Ellen Andersen

Ellen is a guest blogger for College Raptor. She is a recent graduate of the University of Iowa. She holds a BA in English with Creative Writing and Psychology. Her current focus is applying to the Fulbright Scholar program.
Everyone should file the FAFSA, and there are plenty of resources that can help you
financial aid

Why EVERYONE Should Really File the FAFSA

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022
Let’s face it: Even “affordable” colleges and universities can still take a lot out of your bank account. So if there is a way to pay for a degree without making a huge dent in savings, why aren’t students doing it? Part of it may be because you don’t believe you will qualify for any …
You need stand out from the crowd to get into college, right?
myths

Myth: My College Application Needs to be Super Quirky to Stand Out

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022
If you’ve been reading up on college application tips, most of them say that you have to find a way to stand out from the crowd. Being different, having experienced–it’s finally time to use these things to your benefit. There are plenty of tips on how to stand out in college applications. However, there is …
Here are some tips on how to balance your budget and social life, so you can out with your friends
tips tools & advice

How to Balance Your Budget and Social Life

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022
There’s nothing more frustrating than constantly telling your friends that you can’t go out with them. Going out to eat, going to movies, going shopping: All of these things require you to dip into your savings. This means that if you want to be able to say yes to going out every once in a …
Here are five myths about college academic advisors
myths

5 Myths about College Academic Advisors / Counselors

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022
We all know how difficult it can be to admit we need help, especially the more we are considered adults. But the beautiful thing about academic advisors (sometimes called college counselors) is that their sole job is to provide assistance to you throughout your college career. They are there to make sure you succeed, so …
A red moped parked in front of a green hedge.
student life

Alternatives to Having a Car on Campus

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022
Most people like having the freedom of a car. It makes everything accessible. However, much like having a car in Chicago or New York City, having a car on campus can be challenging. Many campuses do not have adequate parking for all their students, so driving to class can be a bit dicey. Most students …
Student carrying her dorm supplies in a pink basket while moving into college.
myths

7 Myths About College Freshmen Move-In Day

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022
As you get closer to your move-in day, the butterflies might be churning hard in your stomach. After all, you’re moving away from home (likely for the first time) and into your own space. You finally get to meet your roommate(s) and see if you actually get along. You have to share a bathroom with …
Famous Olympians: Lolo Jones
college news & trends

Where 6 Famous Olympians Went to College!

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022
With the 2016 Olympics going on, you might have been hearing that some of the younger competitors are still in school. Lily King, for example, currently swims for Indiana University. Many famous Olympians have gone through–and graduated from– collegiate sport programs. Here is a list of five American athletes that have competed after graduating college. …

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