology. Her stories hold a mirror to society, reflecting both its malaise and its beauty.

After one too many rants to my best friend about my stubby, nail-glue–covered fingers (I’m a press-on nail fiend), she finally told me to book a dip powder manicure—the nail polish upgrade basically ...

Open a brokerage account to start investing in stocks. Decide on specific stocks and how many shares to buy. Build and diversify your portfolio by purchasing chosen stocks. A stock represents an ...