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.
A valedictorian is the student with the highest academic achievements in their graduating class.
college admissions

What Exactly is a Valedictorian and How Do You Become One?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 28, 2024
Key Takeaways: A valedictorian is the student with the highest academic achievements in their graduating class. Valedictorians are generally determined by using unweighted GPA, weighted GPA, or class rank. To become a valedictorian, you’ll want plan early, study often, focus on academic rigor, and ask for help when needed. Are you one of the highest …
college comparisons, questions & answers

Graduate vs Undergraduate – What’s the Difference?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 16, 2024
Undergraduate college students are students who are pursuing their associate’s degree or their bachelor’s degree. Graduate college students are working towards a master’s degree, professional degree, or doctorate degree. While many universities have both undergraduates and graduates attending, the experience of these students can vary quite a bit. Below, we’ve compared graduate vs undergraduate programs …
college admissions, questions & answers

How to Get Good Grades

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 16, 2024
Whether you’re in high school or college, grades matter. They can impact your acceptance chances to higher education institutions, scholarship offers, merit aid opportunities, and even job prospects after graduation. It can also affect your self-esteem while improving your foundational knowledge that leads to success later in the classroom and in life in general. But …
financial aid

Financial Aid Options for International Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 15, 2024
Some international students may be able to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), but most international students are not eligible for federal student financial aid within the United States. However, there are exceptions where non-citizens can complete the FAFSA.  Here’s what you need to know about your financial aid options if you’re …
Student taking an online test at home.
college admissions

A Guide to The High School Equivalency Test (HiSet)

By Hilary CairnsPublished on July 3, 2024
You’ve likely heard of the GED, but did you know you have another option when it comes to getting the equivalent of a high school diploma? The HiSET, or High School Equivalency Test, is an exam that can open the door to new opportunities, including higher education and careers that require a high school degree. …
college search

Your Guide to Military Colleges

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on October 7, 2024
Military colleges are schools to help train students in various branches of the military. Students will receive an academic education while preparing them for their time in the service. Below, we’ve outlined what a military college is, listed some examples, and provided some information about applying to them. What is a Military College? Military colleges …
college comparisons

Best Forensic Science Colleges

By Hilary CairnsPublished on June 12, 2024
Following shows like CSI, forensic science has become a popular major among students in the past few decades. While a real life career in forensic science is vastly different from what appears on these shows, it can still be a very exciting and fulfilling career path. If you’re thinking about becoming a police officer, a …
Here's how to pick the right college for athletes
college admissions

NCSA: Connecting Student Athletes with College Coaches

By Hilary CairnsPublished on June 10, 2024
Next College Student Athlete (NCSA) is a recruiting platform that helps connect students with coaches. It can streamline the recruiting process and make it easier for students to understand their options as a student-athlete. If you’re thinking about continuing your favorite sport during your college years, here’s what you need to know about the NCSA, …

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