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.
study supplies
tips tools & advice

17 Supplies to Enhance Your Study Sessions

By Allison WignallLast updated on July 1, 2023
At no extra cost to you, College Raptor may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.  Whether you’re in high school or college, when it comes to school you’ll have to study for your classes. To craft the perfect study session, it helps to have the proper materials to keep you focused …
The clock is ticking file your fafsa now
financial aid

Why You Should File the FAFSA ASAP!

By Allison WignallLast updated on November 14, 2023
The FAFSA—the Free Application for Federal Student Aid—opens every year on October 1st. The form grants students access to federal student aid in the forms of scholarships, grants, work study opportunities, and federal student loans. You’ve probably heard that you should file the FAFSA as soon as you can, but what’s the rush? The FAFSA …
Bringing bedding and towels to your college dorm room is very important.
student life

8 Quality Bed Sheets & Towels for Your Dorm Room

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
One of the most important items to bring to your college dorm is bedding. After all, you’ll call the room home for at least your freshman year (if not longer). Bedding is about much more than just comfort and sleep, it’s a way to express yourself and liven up your space. We’ve picked some of …
A hand is holding a cellphone.
financial aid

Department of Education Launches New Mobile FAFSA App

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
As part of an ambitious redesign of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) the US Department of Education has launched an app that helps students file the FAFSA. The Official FAFSA App Known as myStudentAid, the app is designed to make filing the FAFSA as easy and straightforward as possible. Like the FAFSA …
Students studying in the classroom using computer.
questions & answers

What is the Federal TRIO Talent Search Program?

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
Among the many federal college initiatives are a collection of 8 TRIO programs. One of them is known as the Talent Search (or TS). Here’s what you need to know: What is the TRIO Talent Search Program? The purpose of the Talent Search is to identify students from disadvantaged backgrounds, who show the potential to …
Absolutely file the FAFSA
questions & answers

What Information Will I Need to File the FAFSA?

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
A lot of students wonder how they can afford college. Well, that starts with the FAFSA. Filing the FAFSA is one of the most important financial aid tasks you need to accomplish. It opens the gate to federal scholarships, loans, and work study programs. More than that, many outside scholarship opportunities require you to have …
Male student seriously working on his computer.
college applications

Topics To Discuss With Your High School Counselor

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022
Your high school counselor is a lifesaver when it comes to college prep. Their entire goal is to help you towards graduation and success, so make sure you utilize their expertise as much as you can. Here are a number of topics to discuss with your high school counselor: High School Graduation Requirements Before attending …
dorm room items
student life

27 Must Have Items for Your Freshman Dorm Room

By Allison WignallLast updated on July 1, 2023
At no extra cost to you, College Raptor may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.  Moving into your freshman dorm is like starting a new chapter in your life. You have the (somewhat limited) space to express yourself, show off your style, and build something of your very own. Sure, decorations are …

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