Old dad, I was in a somewhat similar situation at my UC, I had a regent's scholarship that came with perks like early registration but a very high gpa requirement too. So I was the only freshman in what were supposed to be lower level survey classes that ended up being full of upperclassman finally able/willing to take them... Scary crash course the first term but it really helped me take off with college work and take full advantage of my time there. I worked HARD but also began dating my now husband so it couldn't have been too bad smile it sounds like your son is doing really well! Let him know you're supporting him but I bet he thrives. And make sure he takes some real breaks when he can wink