How ‘Get a Life’ simulation teaches Harrison County students personal finance

Mark Eisenberg
Photo: Finoracle.me

West Virginia State Treasurer’s Office introduces “Get a Life” personal finance simulation to Harrison County Schools

For the first time ever, the West Virginia State Treasurer’s Office brought their “Get a Life” personal finance simulation to Harrison County Schools. This program aims to give students a taste of adult life and the financial responsibilities that come with it. By assigning students various life situations, such as a job with a specific salary, a spouse, and a child, they are challenged to manage their finances and make decisions about rent, insurance, utilities, groceries, and more.

Students at Lincoln Middle School experience the realities of financial decision-making

Students at Lincoln Middle School in Harrison County recently participated in the “Get a Life” personal finance simulation. The gymnasium was transformed into a simulation of real-life scenarios, complete with booths manned by community volunteers who work in the respective industries they represent. Students were tasked with making decisions about where to live and how to allocate their finances, provoking conversations about the challenges their parents face on a daily basis.

Lessons from the “Get a Life” simulation: learning the stress and importance of financial responsibility

The “Get a Life” personal finance simulation not only challenged students to make financial decisions but also highlighted the stress and importance of financial responsibility. Students expressed their feelings of stress and difficulty in paying bills and making their money stretch for the entire month. However, they also gained confidence for the future by experiencing the realities of adult life and understanding the significance of spending wisely.

Student perspectives: advice on financial management and the value of the simulation

Eighth-grade student Jacob Holt shared his advice on financial management, urging people to avoid wasting their money on unnecessary expenses and to spend wisely. He emphasized the importance of making smart financial choices, a lesson he learned through the “Get a Life” simulation. Other students also expressed their appreciation for the simulation, noting that it gave them confidence for the future and taught them valuable lessons about financial responsibility.

The success of the “Get a Life” personal finance simulation in Harrison County Schools

The introduction of the “Get a Life” personal finance simulation in Harrison County Schools has been hailed as a success. Together with the West Virginia State Treasurer’s Office, the County Liaison Specialist for Career Tech Ed Programs and Financial Education Specialist involved in the program have witnessed the positive impact it has made on students. The simulation has not only provided students with a glimpse of the realities of adulthood but has also equipped them with important financial knowledge and skills that will be valuable in their future endeavors.

Analyst comment

Positive

As an analyst, this news suggests that the introduction of the “Get a Life” personal finance simulation in Harrison County Schools has been successful. The simulation has had a positive impact on students, providing them with important financial knowledge and skills for their future endeavors. It is likely that the market for financial education programs will continue to grow and be in demand as more schools recognize the importance of teaching students about financial responsibility.

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Mark Eisenberg is a financial analyst and writer with over 15 years of experience in the finance industry. A graduate of the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, Mark specializes in investment strategies, market analysis, and personal finance. His work has been featured in prominent publications like The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, and Forbes. Mark’s articles are known for their in-depth research, clear presentation, and actionable insights, making them highly valuable to readers seeking reliable financial advice. He stays updated on the latest trends and developments in the financial sector, regularly attending industry conferences and seminars. With a reputation for expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness, Mark Eisenberg continues to contribute high-quality content that helps individuals and businesses make informed financial decisions.​⬤