financial literacy

It is getting more difficult for teens to find part-time or summer employment. During recent years, the percentage of unemployment over the summer has increased among teenagers between the age of 16 and 19. The average summer unemployment rate rose from 13 percent in 2000 to 15.8 percent in 2007. Many more teens have reported not being able to secure the type of employment that would help them save for college. [read more...]

During fall of senior year many high school students begin applying for the colleges of their choice. It is a lengthy process that involves writing a personal essay and submitting applications. [read more...]

As a junior in high school, I have many decisions to make regarding college. A major factor in my decision will be tuition costs. I am not alone. Many families are finding that tuition is becoming more expensive. [read more...]

Recent government intervention has significantly changed the Federal Loan Program. Starting in the 2010-2011 academic term, federal loans should be easier and cheaper to obtain than in the past. [read more...]

In Chicago, there is a hard working and determined teenager named Gabriel Banks. She just wants to help out her mother, who is raising four children by herself. [read more...]

Finding a job is extremely difficult, especially during a recession. Unemployment numbers among teens are currently very high and getting worse. Certain employers make finding a job even harder by carefully checking the credit scores of job applicants and rejecting those with bad credit histories. [read more...]

As a former student at the Simpson Street Free Press, I was frequently told that I needed to learn how to manage my money well once I was in college. Being able to afford higher education is a challenge that involves seeking scholarships, taking loans, and paying attention to money management. [read more...]

We at the Simpson Street Free Press have been following the payday lending issue for some time. Payday lending services are knows to take advantage of the customers and often force people into a cycle of accumulating debt. [read more...]

Are you planning to go to college? A lot of us say we plan to go to college, but how many of us are really planning for college? It’s a lot easier to say it than it is to actually do it. Planning for college includes financial planning. Many of the expenses that you take for granted now, or that your parents pay for now, will become your responsibility when you get to college. [read more...]