Starting college is both exciting and overwhelming, but the first year is filled with opportunities to grow academically, socially, and personally. From managing your time effectively to joining clubs and prioritizing mental health, these tips will help you navigate campus life with confidence and balance.

Choosing a college major can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. By combining self-assessment, career exploration, and input from advisors and professionals, students can identify majors that align with their passions, strengths, and long-term goals. From hidden gem majors to career-focused alternatives, the right path may be closer than you think.

Visiting a college campus is one of the most valuable steps in the selection process. Tours give students and families a firsthand look at campus life, from academics and facilities to the surrounding community. Beyond the official tour, conversations with students, professors, and admissions staff can reveal what makes each school unique. Taking notes, asking thoughtful questions, and exploring different aspects of the campus help students move beyond brochures and websites—providing real insights that can shape applications and future decisions.

The rivalry between the SAT and ACT has always resembled the classic Walgreens vs. CVS showdown—where one goes, the other follows. After the College Board rolled out major updates to the SAT in 2023, the ACT has now announced sweeping changes of its own, debuting in spring 2025. The new ACT will be shorter, feature optional science and writing sections, and allow students more time per question with shorter reading and English passages. While the test will still be scored on the familiar 1–36 scale, these updates raise big questions: is the ACT moving closer to the SAT, or carving out a fresh advantage for students looking for flexibility?

The SAT is going digital—and it’s more than just swapping pencils for screens. Starting in 2024, students will face a shorter, adaptive version of the test designed to better measure their skills. From new testing formats to preparation strategies, here’s what families need to know about the upcoming digital SAT.