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.
when the stars align
college search

How I Chose My College: “The Stars Aligned”

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
I only applied to one school. As my high school friends went on college visits, compared campuses, and drafted applications to multiple schools around the country, I had my sights set on just one: the University of Iowa. People are often surprised when I tell them I only applied to Iowa, given that on average …
ACT & SAT

More Interesting ACT / SAT Prep Tips to Try

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
When it comes to ACT / SAT prep, every trick is worth trying. Some work better for certain students than others, but that’s why it’s important to test a few different methods to find the ones that work best for you. We’ve given plenty of ACT / SAT prep tips before, but here are three …
Taking both tests won't double your success rate.
myths

Myth: Taking Both the ACT and SAT Will Double My Success Rate

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
“Jack of all trades, master of none, though oftentimes better than master one.” It’s a quote that speaks to being well-rounded, the value of having many skills and not focusing on one expertise. When it comes to the ACT and SAT, however, it might be better just take one. There’s a reason why taking both …
ACT & SAT

Interesting ACT / SAT Prep Tips to Try!

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
There are countless ACT and SAT prep tricks out there—we’ve written about plenty of them ourselves. Here are three more you might not have tried yet, but definitely should! Teach concepts to someone else In order to teach, you have to have a solid grasp on the material. Therefore, a great way to ensure you …
A metal gate with one door open on a college campus.
college search

The Best Questions for Comparing Different Colleges

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
As you narrow down your college list, it can get tricky to pick one college over another. When you get down to the wire and May 1st is looming, it’s time to really compare colleges. Here are some questions to compare colleges: Which has a better program for my major / career interests? Which has …
Students are posing in front of the chalkboard.
financial aid

How To Maximize Your Merit-Based Financial Aid

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
When it comes to merit-based financial aid, students are awarded based on their academic accomplishments, special skills, and demographics. You may qualify for merit-based financial aid if you’ve earned good grades in high school, or you’ve gained special recognition for your skills in any field, or for your dedication to community service, or belong to …
A close up of a clapboard.
scholarships

Scholarships for Film Students

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
From its creation, film has been an immensely powerful media force. It’s an art form that both reflects and defines societies and generations. From mega-blockbusters that entertain the masses, to powerful heart-warming documentaries that uncover hidden truths, there are so many different ways film impacts us. Studying film in college is a great way to …

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Join thousands of students and parents learning about finding the right college, admissions secrets, scholarships, financial aid, and more.