Hilary Cairns

Hilary Cairns is a graduate of SUNY New Paltz and has a BA in English/Creative Writing. She's an established freelance writer who also has a hand in marketing, social media, and editing for various businesses across the United States.
college search

Colleges in Alaska and Why You Should Go to School There

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 28, 2023
Alaska may not be on your radar just yet when it comes to searching for colleges, but it should be – especially if you enjoy the outdoors and don’t mind the cold! This unique state has plenty to offer adventurous students, and by attending a school in one of the state’s cities, like Anchorage, you …
college search

Why Alabama is a Great Place to go to College

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 22, 2023
Whether your home state is Alabama or you’re thinking about moving there for college, the state has plenty to offer its students! From amazing schools to unique educational opportunities to great beaches, you’ll be able to get an outstanding education while you have the opportunity to enjoy everything the state has to offer. Below, we’ve …
financial aid

State Grants for Oklahoma for College Students

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 15, 2023
For students planning to go to college in Oklahoma, the state has several different grants and scholarship programs to help make school more affordable. Keep reading to learn more about Oklahoma’s Promise, military scholarships, academic scholarships, and others. Oklahoma State Grants for College Students 1. Oklahoma’s Promise Oklahoma’s Promise is a program dedicated to helping …
financial aid

State Grants for Ohio College Students

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 15, 2023
The state of Ohio has several state grants and financial aid programs available to students who decide to attend college in the state. Below, we’ve detailed some of these awards, how you can apply, and where you can find further information on financial aid programs and attending college in Ohio. Ohio State Grants 1. Choose …
College of William and Mary - Best Colleges in the Southeast
college comparisons

Your Guide to the Public Ivies

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on September 23, 2025
Key Takeaways: Ivy League schools are some of the most prestigious private institutions in the country. Public Ivies are public colleges and universities that offer comparable experiences to the eight Ivy League schools. Today, there are 30 Public Ivies, some of which include Michigan State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and the University of Arizona. The Ivy …
Consider doing financial awareness counseling after you took out a federal student loan
questions & answers

What happens to financial aid if you drop a class?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 8, 2025
Key takeaways Dropping a class could affect your financial aid package if you no longer meet enrollment status requirements. Withdrawing from a class rarely affects financial aid as long as you are completing more than ⅔ of your enrolled courses. If you lose financial aid, reach out to your school’s financial aid department to discuss …
Harvard University - Best Research Universities
college comparisons

Why is Harvard University a Top-Rated School?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on November 6, 2025
Key Takeaways: Harvard University was named the #2 Top Best College by College Raptor in 2026. Founded in 1636, the school has produced influential individuals, including CEOs, world leaders, and Olympians. Harvard is highly selective, but students can improve their admissions chances with a high GPA, rigorous schedule, and well-rounded application. Year after year, Harvard …

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