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.
Like with any decision, there are pros and cons to going to grad school.
college admissions, questions & answers

How to prep for grad school: 8 key tips

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 26, 2026
Key takeaways When choosing your graduate school, it’s important to research different schools and compare their grad programs thoroughly to find the best fit.  Before applying for grad school, you should first consider your academic and career goals, whether it is financially feasible, and what you hope to get out of it.  You can prepare for grad school by making sure you know what …
tips tools & advice

What is the Difference Between Fall and Spring Semester?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 4, 2025
Key takeaways Fall and spring semesters have different start and end dates. Fall is usually August or September through December and spring is January through May. Some classes are only available in the spring or fall. Fall semester often has more new students. Campus activities usually change with the season. Planning ahead is important to …
There are a few reasons as to why students drop out of college.
questions & answers

How To Plan for College Graduation: 7 Must Do’s!

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on April 29, 2024
Planning for college graduation involves more than showing up—it requires careful consideration of degree requirements, application deadlines, attire, invitation mail-outs, logistics planning, and finally, celebrating the achievement. Additionally, it’s essential to start thinking about life after college, whether it involves entering the workforce, pursuing further education, or taking a break. Graduation is a significant milestone, …
Transferring colleges can be stressful. Here are some myths that we can disprove
questions & answers, student life

5 Reasons Students Transfer Colleges?

By Hilary CairnsPublished on December 28, 2022
While many college students start and graduate from the same college or university, this isn’t the case for all! Some students have reasons to transfer colleges at certain points in their education. Some factors, like, they may find the college isn’t for them, their finances or changed, or transferring was always a part of their …
questions & answers

What is the NSHSS?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 29, 2024
The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) is a group for advanced students who have distinguished themselves among their peers. Students can join if they meet certain academic criteria and take advantage of several benefits, including exclusive scholarships. Keep reading to learn how you can qualify, the perks you can enjoy, and other details …
Woman holding calendar with text: How to Pick the Best SAT / ACT dates
ACT & SAT

How to change an SAT test date

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 20, 2026
Key takeaways Students can change their SAT date by canceling their existing test date and scheduling a new one. Although students will receive a registration fee refund, there is a cancellation fee. Students should cancel and reschedule their SAT if they are not prepared for the exam or if they have a scheduling conflict. As …
A father and daughter reviewing how 529 plan affects the FAFSA
financial aid

Q&A: What If Your Parents Refuse to Help with the FAFSA?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 25, 2025
If you are under the age of 24, in almost all cases, you need your parents to complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). However, some students have situations that prevent them from having access to their parent’s financial information or the parents refuse to hand over the information for one reason or …
scholarships

State Grants for Maine Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 28, 2023
Maine has a few different college grants available to students, and the Finance Authority of Maine website (FAME) has over 100 scholarships listed that are dedicated to residents of the state. Here are some details you’ll need to know about eligibility for these grants and scholarships! Maine College Grants 1. Maine State Grant Program The Maine …

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