student life

10 colleges with heartwarming holiday traditions

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on November 14, 2025

Key takeaways College campus holiday traditions can vary widely, from concerts to massive light displays. Many schools incorporate charity or community services into festivities. Some events celebrate cultural or religious heritage, adding a unique charm. Students of all majors participate in performances and events. Visiting these colleges during the holidays offers a festive, community-driven experience. …

student life

Alternatives to Going Home for Winter Break

By Ellen AndersenLast updated on December 22, 2022

Winter break. Possibly one of the most look-forward-to aspects of college. Your Thanksgiving break was okay, and you might have had a long weekend here or a fall break there, but nothing equals the weeks in between your first and second semester. While it is tempting to just go home and relax for a while, …

student life

What is a research assistant?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 9, 2026

Key takeaways A research assistant helps lead researchers collect data, organize files, and run experiments. To become a research assistant, you should have a strong academic background, great attention to detail, and a thorough understanding of your subject area. These positions are available in colleges, government agencies, and private companies. Being a research assistant provides …

student life

Top 10 List: A Smoother Transition from High School to College

By Ryan SermonLast updated on December 22, 2022

The transition from high school to college can be a very easy one for some and an immense challenge for others. There is no wrong or right way to transition to college because everyone has different academic and personal experiences prior to entering a college or university. As you think about this exciting new opportunity …

student life

How to Survive Finals Week

By Laura DavisonLast updated on December 22, 2022

Thanksgiving break is over which means it is time to push through the last weeks of the semester. With final projects, papers and tests, this time of year can be extremely hectic and stressful—especially as the holiday season approaches. It can be difficult to find motivation during winter finals week when all you want to …

student life

Pros and Cons: Working for a Nonprofit in College (with quiz!)

By Gwyneth FindlayLast updated on March 12, 2025

Between social events, grocery bills, room & board, and tuition payments, you may find yourself looking for some extra money in college. Weekend music gigs and freelance design work could help you out. But, a secure, constant job is your best bet for consistent cash flow. But where will you find a part-time job? With …

student life

So You Want To Be a Teaching Assistant?

By Laura DavisonLast updated on December 22, 2022

A large number of students attending college are looking for ways to improve themselves and also take on responsibility outside of their schoolwork. For high achieving individuals with a love for their field of study, becoming a teaching assistant is a great option. Especially for those who plan to become professors or teachers in the …

student life

4 Ways to Bond With Your Roommate

By Laura DavisonLast updated on December 22, 2022

Living with a new person can be awkward, especially when you first start out. It may be hard to think of ways to connect with someone, especially when you’re living in such close quarters right off the bat. It is important to feel comfortable with your roommate so that you can open the lines of …

student life

8 Fundamental Dorm Decorating Tips

By Jessica HerbineLast updated on June 27, 2024

It’s true that many residence halls leave much to be desired, as far as interior design goes. Most students step over the threshold into their new dorm to find plain, wooden essentials—a high-rise bed, chest of drawers or wardrobe, desk, and an end table—mirrored across a linoleum floor. Rather than get bummed about your sparse …

student life

5 Spooky Halloween Traditions on College Campuses

By Allison WignallLast updated on December 22, 2022

The fun of Halloween isn’t just for little kids who go trick-or-treating. College students love to display their love of the spooky holiday by dressing in costume, maybe carving some pumpkins, binging on candy, and participating in some pretty fascinating traditions. Here are 5 Halloween traditions on campuses around the country! Pennsylvania State University: Pumpkin …