On My Own is a hands-on, real-life simulation that gives young people ages 13-18 the opportunity to experience adulthood in a fun and exciting way. During the simulation, participants assume they are 26 years old, are the primary or sole support of the household, and are encouraged to make healthy and wise lifestyle choices similar to those adults face on a daily basis. After exploring careers, students receive a monthly salary for their chosen career type, a family scenario, and an asset. Then, they proceed through “real life,” deducting taxes, determining a savings goal, and spending their monthly salaries on the necessities as well as luxury items that reflect the career and lifestyle they have chosen.
The On My Own program is an interactive financial simulation designed for youth ages 13-18 and developed by the Consumer Economics team of the department of Family and Consumer Sciences at the University of Tennessee. The program is delivered in Missouri by MU Extension through a partnership with University of Tennessee Extension.
Regardless if you are connected with a school district or a family that homeschools, to register contact Laura Evans evansla@missouri.edu.
