Financial Skills Every Student Should Learn Before Employment

๐Ÿ“‘ 10 slides ๐Ÿ‘ 3 views ๐Ÿ“… 1/29/2026
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Introduction to Financial Skills

Mastering financial skills early ensures long-term stability and success.

Introduction to Financial Skills
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Budgeting Basics

  • Create a monthly budget to track income and expenses effectively.
  • Use the 50/30/20 rule: 50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings.
  • Apps like Mint or YNAB can help automate and simplify budgeting.
Budgeting Basics
3

Saving and Emergency Funds

  • Aim to save at least 3-6 months of living expenses for emergencies.
  • Start small with automatic transfers to a high-yield savings account.
  • Avoid dipping into savings for non-essential purchases to build discipline.
Saving and Emergency Funds
4

Understanding Credit

  • Credit scores impact loans, rentals, and even job opportunities.
  • Pay bills on time and keep credit utilization below 30% to maintain good credit.
  • Monitor credit reports annually for errors or fraudulent activity.
Understanding Credit
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Investing Early

  • Start investing early to benefit from compound interest over time.
  • Consider low-cost index funds or ETFs for diversified, long-term growth.
  • Use apps like Robinhood or Acorns to begin with small amounts.
Investing Early
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Debt Management

  • Prioritize high-interest debt (like credit cards) to reduce financial strain.
  • Consider consolidation or refinancing options for student loans.
  • Avoid unnecessary debt by distinguishing between needs and wants.
Debt Management
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Tax Fundamentals

  • Understand W-2s, 1099s, and how tax brackets affect your income.
  • Take advantage of student tax credits and deductions when filing.
  • Use software like TurboTax or consult a professional for complex situations.
Tax Fundamentals
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Negotiating Salaries

  • Research industry standards to confidently negotiate your first salary.
  • Highlight skills and achievements to justify higher compensation.
  • Practice negotiation scenarios to build confidence before interviews.
Negotiating Salaries
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Retirement Planning

  • Start contributing to a 401(k) or IRA as early as possible for compound growth.
  • Employer matches are free moneyโ€”contribute at least enough to get the full match.
  • Understand Roth vs. traditional retirement accounts based on your tax situation.
Retirement Planning
10

Conclusion: Take Action

  • Start small but start nowโ€”financial habits compound over time.
  • Continuously educate yourself through books, courses, or financial advisors.
  • Share knowledge with peers to build a financially literate community.
Conclusion: Take Action
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