"Reality Check" Event Prepares Students for Real-World Responsibilities

High school and college students often find themselves deeply immersed in academics and extracurricular activities, rarely considering the immediate realities awaiting them in adulthood. To bridge this gap, the Milledgeville Chamber of Commerce partnered with Georgia College Early College to host their annual "Reality Check" event on Friday, April 4th, 2025, just before Spring Break, having hosted their Baldwin High School "Reality Check" the week before.

Real-Life Financial Scenarios

The "Reality Check" event is designed to simulate real-world financial scenarios, placing students in the shoes of a twenty-something tasked with securing employment, managing finances, and often supporting a family, although character scenarios vary from student to student.

Held in the bustling atrium of Georgia College Early College, volunteers from various local businesses and community organizations created interactive stations representing essential real-life expenses such as housing, utilities, groceries, childcare, transportation, and more.

Hands-On Budget Management Experience

Participants navigated through each station, confronting practical financial decisions and budgeting challenges typical of adult life. Students balanced their monthly income, paid essential bills, and prioritized expenses, gaining valuable insights into the complexities of managing a personal budget.

Industry Professionals Provide Career Insights

Volunteers from diverse industries from across Baldwin shared their expertise and provided career guidance, helping students understand the necessary skills and pathways available in various sectors. This interaction offered a unique opportunity for students to connect their educational experiences with real-world career expectations.

Supporting the Future Workforce in Baldwin County School District

The event aligns closely with the mission of Baldwin County School District to prepare students for lifelong success by providing practical financial literacy education and realistic career insights. Through this immersive and fun experience, students in Milledgeville and the surrounding community gained a clear understanding of what lies ahead as they transition into adulthood and the workforce.