I have truly valued my college education thus far. Don't get me wrong, in a purely educational manner, I have learned many things. But as a college senior, there are a lot of things that I haven't quite figured out yet, and it feels like the clock is ticking.
If college students designed the curriculum for their senior year, it would probably look something like this.
1. Taxes: The Reason Why Your Paychecks Look So Small.
Before college, I had never received a paycheck, since my income came solely from babysitting. When I noticed these exponential numbers being taken out of each check, I thought I was being robbed. With adulthood on the rise, it would be good to know where that money is going.
2. "What the Heck is a Mortgage?" And Other Homeowners' Questions.
What the heck is a mortgage? I honestly don't know. There are many things about buying houses and renting apartments that terrify me, and I know I'm not alone in that sentiment. Renters' insurance? No idea. Can I take a loan out and live in a college residence hall forever? Because that seems easier...
3. Balancing a Checkbook 101.
Is this a dated task? Do people even balance checkbooks anymore? I'm personally not even sure that I have a checkbook, so I feel like that would be the first step, but I honestly wouldn't know what to do with it.
4. How to Cook Things That Aren't Out of a Box.
Cupcake mix, pasta, macaroni and cheese, you got it! Cookie dough from the tub, cereal? I'm your girl. I like to cook, but when it's as easy as adding milk, why would you try anything else? Well, probably for nutritional value, in which case teach me how to cook on a limited time schedule, please!
5. Transitioning From College Credits to Credit Scores.
So you want to build credit. Where does one even start? Target Red Card, or Victoria's Secret? Will that even help you in the long run? I'm asking the real questions, here!
6. Saying No Without Losing Your Job.
Too often we feel uncomfortable turning down the request of someone we work for. There is an eloquent way of saying no, within reason. I just wish someone would teach us how.
7. How to Turn Someone Down Without Feeling Guilty About It.
On a similar note, when it comes to relationships, romantic or platonic, how does one say no without feeling bad? If a guy asks for your number, how are you supposed to politely express their disinterest without being rude, blunt, or not getting your point across? I am genuinely interested in knowing.
8. Handling Post-Grad Life.
As an up and coming college senior, this prep course sounds like a dream to me. Modules based on moving back in with your parents, searching for a new job, and applying to grad school would all be super helpful. Not to mention, how does one not feel an empty void from their lack of college experience? Welcome to the real world.