College Raptor Staff

A dentist considering her undergraduate major
careers & internships, majors & industries

Associate degree jobs: Your guide to high-paying opportunities

Key takeaways: Top-paying associate degree jobs include web developer, dental hygienist, and registered nurse. You can earn an associate degree in half the time or less than a bachelor’s. Students who earn an associate degree can save on tuition costs and time. After earning an associate degree, you can choose to enter the workforce or …
A part-time job, such as being a lifeguard, is a good way to spend your summer, and one of many summer activities
careers & internships

Job search for teens: How to land your first job

Key takeaways: Teens as young as 14 may work in the U.S., though hours and job types are restricted until age 16.  Part-time jobs, summer jobs, internships, and self-employment are all solid options for teenage workers.  Job finder resources for teens include online job boards, local businesses, and school guidance offices.  A simple, well-organized resume …
A student holding a stack of books, standing against a white board covered in writing.
college admissions, college applications

How to get into a good college

Key takeaways: A “good” college is the one that fits your goals, budget, and personality—not just the most famous name.  Your high school GPA and the difficulty of your courses are important parts of your college application.  A strong college essay and extracurriculars may help set you apart from other applicants.  Making a balanced college …
student studying.
tips tools & advice

9 tips and techniques to study for exams

Key takeaways: Spreading your study sessions out over several days is usually more effective than cramming the night before an exam. Active recall is one of the strongest study techniques for long-term retention.  Taking practice tests under realistic conditions may help reduce test anxiety and reveal gaps in your knowledge.  Short, focused study sessions with …
questions & answers

When is Ivy Day 2026? Your guide to the big reveal

Key takeaways Ivy Day is an annual event when all eight Ivy League schools release their regular admissions decisions at the exact same time. Ivy Day in 2026 will fall on Thursday, March 26. High school senior applicants should have their login credentials ready for each school’s official website ahead of time. While the day …
majors & industries

Unlocking versatility with a general studies degree

Key takeaways A general studies degree is an interdisciplinary program that allows students to study different subjects. You can learn transferable skills that employers value, such as how to solve problems and communicate. Graduates can work in many fields, including business, education, government, and the nonprofit sector. This path is a good option for transfer …
Image of scholarship winner Michayla G.

Michayla’s Journey as a Self-Supporting College Student

Every college student’s financial journey looks different. For $1,000 College Raptor Scholarship winner Michayla, navigating college means taking full ownership of her finances while balancing a demanding academic schedule. Michayla is a senior at Jacksonville University in Jacksonville, Florida, where she is studying engineering. She started her college journey as a member of ROTC, which …
Scholarship winner Sidney C

From High School to Higher Education: How Smart Planning Is Helping Sidney Reach Her Dream Career

For many students, the college application process can feel overwhelming, especially when balancing big dreams with real financial considerations. High school senior Sidney from California is a firsthand example of this situation. With aspirations of becoming a veterinarian, Sidney has spent the past few years navigating college applications, financial aid, and scholarships. Sidney shared that …
A student watches a professor on her laptop during an online class in her hybrid program.
majors & industries, questions & answers

College Raptor’s guide to online medical degrees

Key takeaways: Online medical degrees allow students to pursue jobs or advance their careers at their own pace. Some healthcare majors and concentrations ideal for remote and hybrid learning include Registered Nursing, Health Sciences, and Physician Assistant. Online programs tend to have lower costs and more flexibility than fully on-campus studies. Earning your medical degree …

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