Financial decisions affect every part of our lives, from where we live to what we eat. While managing money is important, very few people feel confident in their financial knowledge or access. A recent study found that 70% of college students experienced financial stress. This stress can lower academic performance, cause health challenges, and strain relationships.piggy bank

To counteract these challenges and better support our students, UMKC is opening a new Financial Wellness Center. Modeled after successful programs around the country, UMKC’s Financial Wellness Center will offer one-on-one financial coaching, events and workshops, and digital resources.

Coaching sessions will be free to all UMKC students. With a coach, students can work on a range of topics including how to pay for college, navigate the FAFSA, budget, and manage credit and debt. These appointments will be available to all current undergraduate, graduate, or professional students.

The Financial Wellness Center will also host events and workshops throughout the year. Topics will include budgeting, credit cards, how to buy a car, navigate an apartment search, and prepare for life after graduation. Student groups, faculty, and staff can also request financial workshops for their group or class.money

Speaking about finances can be uncomfortable because many of us have been told it is inappropriate to talk about money. Unfortunately, this stigma perpetuates financial systems that are exclusionary and difficult to navigate. The Financial Wellness Center combats this stigma by providing a safe space for students to get support and ask questions. These efforts support equal access to financial knowledge, systems, and resources.

The Financial Wellness Center will officially launch this fall and be located in Room 223 of the Administrative Center. To get more information, visit https://finaid.umkc.edu/cost/financial-wellness-center/ or email azimmerman@umkc.edu. We’d be happy to chat!growing money

Note: Coaching and events hosted by the Financial Wellness Center are intended to provide education about financial principles. We do not provide investment, legal or tax advice. The information provided is for general educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for the advice of your investment, legal and/or tax advisors or to be the basis of specific trading or investment activities. If you need investment, legal and/or tax advice, please consult with one of these professionals.