For almost two decades, the West Virginia State Treasurer’s Office has empowered West Virginia students with personal financial education through its one-of-a-kind Get a Life budget simulation. Targeting eighth grade middle school students, the Treasurer’s staff visits more than 140 middle schools and reaches more than 16,000 students annually with this impactful activity.

With Get a Life, students are launched into the future where they have graduated high school and have a full-time job. Some have spouses and families, but all have bills to pay! Students will travel to each station to buy homes, cars, food, and other needs and wants. Eventually, they will have the opportunity to go back to school and graduate from a college or trade school. This opportunity to “Level Up” their education allows them to earn more money and see how that changes their monthly budget. 

Local community volunteers help the students make their purchases at each station and offer unique perspectives as students gain real-world experiences.

Why is this program successful?

• The program teaches basic math skills and problem-solving techniques
• Get a Life helps students understand needs vs. wants
• Students have fun with the program! They make it competitive and have fun while learning
• Students gain skills to make better financial decisions
• Students also learn how higher education will advance their career goals and family income
• Local business leaders volunteer to help create a realistic environment for the students