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.
Students gathered together and smiling for a group picture.
questions & answers

What Is Freshman Orientation?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 9, 2024
Starting college is an exciting adventure, filled with new opportunities and experiences. One of the first steps is freshman orientation. But what exactly is freshman orientation? What does it involve, and why is it important? Let’s talk about it. What is Freshman Orientation in College? Freshman orientation is essentially an introduction to college life at …
We put together some stress management tips for college freshmen.
student life

Managing Stress: Tips for Freshman College Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
It’s perfectly normal to be worried or nervous about heading to college! However, not everyone’s anxieties are the same. Here are three common worries and stress management tips on how you can help deal with the stress. Nervous About Homesickness Are you worried about leaving your parents, your siblings, and your pets at home? Worried …
One repayment method is a graduated repayment plan.
student loans

Pros and Cons of Graduated Repayment Plans

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 25, 2025
After graduation, you have quite a few options when it comes time to repay your student loans. One of those options is a graduated repayment plan. This plan works by starting your payments lower and raising them slowly over time. Here’s a rundown of what that means for you as well as the pros and …
questions & answers

A Graduate Student’s Guide to Financial Aid

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on October 6, 2025
Key Takeaways: Pursuing a master’s degree costs $73,520 on average, and a doctorate could set you back $198,000 or more. Graduate students should complete the FAFSA for federal student loans and to be considered for grants and institutional aid. Students can also apply for scholarships or request tuition assistance from an employer. Going to college …
Students standing in front of a large globe.
questions & answers

What is a Fellowship?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
You’ve might have heard the word “fellowship” thrown around a bit here and there, but have you ever wondered what it meant? A fellowship is not quite a scholarship and it’s not quite an internship, but it can be similar to both. Here’s a rundown on what you need to know and how you can …
questions & answers

When Do I Have to Declare a College Major?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 20, 2025
Key Takeaways: Most students have to declare a college major by the end of their sophomore year or the start of their junior year. Students may declare their major earlier to apply for competitive programs or access advanced courses. Choosing an intended major in high school helps you find the best college for your goals …
Don't believe these myths about the SAT.
myths

More Myths About the SAT

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Plenty of myths circulate around the SAT and you’ve probably have heard a few as you’re preparing for your test date. Believing these myths can actually be detrimental to your final SAT score as well as your college applications. Here are just three you may have heard during high school. Myth: The PSAT Isn’t Important …

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Join thousands of students and parents learning about finding the right college, admissions secrets, scholarships, financial aid, and more.