Oct. 6, 2025
NEW BERN – Craven Community College (Craven CC), in partnership with the North Carolina State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) and NCWorks, will host its annual “Reality of Money®” event on Thursday, Oct. 9, offering high school students across Craven County an engaging opportunity to learn about financial literacy, job readiness, and career pathways.
The centerpiece of the event is SECU’s “Reality of Money” simulation, where students take on the role of working adults managing jobs, debt, and family obligations. As they move through various expense stations, guided by SECU and Craven CC volunteers, participants will make financial decisions designed to highlight the real-world challenges of balancing income with expenses.
“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 SECU Financial Education Manager Rachel House. “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.”
In addition to the financial simulation, students will also participate in:
Job Readiness Workshop: Led by NCWorks, this session covers resume building, career exploration, job-seeking resources, and professional dress tips.
Career & Technical Program Tours: Students will explore hands-on training opportunities offered at Craven CC, gaining exposure to programs that connect directly to in-demand careers in the region.
“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.
Through the collaboration of Craven County Schools, SECU, NCWorks, parents, and community volunteers, the program emphasizes the importance of preparing youth for both financial independence and future career success. Lunches will be provided at no cost to students attending the event, thanks to a generous sponsorship by Flatlands Jessup Insurance.
Students will leave the event with a better understanding of:
Importance of Good Credit – how credit impacts financial opportunities.
Advantage of Further Education – recognizing the long-term value of continuing education.
Smart Financial Decisions – making informed choices to establish a solid foundation for their future.
For more information about the "Reality of Money" event, please contact outreach@ncsecu.org.
