I have not heard of anything regarding curriculum changes. If anything, changes tend to be gradual. 2nd years have told us our schedule is laid out better. I am happy with the amount of time we have between exams.
From what I understand, most 2nd years dedicate 1-2 months to study for boards the summer after 2nd year. A number of them that I have talked with started their board prep already during the school year. How many hours/day they spend I'm unsure. Maybe one can chime in here.
You can live relatively cheap close to campus. Some of my classmates are paying ~$600/mo across the street from school and others ~$400 split between roommate(s). Imperial apartments, Windsor Terrace, and Grand Prix are directly across the street, to name a few. 3000 Grand is the nicest place within a minute walk to campus.
Here is a list of
housing in the area to get you started.