Today’s college students are no stranger to technology; most have had a laptop, iPhone, or iPad in their hands since before they could walk. But interestingly, rather than choosing the more modern (and often cheaper) digital textbook option, students are leaning toward purchasing the hard copy version. While this may be on-brand with the hipster chic style of many college attendees — think large glasses, retro cardigans, and scrunchies — what other explanations exist? Digital copies take up less space, are easier to update, and dramatically save paper. But college students continue to choose the hefty, hard-backed tome. Why are print textbooks better?

Continue reading

Spotting a Counterfeit Textbook

Counterfeit textbooks are a growing problem in higher education. The expanding online marketplace parallels an increase in third-party booksellers, increasing the risk of pirated materials. College students and other book buyers must learn to navigate the ever-complicated landscape and avoid purchasing counterfeit copies.

Continue reading

Once you’ve lived away from your parents, your old home (and perhaps hometown) feels different. You’ve changed, your friends from high school have probably changed, and you may even find that your bedroom has been converted to a guest room. Things may not be the same as you remember, but you can definitely still enjoy yourself while you’re home for the holidays. Just follow these holiday survival tips.

Continue reading

After months of filling out paperwork, writing essays, gathering test scores, and mailing applications, there’s one more hurdle to your college admissions process: interviews. Colleges and programs that require interviews use them to assess you as an individual and determine if you’re a good fit. You’re likely to get nervous in the days leading up to your interviews, but some preparation can help you build confidence and equip you for success. Follow these tips to nail this leg of the college admission process.

Continue reading

The cost of higher education can create barriers for young adults seeking a college degree. Textbooks, for example, pose a significant challenge to a struggling student’s finances. Concerns about these costs have led students and faculty to seek alternative ways to obtain books and other study materials. Free articles online and material from the library are part of the solution. However, purchasing traditional college textbooks remains a centerpiece of academia. So, why are textbooks so expensive? And what should students do? Read on to find the answers.

Continue reading

If you’re a college student struggling to make ends meet, try using your talents and resources to make some extra cash. You may not be able to work full-time, but you might be surprised at the odd jobs that are available. Begin by taking inventory of your special skills. If you’re willing to explore creative options, you’ll discover good financial opportunities. Regardless of your skills, here you may find the list of the best side hustles for college students: from babysitter to transcriber.

Continue reading