by Jenn Prange; News Editor
It is hard to believe Missouri is one of only four states requiring a semester of Personal Finance for graduation.
Counselors suggest students take Personal Finance as sophomores. The course equips students to manage money and avoid financial mistakes.
Most students their sophomore year begin thinking about getting jobs. So, wouldn’t you want to know what to do with your money? Personal Finance helps students make wise decisions about spending and saving their money.
Don’t just take my word for it. Personal Finance teacher Jean Driver, sums up personal finance class as, “Building students to become responsible conformed consumers and contributing members of society.”
Student spending and budgeting is enormously important. Decisions made during adolescence will carry on into adulthood. Most students can’t wait to get out of the house now. Can you imagine living in your parents basement in your thirties because you weren’t smart about money?
“The main thing students need to think now is save! Pay yourself first,” said Driver.
As high schoolers, students either work for their money or get it from their parents. Personal finance classes are meant to help students invest their money wisely now for the future.
Knowing the difference between needs and wants can be one of the main factors involved in spending.
Colleen Matthews, senior, recognizes this challenge.
“I have more wants than needs,”said Matthews.
Materialistic attitudes flood the halls of Mehlville; student attire is not just about what is stylish, but about what designer products and name brands are on the tags.
After coming back from winter break, many teens notice students with new items that are obviously expensive.
Spending serious cash on clothing, jewelry, and handbags from the “right” designers has become more popular among teens.
“Name brands are important. I would spend a lot of money to stay trendy for sure,” said Matthews.
Total U.S. credit card debt equals $793.1 Billion. Do not
become a contributor to the economic issues in our country. Be smart about your money now and save it. That Michael Kors purse and new Uggs won’t be looking as nice when you can’t afford to pay your rent in ten years.
Personal Finance cannot fix a materialistic mindset.
However, it can help high schoolers start making educated spending decisions and start thinking long-term.
Spending decisions will only get harder as teens grow older. Gaining the right knowledge now and taking advantage of Personal Finance can help teens later in life. Making wise decisions about where students invest their money can lead to a lifetime of success.
