Alright, folks—normally, you’d hear from me, talking about high-performance results, strategy, and leadership in financial services. But let’s switch things up. Instead of another deep dive into financial trends from my perspective, I thought you’d enjoy hearing from a fresh voice—my 20-year-old daughter. She’s a full-time college student, part-time financial realist, and full-time pro at stretching a dollar (probably thanks to years of listening to me talk about money at the dinner table). So, rather than me telling you why financial understanding is important, let’s hear it from someone who’s living it right now. Take it away, Molly!
**
Let’s be real: money makes the world go round, but for many young adults, it’s more like a never-ending carousel ride of confusion. As a 20-year-old undergraduate, I’ve learned that understanding finances isn’t just about knowing how to swipe a debit card. It’s about making smart choices, planning for the future, and finding a financial institution that actually helps instead of just holding your money hostage.
So, what makes my credit union my financial MVP? Three things stand out:
1. The Best of Both Worlds: In-Person Branches & Mobile Access
Life moves fast, and as a busy student, I need financial services that keep up. My credit union delivers with a top-tier mobile app for quick check deposits, bill payments, and account access—perfect for when I’m on the go (which is always). But sometimes, you just need a real person. Whether it’s withdrawing cash, handling a financial curveball, or getting advice, I love knowing I can walk into a branch and be greeted with a genuine “Hey, how can we help?” instead of a robotic voice telling me to press 1 for frustration.
2. Financial Wizards Behind the Counter
The employees at my credit union? Absolute lifesavers. Whether I’m trying to decode the mystery of credit cards or figure out the best savings plan for my not-so-big budget, they’ve got my back. Plus, they stay on top of the latest offers, sometimes pointing me toward an even better deal than I originally planned for. They aren’t just pushing services—they want members to succeed financially. And trust me, that kind of support is priceless.
3. The Little Details That Make a Big Difference
It’s the small things that show a credit union cares. My credit union offers personalized debit cards with designs that rep local colleges, universities, and even the American flag. Sure, it’s just a card, but it makes me feel like they’re paying attention to my generation—the future homeowners, business owners, and leaders who will keep the economy moving.
Why Financial Education Matters More Than Ever
I was lucky to grow up in a household where money talk wasn’t taboo. I know that life—housing, education, even just eating—comes with a price tag. But not everyone my age has had that same financial reality check.
I’ve seen students with ambitious dreams that don’t quite align with financial reality. I’ve also heard people talk about debt like it’s just another subscription service—one they don’t seem too worried about. There’s a major gap in financial education, and we need more resources that prepare young adults for real-world expenses—college loans, rent, utilities, starting a family, you name it.
The Bottom Line
Good financial management isn’t about having a huge paycheck: it’s about making smart, sustainable choices. A great credit union doesn’t just store your money; it helps you manage it wisely, plan ahead, and avoid financial pitfalls. My credit union does that, and it makes all the difference.
So, if you’re 20-something and still think financial planning is something “future you” will deal with—spoiler alert—it’s already your problem. The good news? With the right financial tools and guidance, you can set yourself up for success now.
**
A Final Word from Dad
Alright, I’ll jump back in for the last word—because, as a dad, it’s kind of what I do. Look, I’ve spent years advising credit unions on strategy, leadership, and performance, but nothing beats real-world insight from the next generation of members. Molly’s right: financial planning isn’t something you put off until you have “real money.” It starts now, with smart habits, good advice, and a credit union that cares about your future. So, whether you’re a 20-year-old figuring out finances or a seasoned pro looking to guide the next generation, take it from Molly—get smart about money, find a financial institution that has your back, and avoid treating debt like it’s just another streaming subscription. Your future self will thank you.
© 2025 by Jeff Rendel. All rights reserved.
Jeff Rendel, Certified Speaking Professional and Principal of Rising Above Enterprises, works with credit unions that want entrepreneurial results in leadership, service, and strategy. Each year, he addresses, facilitates, and advises for more than 100 credit unions and their business partners.
Contact: jeff@jeffrendel.com; www.jeffrendel.com; 951.310.7275 (mobile)