Students in the NTCC Work4College Program participated in the annual Money Matters financial literacy simulation on Tuesday, July 7, in the Student Union Building. The interactive event gives students a hands-on look at real-world budgeting and personal finance while helping them prepare for life beyond college.
During the simulation, students were assigned careers, incomes, and family situations before visiting a variety of stations representing common monthly expenses such as housing, transportation, insurance, groceries, technology, childcare, and entertainment. Volunteers helped participants make financial decisions, adjust their budgets, and navigate unexpected expenses, providing valuable insight into the true cost of living.
"At NTCC, we believe financial literacy is one of the most important life skills students can develop," said Mason May, Director of Work4College. "Money Matters gives our students the opportunity to experience real-life financial decisions in a fun, engaging environment before they face those challenges on their own. We are grateful to everyone who volunteered their time to make this experience possible."
Special thanks go to Richard Bonney and Marifer Zuniga with the Mount Pleasant-Titus County Chamber of Commerce for volunteering at this year's event, along with the many community members, faculty, and staff who gave their time to staff the simulation stations and mentor students throughout the exercise.
The Money Matters simulation is just one of many professional development opportunities offered through the Work4College program each summer. In addition to earning money for college, participants gain valuable workplace experience and life skills designed to prepare them for long-term success.
For more information about the Work4College program, contact Mason May at mmay@ntcc.edu, call 903-434-8246, or visit Work4College.com.
