Money Matters

Smith has offered a dynamic personal finance program since 2001, providing opportunities for you to not only delve into the personal aspects of money management but also explore the broader influences and challenges affecting financial decisions.

As students, thinking about how you handle your money is likely at the bottom of a very long list of responsibilities. In today’s world, with growing generational wealth inequality, financial literacy is a powerful tool that can change lives. Personal finance is not just about managing your money; it’s about gaining peace of mind knowing that you have the skills needed to make financial decisions with confidence.

Demystifying Money

Let’s face it: most people don’t learn or talk about money. The Conway Center aims to change that. Addressing a crucial gap in our education, these workshops aren’t just about learning to build a secure financial future; they’re about making money conversations comfortable and safe for everyone. We will help you gain practical insights into managing your finances, explore how your money mindset shapes your financial choices, and master the art of making thoughtful money decisions. Instructor: former Smith mathematics professor Daniel Schultheis.

Schedules

All sessions are held on Fridays from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. in the Conway Classroom (Neilson 103). Lunch is provided, space is limited to 40 people, and sign-up via the Smith Social Network is strongly encouraged.

September 19: Know Your Money Through Budgeting

Every journey, even a financial journey, needs a starting point. In this workshop we’ll talk about some common places to begin, addressing how to formulate a realistic budget and how to take stock of your current financial situation. All are welcome, regardless of how much thought you've given to your financial future.

September 26: Personal Finance and Psychology

This workshop will focus on the ways our individual backgrounds can impact our relationship with money. We’ll explore how knowing what motivates you can be reflected in the ways you handle debt and credit. This session cannot cover everything, but hopefully you’ll begin to realize that personal finance is just that “personal,” we are not just automatons trying to automate/maximize our finances.

October 3: Banking, Interest, and Loans

Interest and how to navigate it informs a lot of our adult socioeconomic experiences. In this session, we will explore all things banks, interest (the kind you get and the kind you pay) and loans.

October 17: Credit Cards and Credit Scores

Nothing says adulting more than getting your first credit card and wisely handling spending and payments. Learn the economic factors that impact your credit and credit score and tips for staying on top of this potentially costly type of debt.

October 24: Taxes

Everyone pays some form of tax—sales, excise, property, etc. In this session, we’ll explore one specific type of tax: federal income tax in the United States. You’ll learn all about the basics, some of the most common tax misconceptions, and how pre-tax and post-tax deductions impact your paycheck.

October 31: Making Money Decisions

In this session, we’ll talk about general approaches to making financial decisions, such as how to do a simple cost-benefit analysis. We’ll also discuss things that are more personal, such as determining your own risk comfort level with investments. Within this general framework, we’ll talk about conscious spending, insurance, and how to determine when buying quality will save money in the long term.

February 6: Investment vs. Speculation

Investments always carry risk, so what separates an investment from gambling or random chance? We’ll set the record straight and build a solid foundation for our investing conversations throughout the spring.

February 13: Stocks and Bonds

Stocks and bonds are not the only investments, but they’re widely available and relatively simple to understand. Even if these aren’t your investments of choice, discussing stocks and bonds will help build the language to learn about other investments.

February 20: Costs and Risks

There are many ways to invest. Understanding the types of risk and your personal risk tolerance can help you find a style of investing that works for you. And understanding costs means that you can hang on to more of your investment returns.

February 27: Saving for Retirement, Part I

Retirement might seem impossibly far away, but the benefits of planning early cannot be overstated. We’ll talk about the importance of taxes and all of the nitty gritty about different types of retirement accounts.

March 6: Saving for Retirement, Part II

March 27: Investing with Purpose

Investing is not a one-size-fits-all system. This workshop will focus on investing goals other than retirement, and how non-financial priorities can impact your plans and decisions.

Student Spotlight

Emy Collins AC ’25

Major: Africana Studies

“As a non-traditional college student, single mother, and woman of color, I joined Money Mentors to better understand how to become financially healthy after a lifetime shaped by poverty. The training supported my transition from Smith to a teaching career in Austin, where I’ll serve majority low-income students of color. I’m grateful for the tools I’ve gained to build financial stability and to help the next generation do the same.”

Money Mentors

Smith’s Financial Literacy Empowerment Fellows—Money Mentors—are trained in the basics of personal finance (budgeting, saving, debt management, and wealth building) and develop skills to help your peers to take steps on their personal finance journey confidently.

Arna Asad ’28, undecided major
Hey everyone! Fun facts about me: I’m from NYC, and I’m a foster kid! I’ve had my fair share of financial struggles (like a lot), and I am very comfortable talking about my specific situation, if it may help someone or even just for comfort. I used to be terrified of talking about money, I always felt embarrassed for not knowing the things I assumed everyone else already knew. Becoming a Money Mentor only reassured me that talking about money and understanding it can be a lot of fun!

Camryn Hoffman ’28, undecided major
Financial wellness has long been an interest of mine, despite money being “taboo” growing up. I have experience with credit, credit cards, high-yield savings accounts, IRAs, and more! My goal as your Money Mentor is to work together to ensure you feel confident and empowered in your financial decisions. I’m excited to meet you all! Meet with Camryn.

Chioma Opara ’27, Computer Science and Quantitative Economics major
Financial literacy has long fascinated me and I have had the amazing opportunity to explore what this means in concrete terms through the Conway Center this past year. I’m super excited to share my knowledge with you and to continue learning in my role as a Money Mentor! Meet with Chioma.

Emma Larsen ’27, Environmental Science & Policy major
I understand that knowledge is power when it comes to financial literacy, and I would like to share that power with whoever I can. Personal finance varies greatly from person to person, and I'm excited to help you discover what works best for you!

Faithrose Daniel ’27, Statistical & Data Sciences and Government major
A passionate advocate for social justice and community change, I’m always eager to embrace the world’s diverse stories and perspectives. A lover of travel and new experiences, I find joy in life’s simple pleasures, whether it’s exploring new cuisines or embarking on adventures. To me, financial wellness is about creating a life where money supports your passions and purpose. Meet with Faithrose.

Glenvelis Perez ’26, Computer Science and Statistical & Data Sciences major
Learning about finances and spreading the knowledge I’ve gained is incredibly important to me. I’m passionate about connecting with my peers, and I hope to be a helpful resource as we navigate our finances together. I’m looking forward to meeting you all! Meet with Glenvelis.

Isabella Lee-Baldassini ’27, Government and Study of Women, Gender & Sexuality major
I am a sophomore pursuing a degree in government and SWGS here at Smith. I have explored a long-held interest in women’s rights and advocacy in my studies, and I believe that everyone should have a chance at success with money. In my time with my fellow Money Mentors, I have come to understand how I can best create financial stability for the life I aspire to and also how to educate and empower my fellow Smithies in their own financial goals.

Joberlye Hernandez ’26, Sociology major; Digital Art minor
Originally from NYC and the Dominican Republic, I’m thrilled to be a money mentor this year! I’m passionate about promoting financial literacy, which is crucial to learn but can seem daunting. Whether it’s budgeting, saving, or managing finances, I’m here to help you tackle your concerns. Let’s work together to achieve financial independence and make informed decisions! Meet with Jo.

Noanah Malati ’26, Engineering and Quantitative Economics major
I thrive on exploring new ideas, whether through mentoring, playing chess, or traveling to new places. I believe in making a positive impact by helping others. I am excited to have completed the Money Mentors training and ready to empower you to take charge of your financial future with confidence. Meet with Noanah.

Ruth Gomez ’26, Psychology and Neuroscience major
My aim is to learn about financial literacy and expand my knowledge to those around me in the most helpful way. As a first generation, low income student it is important for me to be self-aware of my financial decisions and their impact on my future. With guidance, I am thrilled to be able to help other Smithies as well! Meet with Ruth.

Sabina Ali ’27, Economics and Statistical & Data Sciences major
I have a deep passion for financial literacy. As a Money Mentor, I will work to empower you to build a strong financial foundation and achieve your personal goals. Let’s build a brighter financial future together! Meet with Sabina.

Taylor Knibb ’26, Economics major
As a new Money Mentor, I’m so excited to meet new people and have meaningful conversations about their financial questions, goals, and concerns. I truly believe learning about money is a journey, and there’s no single “right” way to do it—just the path that works best for each person. I can’t wait to support and learn alongside anyone who wants to work through a plan together and build confidence in their financial future!

Veronique Merker ’27, Economics major
There’s so much financial information out there, from the different types of taxes to the details of loans, and it can be overwhelming to figure out what applies to your financial situation. With so many resources available, it’s easy to get confused and not know where to start. As a Money Mentor, I’m excited to help you navigate these topics and connect you with the tools and resources that work best for your unique financial needs!

What We Offer

Individual appointments with trained peer financial coaches
Assistance with identifying, setting, and making a plan to achieve your goals
Tools for budgeting and SMART money management

What You Can Expect

to be treated with respect
to keep all conversations confidential
to be listened to without judgment
to be provided guidance, not advice
to receive a response to email inquiries within 48 hours

Each fall, Fellows receive training on personal finance topics and learn techniques to become successful peer coaches. Each spring, Fellows serve as Money Mentors to the campus by leading workshops, hosting events, and offering 1:1 guidance as requested.

Compensation

Trainees receive a $500 stipend at the end of the fall semester. Fellows who successfully complete training are hired as Money Mentors.

Eligibility

Open to all currently enrolled students in good standing. Must be on campus for the entire academic year. Students graduating before May in their graduation year are not eligible. Preference is given to students who have attended at least one personal finance workshop offered by the Conway Center.

How to Apply

Applications are not currently being accepted.

Other Ways to Learn

You can now examine the political and cultural factors at play in global markets and gain an understanding of how personal investment portfolios can have significant environmental, social, and governmental impacts.

The Conway Center is the institutional home for the Global Finance Concentration, which exposes students to the workings of global financial markets, their key institutional features, and the theoretical underpinnings of their design.

The Gateway

GFX 100 Introduction to Global Financial Institutions

Smith faculty, alumnae industry professionals and scholars in the field provide an overview of the financial system and the role of financial institutions in the global economy; domestic and international regulation; domestic and international banking. Offered each Fall; 1 credit; S/U only.

Required Elective

ACC 223 Financial Accounting

The course, while using traditional accounting techniques and methodology, focuses on the needs of external users of financial information. The emphasis is on learning how to read, interpret and analyze financial information as a tool to guide investment decisions. Concepts rather than procedures are stressed and class time will be largely devoted to problem solutions and case discussions. A basic knowledge of arithmetic and a familiarity with a spreadsheet program is suggested. 4 credits; not more than four credits in accounting may be counted toward the degree.

Bloomberg Terminal Certifications

As a student entering a rapidly changing economy and geo-political climate, you need every edge you can get. Knowledge of and experience using the Bloomberg Terminal is that edge.

Bloomberg is a terminal-bound financial services platform that provides analysis and quotes for equities (stocks) and indices, global company and economic data, real-time and historical industry and market news, and advanced analytical and data functions. It is the standard in the financial services industry.

Bloomberg Finance Fundamentals (BFF) is a self-paced, interactive e-learning course that provides an introduction to the key concepts involved in finance and investment. Throughout the course, you’ll explore real-life scenarios through the perspectives of various professionals, helping you to manage your money and build an understanding of the different careers available across the finance sector. It takes approximately 10 hours to complete.

Bloomberg Market Concepts (BMC), also known as Bloomberg Certification, is a self-paced e-learning course that provides a visual introduction to financial markets and the core functionality of the Bloomberg terminal. It takes approximately eight hours to complete.

The Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Certificate offers insights for weaving ESG considerations into business and investment strategies. Delve into the foundational elements of ESG, understand the influence of shareholder activism on corporate practices, navigate ESG management across various corporate life stages, and master the essentials of ESG reporting for companies committed to these fundamental values. It takes approximately 12 hours to complete.

Reserve the Terminal

Important Note: Since there is only one Bloomberg Terminal, we ask that students use it only during your scheduled time.

Financing Life

In this course, the Conway Center presents an accessible and informative set of topics, videos, and activities to help you improve your financial literacy. The course is taught by Smith College Economics professor emeritus Randall Bartlett. With his eloquent storytelling prowess, Bartlett demystifies financial topics ranging from the time value of money to taxable income, and helps you gain a firm conceptual understanding of personal finance. A strong foundation in financial literacy will empower you to ask the right questions when managing your own financial affairs throughout your life.

Financing life course

Smith College Consulting Club (SCCC)
Smith College Investment Club (SCIC)
Smithies in Business (SIB)