Allison Wignall

Allison is the Editor & Content Manager of College Raptor. In addition to writing and editing posts, she also works on marketing and special projects. She graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in English: Creative Writing.
Coffee maker or tea pot - best gifts for college students
student life

Great Gifts for College-Bound Students

By Allison WignallLast updated on June 27, 2024
Whether as graduation presents or good-luck gifts, there are a number of items helpful for the college-bound student. Here are just a few of the best gifts for college students starting their freshman year: Noise-Canceling Headphones Useful for drowning out noise so students can study, or roommate’s snoring so they can sleep, noise-canceling headphones can …
Consolidating can be a huge relief, but when is the best time to consolidate your student loans
questions & answers

When is the Best Time to Consolidate My Student Loans?

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
Let’s say you went to college and had to take out multiple student loans. Now that you’ve graduated, it’s time to repay all those loans. It can get overwhelming quickly. Luckily, there’s consolidation. Student loan consolidation can be a huge relief to students juggling multiple loans. This process combines the loans into one simple monthly …
As parents, how do you even start paying for college?
financial aid

How Parents Can Help Pay for College

By Allison WignallLast updated on July 28, 2023
In this guide we’ll answer the following questions: How can I start saving for my child’s college education? How can we find an affordable school? What’s the difference between net price and sticker price? Why is it important to compare financial aid packages? Should we consider community or online colleges? What if our savings aren’t …
Tube apparatus with colored water placed over a water test chart.
ACT & SAT

SAT Subject Tests: Chemistry

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
Have you heard of the SAT Subject Tests? They’re excellent opportunities for students to show off their academic skills in a certain area. The tests are additional (optional) standardized exams that focus in on one subject, unlike the SAT which covers broader topics. Chemistry Test Overview Chemistry is a wide-reaching field with dozens of branching …
A student answers a math equation on the board.
ACT & SAT

SAT Subject Tests: Mathematics Level 1

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
One fantastic way to give your college app a boost is by taking an SAT Subject Test. These additional tests highlight academic skills in certain areas that the standard SAT test can’t show. There are two Mathematics subject tests—Level 1 and 2. Let’s talk about the former. Mathematics Level 1 Overview Level 1 primarily focuses …
Two students sitting around a laptop applying to internships.
careers & internships

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting an Internship

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
An internship is an invaluable experience. Not only will it look good on a future resume, but it allows you a sneak peek into your potential career field, gives you industry contacts, and helps you develop relevant skills. You should absolutely consider doing at least one internship during your college years (if not multiple), and …

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