questions & answers

A Quick Guide to Free Community Colleges

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 26, 2025

In certain states, yes, community colleges can be entirely free! Not all states offer these types of programs, however, and many of them have restrictions on eligibility. But if you qualify, you could very well receive a free ride to community college! Keep reading to learn more about which states have programs, who qualifies, and …

college search

Do Community Colleges Have Dorms?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 6, 2023

A majority of community colleges do not have dorms available to their students. While there are definitely exceptions, they are rare. Most 4-year colleges and universities offer some sort of student housing. Here’s a deeper dive into why community colleges don’t tend to have dorms, plus a rundown of your other options if you need …

student life

Choosing a Roommate: Friend or Randomly Assigned

By College Raptor StaffPublished on May 5, 2023

Getting a roommate assignment (or choosing one if you are allowed) while you’re in college is one of the most exciting things! It’s a friend you get to live with, share meals with, and share everything together! For some, that doesn’t sound as exciting but when you’re living with the right roommates, it can be. …

tips tools & advice

College Grades: What is “Good” and Do They Matter?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on May 2, 2023

You know you need to keep your high school grades up in order to graduate and get into a good college, but do grades really matter when it comes to college? The short answer is “Yes.” They absolutely do matter and they not only impact your opportunities during college but your life after. But what …

student life, tips tools & advice

An Awesome Grocery List for College Students on a Budget

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 4, 2025

Key takeaways A grocery list for college students on a budget helps prevent overspending. Choosing affordable staples like rice, eggs, and frozen veggies can stretch your student grocery budget further. Using meal planning, smart shopping strategies, and discount apps can lower your food costs. Repurposing leftovers and buying store-brand items are simple ways to save …

questions & answers

From Campus to Career: Honoring National Student Employment Week

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 25, 2025

Imagine this: you stroll into the campus café for your essential morning coffee, swing by the library to check out that intriguing book and get your laptop issues sorted out—all before your first class begins. Have you ever stopped to think about who makes those moments possible? It’s the student employees! They are the unsung …

tips tools & advice

10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Graduating College

By College Raptor StaffPublished on April 5, 2023

Getting accepted into college is exciting and causes a wave of emotions for every future college student. There are so many things to learn before you get to college, so it’s wise to reach out to recent college grads and ask them about things they wish they knew before graduating college. Here are the top …

student life

5 Self-Care Ideas for College Students

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 27, 2023

Keeping up with your mental and physical health while you’re in college can make a huge difference in how you deal with stress as a busy student. It’s no secret that things can be stressful during your college years, but with the right stress management techniques and self-care ideas, you’ll be able to navigate those …

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Ways for College Students to Manage Stress and Anxiety

By College Raptor StaffPublished on March 24, 2023

According to the National College Health Assessment, 34.2% of college students reported stress affecting their academic performance and 27.8% of college students reported anxiety affecting their academic performance. Stress and anxiety in students are not uncommon during their college experience. Going to college can be exciting, but it can also cause financial worries, emotional problems, …

student life

10 Colleges with Adorable Dogs as Mascots

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on October 30, 2025

Key Takeaways Real live dogs serve as mascots at several colleges, representing school spirit and tradition alongside costumed mascots. Yale’s Handsome Dan is widely considered the first live dog college mascot, dating back to 1890. UGA’s bulldog mascot has been cared for by the same family, the Seilers, for over 50 years and is famous …