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!
Take great notes in class so you're prepared for tests
tips tools & advice

Empower Your Learning: Smart Note-Taking Strategies for Success in School

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on August 11, 2025
Key Takeaways Prepare before class by reviewing your textbook and prior notes and organizing your materials. Focus on key points during lectures—capture main ideas, keywords, and important facts without trying to write everything down. Choose a note-taking style that works for you and be consistent with it. Review and revise your notes within a day …
Young boy in grad cap and gown - many families wonder about the best 529 plans
college news & trends

What’s the Earliest Someone Has Graduated from College? Meet the 11 Youngest College Graduates

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 12, 2025
Key Takeaways The youngest ever college graduate is Michael Kearney. Other young college graduates include Moshe Kai Cavalin, Laurent Simons, Clovis Hung, Sho Yano, Gregory Robert Smith, Erik Demaine, Alia Sabur, Carson Huey-You, Eugenie Carys de Silva, and Kathleen Holtz. From earning college degrees before age 13 to completing a Ph.D and working at NASA …
A chalkboard with text that says "questions to ask at college freshman orientation" with two question marks on the side.
questions & answers

Questions to ask at orientation: a checklist for students and parents (w. free download)

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 10, 2026
Key takeaways: Attending freshman orientation helps new college students get to know their campus and find answers to important questions, making the adjustment to college smoother. During orientation, students can learn more about meal plans, academic resources, when and how to sign up for classes, and much more. Parents may also have a chance to …
A Federal work study program is a way for students, like the ones pictured, to get more aid by working for the college.
questions & answers

Your Guide to the Federal Work Study Program

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on August 11, 2025
Key Takeaways Federal Work-Study is a need-based program that helps students earn money through part-time jobs. You must complete the FAFSA and indicate interest in work-study to be considered. Not all schools participate in the program, so check with your school’s financial aid office. Jobs can be on or off-campus, and sometimes relate to your …
A student writing a paper. There are do's and don'ts of writing a paper
tips tools & advice

5 Do’s and Don’ts: Writing an Essay

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on September 25, 2024
Do you think of yourself as a writer? There are many different essay writing methods but they all provide the same outcome—a finalized essay! It doesn’t matter how you get the essay written, it matters that you produce a resourced-packed, well-written paper. Regardless, you should keep a few things in mind when figuring out your writing …
A pile of Scrabble tiles.
ACT & SAT

100 Must-Know ACT and SAT Vocabulary Words

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 12, 2025
Key Takeaways: When taking the ACT or SAT, you’ll come across a variety of vocabulary questions that require you to use context clues to answer them—but knowing the words beforehand gives you a major advantage. Building your vocabulary and practicing definitions can help increase your confidence and knowledge on test day. From A-Z, we’ve compiled …
A college student stretching their leg while leaning against a railing.
financial advice & planning

25 Ways to Stretch Your Budget

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 20, 2026
Budgets serve a great purpose to keep your spending to a minimum and save you money for your future. Are you struggling to stick to your budget? Or finding it difficult not to purchase the things you want? Well, we have 25 helpful tips on how to stretch your budget as a college student that …
Two students studying outside on a blanket surrounded by books.
tips tools & advice

The Best Places To Study in College

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 17, 2025
Key Takeaways The best study places are the library, coffee shops, study rooms, empty classrooms, at home, your dorm, outside, common spaces, bookstores, and going abroad. When looking for a study space that works for you, you should consider the noise level, atmosphere, location, and comfort level. Wherever you study, you should remember to put …

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