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

Growing up, I did not have much of a 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?

Serving as an SFEPD Student Ambassador was both rewarding and enlightening. I learned the value of communication and patience while helping my peers grasp financial concepts. It gave me a sense of fulfillment to see them improve their financial literacy.

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

Integrating personal finance seminars and classes into college curricula prepares students for the financial realities they’ll face after graduation, empowering them to navigate the complexities of the modern financial world with confidence.

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

Middle School, because that is when children beginning to need their own money at school to go to fairs and stuff so they will be able to understand the importance of their finances.

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

If I could share one financial tip with college students, it would be to start building good financial habits early.

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 several key lessons that have helped me manage my money better. Firstly, I realized the importance of budgeting and tracking expenses diligently. By understanding where my money goes, I can make more informed decisions and prioritize my spending accordingly. Secondly, I learned the significance of saving and investing for the future. Whether it’s building an emergency fund, contributing to a retirement account, or investing in stocks or mutual funds, I now recognize the importance of setting aside money for long-term goals. Lastly, I learned to be cautious about taking on debt and to only borrow what I truly need and can comfortably repay. This mindset has helped me avoid unnecessary financial stress and maintain a healthy credit score.

As I approach graduation, planning for my financial future has become a top priority. I understand the importance of setting clear financial goals, such as paying off student loans, saving for a down payment on a home, and investing for retirement. By starting early and being disciplined in my financial habits, I am confident that I can build a secure and prosperous future for myself.

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

Currently, I am pursuing a career in technology and looking to join the Alabama Army National Guard. Serving as a Student Ambassador and an SFEPD Student Assistant have equipped me with the skills, knowledge, and mindset necessary to pursue my career goals with confidence and enthusiasm. I am grateful for the lessons learned and the growth achieved.