
SFEPD Student Ambassador
Benedict College
Hometown: Freeport, The Bahamas
Growing up, what kind of relationship did you have with money?
I had a fairly good relationship with money because whenever I would receive it, my parents would guide me to save it and encourage me to spend it responsibly.
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 an SFEPD Student Ambassador was a fulfilling experience. Teaching my peers about personal finance allowed me to deepen my understanding of the subject while also fostering a sense of responsibility towards helping others. Through this experience, I learned the importance of effective communication and patience. Interacting with fellow students, I discovered a spectrum of financial literacy levels, highlighting the need for tailored educational approaches. What I enjoyed the most was witnessing the “aha” moments when students grasped key financial concepts and felt empowered to take control of their finances.
What are the major benefits of students learning personal finance skills through seminars and classes during their college years?
Learning personal finance skills during college equips students with essential life skills that have far-reaching benefits. It enables them to make informed financial decisions, manage debt effectively, and plan for their future. Additionally, understanding personal finance fosters a sense of financial responsibility and independence, setting students up for success in both their personal and professional lives.
When should students start learning basic concepts about personal finance (in elementary, middle school, high school, or college) and why?
Basic concepts about personal finance should be introduced as early as elementary school. Starting at a young age instills healthy financial habits and allows ample time for concepts to be reinforced and built upon throughout middle school, high school, and college. Early exposure helps demystify money matters and empowers young people to make sound financial decisions as they navigate various stages of life.
If you could share one financial tip with college students, what would it be?
One crucial financial tip for college students is to create and stick to a budget. Tracking expenses and prioritizing needs over wants can help avoid unnecessary debt and promote financial stability. Additionally, establishing an emergency fund can provide a safety net during unexpected financial challenges.
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?
As a Student Ambassador, I learned the importance of practicing what I preach. Implementing budgeting techniques and setting financial goals became integral to my personal finance strategy. Planning for my financial future is now a top priority post-graduation, and I recognize the significance of saving, investing wisely, and building a strong financial foundation for long-term stability and success.
How did serving as a Student Ambassador help you prepare for your future and your career goals?
My career goals revolve around financial education and empowerment. Serving as a Student Ambassador and an SFEPD Student Assistant provided invaluable hands-on experience in teaching, communication, and leadership. These roles equipped me with practical skills and insights into the financial industry, laying a solid foundation for pursuing my career aspirations. I aim to continue promoting financial literacy and helping others achieve financial wellness through education and advocacy.