Hilary Cairns

A "university" sign on the side of a building.
questions & answers

What is a flagship university?

Key takeaways Flagship universities are public schools in the United States and are often the oldest and largest institutions in the state. These schools are classified as Doctoral Universities with high or very high research activity. Each state has at least one flagship university. Some states like New York, Indiana, and Texas have two or …
questions & answers

What is the National Merit Scholarship?

The National Merit Scholarship is an award given to students who score very well on the PSAT and meet the requirements to be named a National Merit Scholar. All students who take the PSAT are automatically entered into the program, but only a select few will be named Finalists and earn money to put towards …
A red theater curtain lit by spotlights.
scholarships

6 Scholarships for Theater Majors

There’s nothing quite like a night at the theater. But what the audience may not know or always remember is all of the hard work, dedication, and people it takes! Actors, playwrights, set designers, lighting specialists, stage managers, costume designers, technicians, sound designers, directors, composers, conductors, and more make a show come to life. A …
A red flag on the sea side.
college search

College red flags you shouldn’t ignore

Key takeaways: College red flags include no accreditation, low retention and graduation rates, and unhappy students.  Knowing a school isn’t right for you can also come down to personal preferences – you should be able to see yourself at the school.  To find the right college for you, compare your options, research majors, and visit campuses.  When you search …
A high school student sitting in a classroom working on an assignment.
myths

Myth: the second half of my high school year doesn’t matter

Key takeaways Many students believe the second half of senior year doesn’t matter, but staying consistent and finishing strong is still important. Even with an acceptance letter, colleges may request final transcripts and can even revoke offers if your grades drop significantly. To finish high school strong, stay committed to your classes and activities, keep …
Land-grant colleges focus on agricultural studies.
questions & answers

What is a Land-Grant College or University?

Key takeaways: Land-grant universities were created due to the Morrill Acts of 1862 and 1890 and the Equity of Educational Land-Grant Status Act of 1994.  They include schools that originally focused on agriculture, military tactics, mechanical studies, or educating African Americans, as well as tribal institutions.  There are more than 100 land-grant universities, including University of Iowa, University of California …
ACT-SAT-Tips
ACT & SAT

Colleges that don’t require the SAT or ACT

Key takeaways: Over 2,000 colleges and universities offering bachelor’s degrees have adopted test-optional policies for the SAT or ACT, while 75 institutions are entirely test-free. Some top test-optional schools include the University of Chicago, Columbia University, and Northwestern University. Even if a school is test-optional, they may still recommend submitting standardized test scores – doing …
Yellow and orange leaves in a pile.
tips tools & advice

The College Transition: Dealing with Change

College is supposed to be one of the greatest times in your life…and for the most part, it will be. You will explore new environments, make new friends, and discover things about yourself that you never knew. However, in your transition to college life, you will be dealing with change. Change is the only thing …

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Join thousands of students and parents learning about finding the right college, admissions secrets, scholarships, financial aid, and more.