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How to Make the Best Class Schedule

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on May 9, 2025
Building a class schedule that works well with your personal, social, and work life is the ultimate key to a successful college career. You’ll want to consider your degree and major requirements, while also accounting for breaks, homework, and extracurriculars. Here are some tips and steps on how you can make the best class schedule …
White flowers in front of a University of Central Arkansas campus building.
questions & answers, student life

When Do Spring Classes Start for College?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022
Although “spring” is usually in the term “spring semester,” spring classes actually tend to start in January. Here’s everything you need to know about these classes when you can expect the semester to end, and whether or not it’s a good idea to start your college year in the spring. When do Spring Classes Start …
Athlete with name image likeness.
questions & answers, student life

What is Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL)?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on September 30, 2025
Key Takeaways NIL stands for name, image, and likeness. It allows college athletes to profit from their personal brand. The NCAA changed its rules in 2021, marking a major shift in college sports. NIL opportunities include endorsement deals, sponsorships, and media partnerships. While NIL opens doors for student-athletes, it also raises challenges. These challenges involve …
Top Southwest Hidden Gems Colleges
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Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southwest US | 2023 Rankings

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022
Vast deserts, sprawling cities, deep canyons, and rugged mountains, all make up the landscape of the Southwest region. Many of the colleges in the area are as excellent as the geography is dynamic. We wanted to highlight some of the lesser-known Southwest colleges that deserve attention. To qualify as a Hidden Gem, a school must …
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Hidden Gems Colleges in the Southeast | 2023 Rankings

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022
What do you think about when you hear “the Southeast?” Many think about southern hospitality, comfort food, warm weather, and history. You should add amazing colleges to that list. While there are powerhouse colleges in the Southeast, there are also a bunch of great schools that fly under the radar. That’s why we wanted to …
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hidden gems 2023

Hidden Gem Colleges in the Plains Region | 2023 Rankings

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022
America’s heartland is vast, fertile, and filled with various industries. Additionally, it’s home to a bunch of amazing colleges. While some colleges are certainly household names, some aren’t quite as well known – though they should be! We wanted to feature some of the best colleges in the Plains region, otherwise commonly known as the …
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Hidden Gem Colleges in New England | 2023 Rankings

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022
There are many well-known, household name colleges in New England. They are titans of higher education known the world over for their academics and reputation. However, there are just as many excellent colleges in the New England area that don’t receive as much attention as they deserve. That’s why we wanted to cast the spotlight …

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