Hilary Cairns

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college applications

How to Decide if the Common Application is Right for You

The Common Application is a college application that is accepted by hundreds of schools all over the United States. Instead of completing dozens of applications one by one (with dozens of essays as well), you can complete one single application. But how do you know if the Common Application is right for you? Here are …
An alarm clock - something to add to your checklist for early action or early decision applications
college applications

Checklist For Early Action and Early Decision Applications

Are you prepared to hand in your early applications? There are a few things you should complete before turning it in. Here’s a checklist for Early Action and Early Decision applications to help you get started. Know the Due Date for Each of Your Applications Early Decision applications are binding, meaning you can only apply …
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college applications

How to Address Weaknesses in College Applications and Interviews

College applications and the interviews that may be required can be particularly anxiety inducing. But it’s good to know that many students have the same issues you will have and everyone will have their weaknesses during the process. However, addressing your weaknesses now can help give you confidence. Here’s how you can overcome weaknesses in …
most competitive colleges
college applications

An Application Strategy For Competitive Colleges

Applying for colleges can be a busy time for your junior and senior years of high school. And, if you’re applying to most competitive colleges, you may be worried about your acceptance odds. Luckily, there are ways to approach your applications to improve your chances of admission and lower the stress during your final years …
Two students study hard for their ACT or SAT exams
ACT & SAT

What It Takes To Get A Perfect Score on the ACT or SAT

Everyone would be happy if they could get a perfect score on the ACT or SAT. While high scores on these tests comes naturally to some people, it’s not the case for most. If you want a perfect score, you have to be prepared for it. Here’s what it takes to get that perfect number. …
Textbooks and laptop - too many classes can lead to burnout!
questions & answers

How Much Academic Rigor Is Too Much?

Whether you’re in high school or college, it’s easy to do “too much” and become overwhelmed. When choosing your schedule, it’s important to think about “academic rigor.” This is the academic challenge you’ll be faced with from a class. So when you’re coming up on a new semester, how much academic rigor is too much …
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college search

How to Search for a Grad School

Are you interested in attending grad school after you’ve earned your Bachelor’s degree? It’s important to weigh your options carefully before deciding on a school! Here’s how you can start that search for the perfect place to earn your Master’s. Start Early It’s important to start as early as possible when it comes to finding …