Financial Reality Fair

Class of 2024 Gets a Head Start on Financial Reality at Staples High School!

We're thrilled to announce that Mutual Security Credit Union recently partnered with Staples High School in Westport to host a Financial Reality Fair for their graduating seniors – the Class of 2024! This exciting event provided these young adults with hands-on experience managing personal finances, ensuring they're well-equipped to navigate the exciting, yet sometimes complex, world after high school.

The Financial Reality Fair offered an immersive simulation of real-life budgeting. Students got to choose their dream careers, received a simulated salary, and then visited booths representing various expenses like housing, transportation, groceries, and even entertainment. With each booth, they had to make crucial spending decisions, balancing their needs and wants while staying within their budget.

This interactive experience allowed them to:

• Grasp the cost of living: Students gained a realistic understanding of how much everyday expenses can add up, helping them prioritize and make informed financial choices.
• Practice budgeting skills: Balancing a checkbook might seem like a relic of the past, but the core principles of budgeting remain crucial. The fair helped them develop budgeting skills that will benefit them for years.
• Make responsible financial decisions: Through simulated scenarios, students learned the importance of responsible borrowing, saving for the future, and making informed purchases.

Many students expressed surprise at how quickly their simulated budgets filled up. This valuable insight will empower them to make informed financial decisions as they take on new responsibilities and transition from high school to college, careers, or independent living.

Mutual Security Credit Union believes financial literacy is an essential life skill. We're proud to have partnered with Staples High School to equip the Class of 2024 with the knowledge and confidence they need to kick off their next chapter on a strong financial footing. Congratulations, graduating seniors – you're one step ahead of the game!

Looking to learn more about financial literacy resources? We offer a variety of educational tools and programs to help you manage your money and achieve your financial goals. Visit your local branch or browse our website www.mscu.net to find out more!