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Today’s top stories

Secretary of State Marco Rubio says he is optimistic about reaching an agreement between Russia and Ukraine. Yesterday, U.S. and Ukrainian officials met in Geneva to discuss President Trump’s peace plan. The president has set a deadline of Thursday for Ukraine to agree to the 28-point plan. European leaders are skeptical and believe the plan needs further development.

Ukraine Peace Plan & Greene’s Resignation: Key Updates

Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a press conference following closed-door talks on a U.S. plan to end the war in Ukraine at the U.S. Mission in Geneva on November 23,2025. (Fabrice Coffrini/AFP via Getty Images)

Europeans feel left out of the recent peace negotiations, despite their involvement in some meetings. This is due to a lack of consultation with European heads of state during the plan’s drafting. This oversight is important,considering the plan relies on considerable commitments from European nations – billions for Ukraine’s reconstruction and participation in an emergency blueprint should the proposal be violated. The kremlin has yet to comment on the Geneva talks, and the U.S. is preparing for separate discussions with Russia.

In other news, rep.Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Georgia Republican, unexpectedly announced her resignation from Congress, effective January 5th. The congresswoman gained recognition as a prominent supporter of Trump.

The Real cost of College: It’s More Than Just Tuition

For many, the dream of higher education is intertwined with the reality of mounting debt. While tuition costs grab headlines, the total cost of attending college has skyrocketed, encompassing far more than just classroom fees.Understanding these hidden expenses is crucial for students and families planning for the future.

tuition: The Starting Point, But Not the Whole Story

Let’s start with the obvious: tuition. According to the Education Data Initiative, the average cost of tuition and fees for the 2023-2024 academic year is $10,940 for public four-year in-state students and $43,051 for private four-year students. However, this is just the beginning.

Room and Board: A Significant Expense

Where students live and eat constitutes a major portion of college costs. Room and board averages around $13,270 per year for on-campus students. Off-campus living can seem cheaper, but factors like rent, utilities, and groceries quickly add up. Many students underestimate these ongoing expenses.

Books, Supplies, and Technology

Textbooks remain stubbornly expensive, even with the rise of digital options. Budgeting $1,000 – $2,000 per year for books and supplies is a reasonable estimate.Moreover,many courses now require students to have their own laptops,software,and reliable internet access,adding another layer of cost.

Transportation: Getting to and From

Whether commuting daily or traveling home for breaks,transportation costs can be substantial. Car ownership includes expenses like gas, insurance, and maintenance. Public transportation passes or frequent flights can also strain a budget.

Personal Expenses: The Unexpected Costs

This category encompasses everything from laundry and toiletries to entertainment and social activities. While seemingly small,these costs accumulate quickly. Students should realistically assess their spending habits and factor in a buffer for unexpected needs.

Hidden Fees: The Fine Print Matters

Colleges frequently enough tack on various fees – activity fees, health services fees, technology fees, and more. These can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars per year.Carefully review the fee schedule to understand what you’re paying for.

The Impact of Location: Cost of Living variations

The city or town where a college is located significantly impacts the overall cost. Living in a major metropolitan area like New York city or Los Angeles will be considerably more expensive than attending school in a rural area. Consider the local cost of living when evaluating college options.

Planning and Resources

Navigating the financial landscape of college requires careful planning. Here are some resources:

* FAFSA (Free Submission for Federal student Aid): Essential for accessing federal grants, loans, and work-study programs.
* Scholarships: Numerous scholarships are available based on merit, need, and specific criteria.
* Financial Aid Offices: College financial aid offices can provide personalized guidance and assistance.
* Budgeting Tools: Utilize budgeting apps and spreadsheets to track expenses and stay on track.

Ultimately,the true cost of college extends far beyond tuition.By understanding all the associated expenses and proactively planning, students and families can make informed decisions and minimize the burden of student debt.

## The Rising Cost of College: Why Are Tuition Fees So High?

*NPR’s series* [*Cost of Living: The Price We Pay*](https://www.npr.org/series/g-s1-89066/cost-of-living) *is examining what’s driving price increases and how people are coping after years of stubborn inflation.*

Over the past 30 years, the average tuition for public and private four-year colleges has roughly doubled when adjusted for inflation. Many families do not pay the full tuition amount as students receive financial or merit aid. That reduced cost is known as the net price. But even the net price is higher than it was two decades ago. [What’s causing the cost of college to rise](https://www.npr.org/2025/11/20/nx-s1-5600854/college-costs-have-risen-dramatically-in-the-last-20-years-heres-why) so quickly?

* 💰 Reduction in state funding has been a significant issue for public institutions.as legislatures cut funding,colleges were compelled to increase tuition to offset the shortfall.
* 💰 A high price tag can dictate prestige, and there are wea

The Rise of ‘Quiet Quitting’ and What It Means for Work

For years, the hustle culture reigned supreme. Employees were expected to go above and beyond, consistently exceeding expectations, and dedicating their lives to their jobs. But a new trend is emerging, challenging this long-held norm: “quiet quitting.”

Quiet quitting doesn’t mean actually quitting your job. Rather, it’s about doing exactly what your job description requires – and nothing more. It’s a rejection of the idea that employees need to constantly prove their worth through excessive work, long hours, and unpaid labor.

The term gained traction on TikTok, where users began sharing videos about setting boundaries at work and refusing to take on tasks outside their defined roles. It resonated with a generation of workers,notably Millennials and Gen Z,who are increasingly prioritizing work-life balance and mental health.

Why is quiet quitting happening now?

Several factors are contributing to this shift. The pandemic forced many to re-evaluate their priorities, leading to a greater emphasis on personal well-being. Burnout is also a significant driver, as employees feel overwhelmed and undervalued.

“people are realizing that their worth isn’t tied to their productivity,” says organizational psychologist Dr. Elizabeth Lombardo. “They’re pushing back against the expectation to constantly be ‘on’ and are reclaiming their time and energy.”

Furthermore, some argue that quiet quitting is a response to a lack of recognition and reward for going the extra mile. If extra effort doesn’t translate into promotions, raises, or even acknowledgment, employees may feel less motivated to consistently exceed expectations.

What does this mean for employers?

Quiet quitting isn’t necessarily a sign of disengagement, but it is a signal that something is amiss. Employers need to address the underlying issues driving this trend.

Here are some key steps:

* Clear Job Descriptions: Ensure roles and responsibilities are clearly defined.
* realistic Expectations: Avoid overloading employees and setting unrealistic deadlines.
* Recognition and Reward: Acknowledge and reward employees for their contributions.
* Open communication: Foster a culture of open communication where employees feel agreeable expressing their concerns.
* Focus on Well-being: Prioritize employee well-being and offer resources to support mental health.

Ultimately, quiet quitting is a wake-up call for employers. It’s a reminder that a happy and productive workforce is one that feels valued, respected, and supported. Ignoring this trend could lead to decreased morale, lower productivity, and increased turnover.

Half of Women Experience Hair Loss – Here’s What to Know and how to Find Support

By some estimates, half of all women experience hair loss at some point in their lives. while there are some scientifically backed hair loss solutions, not every remedy is effective for everyone or for every type of hair loss.

Here’s what to know:

* Hair sheds in a staggered pattern, so a clump in the drain doesn’t mean you should worry about bald spots.
* The most common cause of permanent hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, which typically starts at the top of the head in women. If you part your hair, you may notice that the area is widening, showing more of your scalp.
* If you are uncertain about what type of hair loss you have, an in-person visit may be your best option to start with. Though, telehealth companies can be a good option when a dermatologist has a long waitlist for appointments.

Living Better is a special series about what it takes to stay healthy in America.

The Rise of ‘Rage Cleaning’ and Why It Feels So Good

Have you ever felt the urge to scrub, polish, and declutter with an almost frantic energy? You’re not alone. A trend known as “rage cleaning” has been gaining popularity,particularly on social media platforms like TikTok,where videos showcasing intense cleaning sessions have amassed millions of views. But what exactly is rage cleaning, and why are so many people turning to it as a way to cope?

Simply put, rage cleaning is using the physical act of cleaning as an outlet for pent-up emotions – frustration, anger, stress, or anxiety.It’s not about achieving a spotless home (though that can be a bonus); it’s about channeling negative energy into a productive, tangible task.

“It’s a way to regain a sense of control when life feels chaotic,” explains dr. nicole Avena, a health psychologist and assistant professor at the University of Florida. “when you’re feeling overwhelmed, cleaning can provide a sense of accomplishment and order.”

The appeal is rooted in psychology. Cleaning triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. The visible results of cleaning – a sparkling kitchen, a neatly organized closet – provide immediate gratification.Furthermore, the repetitive motions involved in cleaning can be meditative, offering a temporary escape from racing thoughts.

While rage cleaning can be a healthy coping mechanism for some, experts caution against relying on it as the only way to manage tough emotions. “It’s significant to address the underlying issues that are causing the rage in the first place,” says Dr. Avena. “Cleaning shouldn’t be a replacement for therapy or other forms of emotional processing.”

If you find yourself frequently needing to rage clean, it might be a sign that you’re dealing with chronic stress or unresolved emotional issues. In those cases, seeking professional help is recommended.

But for a temporary release of tension, grabbing a scrub brush and tackling a messy room can be surprisingly therapeutic.Just remember to listen to your body, take breaks when needed, and don’t push yourself to exhaustion.