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 group of students sitting together in front of one laptop, with a few students standing behind them.
student loans

Types of Federal Student Loans

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on April 9, 2025
The federal loans program in the United States is officially known as the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. Under the Department of Education, there are three types of federal student loans available: direct subsidized, direct unsubsidized, and Direct PLUS loans. It’s important to carefully weigh the pros and cons before choosing which is …
Here are 10 tips to help you get the best score on the SAT or ACT.
ACT & SAT

10 Tips to Help You Score Your Best on College Entrance Exams

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 13, 2025
The ACT and SAT aren’t tests where you can memorize and regurgitate the content. College entrance exams require specific techniques and preparation if you want to earn a top score. These 10 simple tips will help you score your best on the ACT or SAT. 1. Keep your cool. With adequate preparation, you can have …
Rows of sociology books on bookshelves.
tips tools & advice

How to Select the Right Research Topic in 6 Easy Steps

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 10, 2025
Being able to choose suitable research topics is an important skill for any student to have. Why? Well, when you select a topic that resonates with you, it tends to make all the difference in your writing. Choosing the right research topic isn’t just about getting a good grade, it’s imperative for helping the process …
A student holding an open textbook in their lap.
scholarship search & applications

The Right Time to Apply for Scholarships

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 7, 2025
Key Takeaways It’s never too early for students to start their scholarship hunt—there are scholarships available for all ages throughout the entire year. You can find scholarships using scholarship finders (i.e., College Raptor), your high school, local organizations, and college financial aid offices. The best times to apply for scholarships are whenever there is an …
college majors
careers & internships

Most useful college degrees

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 23, 2026
Key takeaways: Every college degree holds value, but some college degrees have higher rates of employment after graduation than others. Nursing, Construction Services, Engineering, Accounting, and Special Education are some undergraduate majors with low unemployment rates. When selecting a major, consider job placement rates, salary potential, interests, strengths, weaknesses, required education, and more. Although all …
Joanne O’Riordan, a girl with no limbs, in a wheelchair giving a speech.
financial aid

Social Security disability benefits for college students

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 19, 2026
Key takeaways: Social Security disability benefits for college students can help them afford tuition and other educational expenses. However, income restrictions on SSI can limit how a recipient can earn money to pay for college. Some resources, such as the Pell Grant and scholarships, don’t count towards income for SSI, as long as the money …
Colleges are offering more learning disability resources.
student life

6 College Resources for Students with Learning Disabilities

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 24, 2025
Colleges want all of their students to succeed. Just like high schools, colleges and universities in the United States have resources for students with disabilities, including learning disabilities. From note-taking services to extended time on tests, exact services can depend on the school in question. Below, we’ve outlined six examples of college resources for students …

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