Ellen Andersen

Ellen is a guest blogger for College Raptor. She is a recent graduate of the University of Iowa. She holds a BA in English with Creative Writing and Psychology. Her current focus is applying to the Fulbright Scholar program.
Save some money and avoid college application fees
college applications

How to Avoid College Application Fees

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022
Part of the college application process is paying all those darn fees… Or is it? Here are some ways you can avoid paying application fees. Attend a Campus Visit Some schools have arranged for application fee waivers if you arrange (and attend) a campus visit day. It’s best to do this through the school rather …
Here's how to revise your first draft of your college application essay
college applications

How to Revise Your College Application Essay

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022
You’ve done it. You have the first draft of your college application essay. You feel good about it, about the point you are making for the admissions officers. But it’s only a first draft. Now it’s time to buckle down and revise. Here are some tips on how to revise your college application essay. Read …
Check out our ultimate SAT breakdown guide.
ACT & SAT

The Ultimate SAT Breakdown Guide

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022
Test-makers are constantly advancing standardized tests. Most of the time it’s just changing certain questions or adding new content to update current tests. And then sometimes you get the complete overhaul of a test, such as what they’ve done to the SAT. Before we breakdown each SAT section, let’s look at how it has changed …
Here are some mistakes you may make on your college admissions essays
college applications

Common Mistakes Students Make on College Admissions Essays

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022
So you’ve narrowed down your list of schools. You’ve filled out all the demographics information for the application, and now it’s time for the essays and short answers. You’ve got everything covered…or do you? Here are some common mistakes that college admissions see, as well as how to fix mistakes on college admissions essays. Starting …
Plenty of colleges have programs for people who love robotics!
college comparisons

Best Colleges for Students Who Love Robotics

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022
When it comes to pursuing your hobbies at college, there is no end to what is available. There are schools out there with programs and student organizations for everything you can imagine. If you love robotics in high school, or you’re looking to get into it for fun after high school, you should check out …
Your grades and test scores may affect your financial aid opportunities.
financial aid

How GPA and Test Scores Affect Financial Aid Opportunities

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on March 4, 2025
Over the course of your high school career, people have probably told you to make sure you keep your grades up. You’ve probably stressed about your standardized test scores and your GPA. Those two factors play a very large role in the college admissions process. But do better grades result in better financial aid opportunities? …
This holiday tradition has been going on for 30 years.
student life

10 colleges with heartwarming holiday traditions

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on November 14, 2025
Key takeaways College campus holiday traditions can vary widely, from concerts to massive light displays. Many schools incorporate charity or community services into festivities. Some events celebrate cultural or religious heritage, adding a unique charm. Students of all majors participate in performances and events. Visiting these colleges during the holidays offers a festive, community-driven experience. …

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