For many American Olympians, the journey to the world’s biggest winter sports stage starts long before they don the Stars and Stripes at the Opening Ceremony (or in today's case, the Closing Ceremonies). Often, it begins on a college campus, where elite coaching, competitive rivalries, snowy environments, and world-class facilities intersect to shape future medal contenders.

As the academic year progresses, a familiar sense of anticipation settles in for students and families alike: college application season is underway. Whether students are finalizing personal statements, requesting recommendation letters, or anxiously checking deadlines, this time of year marks the beginning of one of the most important transitions in a student’s educational journey.

The start of a new year feels like a fresh notebook—clean pages, endless possibilities, and a chance to reset. For students, January is the perfect time to reflect on what’s working, what isn’t, and how to build healthier habits that support both academic success and overall well-being. Healthy school habits aren’t about perfection; they’re about consistency, balance, and setting yourself up to thrive.