Hilary Cairns

Hilary Cairns is a graduate of SUNY New Paltz and has a BA in English/Creative Writing. She's an established freelance writer who also has a hand in marketing, social media, and editing for various businesses across the United States.
White flowers in front of a University of Central Arkansas campus building.
questions & answers, student life

When Do Spring Classes Start for College?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022
Although “spring” is usually in the term “spring semester,” spring classes actually tend to start in January. Here’s everything you need to know about these classes when you can expect the semester to end, and whether or not it’s a good idea to start your college year in the spring. When do Spring Classes Start …
Athlete with name image likeness.
questions & answers, student life

What is Name, Image, and Likeness?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022
Name, image, and likeness is the term used by the NCAA to refer to a student-athlete and their identifiable factors that make the individual unique. Here’s what you need to know about the term, how it came about, and how student-athletes can now use their name, image, and likeness to earn money. What is Name, …
College planning timeline and important milestones.
college admissions

College Planning Checklist

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 30, 2024
If you’re in high school, it’s never too early to start planning for college! There are quite a few things you’ll need to complete over the next four years, so this college planning checklist will help ensure you’re ticking off all the boxes of jobs you need to get done! 1. Get Involved Volunteer at …
Public Speaking to an audience.
college admissions, questions & answers

How to Be a Better Public Speaker

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on April 29, 2024
Whether you have to complete a debate project for your high school government class or you need to present your thesis, public speaking can be scary! Thankfully, there are ways to cut down on that anxiety and ensure you’re properly prepared. Here’s a rundown of why public speaking is so important plus some tips to …
Student studying to earn college credits in high school.
college admissions

5 Ways to Earn College Credits in High School

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022
Who says you have to wait for your first year of college to get a start on your degree? You can get a head start on your college credits while still in high school! We’ll cover just five in this article but there may be additional options available to you depending on where you are …
Trade job plumber inspecting job.
careers & internships

10 High Paying Trade Jobs (No Degree Needed)!

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on September 12, 2024
While college is a recommended for several careers, not every job requires a degree. Many companies hire individuals straight out of high school or trade school for certain jobs. And many of these trade jobs pay well, too! Before we list the top 10 high paying trade jobs, it helps to understand what a trade school …
FAFSA Application Forms.
financial aid

7 Common FAFSA Mistakes to Avoid

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 24, 2023
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) gives you access to different types of financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and loans. However, making a mistake on your FAFSA application can cost you money, especially if you require need-based aid to attend. Unfortunately, these errors are not uncommon. Every year, hundreds of students lose …

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