RUSSELL – A program that simulated what future life might be like for Russell eighth through 10th graders gave students an eye-opening look at paying loans, caring for children and other adult life experiences.
In Reality U, program software develops a unique scenario including monthly income, credit card debt, student loan information, and marital and family status at age 26 for each student based on his or her responses to a survey and on grade point average. During the event, students were given their life scenarios and had to take them into account as they worked through each of the 12 life stations such as housing, insurance, transportation, groceries and childcare.
One student who wanted to become a doctor was stunned by the amount of her student loans and began looking at medical careers that would require less student debt. Other students found out children could be taken away by the state, or that if something happens with a spouse or significant other, the loss of that person’s income can have a significant impact on the household budget.
Community volunteers with professional experience in each area worked the 12 life stations.
