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.
Ingredients in spoons, with overlay text that says "7 great cookbooks for college students."
student life

10 Awesome College Cookbooks for Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 20, 2026
Who says you can’t eat well in college? There are plenty of meals you can make right in your dorm room or apartment kitchen. All you need is a trusty cookbook. Check out these seven great cookbooks that would work perfectly for college students. 1. 250 Best Meals in a Mug: Delicious Homemade Microwave Meals …
Student reading a magazine while sitting on a bean bag chair. Overlay text: "4 bean bag chairs perfect for college students."
student life

4 Bean Bag Chairs Perfect for Dorm Rooms

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 15, 2026
Bean bag chairs are not only comfortable, they’re perfect for dorm rooms! They don’t take up much space and they can be a great place to relax or read a book when you don’t want to sit at your desk. They’re also a good idea for extra seat at game nights with your friends. If …
A student sitting at a desk with a laptop.
college applications

3 Things to Do After You Submit Your College Applications

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
After submitting your college application, you’re not quite done with the whole “college preparation” thing. There’s plenty of other tasks that need to be completed! Here are three more to work on: Completing College Interviews Many colleges have interviews as part of the college application process. Some may be mandatory, while others are listed as …
best travel mugs
student life

6 Best Travel Mugs and Coffee Cups for College Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 20, 2026
Coffee is the lifeblood for most college students; you probably even have your favorite mug! If yours broke or you just like collecting them (like I do), you’ll definitely want to consider these options. Check out these 6 best travel mugs and coffee mugs ideal for college students. Bruntmor Ceramic Coffee Mugs (Set of 6) …
best speakers for college students
student life

6 of the Best Speakers for College Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 20, 2026
What college student doesn’t love listening to music? Whether you’re hanging out by yourself in your dorm room or your friends are over and you want to listen to some music, it is helpful to have a speaker! These six are some of the best speakers for college students. JBL Flip4 Bluetooth Speaker With over …
staying healthy in college
student life

7 College Must Haves for Healthy Living

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 20, 2026
Although you’ll be studying hard throughout college, you can’t forget about your health! As fun as it sounds, eating nothing but ramen and instant mac n’ cheese every day won’t do you any favors. To make it easier, we’ve scoured Amazon for the best health products. Here are some great items for healthy college living. …
A graduating student looking over their shoulder.
student loans

6 Things You Need to Know About Earnest Student Loan Refinance

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 25, 2025
Advertising Disclosure: At no extra cost to you, College Raptor may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more. When it comes to student loan refinance, there are a number of options to choose from. Earnest is one such lender, and it may be a good choice for you. Available to both undergraduates …

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