Allison Wignall

Allison is the Editor & Content Manager of College Raptor. In addition to writing and editing posts, she also works on marketing and special projects. She graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in English: Creative Writing.
As a New Year's tradition, an annual concert is held.
student life

4 Colleges with New Year’s Traditions

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
There’s nothing quite like starting fresh at the beginning of the year. New Year’s Eve is one of the most widely celebrated holidays. Around the world, people count down to midnight on December 31st. While most students are home for the holidays, there are a number of colleges that have a New Year’s tradition of …
The FAFSA mobile app may be on the way
financial aid

A FAFSA Mobile App May be On the Way!

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
12/21/17 No one will deny that college is an expensive investment. But what people don’t talk about nearly as often are the financial aid opportunities available to students that can make college a reality. Conversations automatically go towards student loans and the astronomical national debt, but not towards federal student aid. In fact, studies have …
Holly and Berries are under the morning sunshine.
student life

6 More Colleges with Heartwarming Holiday Traditions

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
Many students travel home for the holiday season. But, colleges also often host heartwarming community events in honor of the many holidays celebrated in winter. From Christmas to Hanukkah and many beyond, here are a few colleges with some fun holiday traditions! Be sure to check out our first article highlighting some truly spectacular holiday …
There are upsides and downsides to having a college minor
college majors & minors

Pros and Cons of Having a College Minor

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
A college minor is something many students wonder about. Is it worth minoring in something? Should I just double major instead? A college minor can be a great addition to your degree, but there are some drawbacks too. Here are the pros and cons of having a minor in college. PRO: Complement Your Major If …
How often should you see your high school guidance counselor?
questions & answers

How Often Should You Visit Your High School Counselor?

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
High school guidance counselors are an amazing resource when it comes to college prep. They can assist with class scheduling, college search, give you info on college fairs, and more. So how often should you check in with your high school guidance counselor? Once a semester for scheduling Even if you’re super sure you’ve selected …
2 + 2
questions & answers

What is a 2+2 College Program?

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
Across the country, 2+2 programs are becoming increasingly popular. You may have come across the term during your college prep, but what exactly does it mean? Is a 2+2 program right for you? Community College to a 4-Year Institution Simply put, a 2+2 program is attending a community college for two years, then transferring to …
A picture of Middlebury College, an example of many rural colleges.
college search

The Pros and Cons of Rural Colleges

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
There are colleges in big cities, suburban colleges, and then there are those on the outskirts: the rural areas. Some may think they’re out in the middle of nowhere, others might find them peaceful and a place all its own. Regardless of where you fall, there are definite pros and cons to rural colleges. PRO: …

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Join thousands of students and parents learning about finding the right college, admissions secrets, scholarships, financial aid, and more.