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Deciding what to get out of college
college search

Deciding What You Want Out of College: School vs. Major

By Devin MorrisseyLast updated on December 22, 2022
Typically, individuals interested in starting their college career (or continuing it) are faced with two main considerations: Do you choose a program first and then find a school with that preferred program? Or should you choose the school first and then find a program there that suits you? There are certainly pros and cons to …
Here's how to pick between two colleges with another college visit
college search

How Another College Visit Can Help You Pick Between Two Colleges

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Did you receive your acceptance letters? Congratulations! Now comes what could possibly be a tough choice: Which school do you pick? If you’re stuck between two, another visit to the campuses can help you decide. Here’s how to pick between two colleges with another college visit: You’ve Narrowed It Down If you applied to a …
community college faqs
college search

FAQS About Community Colleges

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Community colleges are public higher education institutions that primarily aim to make educational opportunities affordable and accessible to all. Growing more and more popular are 2+2 programs, where students spend two years at a community college then transfer to a 4-year college/university to finish out their education. It’s a popular way of saving money while …
A college arena with a statue of a man on a horse in front of it.
college search

Beyond Campus: Why a College Town Matters When Picking a School

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
Many things factor into finding your ideal college fit, but one element that sometimes gets overlooked is the surrounding college town or city. Students and parents become so hyper-focused on the school and its campus, that they don’t take the time to explore the nearby town during a visit. Here’s why it’s important to consider …
Smiling alumni wearing violet and orange shirts that say "Campus Pride".
college search

10 Important Questions to Ask College Alumni

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 19, 2024
One of the best ways to know if a college is for you is to find someone you know who went there and talk about their experiences. Some colleges even add an alum interview as input into their admission process. Do some sleuthing to see who you know is an alum of one of the …
state university
college search

Pros And Cons Of Attending State Colleges

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Private vs. public colleges is an age-old debate. State colleges may be different from private colleges in several aspects but the fact is neither one of them is necessarily better or worse than the other. The right choice for you will depend on your unique circumstances and what you are looking for. Understanding the pros …
going to a private college
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Pros And Cons Of Attending Private Colleges

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
You know private colleges are quite different from state schools but how do you decide which one is the better choice for you? Each one has its own merits and downsides that make them a good fit for some students but not so good a fit for others. Understanding the pros and cons of going …
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 …

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