For Colleges & Universities
For Colleges & Universities

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.
A student holding the letter H, spelling out "hello."
college applications

How to Write an Essay About Yourself: College App Introductions

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on October 24, 2024
Wondering how to write an essay about yourself? Many college-bound students are faced with this intimidating task. A college application essay is an exciting opportunity to show schools who you really are—apart from your grades and transcripts. And, since over 2,000 schools no longer require test scores, your essay is one of the best ways to …
High school student sitting at a desk with a laptop.
ACT & SAT

Why “Cramming” Doesn’t Work for the SAT and ACT

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
If you have an SAT and ACT coming up, you might think it’s a good idea to just “cram” the few days and nights before, rather than studying the weeks prior. You may even believe you can just look over everything the evening before and be good to go. This isn’t a solid plan and …
best pens for writing
student life

6 of the Best Pens for Writing in College

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 20, 2026
Pens are going to get lost during your time at college and it’s definitely a sad moment when it’s your favorite! But having a pack of trustworthy pens can help ensure you’re never without a writing utensil. Check out these 6 best pens for writing. They’ll have you choosing your notebook over your laptop. Paper …
how to stay organized in college
student life

How to Stay Organized in College: 6 Tools

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 15, 2026
How messy is your desk in your dorm room? Do you have pens floating all over the place? Are your papers shoved into your bag? Are you having trouble keeping on top of your work? If you’re wondering how to stay organized in college, we’ve got a few ideas. An organizer may be just what …
Student thinking and studying for the SAT, trying to earn their highest SAT score
myths

Myth: You Should NEVER Guess on the SAT

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on November 26, 2024
You may have heard to “never guess on the SAT,” especially from your parents or older friends or relatives. However, that is actually not true (anymore)! Here’s a rundown of what that means for you and why guessing may actually help earn you the highest SAT score: No Points Are Deducted for Wrong Answers In …
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 …

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