student life

3 Ways College Is Similar To High School

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

In high school, students hear a lot about how college is so different from high school that they are surprised when they actually start the semester and find that some things remain the same. Here are a few similarities between high school and college: Most college classes are conducted the same way as high school …

student life

New Roommates? 7 Cardinal Rules You Should Establish On Day One

By Heidi FiniganLast updated on December 22, 2022

You may have got things covered when it comes to your start-of-semester academic prep but are you ready for the challenges new roommates may bring? To maximize your chances of a harmonious roommate relationship, you need honest communication and a fair bit of compromise. You also need to agree on a few cardinal rules. Here …

student life

College Mascots with Interesting Histories (Part Two)

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

College mascots are oftentimes the rallying symbol or figure of school spirit. Things are way more exciting with a mascot around—and these mascots have an interesting history behind them. Check out our first list! University of Iowa, Burch the Bear Nowadays, every Iowa fan knows Herky by name. Small children line up to have their …

student life

College Towns with Exciting Summer Events

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Most students are only on campus from August to May, but quite a few also stay in their college town during the summer months, whether they call the area home, are taking summer courses, or they work in town. Attending college is about education, of course, but it’s also about the experience. The town you …

student life

The Celebrity Commencement Speakers for the Class of 2017

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

We are in the midst of graduation season. And, there are plenty of reasons seniors are happy about that. For many schools across the country, one of the graduates gives a short speech. At some universities, though, we hear words of wisdom (hopefully) from award-winning authors, famous actors, and political figures. Here are some highlights …

student life

Pros and Cons of Staying on Campus for the Summer

By Morgan StaubLast updated on December 22, 2022

It’s that time of year again! Students all over the map are packing up their belongings into crates and bags, heading home for the summer. While some can’t wait to get out of town and back to their parents or high school friends, others are more wistful, wishing their school year would never end. If …

student life

College Mascots with Interesting Histories

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

Often the face of a university, mascots are the epicenter of school spirit and hype when it comes to college sports. Many mascots are inspired by history or specially created by the student body. Some mascots, however, have a more interesting story behind them than others. Auburn University – “War Eagle” There are various legends …

student life

How to Engage with Your Chosen College Online

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

If you’ve accepted your college for the upcoming fall (congratulations!), there are plenty of ways to engage before you arrive on campus. Here are just a few ways to take part in your new school before classes begin. Sign Up For Orientation to Engage Many colleges make signing up for freshman orientation or student events mandatory. …

student life

Five Fabulous College Campus Spring Traditions

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

Every school has their own set of traditions throughout the year. We’ve talked about some of the stranger ones, and many of the holiday ones. Here are some spring traditions that take place when it gets warmer! Liquid Latex at Brandeis University – Waltham, Massachusetts This tradition has been going on for over 15 years …

student life

4 Colleges with Hopping-Good Easter Traditions

By Jessica HerbineLast updated on December 22, 2022

Celebrating Easter on campus is a time to reflect, relax, and enjoy the community. It’s also an opportunity to have a little fun participating in unique and fun parties and events tailored to students. We found five of our favorite colleges have hopping good Easter traditions to get you in the egg-dyeing spirit! Golden Egg …