Quincy Barber, Edwardina Beeko, Connor O’Chuida, Jordan Bynum, and Julia Mongan
Students all over the country face similar challenges. On April 30th, TU News reporting students hosted an event focused on financial literacy in honor of National Financial Literacy Month, supported by a student media grant from Solutions Journalism Network.
The event, part of Voices of Support, was hosted in the Cook Library Lobby and featured a financial advisor from the Career Center offering tips, along with financial trivia for students to test their knowledge.
The purpose was to raise awareness and empower students with the tools and confidence to make smart financial decisions, such as budgeting, saving, and avoiding debt.
Towson University students interviewed peers and staff for their advice on financial literacy. Freshman Amaya is determined to achieve financial independence, taking steps to secure her future.
The most common concern among students was where to seek help. Sophomores Tara Aragon and Arissa admitted to having little knowledge of available resources, often turning to YouTube for guidance.
Tara, a transfer student, discovered a club called “Money and Minorities,” but hadn’t explored other options.
Neither Tara nor Arissa had heard of the WhichWay app before the event. After learning about it, Tara prioritized budgeting, while Arissa focused on achieving financial goals and paying for college.
Day-to-day financial decisions also shape financial awareness.
“The basics of financial literacy, learning about credit and saving money, are important,” said Richard Eglin. “Managing Tiger Meals and keeping track of points throughout the week helps.” Towson student Branson Peters echoed this sentiment, saying pacing meal use throughout the academic year has helped him improve his financial skills.
Students frequently discussed when financial literacy education should begin. “If Towson required financial education for freshmen, it would prepare them for what’s ahead,” said psychology freshman Seliat Salau. “Especially freshmen and seniors as they transition into the next phase of life.” Junior mass communication student Hailey Ensor shared similar thoughts, acknowledging financial decisions can be stressful, though she doesn’t plan to seek more resources until senior year.
Samantha Rykiel, a senior Mass Communication student, says she would tell her freshman self to better prioritize expenses, making saving money her top priority.
*Edited by CoPilot*