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.
Four rocks stacked on top of each other on a table outside.
college applications

How to Balance College Prep with High School

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Senior year of high school is no doubt a stressor for many. Between classes, college search, college applications, scholarship applications, extracurricular activities, financial aid, homework, test prep for the ACT or SAT, and maybe even work, it’s a lot on a student’s plate! Here are some ways you can de-stress and balance your final year of …
college comparisons

10 colleges with the best pools and swimming facilities

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 23, 2026
Key takeaways College pools aren’t just for athletes—many of them double as relaxing spots, with lazy rivers, hot tubs, and lounging areas. When visiting campuses, check out the recreation facilities, as they might help you decide which school feels like the best fit. From coast to coast, colleges across the country are making a splash—and …
No U Turn signage with sad face above it.
questions & answers

What Happens if You Back Out of Early Decision?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 18, 2025
Key Takeaways: Early decision applications are a binding agreement – accepted students are expected to attend the following fall. Students can generally back out of the agreement if they can’t afford the school, have a sick family member, or are facing an illness. Backing out without an acceptable reason can result in rescinded acceptance offers …
It's a myth that if you're deferred admission, you'll never be accepted.
myths

Myth: If I’m Deferred From a School, I’ll Never Get In

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Depending on how you look at it, getting deferred by a school could be a load off your mind or extremely frustrating. You haven’t been declined, yet you haven’t been accepted, putting you in a difficult spot. You may have heard the myth that you simply won’t get into the college after being deferred admission. …
A lecture hall with brown chairs and a blackboard in front.
questions & answers

Can Your Declared Major Affect Your Acceptance Odds?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Students applying for college want to have every edge they can when it comes to their application college acceptance odds, especially when it involves a dream school. So many students wonder if their intended major will alter their college acceptance odds or not. Here’s what you need to know. Each School is Different Every school …
A pile of dollar bills.
questions & answers

What is a College Endowment and Why Does it Matter?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on August 26, 2025
Key Takeaways: College endowment is the total amount of funds an institution has from donors. Schools often invest this money, using a small percentage of the income each year to help fund college operations. Harvard University, Yale University, and Stanford University have some of the largest total endowments in the United States. College endowment refers …
Boost your college acceptance odds with these helpful tips.
college admissions

9 tips to help you boost your college acceptance odds

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 27, 2025
Key takeaways A strong college application includes your academics, extracurriculars, awards, essay, recommendation letters, and careful attention to detail. From your essay and extracurriculars to your online presence, focus on highlighting the depth of your experiences to set your application apart. Take your time and be intentional with each part of your application so colleges …

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