College Raptor Staff

Applying to college can be challenging, and so we at College Raptor feel it's our duty to make that process as easy, smooth, and rewarding as possible. We work hard to clarify dense material, dispel myths, uncover information, and help you learn what you need to know!
Stop sign - you can prevent student loan default by stopping it before it starts
questions & answers

How Do I Prevent Student Loan Default?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 25, 2025
You know what happens if you default on your student loans—your credit history takes a hit. This can have serious consequences on your future financial prospects. Lenders are reluctant to approve loans to defaulters and even if they do, they will charge you premium interest rates. This is not a scenario that anyone wants to …
floor lamps
student life

5 Fantastic Floor Lamps for College Dorms

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 27, 2024
At no extra cost to you, College Raptor may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.  Let’s face it—those ceiling fluorescent lights that are standard fixtures most dorm rooms are just plain ugly. They do nothing to add to the ambiance of the room and are not the ideal lighting either for …
self help books
student life

7 Self-Improvement Books for College Students

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 27, 2024
At no extra cost to you, College Raptor may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.  You may not realize it right now but the one asset you have throughout your life and one that no one can take away is you! Pick up one (or all) of these self help books …
Sign that says change - calculate student loan payment
student loans

Ways To Change Your Student Loan Interest Rate

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 6, 2025
When you take out a student loan, you’ll have an interest rate that you will have to pay on the amount that you borrow. For the most part, interest rates will remain consistent throughout the life of your loan (especially if you opted for a fixed rate). Interest rates greatly affect how you calculate student …
what's in my backpack
student life

What’s In My Backpack: 10 Must-Have Supplies

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on July 22, 2024
It pays to be prepared…for anything. Of course, as a student you know you’ll need a laptop, notebooks, textbooks, pens, and other supplies related to your academics, but that shouldn’t be all that’s in your backpack! There are actually quite a few items that can come in handy, and should be kept in your bag …
Students on Northwestern's campus -- wondering "what's the best college for me?"
college search

How To Narrow Your College Choices Fast

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Creating a shortlist of colleges to apply to and then narrowing down that list takes some time. Ideally, you should start your search for potential colleges while you are in your junior year, if not sooner. May 1st is the deadline for selecting your college, and it’s fast approaching. You might need to narrow your …

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