student life, tips tools & advice

How to Make the Best Class Schedule

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on May 9, 2025

Building a class schedule that works well with your personal, social, and work life is the ultimate key to a successful college career. You’ll want to consider your degree and major requirements, while also accounting for breaks, homework, and extracurriculars. Here are some tips and steps on how you can make the best class schedule …

questions & answers, student life

When Do Spring Classes Start for College?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022

Although “spring” is usually in the term “spring semester,” spring classes actually tend to start in January. Here’s everything you need to know about these classes when you can expect the semester to end, and whether or not it’s a good idea to start your college year in the spring. When do Spring Classes Start …

questions & answers, student life

What is Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL)?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on September 30, 2025

Key Takeaways NIL stands for name, image, and likeness. It allows college athletes to profit from their personal brand. The NCAA changed its rules in 2021, marking a major shift in college sports. NIL opportunities include endorsement deals, sponsorships, and media partnerships. While NIL opens doors for student-athletes, it also raises challenges. These challenges involve …

student life

Easy to Make Meals for College Students

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022

Now that you’ve been living on your own, you have probably come to a sad realization – feeding yourself is expensive! You may have wondered why you couldn’t talk your parents into going out to eat more often when you were younger; you probably didn’t realize it was in the name of frugality. Food is …

student life

What Does an RA Do in College?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022

A resident assistant (RA) holds a long list of responsibilities in the residential halls of your college. RAs are also students at the college but are usually in the later years of the undergraduate degree or they are graduate students. Resident assistants are there to enforce school policies in the living spaces, put together social …

student life

Top College Dorm Essentials

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on June 27, 2024

College is just around the corner so if you haven’t started your back-to-school or back-to-dorm shopping, now is the time to get a jump on shopping for your college dorm essentials! Shopping for your college dorm or apartment can be overwhelming. Your focus should be on your course load and classes when you first come …

college search, student life

8 Great Eco Friendly Colleges

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 21, 2022

Sustainability and other eco-friendly strategies are more important than ever. From recycling to solar energy to lower carbon footprints, there are plenty of ways colleges have started to ramp up their approach to being “green.” So, what are some of the schools that are focusing more on green and eco-friendly solutions and strategies? Here are …

student life

A Complete Guide to College Clubs and Student Organizations On Campus

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on August 4, 2025

Key Takeaways Student organizations cover a wide range of interests, providing opportunities to explore your passions. Joining a club in college can help build soft skills, such as leadership, teamwork, and communication. Club participation expands your network, creating connections that may lead to internships and jobs. College is a time to grow, explore, and get …

student life, tips tools & advice

7 Great Biology Research Topics

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 21, 2022

Biology research covers the study of the origin, development, evolution, anatomy and physiology of all living organisms and their environment. This includes plants, animals, human beings, and the environment. If this is a field you’re interested in, you’ll find a vast array of biology research topics that you can choose from. The biggest challenge? Identifying …

questions & answers, student life

How Many Credits are Needed to Graduate College?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on April 16, 2025

Key Takeaways: Students generally need to take 120 credits to graduate college with a bachelor’s degree. The 120 credits consist of general education classes, major-required courses, and electives, which includes any classes for a minor. Students should aim to take at least 30 credits a semester to graduate within four years. Associate’s degrees often only …