college admissions

High School Sophomores: End of School Year Checklist

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Congratulations on ticking off another year in your high school experience! As you finish up your finals and look forward to spring break, it’s important to remember there are a few other things you need to accomplish – either right after finals or sometime this summer. Your end of school year checklist should include researching …

college admissions

History of Affirmative Action in College Admissions

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

You’ve likely heard the term “affirmative action” before in regard to the workplace. Did you know it can play a role in college admissions as well? Here’s a breakdown on affirmative action in college admissions, how it came to be, and more: What is Affirmative Action? Affirmative action refers to policies that are designed to …

college admissions

Boost Your College Acceptance Odds: Summer Programs

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

You may not be in school for the summer, but did you know you can absolutely use your summer vacation to help with your college acceptance odds? There are plenty of activities you can do during this “off season” that will look great on college applications. So, what summer programs look best for college? Check …

college admissions

Etiquette in Your College Acceptance

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on March 8, 2024

Congratulations on receiving your college acceptance letters! Before you go make that social media post about it though, wait a minute. You should celebrate your achievements, but it’s important to be cognizant of others’ feelings, especially if they didn’t get in. Here’s how you can practice proper etiquette and be tasteful with your announcement and …

college admissions

How to Prepare for College in 10th Grade: A Quick Guide

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

10th Grade College Planning Checklist Start Thinking About Your Future Take the PSAT Get Involved in the Community College prep isn’t something that starts in junior year. Younger students, including 9th and 10th graders, can (and should) be taking steps to prepare for college. How to prepare for college in 10th grade starts with thinking …

college admissions

What NOT To Do in An Admissions Interview

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

We recently covered how to properly prepare for an admissions interview, but do you know what you shouldn’t be doing? When it comes to these meetings, you absolutely shouldn’t be showing up late, dressing inappropriately, seeming disinterested, or chewing gum. DON’T Go In Unprepared One of the worst things you can do when it comes …

college admissions, questions & answers

How To Prepare for A College Interview

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on January 22, 2024

Not all colleges require interviews, but if you applied to one that does, it’s not unusual to be a little intimidated. Lots of questions could likely be asked. To ease your nerves, we’ve put together a list of questions you can expect plus seven preparation tips. As with any big event, the key to being …

college admissions

How to Turn Down a College Acceptance Offer

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on February 7, 2025

As National College Decision Day (May 1) approaches, it’s time to make some potentially tough decisions. You’ll need to choose which college you’ll be attending in the Fall. That doesn’t mean you should only notify your chosen school. Instead, it’s recommended to politely let the other colleges know of your decision to decline. Below, we’ve …

college admissions

Juniors: Things Your School Counselor Wants You to Know

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on December 22, 2022

Juniors in high school: Have you talked to your guidance counselor recently? Many only see their assigned counselor once a year as dictated by the school. There are 3 common things your school counselor wants you to know. 3 Things your school counselor wants you to know They’re There to Help You You likely see …

college admissions

Junior Year Checklist: Your College Prep Guide

By Hilary CairnsLast updated on July 7, 2025

Key Takeaways: Start listing colleges, majors, and careers that interest you during your junior year of high school. Most juniors take the PSAT in October, but plan to take your first SAT/ACT in the spring. Talk to your parents about affording college and start creating a financial plan to help you tackle the cost. College …