Improve your chances of getting into college,

ASAP. College can be quite expensive and even putting aside a little money at a time an make a difference over time. Research options with Tax benefits, such as a 529 plan and see how you can contribute directly from your paycheck. If you never see the money in your account, it will be much more painless. Another option is to ask family members to make contributions to a college account rather than buying an expensive gift each year. If this starts early on, your child will appreciate the smaller gifts and as they get older understand how this money will help them in the future.