Was there an expectation for you to attend higher education? Did you participate in any form of higher education? If yes, how did you pay for it?
I went to undergrad and law school. I always knew I wanted to be a lawyer and I loved school. I was lucky enough to get a full-ride scholarship to law school and only took out $3,000 for books and other expenses. I went to a state school for undergrad and graduated in three years. I received a few scholarships and the rest was split between my parents and me. I had approximately $25,000 in debt after school.
Growing up, what kind of conversations did you have about money? Did your parent(s) educate you about finances?
Not many! My parents did not like to talk about money.
What was your first job and why did you get it?
My first real, adult job is the one I have now. However, I was a camp counselor and babysitter as a teenager and held various work study jobs in college and law school.
Did you worry about money growing up?
I worried but was never scared. I knew I’d have a roof over my head and food on the table, but was always worried about medical debt. I unfortunately have some expensive health problems!
Do you worry about money now?
Not in the acute sense, but you truly never know what will happen! I recognize I could lose everything very quickly if a medical emergency or other type of emergency arose.
At what age did you become financially responsible for yourself and do you have a financial safety net?
Age 24, when I graduated law school. However, if you read my previous Money Diary you will see I lived with my parents at a VERY discounted rent price during the COVID pandemic. I miss them since I’ve re-moved out!
Do you or have you ever received passive or inherited income? If yes, please explain.
No.