student life

10 Colleges with Adorable Dogs as Mascots

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on October 30, 2025

Key Takeaways Real live dogs serve as mascots at several colleges, representing school spirit and tradition alongside costumed mascots. Yale’s Handsome Dan is widely considered the first live dog college mascot, dating back to 1890. UGA’s bulldog mascot has been cared for by the same family, the Seilers, for over 50 years and is famous …

student life

Great Spring Break Ideas for College Students in 2026

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 16, 2026

Key Takeaways If you’re planning to travel this spring break, whether you’re hoping your destination will be tropical, mountainous, urban, a theme park, or a national park, we’ve got plenty of options to help you narrow it down! For some, staying home or on campus during spring break is what feels the most relaxing. Explore …

student life

The Benefits of Therapy Dogs in Students’ Mental Health and in Schools?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 16, 2023

Spending time with our pets has been shown to reduce stress levels and improve health and well-being, and these are just some of the same benefits of therapy dogs in schools. However, colleges and universities rarely allow pets in dorm rooms (though there are some exceptions!). So how can you reap the benefits of pets …

student life

5 Tips for Finding the Right Club in College

By College Raptor StaffPublished on March 6, 2023

Extracurricular activities in college are just some of the perks of getting a higher education, and finding the right club can make all the difference. Clubs are a great way to meet new friends, try new things, and even decompress after a long stressful week of schoolwork. Finding the right club in college can change …

student life

6 Tips For How to Find a Job while in College

By Hilary CairnsPublished on March 3, 2023

Many students choose to work during college, whether to give a boost to their savings, make an extra little spending cash, or afford their education! Finding a job as a college student can be tricky, so it’s important to know what you should do (and where you should look) to increase your chances of getting …

student life

10 Important College Safety Tips

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on July 18, 2025

Key Takeaways Your college experience is meant to be enjoyed—so when you take simple precautions, you can feel more prepared and more confident in your day-to-day life. Your physical safety starts with familiarizing yourself with campus resources, exercising caution after dark, carrying pepper spray, and having a plan whenever you go out. Your digital safety …

student life

50 fun hobbies for students

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 1, 2025

Key takeaways School is important, but carving out time for a hobby can be great for lowering stress, boosting your mood, and giving your brain a break. Starting a hobby offers plenty of benefits, including lowered stress, increased sense of achievement, enhanced creativity, improved mood, and it can even lead to new career paths. There’s …

student life

7 Tips for Students Working in Groups

By College Raptor StaffPublished on February 24, 2023

Working in groups throughout college is inevitable. Collaborative work is an essential part of your college career but it isn’t always the best experience. To ensure that your group succeeds, follow these tips on how to handle working in groups. They just might save your grade and friendships with these people! Tips for Successful Group …

student life

Taking Care of Your Mental Health in College

By College Raptor StaffPublished on February 22, 2023

As we’re breaking the stigma about mental health, it’s great that we can finally openly talk about it! Managing mental health while navigating college life can be difficult for students, no matter their personal circumstances. According to the American College Health Association, about 75% of college students reported psychological distress ranging from moderate to severe. …

student life, tips tools & advice

14 college goals every student needs to succeed

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 23, 2026

Key Takeaways Setting clear college goals can help you stay focused and motivated. SMART goals are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. Mixing short-term and long-term goals can set you up for academic and career success. Getting accepted into college is a huge achievement—but it’s just the beginning. Once you’re on campus, having clear goals …