hidden gems 2018

Hidden Southeast Gems: 2018

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Known for its good food and rich history, the Southeast is also home to several hidden gem schools. We’ve highlighted the top three hidden gem schools per state. For the purposes of this list, we’ve included the following states in the southeast: AR, LA, AL, MS, FL, GA, TN, SC, NC, VA, and KY. To …

hidden gems 2018

Hidden Midwest Gems: 2018

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

The Midwest is America’s heartland, and often an overlooked region of the country. But these “Flyover” states have a number of hidden gems among them that shouldn’t be counted out. We’ve highlighted the top three hidden gem schools per state. For the purposes of this list, we’ve included the following states in the northwest: IA, IL, …

hidden gems 2018

Hidden Northwest Gems: 2018

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

The Northwest region of the United States is known for its scenic beauty. There are a number of hidden gem-worthy colleges in the region as well. We’ve highlighted the top three hidden gem schools per state. For the purposes of this list, we’ve included the following states in the Northwest: AK, Northern CA, ID, MT, …

hidden gems 2018

Hidden Southwest Gems: 2018

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Known for its dynamic landscapes, rich history, and diverse wildlife, the Southwest region should also get credit for its higher education programs. A number of hidden gems reside in these states, and deserve the spotlight. For the purposes of this list, we’ve included the following states in the southwest: AZ, NV, NM, UT, CO, TX, …

hidden gems 2018

Hidden Public Gems: 2018

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

There is a pervading stereotype that private colleges are the ideal places to pursue a higher education—however there are numerous public colleges and universities that rival their private counterparts. This Hidden Gems list highlights the best public colleges that are diamonds in the rough. To qualify as a College Raptor Hidden Gem, a school must …

hidden gems 2018

Hidden Gems for Women in STEM: 2018

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

STEM fields are the fastest-growing career market out there, yet only 6.7% of college-going women graduate with a STEM degree–compared to 17% of men. There are many organizations, programs, and schools dedicated to encouraging young women to pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics majors.  The following colleges are true hidden gems for women in STEM …

hidden gems 2018

Hidden Northeast Gems: 2018

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Beautiful landscapes, bountiful industry, and storied history fill the Northeast United States. It is an area chock-full of well-known colleges and universities, and the following Hidden Gems deserve some of that attention. For the purposes of this list, we’ve included the following states in the Northeast: ME, NH, VT, MA, NY, RI, CT, NJ, PA, …

hidden gems 2018

Hidden U.S. Gems: 2018

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

For this, our most prestigious Hidden Gems list, we’ve featured the highest-ranking gem school in each US state—including Washington DC! These schools are truly diamonds in the rough! At College Raptor, we help students find colleges that fit them financially, socially, and academically–which means looking at more than just big name universities. That’s why we’re …

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Ideas For What To Include In Care Packages For Freshmen

By Roxie the RaptorLast updated on December 22, 2022

For most college students, nothing beats the joy and excitement of receiving care packages from home. It shows them that their family back home is thinking of them and gives them the feeling of renewed support and encouragement. So what should you include in the care package for your freshman? These few ideas can help. …

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How to create a pros and cons list for schools in your college search

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on January 12, 2026

Key takeaways: Create college lists to help you identify the best schools for your education and career goals. Pros and cons tables allow you to visualize how potential colleges compare to one another. Consider costs, majors, location, campus life, acceptance rates, preferences, and more to create your personalized comparison chart. Whether you’re deciding which colleges …