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 …

questions & answers

Transfer: What If Your New School is More Expensive Than Your Current One?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

If your first school choice wasn’t quite what you dreamed of, it may be in your best interest to transfer to another college that best fits your career goals, needs, and wants. However, if the cost of education is higher at your newer school than your current one, it could cause some financial issues. Here’s …

college applications

How to Create SMART Goals for College Applications

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 2, 2024

Have you heard of SMART goals before? It’s generally for project management, but it can also be a great tool when you put it towards personal development. Today, the acronym stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. Here’s how you can use each one towards your college applications. S: Specific When it comes to …

student life

Good Habits to Start a New Semester for High Schoolers

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Whether you’re a freshman or a senior in high school, there are always good habits you can take advantage of. You probably have a few good ones already (as well as bad)! However, as you head into a new semester, these are a few good habits you can add to your life and learn from. …

myths

Myth: It looks bad if I take the ACT/SAT too many times

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 26, 2026

Key takeaways: It doesn’t look bad if you take the ACT/SAT too many times, but you could be hurting your efforts by taking the exams too much.  You should register for at least two ACT or SAT test dates.  To improve your standardized test scores, take practice tests, set goals, study, and use smart test techniques.  Did …

ACT & SAT

Different “Types” of Math Problems on the ACT / SAT

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 7, 2023

Even if math isn’t your best subject, knowing the types of math problems you’ll run into on the ACT or SAT can give you a huge boost. You can find what types of math you struggle on and focus on those before the test date. Here are the ones you’ll run into: Algebra Of course, …

college admissions

What High School Sophomores Can Do For College Prep

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

You may think college prep can wait another year. After all, college applications and the FAFSA don’t have to be turned in until your senior year, so you may want to wait until junior year to begin. However, it’s never too early to start. There are plenty of things you can be doing while you’re …

college applications

50+ volunteer opportunities for students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 1, 2025

Key takeaways While volunteering certainly looks good on a college application, it is also a meaningful way to give back to your community. With 50+ volunteering ideas based on personality and interests, it’s easy to find a volunteer opportunity that speaks to you. Below you’ll find volunteering experiences for the animal lover, creative, organizer, helper, …

tips tools & advice

How Often You Should Meet With Your College Academic Advisor

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 13, 2024

Students should aim to meet with their assigned college academic advisor at least once a semester. You may need to meet them additional times for questions about your courses, major, and graduation. Before a meeting with your college advisor, always be prepared and be ready to ask questions. All colleges assign incoming students an academic …