Information sessions, conversations, scholarship and gift card prizes, and even free rides to classes fill the schedule as Washington State University celebrates Financial Capability Month throughout April.
Organized annually by the Office of Academic Engagement (OAE) and formerly known as Financial Literacy Month, the series of events is designed to help students, faculty, and staff manage their finances more effectively and even have fun in the process, said Maja Gillespie. She is OAE’s director of College Affordability Programs (CAP), which includes Cougar Money Matters. Some events will be in person at WSU Pullman and others are virtual to also serve participants at other campuses.
“We’re offering something for everyone to help, for example, build foundational knowledge of finances, and describe what resources are available and what knowledgeable experts can explain,” said Gillespie. “It’s critical, no matter where you are in life at this moment, to gather informational tools to make sound financial decisions that can lead to a successful relationship with money.”
Throughout April, Gillespie said, there will be events and workshops featuring experts from OAE as well as BECU, Student Financial Services, the Writing Center, Global Campus, and the region.
On Thursday, April 4, there will be free rides to WSU Pullman classes from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. aboard a festive golf cart. The only charge will be to answer some financial trivia questions while enjoying the ride, which will make students eligible for prizes.
“It’s much like the TV game show ‘Cash Cab’, but no one will be kicked off for a wrong answer,” Gillespie said. “We call it ‘Financial Education on the Move’ and we did a similar activity in November and about 20 students got rides up and down WSU hills. We’re hoping for more riders this year.”
Additional Financial Capability Month activities include:
- April 9, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
CUB Junior Ballroom, WSU Pullman:
“Financial Wellness Fair 2024,” featuring experts to answer questions. For each table visited, guests will punch their card aiming for raffle prizes that include a scholarship from OAE, an Amazon gift card from BECU, and more. Pizza will be served. - April 11, 5–6 p.m., via Zoom:
“Student Loans and Repayment Simplified,” presented by Jordan Creighton, Global Campus financial aid advisor. Creighton’s presentation will help explain the ins and outs of federal student loans and the repayment process. - April 15, 3–5 p.m.
Stimson Hall Common Room, WSU Pullman:
“Scholarship Workshop,” presented by CAP, Student Financial Services, and the WSU Writing Program’s Writing Center. Help to elevate scholarship essays into winning applications. - April 18, 5–6 p.m., via Zoom:
“Financial Reality Fair,” presented by BECU representatives. An interactive simulation will give a glimpse into real-world financial planning, savings, and budgeting skills, and show the impact of poor credit on finances. - April 25, 5–6 p.m.
The Commons, room 210, WSU Pullman:
“Finding and Funding Your Why,” presented by Karen Richel, University of Idaho extension educator. Play with “what-if’s” in this interactive workshop to learn about reaching financial goals, spending and saving as a fun game, and considerations for future planning.
Visit the website to learn more about Financial Capability Month and how to take advantage of the events and workshops.
