financial literacy by Alexis

financial literacy by Alexis - June 2025 Scholarship Essay

An elective that should be a required class is financial literacy. In today’s world, many students graduate high school without understanding basic financial principles such as budgeting, credit, taxes, loans, and saving. This lack of knowledge can lead to long-term struggles with debt, poor spending habits, and missed opportunities for financial growth.

By making financial literacy a required course, schools would empower students with real-world skills that they can apply immediately and throughout their lives. Students would learn how to manage a paycheck, build credit responsibly, avoid common financial traps, and plan for major milestones like college, buying a car, or renting an apartment. These lessons are vital for becoming independent, responsible adults.

Financial literacy is not just about money—it’s about building confidence, setting goals, and making informed decisions. In a society where economic inequality is a challenge, this course could help level the playing field by giving every student the tools to succeed financially. Ultimately, understanding money management is a life skill everyone should have, and schools should prioritize teaching it just like math, science, or reading.

In conclusion, a required financial literacy course would do more than just teach students how to manage money—it would prepare them to navigate the real world with confidence, responsibility, and vision. It’s time for education to reflect the practical needs of adulthood, and financial literacy is the key to unlocking a more financially secure and empowered generation.