Industry: a/a
Age: 38
Location: Vermont
Salary: $0 (I’m living off my emergency fund while I look for a job.)
Net value: -$73,950 (car: $6,000, emergency fund: $6,300, I bonds: $3,050, retirement account: $10,000, checking and savings accounts: $700, minus student loans)
Debt: $100,000 (student loans)
Payroll amount: $0
Pronouns: She/her
Monthly expenses
Rent, utilities and Internet: $997 (for a two bedroom apartment in the countryside)
Student loans: $230
Health Insurance: $20
Medicines: $50
Car and renter’s insurance: $67.75
Phone: $25
Pet Insurance: $50
Was there an expectation to attend higher education? Did you participate in any form of higher education? If so, how did you pay for it?
No. Neither of my parents went to college and they never understood why I wanted to go. We struggled financially throughout my childhood and, at times, we had no food at all. I knew I wanted my life to be different, so I went to college and got a master’s degree. I paid for it through student loans.
Growing up, what kind of money conversations did you have? Did your parents/guardians educate you about finances?
There was no talk of money, we were just worried about how we would make it through the month. My parents never saved or planned, and I grew up feeling that money was a force that no one could control. I made it a point to educate myself about finances.
What was your first job and why did you get it?
Math tutoring at 15. I took it because I wanted money of my own. I learned very early that money is security.
Were you worried about money growing up?
Yes. All the time. I grew up in poverty and my parents were constantly fighting about money.
Are you worried about money now?
Yes, to an extent, but my concerns are less nebulous and more practical. I’ve been out of work for about a month now and living off my emergency fund until I find something. I have established a spending freeze and know I have the resources to last my money. However, I would like to have a job soon.
At what age did you become financially responsible for yourself and have a financial safety net?
I was 18 when my parents kicked me out. The only financial safety net I have is the one I created for myself. I have an emergency fund and I’m really good at living on very little.
Do you have or have you ever received passive or inherited income? If so, please explain.
No. All I have ever received from my parents is money stress.
