You must use Self Service to update iPhoto and iMovie in particular. To update College-distributed apps go to Applications > Self Service > Apple Apps-Mavericks. Starting with Mavericks these apps will include what was previously grouped in the iLife and iWork suites (e.g., iPhoto, iMovie, Pages, Keynote). You will not be able to use Software Update to update College-distributed apps. Make sure that Allow apps download from anywhere is selected.
Follow our instructions to update or install Java.
See our instructions on how to back up your data. You must make sure you have a back-up of your data.