NEW BERN, N.C. — Craven Community College (Craven CC), in partnership with State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU), will host its annual Reality of Money® event Tuesday, Oct. 27, on the college’s New Bern Campus.
The event will take place in the Student Lounge, located in Ward Hall, and offer two sessions, from 8:55 to 10:25 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. All Craven CC students and employees are welcome to participate.
Reality of Money gives participants a firsthand look at the financial responsibilities of adulthood. During the simulation, students assume the roles of working adults with jobs, debt, families and everyday expenses. Volunteers guide them through expense stations, where they must make decisions about how to manage their income and meet their obligations before their next payday.
“Financial education is an important focus for SECU and we are pleased to work side by side with our schools across the state to provide engaging learning opportunities for students,” said Rachel House, SECU vice president of financial education and community impact. “The Reality of Money simulation is a fun, practical exercise that gives teens an eye-opening view of personal finance in the working world and helps them have a greater understanding of the importance of sound money management.”
The experience emphasizes three lessons: how good credit affects financial opportunities, the value of education after high school, and the importance of making informed financial decisions. By connecting these concepts to everyday situations, the simulation helps students consider how their choices today can shape their financial future.
Approximately 120 students will attend from New Bern High School, West Craven High School and Havelock High School. Reality of Money also includes visits with Admissions, the Academic Skills Center, Disability Services, and classroom spaces utilized for business administration classes.
“This event not only equips students with essential money management skills, but also opens their eyes to the career and educational opportunities available right here in Craven County,” said Matthew Berg, dean of Career & Technical Programs at Craven CC.
The event brings together education and community partners to help students prepare for financial independence and consider the connections between education, employment and household income.
For more information about Reality of Money, contact SECU’s Outreach department at outreach@ncsecu.org.
About Reality of Money®
The Reality of Money® program was designed to give students a sneak peek at what life will be like as a wage-earning, bill-paying, fiscally responsible adult. They are given a random profile which details their occupation, education level, family situation, and monthly salary. Throughout the simulation students choose their housing, transportation, grocery, childcare, entertainment, and seven other categories within a typical spending plan. The “Stuff Happens” station introduces unexpected situations into the scenario. The goals of the activity are to teach students to live within, or below their means, to learn the impact credit can have on their way of living, the importance of furthering education beyond high school for a successful future, and developing money management skills will help avoid many financial pitfalls.