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 reads a book while a laptop rests on her legs as she studies for the SAT and ACT
ACT & SAT

8 Must Know SAT Grammar Rules

By Hilary CairnsPublished on September 9, 2024
How is your grammar? The SAT tests more than your reading comprehension — it also tests that you know the rules of grammar. To tackle this portion of the exam, here are 8 grammar rules you should know before you sit for the SAT test. 1. The Subject and Verb Must Agree Every complete sentence …
fed student loan
questions & answers, tips tools & advice

Do Colleges Look at Attendance? What You Need to Know about Going to Class

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on September 25, 2025
Key Takeaways Colleges generally do not directly consider attendance in admissions decisions. Attendance affects GPA and participation, which are important for college applications. Regular class attendance can help you earn strong recommendation letters. Attending class helps you learn, meet deadlines, and stay on track for graduation. Good attendance can support your extracurricular participation and academic …
A valedictorian is the student with the highest academic achievements in their graduating class.
college admissions

What is a Valedictorian and How Do You Become One?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on September 15, 2025
Key Takeaways: A valedictorian is the student with the highest academic achievements in their graduating class. Valedictorian status is usually determined by unweighted GPA, weighted GPA, or class rank. To become valedictorian, plan early, take rigorous classes, and ask for help when you need it. Dreaming of finishing at the very top of your class? …
college comparisons, questions & answers

Graduate vs Undergraduate – What’s the Difference?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on April 29, 2026
Key takeaways Undergraduate college students are students pursuing their associate or bachelor’s degree. Graduate students are working towards a master’s degree, professional degree, or doctorate degree. While undergraduate studies cover broad and foundational education in a specific field, graduate studies build upon the previous program of study. Undergrads may earn a median salary of $57,000-$80,000, …
college admissions, questions & answers

How to Get Good Grades

By Hilary CairnsPublished on August 16, 2024
Whether you’re in high school or college, grades matter. They can impact your acceptance chances to higher education institutions, scholarship offers, merit aid opportunities, and even job prospects after graduation. It can also affect your self-esteem while improving your foundational knowledge that leads to success later in the classroom and in life in general. But …
financial aid

Financial Aid Options for International Students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 15, 2024
Some international students may be able to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), but most international students are not eligible for federal student financial aid within the United States. However, there are exceptions where non-citizens can complete the FAFSA.  Here’s what you need to know about your financial aid options if you’re …
Student taking an online test at home.
college admissions

A Guide to The High School Equivalency Test (HiSet)

By Hilary CairnsPublished on July 3, 2024
You’ve likely heard of the GED, but did you know you have another option when it comes to getting the equivalent of a high school diploma? The HiSET, or High School Equivalency Test, is an exam that can open the door to new opportunities, including higher education and careers that require a high school degree. …

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