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.
Student thinking about appealing his award letter
college admissions

Are Rolling Admissions Right for Me?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
When it comes to the college application process, you generally have quite a few options for when you can send your application in. There’s the regular decision, early action, and early decision. A fourth option that may be available to you is actually “rolling admissions.” Are you wondering: are rolling admissions right for me? Let’s …
A student writing in their notebook, sitting in front of a computer.
financial advice & planning

Should I Get a Work-Study or a Job in College?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Some students, when entering college, maybe trying to decide if they should work during school. There are definitely pros and cons to this approach, and you may have the option between work-study and a job. These are some considerations you should make, and some tips to help you decide between a work-study or job in …
A large commercial jet taking off.
majors & industries

4 Great Undergraduate Majors for an Aviation Career

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
If you’re thinking about going after a career in aviation or aiming to become a pilot, you may be wondering what undergraduate major to go after. These four majors for an aviation career could be exactly what you need to reach your goals. Aviation This is the most commonly chosen major for those going after …
Student thinking about offer letters
myths

3 Big College Financial Aid Offer Myths

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 24, 2023
So you have your financial aid letters in hand. Do you fully understand what they say, and know the terms and conditions of the offer? Many students don’t and realize they’ve made a mistake after acceptance – some don’t realize until years down the line! Here are some debunked financial aid offer myths to help …
majors & industries

College Majors for a Career in Architecture

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Architects, depending on the specialty, can earn between $50,000 and $150,000 a year (or more in some cases) Is it a career you are considering? You have a couple of options when it comes to undergraduate majors, but you’ll want to be sure you’re taking the right courses to give yourself your best chance of …
Graduating students in red robes and caps sitting together.
financial advice & planning

5 Great Things to Do With Your Graduation Money

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on April 28, 2023
Congratulations on graduating high school! Many graduates receive money from their parents or relatives before heading off to college. Have you made plans for the money yet? If you’re not quite sure what to spend your graduation money on, here are four ideas that could prove beneficial. #1: Put the Money Towards College There’s no …
College student researching financial aid on her laptop at campus.
scholarships

What can I use scholarship money for and how do I use it?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on September 4, 2025
Key Takeaways: Scholarships can cover many education-related costs, including tuition, room and board, and supplies. Some organizations restrict how you can use scholarship money, limiting you to tuition or a similar expense. Always read over the terms before accepting an award to better understand how to spend the money and how you’ll receive it. Scholarships …

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