Understanding how money works puts us in a better position to affect change in society. A study featured by Fortune in 2016 estimated that nearly two-thirds of Americans couldn’t pass a basic financial literacy test. It’s time to change the statistics.
The Laspa Center strives to make conversations about money more accessible to everyone for a stronger fundamental understanding of personal finance.
The Linda Davis Taylor Financial Literacy Program was developed by incorporating curriculum from previous academic and co-curricular programs and community input. Participants gain a fundamental understanding of personal finance to successfully navigate financial decisions during and after college.
- Four professionally developed and facilitated workshops with faculty-approved curriculum
- Supplemental reading materials and resources
- Ad hoc special sessions
The Linda Davis Taylor Financial Literacy Program is presented by the Laspa Center for Leadership in partnership with Career Planning & Resources, where leadership and career development intersect. Each session is facilitated by members of the Scripps College community and open to all currently enrolled students and community members of The Claremont Colleges.
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Core Modules
Basic Budgeting
The first in the four-part series, Basic Budgeting includes information about creating a monthly budget, the benefits of saving, investing, and planning for emergencies, exploring short and long-term financial goals, and developing a conscious spending plan.
Paychecks and Taxes
Learn how to estimate net income from gross salary, the importance of researching and comparing monetary and non- monetary benefits associated with employment, and how to build a fundamental understanding of federal income taxes.
Banking, Credit, and Loans
Learn the fundamentals of bank accounts, fees, and interest rates and the long-term implications of credit history including credit cards, credit bureaus, credit reports, and credit scores. Compare fixed and variable rates, and contrast different forms of loans and repayment options.
Investments
Consider how personal values play a role in long-term investments in this final workshop of the series. Examine retirement options, stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, and associated tax implications.
Special Sessions
Salary Negotiation
Learn how to conduct salary research, practice negotiation in session, and secure a position without leaving money on the table. Facilitators are trained in the Start Smart curriculum endorsed and provided by the American Association of University Women. This two-hour workshop empowers women and gender nonconforming individuals with skills to effectively negotiate their salary and benefits and become agents of change in their communities.
Contact the Laspa Center to suggest additional content, recommend speakers, or volunteer for the program.