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.
A student writing in a small notepad with a laptop next to them.
questions & answers

What the NMSQT is and Why is it so Important?

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
The NMSQT refers to the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test and it’s what you need to take to be in the running for the National Merit Scholarship. But there’s a bit more you should know. High school is a busy time, and it’s also the time to start thinking about college. As you’re preparing for …
A young female student smiling while holding a $2500 College Raptor Scholarship certificate.
scholarships

Chatting With Scholarship Winner Phuongthao Hoang!

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
I got the chance to speak with Phuongthao Hoang—winner of the first-ever $2,500 College Raptor scholarship—about her personal college prep journey! She hopes by sharing her story, she will help other students going through the college search and prep process. Here’s what she had to say: Tell us a little about yourself! My name is …
Are high school internships worth doing the summer before college?
careers & internships

Should Seniors Do An Internship The Summer Before Their Freshman Year Of College?

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
Are high school internships worth doing the summer before college? People are pretty evenly divided on this question. Some argue there are other things the soon-to-be-freshman should be focusing on, others say it’ll be a great experience before the busyness of college. Internships aren’t just for college students. Here are some of the pros and cons …
Two SAT papers and two pencils on the desk.
ACT & SAT

The Importance of Knowing the ACT / SAT Test Format

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
When studying for a test, you probably focus on the material, right? The actual content you’ll be tested on. If it’s a US History test, you’ll study dates, memorize key people, and read about important events. But the ACT and SAT aren’t “normal” tests. You won’t just study the tested material in preparation, but also …
Can you switch student loan repayment plans?
questions & answers

Can I Switch My Student Loan Repayment Plan?

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
Things change. What you started with might not be ideal for the situation you’re in now. This is true for life and for student loans. When you take out a student loan, you’ll agree to a certain type of repayment plan. However, as time goes on you might find that a particular plan doesn’t work …
ACT & SAT

What is the ACT Test Information Release?

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
If you plan on retaking the ACT again, one of the best ways to learn from your first experience is by reviewing your own scores. The ACT has a wonderful service that allows you to do just that: the Test Information Release. What the Test Information Release Tells You The TIR will give you a …

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