What Does Adulthood Cost? Students Find Out

Alan Santos, Ismael Martinez, James Vann and Cole Bunch look at expenses with Ozarks Electric’s Erin Rogers at the Money Matters Market. (Photo by Alex Boyd.)

Seventh and eighth graders in Adair County got a quick introduction to the cost of adulthood during a recent Money Matters Market at Maryetta Schools, where students were assigned jobs, salaries and a list of bills to pay.

Students from Maryetta, Westville, Zion and Delonegah rotated through stations in small groups, making decisions about housing, transportation, groceries, insurance and utilities.

It didn't take long for reality to set in. Many students were surprised by  how far (or not) their income would go. Some said they wished they had drawn different jobs after seeing what their wages would realistically support. Others said they would need a roommate just to cover basic expenses.

Kris Williams with Ozarks Electric shows Prayrie Davis, Kynsie Alexander and Abagail Campbell how energy usage influences expenses during the Money Matters Market. (Photo by Alex Boyd.)

“I learned that you need insurance, and stuff is expensive,” said Ismael Martinez. “You also need to save your money. Don't spend it on one thing.”

Cole Bunch said the experience gave him a new perspective. “Now I know how expensive things cost in the real world,” he said.

Students said the exercise made them think more carefully about their future, including the jobs they might pursue and how they would manage their money.

Local organizations, including Ozarks Electric, City of Stilwell, Arvest Bank, State Farm Insurance and Chris Pruitt's Auto Sales, hosted stations to walk students through real-life expenses.