student life

5 Ways to Manage College Roommate Conflict

By Allison WignallLast updated on May 2, 2023

When you stick two people into a tiny dorm room, conflict is bound to surface. Even roommates who are the best of friends will experience friction from time to time. Roommate relationships are something so special but often very fragile. It’s normal and human but it can feel discouraging when you’re having problems, especially with …

student life

5 Ways to Ensure your Stress Levels Don’t Boil Over in College

By Jessica HerbineLast updated on December 22, 2022

College is a stressful time. Between the big move, a busy schedule, tests, social life, a job or two, it can get a bit overwhelming at times. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to reduce your stress levels. Here are just a few. Keep the clutter out of your dorm It may seem small, but coming …

student life

Time Management Tips For Freshmen In College

By Jim RaychrudhuryLast updated on December 22, 2022

Pulling an all-nighter and cramming for tests, spending endless hours in the library, trying to reach the minimum word count requirement for an essay assignment, going heavy on coffee and energy drinks to survive the exams week… This is basically what all freshmen go through. But does it have to be this way? The reasons …

student life

How to Collaborate with Your Roomie About Dorm Decorating

By Jessica HerbineLast updated on June 27, 2024

Sharing a dorm room can be stressful, especially if this is your first time with a roommate or if you’re rooming with someone you’ve never met before. But the good news is that having drama isn’t inevitable. Here’s how to decorate a dorm room while collaborating with your roomie, so you can make the dorm …

student life

How To Use The Rest Of The Summer To Prep For Freshman Year

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

It’s your summer after high school and it’s winding down. The school year is approaching. Here are a few ways you can use the rest of the summer to prep for your upcoming freshman year. Take up a temporary summer job Taking up a job, even if it is just for a few weeks will …

student life

Talk with Your Roommate About These Topics Before Move-In Day

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Moving day can be pretty nerve-wracking and you want it to go smoothly. You are going to be meeting the person with whom you are going to be sharing a room with for the next few years. That first meeting and the subsequent few days can make the difference between a great first few weeks …

student life

Advice for Incoming College Freshmen: Go Beyond the Minimum

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

You’ll have quite a few people offering their “best advice” as you head into the final weeks before your first year of college. There will be quite a bit to soak in as they will all have something to say. A good bit of it will be good advice too. But if I had to …

student life

Common Fears About College and How to Overcome Them

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

There’s no doubt that college is a big step and a life-changing one. It can be jarring for quite a lot of freshman! Don’t worry though; you’re not alone in your fears. These are only a few common fears incoming college students have. Fear of Change College is change. You’ll be living in a new …

student life

Conversations Parents And Students Should Have Before Freshman Year Starts

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

Preparing to go off to college can be absolutely hectic. There’s a ton of things to do, from filling up all kinds of applications to buying essentials, attending orientations, putting finances in order and saying those bitter-sweet goodbyes. Amid all of this hustle and bustle, it is crucial for parents to make time to have …

student life

12 Good Roommate Ground Rules to Set

By Allison WignallLast updated on August 20, 2024

Dorm rooms are small, so whether you’re sharing with a long-time friend or a stranger, adjusting can be challenging. However, if you and your roomie start the year with clear communication and expectations of each other, it can go smoothly. During the first week of freshman year, a Resident Assistant (RA) might visit your room …