student life

Conversations Parents And Students Should Have Before Freshman Year Starts

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Preparing to go off to college can be absolutely hectic. There’s a ton of things to do, from filling up all kinds of applications to buying essentials, attending orientations, putting finances in order and saying those bitter-sweet goodbyes. Amid all of this hustle and bustle, it is crucial for parents to make time to have …

student life

12 Good Roommate Ground Rules to Set

By Allison WignallLast updated on August 20, 2024

Dorm rooms are small, so whether you’re sharing with a long-time friend or a stranger, adjusting can be challenging. However, if you and your roomie start the year with clear communication and expectations of each other, it can go smoothly. During the first week of freshman year, a Resident Assistant (RA) might visit your room …

student life

Common Mistakes Students Make While Packing For Freshman Year of College

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

It’s easy to make mistakes heading into college. Most of this will be new to you and possibly your family. Packing for your dorm the week before is easily one area, however, that freshman students regularly make mistakes. Here are some common errors you will want to try to avoid. Underpacking You know the feeling: You’re …

student life

What Your Week Before Freshman Year Move-In Should Look Like

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

The week before your first year at college can be extremely stressful. After all, it’s a life changing move! On top of that, you have plenty to do before you’re ready for your move-in day. Here are a few things you should be doing the week prior to heading to your new college. Read the College’s …

student life

Icebreakers for You and Your College Roommate

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

When you just move in to your new dorm, those first few conversations with your roommate can be tough. Starting right off with asking super personal questions is probably not a good idea. Not everyone likes to discuss their personal life or family with someone they barely know. The secret to crossing over from stranger …

student life

How to Make a Home Care Package for Your College Student

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

After a few weeks of college, many students can start feeling quite homesick, especially if they go to a school far away from home. These are where home care packages come in! Here are some things you should include in their college care packages: Their Favorite Treats Everyone has a favorite snack, candy, or food. …

student life

What NOT To Do First Week of Freshman Year

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

As the countdown begins for your freshman year of college, you’re going to be hearing a lot of advice from a lot of different people. Some of it is good, some of it is great, and some you should avoid like the plague! Most of that advice will encompass your entire college career. However, your …

student life

What To Do After College Orientation

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Summer is drawing to a close and many of you have already attended your college freshman orientation. If you haven’t already, it’s most likely on the horizon. There are a few things you’ll want to do after orientation and before school starts: Select Your Dorm Some colleges have you select your dorm at the orientation, …

student life

3 Ways College Is Similar To High School

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

In high school, students hear a lot about how college is so different from high school that they are surprised when they actually start the semester and find that some things remain the same. Here are a few similarities between high school and college: Most college classes are conducted the same way as high school …

student life

New Roommates? 7 Cardinal Rules You Should Establish On Day One

By Heidi FiniganLast updated on December 22, 2022

You may have got things covered when it comes to your start-of-semester academic prep but are you ready for the challenges new roommates may bring? To maximize your chances of a harmonious roommate relationship, you need honest communication and a fair bit of compromise. You also need to agree on a few cardinal rules. Here …