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.
An award letter isn't final, so you can try to appeal an award letter for more aid
financial aid

Good Excuses for Financial Aid Appeal

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 24, 2023
Did you receive a financial aid offer that was less than you expected? Or have financial circumstances changed where the financial aid you received doesn’t reach what you need to attend college? You need good excuses for financial aid appeal, but it is possible. Meaning, you need to have an acceptable reason in order to …
student life

5 Top Spring Break Locations

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022
Where will you be traveling for your spring break? If you haven’t decided just yet, you might just want to consider some of these top spring break locations, which are regularly ranked in the top 5 best places to visit! Orlando, Florida Between the theme parks and short drives to the beaches, there’s no wonder …
Are scholarships taxable income?
financial advice & planning, questions & answers

Are College Scholarships Taxable?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 24, 2023
You’ve won a scholarship – congratulations! Now you may have a nagging worry in the back of your mind – is this award taxable? In most cases, the answer is, “No, scholarships are not taxable.” However, there are exceptions. Here’s what you need to know about taxes and awards for your educational future. Are College …
careers & internships

What’s next for nursing degrees following the pandemic?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Nurses have certainly been in the forefront since the pandemic began. If you’re thinking about entering this career, what can you expect? We’ll cover the outlook for nursing degrees, how the pandemic caused shortages, and what you can expect after you graduate. Why is There a Nursing Shortage? Hospitals at the moment are struggling to …
Dorm room -- A sofa sack
student life

Best Purchases to Warm up Your Dorm

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 20, 2026
For much of the country, we’re not out of the cold weather just yet so you need things to warm up your dorm! If your dorm room has subpar heating, old leaky windows, or just tends to get a bit too chilly for your liking, there are plenty of ways to warm up your dorm. …
Here are three more myths about college admissions.
college admissions

How to Turn Down a College Acceptance Offer

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 7, 2025
As National College Decision Day (May 1) approaches, it’s time to make some potentially tough decisions. You’ll need to choose which college you’ll be attending in the Fall. That doesn’t mean you should only notify your chosen school. Instead, it’s recommended to politely let the other colleges know of your decision to decline. Below, we’ve …
college admissions

Juniors: Things Your School Counselor Wants You to Know

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Juniors in high school: Have you talked to your guidance counselor recently? Many only see their assigned counselor once a year as dictated by the school. There are 3 common things your school counselor wants you to know. 3 Things your school counselor wants you to know They’re There to Help You You likely see …

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