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.
Avoid these mistakes students make when picking a college
college search

Mistakes Students Make When Selecting a College to Attend

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
It’s the time of year that students are making their final college selections. Some already know where they’re heading but many also aren’t quite sure just yet. However, if you’re still on the fence, here are some mistakes you’ll want to avoid when it comes time to make your choice. Following the Pack Many freshman …
A graduating student with their hands out throwing glitter.
student loans

What You Should Do During Your Student Loan Grace Period

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 24, 2025
If you took out student loans during your college career and graduate or leave school early, you usually have a student loan grace period afterward. This period tends to be six months long, but some can be longer. Here are some things you should be doing during that window. Gather Your Information Over the last …
ACT & SAT

Mistakes to Avoid on the SAT: Reading Section

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Sometimes it helps to know mistakes you should avoid when it comes to exams. Here are some things you will want to try to look for or remember when you’re on the Reading Section of the SAT. Being Careless With Time Management Time management is necessary for any portion of the SAT, but it is …
Students listening to a lecture by a professor in the classroom.
questions & answers

What is the Federal TRIO Program?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Out of all the programs available to students, one you may not have heard of is the Federal TRIO Program. Here’s a quick rundown on what this service entails: What Is It? The Federal TRIO Program is actually made up of eight individual programs, each set up to identify, assist, and provide services to those …
Why is the SAT important? Why is the ACT important?
ACT & SAT

Why Your ACT/SAT Test Scores Matter for College Admissions

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 18, 2025
Key Takeaways: A majority of colleges and universities still require ACT or SAT scores from applicants. Even if your school is test-optional, sitting for the exams can give you a competitive edge. ACT/SAT scores can also impact scholarship opportunities, course selection, and more. While some colleges have gone test-optional in recent years, a majority of …
Here are 3 bits of advice on picking your college major
college majors & minors

3 Bits of Advice on Picking Your College Major

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Picking a college major is a big step! Some students know exactly what they’re going to major in before they even apply to college, while others wish to wait until their junior year to declare. No matter what grade or year you’re in, you should always consider a few things before you choose. Consider Your …
The first SAT, in 1926, was very different from today's SAT.
ACT & SAT

What Was the First SAT Like?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Over 90 years ago, college-bound students worried about their SAT, just like you how you worried about your SAT.  Back in 1926, students knew the SAT as the Scholastic Aptitude Test. Evolved from the 1901 essay exams and original IQ tests, the SAT tested your knowledge before college. It also made the application process and …

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