All Student Life Articles

Does class size matter?
student life

What are elective classes and why do they matter?

By College Raptor StaffPublished on May 13, 2026
Key takeaways Elective classes are optional courses that let you explore personal interests beyond the core curriculum. The best electives help you gain foundational skills in specific areas, like financial literacy, coding, or graphic design. Electives provide a mental break from required courses, which may improve academic success. Knowing how many electives to take is …
student life, tips tools & advice

What is recitation in college?

By Gallagher, CatherinePublished on March 25, 2026
Key takeaway Recitation in college is a small-group, interactive session that typically meets once a week to cover course material and deepen your understanding. Recitations are different from lectures because they have fewer than 30 people, are led by teacher assistants, and require students to be hands-on and participate, rather than just listen and take …
student life, tips tools & advice

How To Improve Your Focus: 10 Ways To Boost Concentration

By College Raptor StaffPublished on October 30, 2025
Key Takeaways Improving focus starts with small, intentional changes. Create a distraction-free environment to support concentration. Practice mindfulness and meditation to help regulate your body during stressful moments. Improved focus will decrease stress and allow for more time for activities you enjoy. Prioritize habits like a healthy sleep schedule and regular exercise. Use time-blocking techniques …
student life, tips tools & advice

Easy Recipes for College Students That Are Quick, Cheap, and Delicious

By College Raptor StaffPublished on October 7, 2025
Key Takeaways Easy recipes help college students save time, eat healthy, and stick to a budget. Planning meals and shopping wisely can prevent last-minute stress and overspending. Cooking in bulk and freezing meals makes eating well easier and more convenient. Being a college student is exciting, but it can also be stressful. Between classes, homework, …
student life

Student Support Services 101: Everything You Need To Know

By College Raptor StaffPublished on October 7, 2025
Key Takeaways Student support services can help students succeed academically, personally, and professionally. Services include tutoring, counseling, career planning, financial assistance, and mentorship programs. Technology has made accessing student support services easier. Virtual tutoring and online counseling are available in many schools. You can research the services available to find the right ones that may …
A football player holding a football while being surrounded by other players.
student life

Highest Paid College Athletes

By College Raptor StaffPublished on September 29, 2025
Key Takeaways College athletes make billions for schools and the NCAA. But they haven’t been paid directly until recently. New rules allow athletes to earn money from endorsements, appearances, and their name, image, and likeness (NIL). The debate continues over fairness, smaller schools, and how to pay athletes safely. Top athletes are now becoming the …
student life, tips tools & advice

Effective Study Tips and Methods

By College Raptor StaffPublished on September 15, 2025
Key Takeaways Identify your learning style to pick the right study methods. Set goals and use a study schedule to stay organized. Study actively using flashcards, summaries, and practice questions. Try studying in a group. Teaching others can improve your understanding and memory. Take breaks, stay motivated, and maintain good self-care for long-term success. Studying …
Outdoorsy students - Montana State University
college comparisons, student life

25 College for Students Who Love the Outdoors

By College Raptor StaffPublished on August 11, 2025
Key Takeaways: Colleges across the U.S. offer plenty of opportunities for students who love outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and paddle boarding. These colleges also offer academic degrees in environmental and earth sciences, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to combine their love of nature with their education and potential career paths. We highlight 25 notable colleges for …

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