Money Talks

You're here because you want to build a better future—for yourself and your family. What you might not realize is that the financial decisions you make while you're in school can shape that future more than you think.

Most students don't even realize when they're borrowing money—or how much. And many don't understand how small choices now can lead to big consequences later. That's where Money Talks comes in.
 

The Savvy Student's Guide to a Debt-Free Degree

Take Control of College Costs—and Your Future!

The Savvy Student's Guide to a Debt-Free Degree is your step-by-step guide to making smart financial decisions while you're in school-so you can avoid unnecessary debt and keep your goals on track.

In this program, you'll discover how to:

• Pay for college without overborrowing
• Align your education with a meaningful career
• Stay focused and motivated through graduation

You'll also learn how to lower school costs, and avoid common myths and mistakes about paying for college, choosing your career and staying on track to graduate!
 

Thinking about dropping a class?
Before you decide, check out the Drop Decision Checklist.

Dropping a course can affect your graduation timeline, financial aid, and even student loan repayment. The checklist walks you through the questions to ask and connects you to resources that can help.

You don’t have to figure this out alone—we're here to support you!

Money Talks is a welcoming, judgment-free space where students, faculty, and staff can learn the skills and tools that build real financial confidence.

Engaging workshops and resources help you make smarter choices around money-especially when it comes to paying for school, managing credit, avoiding debt, and preparing for the future.

Explore the Money Talks Core Sessions:

• The Wealth Secret - Break through common myths and learn 3 steps that can change your financial future
• Managing Money - Start strong with the basics of budgeting, saving, and preparing for the unexpected
• Credit & Debt - Understand how borrowing works, what credit scores mean, and how to avoid traps
• The Savvy Student's Guide to a Debt Free Degree - Learn strategies for paying for college and minimizing debt
• Financial Pitfalls - Get ahead of risks like scams, and other money missteps. Bonus! This session includes a mini-session on Future Proofing - how do you protect your earning power when technology is changing the world rapidly!
   

Money Talks is open to all students, faculty, and staff and is a collaboration between STEM Connect, Financial Aid, and other campus departments who care about your success.

Money Talks has been funded by a grant with an end date of June 30, 2026 however the Money Talks replays and quizzes are available on the Money Talks 101 Google Doc.
 

• GCC Money Talks Library Guide provides an overview of the Money Talks sessions and suggests related reading materials.
• America Saves - Get motivated to start saving
• My Next Move - Explore career paths
• My Smart Borrowing Tool - Understand your borrowing choices
• CareerOneStop - Salary and job outlook info
• WUE (Western Undergraduate Exchange) - Save on out-of-state tuition
• Need assistance meeting basic needs like food and housing? Learn more about the GCC Food Pantry and other Basic Needs Information.