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college search

How NOT To Create a College List

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
There are quite a few ways to create your college list, including asking family members, teachers, and friends for advice, using websites like College Raptor, and visiting college fairs. However, there are also tactics you should be avoiding, including these three. Only Including What Your Family Suggests Your family will have suggestions for schools and …
dorm room items
student life

28 Must Have Items for Your Freshman Dorm Room

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 20, 2026
Key Takeaway Packing for college? We’ve made your college dorm checklist complete with everything you’ll need and want. Here are 28 must-have items for your freshman dorm room: Sheets Pillows Mattress Topper Blankets Towels Wall Art Lights Rugs Picture Frames Storage Portable Drawers Calendars & Planners Whiteboard Desk Organizers Laundry Hamper Lamp Power Strip Fan …
college comparisons

Pros and Cons of Public vs. Private Colleges

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
There’s plenty of myths and commonly held beliefs about public schools vs. private ones. But what are the concrete differences? What’s a misconception? Is there a difference between a state-funded school and a privately-funded one? Is one better than the other? Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each so you can better …
Students sitting in a huge university classroom seen from behind.
college majors & minors

What is Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies?

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on March 5, 2024
An Interdisciplinary studies major is any major field that has two or more distinct programs that are integrated through a unifying theme. A major benefit of an interdisciplinary major is that you can customize the major to suit your needs and develop a highly refined skill set. Examples of interdisciplinary studies can include: Fashion Design …
student life

Tips To Structuring Your First Year College Classes

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on May 1, 2025
Your first year at college can be daunting and a little confusing as you try to grapple with harder classes and new schedules. One of the many things you will have to learn is how to structure and schedule your classes. Cramming too many courses into a single day or taking only morning classes when …
Students walking around Harvard Yard.
college search

Reasons to Save Your Dream College Visit for Last

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
While you may be anxious to see your dream school in person as soon as possible, you may actually want to move that college to the back of the list when it comes time to visit each campus. There are quite a few reasons to do just that. You’ll Know How To Have a Successful …
student life

10 Habits To Start The High School Year Off Right

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on December 22, 2022
Whether you are a freshman or a senior who is already counting down the days until graduation, the beginning of the school year can be hectic, but you want to start off on the right foot! We’ve compiled 10 good habits to help you start your high school year off right. Get Enough Sleep Bragging …
college search

People You Should Meet During a College Visit

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022
During a college visit, you will most likely be meeting with a member of the admissions team or even an alumnus that will help you and your group view the school. While you probably have a ton of questions for them, you should also be designing questions for other people. These are just a few …

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