student life, tips tools & advice

What is recitation in college?

By Gallagher, CatherinePublished on March 25, 2026

Key takeaway Recitation in college is a small-group, interactive session that typically meets once a week to cover course material and deepen your understanding. Recitations are different from lectures because they have fewer than 30 people, are led by teacher assistants, and require students to be hands-on and participate, rather than just listen and take …

student life, tips tools & advice

How To Improve Your Focus: 10 Ways To Boost Concentration

By College Raptor StaffPublished on October 30, 2025

Key Takeaways Improving focus starts with small, intentional changes. Create a distraction-free environment to support concentration. Practice mindfulness and meditation to help regulate your body during stressful moments. Improved focus will decrease stress and allow for more time for activities you enjoy. Prioritize habits like a healthy sleep schedule and regular exercise. Use time-blocking techniques …

student life

School Winter Break: How Students Can Make the Most of Their Time Off

By Gallagher, CatherinePublished on October 27, 2025

Key Takeaways Winter break gives students a chance to rest, recharge, and enjoy quality time with family. The length and timing of winter break vary around the world, but for US students it’s usually 2-3 weeks beginning late December. Students can use winter break for fun activities, hobbies, or volunteering. Planning ahead can help students …

student life

Navigating the Campus Commute: The Dilemma of Bringing a Car to College

By College Raptor StaffPublished on October 10, 2025

Key Takeaways A car can make college life easier, but expenses for gas, insurance, and parking add up. Public transit, biking, or carpooling are more affordable and can be easy to use. Review your campus parking rules and plan your budget before making this decision. Every student’s needs are unique, which is why there isn’t …

student life, tips tools & advice

Easy Recipes for College Students That Are Quick, Cheap, and Delicious

By College Raptor StaffPublished on October 7, 2025

Key Takeaways Easy recipes help college students save time, eat healthy, and stick to a budget. Planning meals and shopping wisely can prevent last-minute stress and overspending. Cooking in bulk and freezing meals makes eating well easier and more convenient. Being a college student is exciting, but it can also be stressful. Between classes, homework, …

student life

Student Support Services 101: Everything You Need To Know

By College Raptor StaffPublished on October 7, 2025

Key Takeaways Student support services can help students succeed academically, personally, and professionally. Services include tutoring, counseling, career planning, financial assistance, and mentorship programs. Technology has made accessing student support services easier. Virtual tutoring and online counseling are available in many schools. You can research the services available to find the right ones that may …

student life

Highest Paid College Athletes

By College Raptor StaffPublished on September 29, 2025

Key Takeaways College athletes make billions for schools and the NCAA. But they haven’t been paid directly until recently. New rules allow athletes to earn money from endorsements, appearances, and their name, image, and likeness (NIL). The debate continues over fairness, smaller schools, and how to pay athletes safely. Top athletes are now becoming the …

student life, tips tools & advice

Effective Study Tips and Methods

By College Raptor StaffPublished on September 15, 2025

Key Takeaways Identify your learning style to pick the right study methods. Set goals and use a study schedule to stay organized. Study actively using flashcards, summaries, and practice questions. Try studying in a group. Teaching others can improve your understanding and memory. Take breaks, stay motivated, and maintain good self-care for long-term success. Studying …

college comparisons, student life

25 College for Students Who Love the Outdoors

By College Raptor StaffPublished on August 11, 2025

Key Takeaways: Colleges across the U.S. offer plenty of opportunities for students who love outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and paddle boarding. These colleges also offer academic degrees in environmental and earth sciences, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to combine their love of nature with their education and potential career paths. We highlight 25 notable colleges for …

student life

Types of College Meal Plans: How To Choose the Right One

By College Raptor StaffPublished on June 18, 2025

Key Takeaways Most students who live on campus—and even some who don’t—choose to get a college meal plan because of the convenience and wide range of food options available. When choosing a meal plan, you can expect to see the following: traditional (a set number of weekly meals), unlimited (access to dining halls at any …