Students will be given the chance to gain experience and knowledge on how to save money and budget at the upcoming financial reality fair. 

Students can learn these tips and more at the second annual financial reality fair, which is sponsored by Pennsylvania’s Credit Unions and PSECU, will be held on Thursday, Nov. 7, in the Ceddia Union Building Multipurpose Room A from 3:30-5 p.m.

Participants will gain practical personal finance skills through fun “real world” activities, according to Allison Gayer, PSECU campus community manager, 

Students will enter the event with a desired job in mind. Based on their chosen job, students will be given a set salary for that job and will go around to stations at the fair, choosing how to spend their “salaries,” Gayer said. 

The financial reality fair will not only help students set realistic salary expectations when they graduate, but also help them think about how other expenses will impact their futures. These expenses could be renting a house, buying a car or owning a pet, Gayer said.

Gayer said the fair will show students how to save and prioritize money.

Not only will there be real hands-on experience on what life will be like after graduation, but participants will also learn the importance of saving and budgeting their money wisely.

At the fair, there will be representatives to teach students how to budget money and how to pay off student debt in a timely manner. 

Financial counselors and representatives from financial aid will also attend to help students see how small changes can have a great impact on their savings. 

Juniors and seniors are especially encouraged to attend the event, Gayer said. But all students are welcome.

“It is never too early to start developing good financial habits,” she said.

By attending this fair, students can start on the right track with money when they graduate and enter the real world, Gayer added.

Gayer offered some financial tips for students interested in financial education.

She stressed the importance of students having to know how much loans really are and that students should try to keep them at a minimum. 

Gayer also talked about savings and building up credit for students. 

“It is important to have some money aside for savings,” she said. 

Gayer explained when purchasing a product with credit, students should think wisely and make smart decisions on what they’re spending their money on and if it is something that they truly need. 

All students are encouraged to come, and all participants will be given a $5 voucher for Dunkin’ Donuts.

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