Approximately 150 Frederick County High School (FCPS) students participated in a real-life version of the “Game of Life,” when Nymeo Federal Credit Union partnered with the Maryland | DC Credit Union Association, Hood College, FCPS and other credit unions and organizations held a Financial Reality Fair at Hood College’s Athletic Center. The Reality Fair provided students with an interactive, hands-on approach to managing money and juggling a budget.
“The Reality Fair provided students with a unique perspective on money management and gave them the proper tools to make smart financial decisions that will help them once they begin life outside of school,” said Vicki Johnston, the President and CEO of Nymeo. “Nymeo was pleased to be able to provide this eye-opening experience to students.”
Over 60 volunteers from Nymeo, local businesses, organizations, Hood College, FCPS and other credit unions provided support and assistance during the event. The participating students arrived at the Reality Fair with assigned careers, based on their interests, along with a salary. The students then had to determine how to live within their means; all while paying for necessities such as housing, utilities, transportation, clothing, food, and other needs.
“Financial literacy is a critical life skill for students,” says FCPS Superintendent Dr. Terry Alban. “Events like this, which make financial education fun and interactive, make a real impact in the lives of young people. FCPS is grateful to Nymeo and all the partners who made this event possible. We’re proud to partner with them.”
Aside from basic needs, students had to consider additional spending for entertainment, pets, memberships, and other extra expenses that occur in life. Students were also required to spin a “Wheel of Life,” which caused well-planned budgets to go askew with unexpected expenses or windfalls that such as losing ones’ job or getting a salary raise.
“Hood College applauds Nymeo for providing this important learning opportunity for students; we are proud to host and support this event,” said Hood College President Andrea Chapdelaine, Ph.D. “It gave the students an opportunity to visit college and learn that one of the best investments they can make in their financial future is a college education.”
During the Reality Fair, students recorded data on a customized-budget sheet and then met with a financial counselor to review their current financial picture and discuss how their choices affected their budget – and their life.
This was the first Financial Reality Fair held in Frederick County. Aside from the Reality Fair, Nymeo has worked with FCPS in the areas of financial education including providing online financial literacy programs for teachers and students, in-class workshops, supporting various educational enrichment programs, offering college scholarships and sponsoring several high school Millionaire’s Clubs.
