Growing up, what kind of relationship did you have with money?

Growing up I had a stable relationship with money.

What was it like to serve as an SFEPD Student Ambassador teaching your peers about personal finance, and what did you learn about yourself from this experience?

Being part of an organization that aligns with my future goals feels incredible. Each PowerPoint presentation carries a powerful message with a strong purpose, demanding attention and encouraging learning. I’ve learned that stepping into unfamiliar territory isn’t necessarily a bad thing—it’s a valuable learning experience. It takes time to truly internalize a lesson, and I’ve come to understand that every student has unique goals and needs when it comes to financial stability. What I enjoy most is practicing my public speaking skills, becoming more comfortable presenting, and connecting with my audience through my PowerPoints.

What are the major benefits of students learning personal finance skills through seminars and classes during their college years?

Students benefit greatly from the awareness and guidance provided, whether it’s learning about mortgages, taxes, credit, student loans, or other financial topics. They can apply this knowledge in real-world situations, enabling them to make efficient and logical decisions when managing their cash and credit.

When should students start learning basic concepts about personal finance (in elementary, middle school, high school, or college) and why?

Students should start in elementary school.

If you could share one financial tip with college students, what would it be?

To start tackling your financial debt and take control of it now, know your options. Be prepared for your financial future.

As a result of your Student Ambassador experience, what key lessons did you learn to help you manage your money better and is planning for your financial future an important goal after college?

A few key points I learned include how to choose the right loan that best suits my needs as a college student, understanding the differences between variable and fixed interest rates, and distinguishing between federal and private loans. I’ve realized that planning for my financial future starts now, not after graduation. There’s so much valuable time I can utilize during this period to set myself up for success.

How did serving as a Student Ambassador help you prepare for your future and your career goals?

My career goals include owning four businesses, maintaining good credit, managing my finances effectively through budgeting, and owning a condo within the next few years. This experience has encouraged me to start re-evaluating my future and refining my business goals.