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.
Two grey stampers, one says Approved, the other says Denied.
questions & answers

Your Guide to Reapplying to College After a Rejection

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 4, 2023
Did you not receive an acceptance letter from your dream school?  Don’t fret! Reapplying to college after rejection may be an option. But, here are a few things to keep in mind and to do in the upcoming months before reapplying to college after rejection. Can You Reapply to a College After Being Rejected? In …
grants for college
financial aid

What is the Pell Grant?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on September 26, 2023
Between scholarships, federal aid, and loans there is a lot to do before heading to college in the fall, but one thing you don’t want to forget about is the Pell Grant. It’s one more reason to complete the FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid. But what exactly is it? What Is the …
A chalkboard with writing that says "no more excuses."
financial aid

Bad Excuses for Not Filing for Financial Aid

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
No matter the reason, everyone should be filling out the FAFSA, or Free Application For Federal Student Aid, each year. Here are a few bad excuses we’ve heard students give when asked why they didn’t complete the application: I Won’t Qualify The number one reason that students or parents don’t complete the FAFSA is that …
Be careful not to make these three student loan mistakes
student loans

Avoid These 3 Big Student Loan Mistakes!

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Obtaining student loans is one of the biggest and most expensive decisions you will ever make in your lifetime, and it is up there with purchasing a car or a house. It’s important to understand what you’re getting into, agreeing to, and what is expected of you in the years to come. Here are three …
Finding the best student loan is like comparing apples to oranges.
student loans

How to Pick the Best Student Loan for You

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
You’ve chosen your school for the fall, but now it’s time to choose your student loan. The application process and knowing the pros and cons of each type are the most important when it comes to picking which one is right for you. Here’s a rundown of some of the steps to take and things …
A college student writing in a notebook.
student loans

The Difference Between Direct Subsidized Loans and Unsubsidized

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Applying for the FAFSA matters. When applying for federal aid through FAFSA, you will find that there are two loans for students available through their program: direct subsidized loans and unsubsidized. Your family’s current financial situation and your needs determine which loan lenders offer and which you prefer. Direct Subsidized Loans  Subsidized, also know as …
Camp counsellor holding oar above his head guiding children in kayaks on a lake.
college applications

What Counts as “Leadership Experience” on College Apps?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
Undoubtedly you’ve seen a section on a college application (or a job application, for that matter) that asks about your leadership experience. Leadership is one of those key elements that college admissions officers look for in their applicants along with qualities like—responsibility, time management, dedication, and hard work. “Leadership” is a buzzword that will catch …

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