student loans

The Comprehensive Guide to Student Loan Refinance and Consolidation

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on November 20, 2024

Student loan refinancing and student loan consolidation are popular methods of saving money or managing loan payments. But how do they work? Should you consolidate and refinance student loans? What are the pros and cons? We’ll answer all that and more in this guide. What Is Student Loan Refinance? Refinancing means the individual receives a …

ACT & SAT

3 Tips for the SAT Essay Section

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Did you opt in to the Essay portion of the SAT? It can be helpful knowing some tips as you head into this optional part of the exam, especially if others in your study group declined to take it. Here are three things to remember on your test date: Don’t Ignore Proper Essay Format Just …

college applications

How to Make College App Essay Writing Less Stressful

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

The college application process is stressful enough, but with the essays on top of everything else, it can really cause anxiety for some students. But don’t worry. There are plenty of ways to de-stress the writing process. Start Early One of the best things you can do to take the stress out of the essay …

ACT & SAT

SAT Subject Tests: World History

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Are you a history buff? If you can’t get enough of world history, are planning to major or minor in History, or just want to show off your skill in the subject, the SAT Subject Test in World History can give you that opportunity. Here’s a breakdown of what the exam is like. World History …

tips tools & advice

Common College Packing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

As you get ready for your upcoming freshman year, the summer months are the time when you should be starting to decide just goes on your packing list to bring with you to college. However, packing is one of the areas where freshmen make the most mistakes. Here are some of the more common packing …

college applications

How to Write a Good College Application Essay When Writing Isn’t Your Strength

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

If you’re not fully confident in your writing ability, the essay part of the college application can be daunting. However, just because you don’t think you’re a good writer it doesn’t mean you can’t craft a successful and interesting essay. Here are some things to keep in mind regarding how to write a good college …

college news & trends

The University of Chicago Becomes Test Optional

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

If you’ve been following the recent news, you may have heard that the University of Chicago is making the SAT and ACT optional. They will not be required to be submitted along with your application. Here’s what that means for you: Not the First The University of Chicago is not the first college or university …

college applications

Tips For Editing Your College Essay

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 14, 2024

College Essay Editing Steps: Take a break first Captivate your reader Read the essay aloud Have someone proofread it Double-check spelling, grammar, and sentence structure Crafting your college application essay, a challenge that extends to scholarships, fellowships, and specific grant programs, can be one of the most daunting tasks in your application journey. As a …

college search

What High School Sophomores Can Do For College Prep This Summer

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Even though college is still over two years away, there are plenty of things you can start doing as a high school sophomore to prepare. During the school year or over summer vacation, here are just three examples of activities you can do. Find a Job Many high school sophomores are 16 or turning 16 …