10/16/2026
On Thursday, approximately 250 students from 11 area high schools gathered at Piedmont Technical College for In Real Life. In Real Life is an interactive financial literacy experience designed to show students how everyday choices can shape their financial future.
During the simulation, each student received a randomized life profile that included their occupation, credit type, marital status, number of children, student loan payments, and monthly take-home pay. From there, they traveled from station to station, navigating the financial responsibilities that come with everyday life.
Students had to budget for housing, transportation, health insurance, clothing, groceries, and all the other expenses that add up throughout the month. With a set monthly income and real-life expenses to manage, they had to make thoughtful decisions about how to stretch their money and balance their financial priorities.
The goal wasn’t to win. It was to learn. In Real Life gives students a hands-on look at the importance of budgeting, managing credit, planning ahead, and understanding how life choices can affect their financial well-being.
Financial literacy goes beyond knowing how to count money. It’s about developing the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions, prepare for unexpected expenses, and build a strong financial future.
We’re proud to see opportunities like In Real Life helping prepare the next generation for the financial responsibilities they’ll face beyond the classroom.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this possible!
