Financial Literacy Should Be a Required Class by Daniel

Financial Literacy Should Be a Required Class by Daniel - June 2025 Scholarship Essay

If I could choose one elective or extracurricular activity to become a required class, it would be financial literacy. Understanding money—how to budget, save, invest, build credit, and avoid debt—is a life skill that every student needs, regardless of their background or future career path. Whether someone plans to be an entrepreneur, a mechanic, a teacher, or an artist, everyone will have to manage their finances. Yet, this essential knowledge is often left out of the standard school curriculum.

Too often, students graduate knowing how to solve complex math equations but not how to balance a checkbook, manage a bank account, or apply for a loan. As a result, many young adults fall into financial traps early in life—overspending on credit cards, taking on unnecessary debt, or failing to save for emergencies. These mistakes can lead to long-term consequences that affect everything from mental health to housing and job opportunities. A lack of financial knowledge can make people feel overwhelmed and unprepared for adult life.

Financial literacy classes would prepare students to make smart, informed decisions about money and help them build the confidence needed to handle real-world financial responsibilities. Students would learn about the importance of credit scores, the basics of taxes, how student loans work, and how to create a personal budget. They would also be introduced to long-term financial planning, such as saving for retirement or investing in stocks. These lessons would help students build a stronger foundation for adulthood and increase their chances of long-term success.

Just like reading and writing, understanding how money works is essential to becoming a capable, independent adult. Making financial literacy a required class would empower the next generation to not only survive in today’s economy—but to truly thrive and make wise choices for their future.