student life

Should You Take Summer Classes in College?

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

One common question that students ask is whether or not they should take summer classes in college. Although the answer depends on the particular student and their goals, there are two pros and two cons that should be considered. Pro: You Can Graduate Faster The biggest pro when it comes to taking summer classes in …

college comparisons

FAQs and Facts About HBCUs

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on August 18, 2025

As you develop your college list, you might come across the term “HBCU.” These letters stand for “Historically Black Colleges and Universities”. But what exactly does that mean for you? Can you apply to them even if you’re not a minority? Keep reading to find out what HBCUs are and some of the best ones …

student life

3 Motivational Commencement Speeches by Celebrities | Class of 2020

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Every year, celebrities take part in motivational commencement speeches to help send graduates off to the next stage in their life, whether that be furthering their education, joining the workforce, or another path. 2020 was a bit different with the coronavirus, and most commencement speeches occurred virtually rather than in-person. Here are a few of …

tips tools & advice

3 Things to Do During a Gap Year

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Have you weighed your options after graduation and decided to take a gap year? It can be a great choice for students! But that doesn’t mean you should waste the next year. You have a few different options on how you can spend the next 12 months and get some meaningful lessons out of your …

college comparisons

Community College Benefits: Signs That It’s Right For You

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

In your search for colleges, have you considered community college? Four-year colleges have traditionally been the first choice for most students. Don’t discount community colleges completely though. There are community college benefits that may make them a better option for you instead of a 4-year university. So how do you decide between the two? These …

college news & trends

List of Universities & Colleges Opening Campuses Or Going Online For Fall

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022

COVID-19 has thrown a wrench into the traditional fall college schedule. Colleges across the U.S. are faced with the challenging decision of whether to start on-campus classes or continue with online instruction. Either way, it’s certainly a tough call. Some colleges are yet to decide how they are going to proceed in fall while others …

college search

Why Going to Safety Schools Isn’t a Bad Thing

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

When it comes to searching for colleges, schools are typically divided into three categories—safety, match, and reach. Safety colleges are those you’re highly likely to get into—schools with higher acceptance rates and less competition. Many people think that attending a safety college means “you weren’t good enough” to get into a match or reach school. …

student life

COVID-19 and Graduation Ceremony Alternatives

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

With many states saying students will not be returning to school for the 2019–2020 year, seniors are left wondering what exactly will happen to their graduation. There’s no clear answer yet, but here are some of the graduation ceremony alternatives they’re currently opting for. Each School is Handling it Differently Each school across the United …

student life

The Pros And Cons Of Online Classes

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on February 23, 2026

Key takeaways Online classes are becoming more popular at colleges and universities – and among students. There are pros and cons of online classes that students need to consider before signing up for them, however. The pros of online courses are that they offer flexibility, affordability, personalized learning, easy access to lecture notes and course …

college search

Searching for the Right College During Quarantine

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Has your search for your future college been stopped short by the coronavirus? You’re definitely not alone, but there are resources available to you online to help you make your decision. There’s still plenty you can get accomplished during quarantine. Here are some different aspects of the college search to keep in mind in regards …