questions & answers

Are Freshmen Retention Rates a Good Indicator of a College’s Quality?

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

The answer may not be as clear-cut as you’re hoping, because: yes and no. But let’s break it down. First off: what is a freshmen retention rate? It is the percentage of students who return for their second (or sophomore) year at school. For example, Vanderbilt University has a first-year retention rate of 97%. That …

questions & answers

What if I Can’t Afford a College Visit?

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

Visiting a college you’re interested in is an integral part of the college selection process. During a visit, students get an in-depth look at a potential school, get a feel for the campus and atmosphere, and can ask questions to current students and faculty. They can even sit-in on classes! But if you can’t afford …

student life

Different Kinds of Living Arrangements in College

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

Often one of the first thoughts upon entering college as a freshmen concerns dorms—how to decorate them, wondering if such a small space is really enough, thinking about closet-space and the tiny beds, and so on. Most freshmen spend their first year in dorms. But what about sophomore year? If you loved your dorm experience, …

tips tools & advice

5 Ways to Reduce Stress in College

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 13, 2023

College is a major stressor for many students which is why knowing how to deal with college stress is crucial for optimal performance and overall mental health. According to the American College Health Association, over 40% of students feel more than average levels of stress. Between juggling an academic load, jobs, relationships, social activities, and …

college search

Why You Should Attend a College Fair as a High School Student

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

Like a job fair, a college fair is a collection of different colleges that have a table or booth and present information about their school. They are a great place to learn more about specific colleges you may be interested in. Typically they will have hand-outs, presentations, and representatives that can answer any questions you …

tips tools & advice

5 Attributes I Learned from My Internships

By Betty ParkerLast updated on December 22, 2022

There are numerous ways to start a career. Entry-level job, internships, and freelancing are few of those ways that push-starts a career. I decided to start learning attributes and my career with internships. Though I wasn’t much fond of internships. However, during my senior year at Paramount California University, I registered for a career management …

tips tools & advice

How to Turn Your Phone into Your Best Learning Tool

By Dustin FordLast updated on December 22, 2022

Everyone complains that nowadays people are glued to their phone. And sure, maybe we should take a break from time to time, but the fact of the matter is, our smartphones are very powerful work and study tools. Here are some tips and how to make the most out of your smartphone, and turn into …

student life

How Colleges Encourage Students to Vote

By Maria Andreina FernandezLast updated on December 22, 2022

It’s presidential election year and I bet you didn’t know it. Just kidding, who doesn’t know it? It’s pretty hard to ignore the election process because it is the main topic throughout the whole year. Colleges and universities, especially, are places where ignoring the situation becomes especially hard. Professors talk about it, students discuss what …

tips tools & advice

Trick or Cheat? 10 Things Affecting Students’ Academic Performance

By Scott RaginLast updated on December 22, 2022

The academic performance depends on a variety of factors, including psychological and physical. For example, there is a myriad of research that supports that students can struggle in class because of a lack of physical activity or high levels of stress. Moreover, many students do not perform well because they have a terror teacher or …

college search

Schools with Great Resources for Students with Special Needs

By Liz SkogerboeLast updated on December 22, 2022

Students with special needs might not have considered continuing into post-secondary education after high school. College can be a daunting process for any student, and it can also be tough to figure out how to advocate for yourself to ensure your needs are met. Luckily, disability resources on campuses help students with various physical, intellectual, …