Make a budget. Save. Use only cash. Basic financial tips you hear are almost common sense but the best advice I have gotten has been from my parents. My parents have always instilled the importance of a college degree but they also showed me the importance of the outcomes of the degree and school you choose. By instilling these values, parents can equip their children with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex world of personal finance and set themselves up for long-term financial success. In today's rapidly changing world, financial literacy and education have become more crucial than ever before. With advancements in technology, evolving job markets, and complex financial systems, individuals need to possess the necessary knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their money. While basic financial tips may seem like common sense, it is often the wisdom and advice passed down through generations that prove to be the most valuable. Parents, in particular, play a vital role in shaping their children's financial perspectives and habits. They have a unique opportunity to instill important values and lessons about money management from an early age. By teaching their children the importance of budgeting, saving, and making wise financial choices, parents lay the foundation for their children's financial success. One of the key messages parents often stress is the value of obtaining a college degree. Like many other parents, mine stressed this sentiment but they also explained how going to college was an investment. That I had to pick a good degree and school to make my investment in. They recognize that a college education can open doors to better job opportunities, higher earning potential, and increased job security. Research supports this notion, indicating that college graduates, on average, earn significantly more over their lifetime - about 1.2 million dollars compared to individuals with a high school diploma or less. However, it is essential to recognize that not all degrees and colleges are created equal. While obtaining a college degree is important, it is equally important to consider the outcomes of the degree and the choice of educational institution. Investing time and effort into thorough research is crucial. Factors such as program reputation, accreditation, job placement rates, and potential earnings in the chosen field should be carefully evaluated. Making informed choices regarding the educational path can significantly impact an individual's future financial well-being. When it comes to choosing a specific field of study, mechanical engineering stands out as a diverse and dynamic field that offers numerous opportunities for personal growth, professional development, and making a positive impact on society. If you have a passion for problem-solving, a keen interest in how things work, and a desire to contribute to technological advancements, pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering can be an excellent choice. Mechanical engineering has a positive job growth with an estimated 17,900 job openings a year and a median undergrad starting salary of 75,000. The field provides a median starting salary that is higher than many other disciplines, with great potential for career advancement. Moreover, mechanical engineering graduates from reputable institutions often find themselves in high demand by top industry and governmental agencies such as NASA, the U.S. Air Force, Boeing, Pratt and Whitney, Lockheed Martin, Westinghouse, Carrier, and Kodak, to name just a few. When making my college decision I had a choice between Syracuse and a different school that was ranked higher for engineering then Syracuse. The other school would have cost me an additional 40,0000 over four years but the schools had the same salary outcomes. Taking my parents' advice in choosing a fiscal responsible Univesity I chose Syracuse and have absolutely love it. I believe I have made a good choice by choosing to major in mechanical engineering at Syracuse University. Syracuse University is known for its strong mechanical engineering program, which prepares students for successful careers in the field. The program's track record of sending graduates to top industry and governmental agencies is a testament to the quality of education offered at the institution. This will undoubtedly enhance my chances of securing rewarding and fulfilling career opportunities in the future. In conclusion, financial literacy, education, and parental guidance are all essential components in empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their money. While basic financial principles should not be overlooked, the importance of education and career choices should be emphasized. A college degree can unlock numerous opportunities, higher earning potential, and job security. However, it is vital to consider the outcomes of the degree and the choice of educational institution. By making informed choices, such as pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering at Syracuse University, I believe that I am setting myself on a path toward a rewarding and fulfilling career that will be a great return on my investment.