College Raptor Staff

Applying to college can be challenging, and so we at College Raptor feel it's our duty to make that process as easy, smooth, and rewarding as possible. We work hard to clarify dense material, dispel myths, uncover information, and help you learn what you need to know!
Student taking pictures of violet flowers on the ground.
questions & answers

What Are College Electives and Why are They Important?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on October 23, 2023
When selecting your college courses, you will typically have three categories to choose from. The first is general education requirements, which all students are required to take. The second is courses required for specific majors. Under this category, you’ll choose from courses that are relevant to the specific major you’re pursuing. The third is electives, …
A student relaxing on a hammock wearing red sneakers.
tips tools & advice

5 Ways to Reduce Stress in College

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 13, 2023
College is a major stressor for many students which is why knowing how to deal with college stress is crucial for optimal performance and overall mental health. According to the American College Health Association, over 40% of students feel more than average levels of stress. Between juggling an academic load, jobs, relationships, social activities, and …
List of 4 different types of college degrees.
questions & answers

Exploring the Different Types of College Degrees

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 25, 2025
Key Takeaways While there are many different kinds of college degrees in the big world of academia, you can categorize them into four different types: associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctorate or professional degrees. Associate’s degrees are two-year degrees that serve two purposes: to prepare students to transfer to a four-year school or …
A chalk drawing of a clock, with text next to the right that says "how many credit hours should you take?"
questions & answers

How Many Credit Hours Should I Take?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on July 18, 2025
Key Takeaways: To graduate with a bachelor’s degree in four years, you should take 15 credits a semester. Students generally need to take 120 credit hours total to receive a bachelor’s degree. Associate’s degrees often only require 60 credits. How many credit hours you need to take depends on your graduation timeline, schedule, and the …
Clemson stadium with thousands of people cheering for a football game.
college news & trends

Fun facts about colleges in America!

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 2, 2025
Key takeaways From surprising history to secret societies to squirrel clubs on campus, there are plenty of fun facts that make each college in the U.S. unique. These 35+ facts might surprise you, make you laugh, or teach you something new about campus life. While these fun facts may not choose a college for you, …
A white and beige clock with text to the left that says "the importance of office hours."
tips tools & advice

The importance of office hours: why you should go

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 10, 2025
Key takeaways Office hours are specific times during the semester when students can meet with their professor outside of class to discuss grades, ask questions, seek clarity, or build meaningful relationships. Office hours aren’t only for students struggling to pass a class. Office hours give you time to ask questions, build motivation, overcome specific challenges, …
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student life

Pros and Cons of Greek Life on Campus

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 4, 2024
Key Takeaway Joining the Greek community is a popular way that many students choose to get involved on their college campus every year. While Greek life can provide social connections and networking opportunities, it can also come with potential drawbacks such as social limitations and unhealthy behaviors. Before deciding to join a fraternity or sorority, …
A coin jar with pennies and dimes spilling out of it.
affordability & college cost

Why Should College Be Free?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on September 22, 2025
Key Takeaways: Some arguments in favor of free college include the ideas that it could help lower student debt, close income gaps, and reduce stress. However, it’s not quite clear where the funding would come from for free college, and there’s worries that it would diminish a degree’s value. Other programs, including targeted scholarships, free …

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