student life

College Is Not Just About Getting Good Grades

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Before you set out to college, you are sure to receive lots of advice about studying hard and getting good grades. Yes, getting good grades is really important, and you must give due effort to working hard and earning good grades. But, it is equally important to remember that college is so much more than …

student life

8 Ways To Start Your College Semester off Right

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on May 29, 2024

The beginning of a semester brings excitement with new classes and new opportunities. But it can also be the most challenging time. Many are still in vacation mode—be it from a long summer break or a quick winter hiatus—and struggle to transition into the demanding pace of college life. The temptation to procrastinate can lead …

student life

Tips For Finding The Right Summer Program

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on May 13, 2024

Enrolling in summer programs offers you the wonderful opportunity to investigate potential majors, explore current interests more deeply, expand your horizons and gain valuable experience that can help you make better choices. These tips can help you find the right summer programs for you. What is a Summer Program? Summer programs are often called Summer …

student life

11 Unique College Clubs

By Jessica HerbineLast updated on March 13, 2023

College is all about exploring your personality and finding your tribe. We think your best bet to do so is to join clubs that match your unique interests! Whether you love to read or rock climb, paint or calculate differentials, there is certain to be a club out there for you. Here are 11 examples …

student life

Most Popular Destinations for Study Abroad

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Studying abroad can give you some great world views during your formative college years. In addition to being in another culture, it gives you the opportunity to learn in different settings. However, you might also want to stay with other Americans to make sure you adapt a bit easier. Here are some of the most …

student life

Pros and Cons of Being a Part-Time Student

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 17, 2023

Being a part-time student might be a good option for those who have already begun pursuing a career and are on their way to becoming financially independent. You can also take care of any family responsibilities while simultaneously working towards a degree. According to research conducted by Times Higher Education, part-time students gain higher pay, …

student life

Colleges with Unique Festivals

By Morgan StaubLast updated on December 22, 2022

While everyone knows that college is for learning and growing into a productive member of society, it’s important to have fun along the way. Colleges organize many events during the school year, from club fairs to concerts to rallies. One of the more common recreational events is a festival, usually thrown during a certain time …

student life

How to Start off Second Semester Right

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

How did your first semester go? We hope it went well! No matter the results though, it’s important to start your second semester off on the right foot. These are a few great tips for any semester though, so make sure to remember them for later years or even if you starting college this fall! …

student life

6 Colleges with Heartwarming Holiday Traditions

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

The Winter Holiday season is rife with the opportunities for merriment, and magic. Many schools decorate, and there is likely a concert or two in honor of the season (and the end of the semester). But some schools take it to the next level. Here is a shortlist—just the tip of the iceberg, really—of schools …

student life

Alternatives to Going Home for Winter Break

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

Winter break. Possibly one of the most look-forward-to aspects of college. Your Thanksgiving break was okay, and you might have had a long weekend here or a fall break there, but nothing equals the weeks in between your first and second semester. While it is tempting to just go home and relax for a while, …