The Grundy Area Vocational Center brought the University of Illinois Extension simulation “Welcome to the Real World” to students at Coal City and Gardner-South Wilmington High School on March 25-26.

The interactive event provided students with a hands-on opportunity to experience the realities of budgeting, spending, and financial decision-making, according to a news release.

Students learned to write a check and how to use a check registry. They were also assigned careers, salaries, and family scenarios, then challenged to create and manage a monthly budget. As students navigated expenses like housing, transportation, insurance, food, and childcare, they learned how real-world financial responsibilities can impact everyday life.

“This event truly brings financial literacy to life,” said Work Based Learning Coordinator, Kathy Drake. “Students were faced with realistic situations, that helped them build confidence and critical thinking skills they will use long after graduation.”

The program turned the gym into a real-world marketplace, with stations staffed by community volunteers and local professionals. Participants interacted with people from various industries, gaining insight into financial planning, responsible spending, and the importance of saving.

“It made me realize how important it is to budget and make smart choices,” shared one participant. “It definitely changed how I think about money.”

“Welcome to the Real World” was made possible through the support of community partners and volunteers, who were able to create an authentic and meaningful learning environment, according to the news release.

The Grundy Area Vocational Center thanked Old National Bank in Coal City for supplying the checks and register, along with having Katie Bodine there to teach students how to write checks, balance their checkbooks, and share information on financial responsibility.

The GAVC also thanked the Community Foundation of Grundy County for providing a grant that helped pay for materials, and Coal City High School for hosting the event.

For more information on “Welcome to the Real World” or future events, contact Drake at 815-943-4390 or at kdrake@gavc-il.org.