Workshop Teaches High-Schoolers Facts About Life in the Real World

The “Welcome to the Real-World” program returned to Olney Wednesday, May 8, to teach high-schoolers how to make smart financial decisions and how to maintain financial stability when they embark on their journey to adulthood.

Ben Bernanke commented on financial literacy, “The financial preparedness of our nation’s youth is essential to their well-being and of vital importance to our economic future.”

Here is how the “Welcome to the Real World” simulation works according to Texas A & M AgriLife Extension:

Students assume they have completed the necessary educational requirements aligned with their career choice. Other assumptions are single, 25 years old, independent with no financial support from the family or friends. The students choose a career, and they determine the monthly salary. After meeting the requirements, students proceed through the “Real World” simulation, deducting taxes, establishing savings and spending their monthly salary of the essential and luxury items that reflect the career and lifestyle they have chosen.

Family & Community Health Extension Agent Penny Berend said this was the second time hosting this event. “We are excited for the continued partnerships and support from Graham and Olney Interbank.”

Students who attended the event had an opportunity to learn by doing as they are required to balance their expenses and their incomes, which are associated with daily life according to Angela McCorkle, Extension Program Agent with Texas A & M AgriLife Extension Service.

“It is a good opportunity to know what you’re faced with in the real world. This is a realistic simulation, and I am glad I could participate.” Destiney Gossett “I think the program is a good way to help young people with their future lives and help them budget. I’ve learned that life is expensive.” Grant Turner