EAU CLAIRE, Wis. — This fall, more than 1,500 high school students across Wisconsin and Minnesota took part in Test Drive…Next Stop Reality® (Test Drive) presented by Royal Credit Union Foundation (RCU Foundation). Test Drive is an immersive financial education simulation designed to prepare high school students for what it takes to make it on their own as a 25-year-old.
During the simulation, students choose their education level and career, are randomly assigned a family status, and calculate their net monthly salary. They are then tasked with managing their budget by paying expenses the average adult is faced with each month, making decisions within each category, with the goal of getting through the month without running out of money.
Through their participation, students gain a better understanding of finances and how to prepare for their future, the credit union said.
Test Drive reality fairs were held in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and in Stillwater and White Bear Lake, Minnesota. Each event is supported by over 100 community volunteers who guide students through stations for each life expense.
Participating high schools in Wisconsin included Altoona, Anthony Acres, Bloomer, Eau Claire North, Eau Claire Memorial, Fall Creek, McKinley, Mondovi and Regis. In Minnesota, the Test Drive program was held at Stillwater Area and White Bear Lake Area high schools.
“Financial literacy is a cornerstone of lifelong success,” said John Sackett, RCU Foundation president. “Through Test Drive, we’re equipping students with the confidence and skills they need to make informed choices and build a strong financial future.”
The program’s interactive format allows students to test drive adult responsibilities in a safe, educational setting. By collaborating with educators and community partners, the RCU Foundation ensures that financial education reaches students where it matters most, before they enter the workforce or pursue higher education.
“There’s no substitute for real world experience when it comes to making big financial decisions,” said Justin Berg, personal finance teacher at Memorial High School. “Test Drive gives students a chance to practice before they get into real life and to understand some of the ramifications behind the big decisions they’re making.”
